Monthly Archives: December 2016

The Flawed Follower

Scripture

John 18:12, 15-16 (NLT)

So the soldiers, their commanding officer, and the Temple guards arrested Jesus and tied him up. Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest’s courtyard with Jesus. Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in.

Consider

We all know what happened next. When challenged about his acquaintance with Jesus, Peter denied knowing him.

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Twelve Gifts of Christmas – Reflecting

Thanks for following this twelve-part series, “Twelve Gifts of Christmas.” I pray that God stretched your heart as he did mine as we practiced sharing his love and grace with others in simple ways. In case you missed one or two days of the series, all twelve devotionals are provided below. Perhaps you’ll even consider making one of the daily pledges a New Year’s resolution for 2017.

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Twelve Gifts of Christmas – Day 12

Today’s Gift

Give the reason for your hope.

On this final day, be clear in your mind and in your heart who Jesus is and why you celebrate his birth this season. Answer for yourself how believing in Jesus gives you hope and a future, and then be ready to tell others. Confess to someone today how Christ’s coming into the world has made a difference in your life.

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Twelve Gifts of Christmas – Day 11

Today’s Gift

Give thanks to God.

Thank God today for his many blessings and especially for his gift of Jesus. Thank him for positioning you to minister to others during this Christmas season and for supplying you with his good gifts of love and compassion. Pray for all the people whose lives have been touched by the Spirit of Christ through your goodwill efforts.

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Twelve Gifts of Christmas – Day 10

Today’s Gift

Give others your attention.

During this busy season, time and attention are costly. Spend yours today on listening to others and drawing them into conversation. You might comment on someone’s unusual hat or grocery cart item. Perhaps a chatty waitress wants to tell you about her mother’s surgery, or a friend just needs to talk. Your patient attention communicates respect and helps others to feel valued and appreciated.

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