The journey to joy can be challenging, especially during difficult seasons like winter and the holidays. True joy is sought in Christ, as self-despair leads to recognition of our need for grace. Through faith in Jesus, we find hope and purpose amidst sorrow, transforming despair into deeper fellowship with Him.
Free to Love
Galatians emphasizes the call to love as a manifestation of true freedom. Paul highlights that serving others in love fulfills the law, while promoting compassion over self-centeredness. Love derives from God’s love for us, and acts of kindness reflect our understanding of this divine love and inherent freedom to serve others.
Season of Hope
Hope and faith are vital to Christian faith, particularly in light of Jesus Christ's resurrection and anticipated return. This article connects biblical hope with perseverance, revealing that true faith intertwines with hope, guiding believers through trials. The message encourages embracing the assurance provided by faith and the confidence in God's promises.
Giving Thanks
Jon Bloom discusses how followers of Christ can give thanks in all circumstances, emphasizing scriptural guidance from 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22. He highlights Jesus' attitude of gratitude, which transcends present trials by focusing on future joy.
Reaching for Joy
Fra Giovanni Giocondo's letter to Countess Allagia Aldobrandeschi on Christmas Eve, 1513, emphasizes walking with God in the present to alleviate anxiety about the future. He encourages finding peace and joy within life's challenges, suggesting that trials are concealed gifts. Life's true beauty lies beneath its difficulties, guiding us as fellow pilgrims toward heaven.
Words of Grace & Hope 