The Cross: More Than a Moment
The thought for today comes from Abide Above’s devotional, which reminds us that the Cross isn’t just a historical event or a theological concept. It’s a daily reality, shaping how we live and grow in Christ. The words of Philippians 3:10, “That I may know Him... being made conformable unto His death,” call us to a deeper walk—a daily surrender to the ongoing work of the Cross in our lives.

What is the purpose of humanity? The Westminster Shorter Catechism famously declares: “The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” This statement beautifully encapsulates much of what the Bible teaches about humanity’s relationship with God. Yet, when we read passages like Ephesians 1, we see another dimension of our purpose: we are created and redeemed to “the praise of His glorious grace” (Ephesians 1:6).

How do these ideas fit together? Are we called to glorify God and enjoy Him forever, or are we primarily designed to reflect the glory of His grace? The answer, as we’ll explore, is a harmonious yes.

The term “tough love” has become a popular phrase in discussions about parenting, relationships, and even workplace dynamics. It often conjures images of stern ultimatums, strict boundaries, and “teaching hard lessons” for someone’s own good. But where does this concept originate, and how does it align—or conflict—with a Christ-centered, grace-oriented approach to life?

Jeremiah 31 is one of the most beautiful declarations of God’s faithfulness and His plan to restore His people. It is a chapter brimming with hope, rooted in God’s grace, and centered on His transformative power. For us today, these ancient promises remind us that God’s love is unfailing, His plans are redemptive, and His new covenant offers life and joy in Christ.

Christmas morning is a time of celebration, reflection, and awe. Today’s words from A.B. Simpson, rooted in Luke 2:10, remind us of the deeper truths that shape this season. The angel’s proclamation to the shepherds—“Do not be afraid! For behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people”—calls us to embrace the true spirit of Christmas, one that transforms our hearts and lives.

The holidays bring a unique blend of joy and stress. Lights twinkle, carols play, and families gather around tables brimming with food and tradition. But let’s be honest—those same gatherings can also bring tension, especially when politics, ideologies, or personal differences come into play. Jamie Joseph’s recent article on navigating holiday conversations with Trump-supporting relatives sparked my reflection on this very topic.

As I read through the advice offered—everything from canceling Christmas to "banning the bad actors"—I couldn’t help but wonder: Is this how we’re meant to engage with our families? Should differing viewpoints really drive us apart during a season meant to celebrate hope, love, and reconciliation?

Recently, I came across an article by John Coleman that sparked a fascinating line of thought. Coleman painted a vivid contrast between two historical figures: Augustus, the first emperor of Rome, and Jesus Christ. Both lived during the same era, yet their legacies are astonishingly different. This contrast got me thinking—not about their influence, but about the skepticism Jesus faces regarding His very existence. Why do so many people accept the historicity of Augustus without question, yet approach the life of Jesus with doubt? Are the historical records of Augustus inherently more reliable, or does something deeper underlie this disparity?

History is full of larger-than-life figures—men and women who shaped the world through their power, intellect, and influence. Among them, Augustus Caesar stands as a towering figure. Born Gaius Octavius in 63 B.C., he transformed the Roman Republic into an empire, ushering in the Pax Romana—a 200-year period of unprecedented peace and prosperity. Yet, as renowned as Augustus is, he is now remembered in the shadow of a much humbler figure born during his reign.

At the heart of the greatest story ever told lies a striking contrast between two men: Augustus, who ruled by might, and Jesus Christ, who came to serve and save. John Coleman’s thoughtful reflections on this duality inspired us to explore these two paths—one of earthly power and the other of divine humility—and the lasting impact of each.

"For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will" (Colossians 1:9).

Prayer is more than a spiritual exercise—it’s a lifeline for living in the grace of God. Today’s meditation from Day by Day by Grace reminds us that Spirit-led prayer isn’t confined to moments of crisis or Sunday mornings. It’s a continual conversation with the Lord, bringing every part of life into His presence.

The beauty of Christmas is more than the lights, the carols, or even the manger scene—it’s the reminder of the miraculous: God with us. In today’s reflection from My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers leads us to ponder the significance of Jesus’ birth in history and His birth within us.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5).

Christmas is a time when we celebrate peace on earth, but let’s be honest—life doesn’t always feel peaceful. Today’s devotional from Abide Above reminds us that peace isn’t found in perfect circumstances or our attempts to control life. Real peace is found in resting in who Jesus is and enjoying fellowship with Him.

Christmas is a season brimming with joy, wonder, and celebration. Twinkling lights, carols, and the laughter of loved ones remind us of the warmth and hope this time of year brings. Yet, amidst the celebrations, it’s easy to overlook the heart of it all—the profound, life-altering truth of the greatest gift ever given: Jesus Christ.

The story of Christmas is more than a tale of a baby born in a manger; it is the beginning of God’s redemptive plan, a promise fulfilled, and a gift of grace that changes everything.

At first glance, the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:34-36 can feel unsettling. He says:

"Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household."

And in Luke 12:51-53, He adds:

"Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division."

These words seem to stand in stark contrast to how we often think of Jesus—the Prince of Peace who came to heal, restore, and reconcile. How can the same Jesus who preached love and unity also speak of bringing division? If you’ve wrestled with this, you’re not alone. Let’s take a closer look at what Jesus was saying and why it matters for us today.

Jeremiah 30 marks the beginning of a section often called the "Book of Consolation" (Jeremiah 30–33). These chapters shift from the stark judgments of previous passages to a breathtaking vision of hope, restoration, and a future shaped by God’s grace.

This chapter speaks not only to Judah’s return from exile but also to a far greater work of redemption—a promise fulfilled in Christ and extended to all who trust in Him.

The grace of God is a gift of infinite value, poured into our lives not because we deserve it but because of His boundless love. In a recent reading from My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers challenges us to examine how we respond to this grace. Do we humbly receive it, or do we inadvertently resist it through false humility or self-doubt?

God’s grace is a miraculous, transformative work that begins deep within the heart. Yet, as a recent devotional from Day by Day by Grace reminds us, the work of grace is not confined to the unseen. It manifests outwardly in ways that others can witness. This observable nature of grace was clearly evident in the early church, as described in Acts 11:21-23:
"The hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord… When he came and had seen the grace of God, he was glad."

Barnabas, sent to witness what was happening in Antioch, didn’t need an explanation to confirm God’s activity. The grace of God was visible in the transformed lives and spiritual fruit of the people. His response? Joy.

Continuing our journey through The Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer, Chapter 11 reveals the awe-inspiring wisdom of God. This wisdom, infinitely pure and boundless, invites us to trust Him fully—even in the uncertainties of life.

May these reflections deepen our faith and remind us that His ways, though beyond our understanding, are always perfect.

In a recent reading from Days of Heaven on Earth, A.B. Simpson invites us to explore the deep truths of God’s Word. He reminds us that these “deep things of God” spoken of in 1 Corinthians 2:10 are not merely intellectual insights but truths that demand a prepared and receptive heart. True spiritual depth comes from a foundation of humility, suffering, and unselfishness—a heart cultivated by God to receive and reflect His grace.

One of the most important principles I learned early in my Christian journey was the necessity of placing my trust in Christ alone. Today’s Abide Above devotional reminded me of this critical truth. It’s a lesson that has shaped my faith deeply, teaching me to anchor my confidence not in man but in the unchanging and trustworthy character of God.

In today’s reflection from J.B. Simpson’s Days of Heaven on Earth, we’re confronted with a poignant story of missed opportunity. A young woman, sustained and cared for by a benefactor she had never met, fails to wait for his return. Distracted by fleeting pleasures, she misses the long-awaited moment to meet the one who had given so much for her. Her lapse of focus leads to a life of loss, despite the years of provision and love she had received.