#CorinthiaEsther

[gracefortheday]

Grace for the Day

JANUARY 2, 2025, THURSDAY

Entry: 1:07pm, Quezon City

WORSHIP:

VERSE OF THE DAY: ROMANS 12:2 Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

TRANSFORMATION Do you want to be new? We long for change. Transformation is massive, thorough, complete. End to old and beginning of new. From inside out, it begins with out mind. We need Truth to hold on to. God's Word is this Truth.

1 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 All scripture is breathed out by God

HEBREWS 4:12 For the Word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart"

MATTHEW 4:4 Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.

God's Word guides us when we are lost, strengthens us when we are weary, challenges us when we are compromising, and encourages us when we are overwhelmed. God's Word changes everything. Hold it in your hand and read closely, dig into its verses, wrestle with its teachings, treasure what you discover about the love and grace of God. The best place to bring your desire for newness is to God and His Word. God's Word renews our minds.

Almighty God, Thank You for Your Word! What a gift to me! Thank You for the opportunity to renew my mind with the Truth every day. It changes everything, changing tha way i think sp that I can be transformed. With You, I can be made new. Thank You! In Jesus' name, Amen.

PSALM 145:5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.

JOHN 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.

ABIDE God chose you. Allow God to encourage you as you talk to Him about what you need.

ROMANS 11:36 For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.

What good gifts have you been given? Thank God for them.

DAILY BIBLE READING GENESIS 4-6 MATTHEW 2

CAIN AND ABEL Cain was born. "I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord" = keeper of the ground

Over time, Cain brought offerings. Abel was born = keeper of the sheep

Abel brought firstborn of flock and fat portions. God regarded this. God said to Cain: "If you do well, will you not be accepted? and If you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it" Cain killed Abel. God said: "The voice of your brother's blood is crying to me from the ground. and now, you are cursed from the ground." Cain said: "My punishment is greater than I can bear! From Your face I shall be hidden. I shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth." God said:"If anyone kills Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold." Cain went to east of Eden. Son of Cain, Enoch was born. Enoch > Irad > Mehujael > Methusael > Lamech > Jabal (by mother Adah) bore livestock tentdwellers and Jubal (by mother Adah) bore instrumentalists, Tubal-cain (by mother Zillah) forger of instruments bronze and iron and Naamah. Lamech said: "I have killed a man for wounding me, Lamech's revenge is 70fold"

Seth was born from Eve. "God has appointed for me another offspring instead of Abel. SEASON: People began to call upon the name of the Lord. Enosh, son of Seth was born.

ADAM'S DESCENDANTS TO NOAH Adam was 130 years old, Seth was born in his likeness, Adam was 930 years old when he died. Seth was 105 years old, when Enosh was born and was 912 years old when he died. Enosh was 90 years old when Kenan was born and was 905 years old when he died. Kenan was 70 years old when Mahalalel was born and was 910 years old when he died. Mahalalel was 65 years old when Jared was born and was 895 years old when he died. Jared lived 162 years old when Enoch was born and was 962 years old when he died.

Enoch was 65 years old when Methuselah was born, he walked with God then God took him.

Methuselah lived 187 years old when Lamech was born and was 969 years old when he died. Lamech lived 182 years old when Noah was born and was 777 years old when he died. "Out of the ground that the LORD has cursed, this one shall bring us relief from our work and from the painful toil of our hands." Noah lived 500 years old when Shem, Ham, and Japheth was born.

INCREASING CORRUPTION ON EARTH Men multiplied, the sons of God saw attractive women and made them wives. the LORD said: "My Spirit shall not abide in man forever, for he is flesh: his days shall be 120 years." Nephilim were on earth. Children became mighty men of old and renown. The LORD saw wickedness of man, all evil, continually and He regretted that He made man and grieved Him to his heart. "I will blot out man whom I have created form the face of the land, man and animals creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them." But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD.

NOAH AND THE FLOOD These are the generations of Noah, a righteous man, blameless in his generation. Noah walked with God. The earth was corrupted by all flesh. God said to Noah: "I have determined to make an end of all flesh. Make yourself an ark of gopher wood. Make rooms…" God instructed Noah in detail to construct an ark. For behold, I will bring flood waters upon the earth to destroy all flesh in which is the breath of life under heaven. Everything on earth shall die but I will establish my covenant with you, and you shall come into the ark, you, your sons, your wife and your sons' wives with you. all living things, 2 of each kind to keep them alive with you, male and female. Also take with you every sort of food to be eaten and store it up. It shall serve as food for you and for them. Noah obeyed all.

ISAIAH 51:1-6 What does Isaiah 51:1 mean? “Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness and who seek the Lord: Look to the rock from which you were cut.” God is challenging His exiled people to “look to Abraham, your father, and to Sarah, who gave you birth” (v. 2). The people were trying to gain righteousness by keeping the law. What they needed was the faith of their spiritual father Abraham. The apostle Paul wrote, “It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith” (Romans 4:13). By: Tim Gustafson

ISAIAH 51:1-6 THE LORD COMFORTS FOR ZION 1 “Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness, you who seek the Lord: look to the rock from which you were hewn, and to the quarry from which you were dug. 2Look to Abraham your father and to Sarah who bore you; for he was but one when I called him, that I might bless him and multiply him. 3For the Lord comforts Zion; he comforts all her waste places and makes her wilderness like Eden, her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness will be found in her, thanksgiving and the voice of song. 4 “Give attention to me, my people, and give ear to me, my nation; for a law will go out from me, and I will set my justice for a light to the peoples. 5 My righteousness draws near, my salvation has gone out, and my arms will judge the peoples; the coastlands hope for me, and for my arm they wait. 6 Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look at the earth beneath; for the heavens vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment, and they who dwell in it will die in like manner; but my salvation will be forever, and my righteousness will never be dismayed.

GOD'S PROMISE BEYOND THE RUINS ISAIAH 51:6 …for the heavens vanish like smoke, …but my salvation will be forever

As Hurricane Laura raged through the Gulf of Mexico toward the US coastline of Louisiana, the warnings were dire. One sheriff, noting the 150-mile-per-hour winds, issued this jolting message: “Please evacuate. But if you choose to stay and we can't get to you, write your name, address, social security number, and next of kin and put it in a Ziploc bag in your pocket. Praying that it does not come to this.” Rescue crews knew that once Laura hit land, they could only watch the storm’s destructive path—helpless in its wake. Whenever God’s people in the Old Testament faced natural or spiritual calamity, His words were far more certain and hopeful, promising His presence despite destruction. He said that He would “look with compassion on all her ruins; [and would] make her wastelands . . . like the garden of the Lord” (Isaiah 51:3). And more, God always assured His people of the rescue and healing that would certainly follow if they would only trust Him. Even though “the heavens [would] vanish like smoke,” God said, His “salvation [would] last forever” (v. 6). Whatever the damage, His ultimate goodness toward them wouldn’t be thwarted, ever. God doesn’t safeguard us from hardship, but He does promise that His restorative healing extends far beyond the ruin. By: Winn Collier

REFLECT AND PRAY: Where are you facing calamity and ruin? How do you hear God's promise to be with you, to heal you and rebuild after the ruins?

Dear God, the ruins are so devastating. I'm not sure I can believe that You have a promise big enough for this. But I choose to believe. In Jesus' name, Amen.

NAMES OF JESUS FOR ADVENT: SAVIOUR

When you think of the term ‘Saviour’, what images immediately come to mind? For me, and growing up as a kid on the beach in Australia, one of the first images is that of a lifeguard. They guide those at the beach to do the right thing, but (to some degree) expecting that they will be needed, they are ready to go—to rescue people who are caught in the wrong places and in trouble. In Jesus we find our ultimate saviour, but from much more than just the threat of drowning at the beach. Jesus rescued us from ultimate separation from God for eternity. Jesus saves His people by dying to redeem them, by giving the Holy Spirit to renew them by His power, by enabling them to overcome their spiritual enemies, by sustaining them in trials and in death, and by raising them up at the last day. Jesus was not God’s plan B when sin entered the world. He was God’s plan A, and in His kindness, God sent His own Son to live the perfect life, and to die to save us from eternal separation from Him. Thanks God for Jesus.

LUKE 2:11 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

JOHN 4:42 2They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.”

[gracefortheday]

Grace for the Day

JANUARY 1, 2025, WEDNESDAY,

Entry: 4:13pm Quezon City

Worship:

VERSE OF THE DAY:

ISAIAH 43:18 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

WHY ARE YOU HERE TODAY? I want to make a change in my life, fall in love with God more and more.

Isaiah wrote this scripture about God. God is doing a new thing. the Bible is God's Word and its how we can know what God desired for us. The bible is for us. The most important things about using the Bible is using it everyday. Daily and consistently. Build a bible habit that transforms me. It's God's power at work in my life.

IT'S A NEW DAY Beginning of January. Like an incredible waterfall, Water is determined to find its destination. It erodes paths until it reaches the river. It forges a new path. Resolution is a firm decision to do something. Resolve is with deep determination. Numerous attempts but it reaches the goal. Do not wait for tomorrow. Do it today. Philippians 3:12-16 Paul encourages like this, 'Even if I have not yet arrived at the place, Jesus wants us to go, but I see the goal! Keep pressing on. Stay resolute. Don't give up! The point of resolution is: KEEP GOING. Try again. Practice resolution daily. Smaller steps towards the goal is better than none.

Application: Which person have you given up praying for? What relationship do you know you need to mend?

Come back to God's Word everyday. Be excited for what God will reveal to you in His Word this year!

God, You made a way when there was no way! You sent Your Son, Jesus, to make a way to a new life in You. Thank You. This truth changes everything. It changes me. I surrender my life to You. I want to be made new. Thank You for making a way! In Jesus' name, Amen.

PSALMS 145:9 The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.

Application: COMPASSION Where have you seen God's goodness in the last months?

MATTHEW 11:29-30 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.

Application: REST Where would finding rest for your soul look like today?

DAILY BIBLE READING: GENESIS 1-3 MATTHEW 1

THE BEGINNING In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.

Light, day, night,

heaven,

earth, seas, vegetation

Lights in heaven for signs and seasons, days and years, sun, moon, stars

Sea Creatures, moving living creatures, birds, blessed to be fruitful and multiply to fill it.

Livestock, creeping things, beasts,God created Human beings in His image, male and female, and given dominion over all creatures. Blessed to be fruitful and multiply, fill the earth and subdue it. given all vegetation and living creatures as food and God said it was VERY good.

THE SEVENTH DAY, GOD RESTS heavens, earth and all its hosts were finished. God rested and blessed it, made it holy, because God rested on it.

THE CREATION OF MAN AND WOMAN Generations of the heavens and earth on creation:

CREATION SEASON: no vegetations yet, no man, no rain. God formed man from dust, breathed into his nostrils life, then man became a living creature. God planted a garden in Eden, east.

WORKING SEASON: spring of vegetations, tree of life, tree of knowledge of good and evil A river flowed out of Eden to Pishon, Gihon, Tigris, Euphrates. God made man to work and keep the garden. warning was given about death upon eating from the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil.

BLESSING SEASON: God desired a helper for the man. No named creature was found fitting. God made a woman from the ribs of the man. "This is the bone of my bones and the flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man." A man shall leave his parents and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become 1 flesh. Man and wife both naked and were not ashamed.

MATTHEW 1 THE GENEALOGY OF JESUS CHRIST son of David, the son of Abraham.

PATRIARCHAL Abraham > Isaac > Jacob > Judah > Perez (by Tamar) > Hezron > Ram > Amminadab > Nahshon > Salmon (by Rahab) > Boaz (by Ruth) > Obed > Jesse > David the King > Solomon (by Bathsheba, wife of Uriah) > Rehoboam > Abijah > Asaph > Jehoshaphat > Joram > Uzziah > Jotham > Ahaz > Hezekiah > Manasseh > Amos > Josiah > Jeconiah (deportation to Babylon) > Shealtiel > Zerubbabel > Abiud > Eliakim > Azor > Zadok > Achim > Eliud > Eleazar > Matthan > Jacob > Joseph (husband of Mary) > Jesus Christ.

(ABRAHAM TO DAVID = 14 generations) (DAVID TO DEPORTATION = 14 generations) (DEPORATION TO CHRIST = 14 generations)

THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST WEDDING SEASON: Mary betrothed to Joseph, she was found with a child from the Holy Spirit. The angel of the Lord appeared in a dream and warned him not to fear to take Mary as wife. Jesus will be born who will save people from their sins which took place to fulfill the Lord's prophecy. Immanuel (God with us) Joseph obeyed and He (knew) or intimately consummate the marriage until she gave birth.

Application: 1. There is a season for work and for rest. God has appointed a time for these things and it is always good if it is according to God's will. 2. SET a time and schedule for dates with Jesus, Rest time, and Work focused time.

1 JOHN 1:1-5 Many scholars believe that the apostle John, the author of the gospel of John, also wrote these 3 letters that bear his name. 1 JOHN - refutes false teachers who insists that Jesus is not God or man. John testified " Jesus was with the Father and has appeared to us." demonstrating Jesus Chris is a real human person. To prove Jesus is the preexistent creator God, John begins his letter "from the beginning" echoing Gen 1:1 "in the beginning" and 1 John 1 "in the beginning was the Word". Jesus is the Word of Life, who spoke life into every living thing. Eternal life 1 John 1:2-3, the promised Messiah. by KT Sim

1 JOHN 1:2 The life appeared; have seen it and testify to it.

THE JESUS STORY Kate Hankey, a teacher, evangelist, school organizer, missionary, poet, servant of Jesus in 1800's England. wrote "The Story Told" "The Story Wanted". She expresses in a very personal way her relationship with Jesus and the events of His life. All scripture points to Jesus and tells His story. Be reminded of your own personal experience with Jesus. (1 John 1:1) You are a witness. The Word of God lives in you. Jesus' story is our story too. We are called to tell the story of Christ in light of our own experience with Him. Kate's poem eventually made it to a hymn: "Tell Me the Old, Old Story" and "I Love to Tell the Story". Perhaps we might find our own words and share our Jesus story with others in a unique way in which He loved us and came to us and rescued us. by: Kenneth Petersen

Reflect and pray:

1. What is your story with Jesus?

2. How did He come to you and rescue you?

Dear Jesus, thank You for rescuing me and doing Your loving work in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.

THE ONE YEAR CHRONOLOGICAL BIBLE DAY 1 GENESIS 1-3

THE FALL the crafty serpent fooled eve into doubting God's goodness. Eve saw it was good for food, delight to the eyes, desired to make her wise, she took it and gave to her husband and they ate. they saw nakedness and made clothing out of figs. the sound of the LORD came in the cool day, they hid. the Lord said to the serpent "Because you have done this, you are cursed to be on your belly, eat dust, you are in enmity with the woman and her offspring, he shall bruise your head and you shall bruise his heel." The Lord said to the woman "I will surely multiply your pain in childbearing, your desire shall be contrary to your husband but he shall rule over you." The Lord said to Adam: "Cursed is the ground because of you, by the sweat of your face, you will eat till you return to the ground because you were taken out of it. God clothed them with skins. To prevent Adam and Eve from becoming immortal because of the fruit of the tree of life, God cast them out of Eden to work the ground. God placed cherubim with a flaming sword that turned everyway to guard the way of the tree of life.

NAMES OF JESUS FOR ADVENT: ALPHA and OMEGA

in the book of Revelations, God describes Himself the first and the last (Greek). Jewish rabbi always use this to create a sense of wholeness.

God of the Old Testament - Isaiah 44, part of the Triune God from the beginning. Amazing and Comforting.

For us Christians - Jesus is the fulfillment of the promises in the Old Testament, God's plan for restoration and reconciliation for all mankind.

REVELATIONS 22:12-13 "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."

ISAIAH 44:6-8 Thus days the Lord, the King of Israel and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: I am the first and I am the last; besides Me there is no god. Who is like Me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and set it before Me, since I appointed an ancient people. Let them declare what is to come, and what will happen. Fear not, nor be afraid; have I not told you from of old and declared it? And you are my witnesses! Is there a God besides me? There is no Rock; I know not any."

[gracefortheday]

GRACE FOR THE DAY

JANUARY 15, 2025 WEDNESDAY

Entry: 9:23am Quezon City

VERSE OF THE DAY: MATTHEW 5:43-44 You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

LOVING DIFFICULT PEOPLE Matthew 5-7 is often referred to as the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus gives teachings near the beginning of His ministry. Jesus reorients how the Jewish people understood the Old Testament laws. Jesus' commands us to love even our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. This is a prayer for their good. Pray for their salvation, even those who intend to do us harm, asking that they would recognize their actions and turn to God. This is how God treated us, He showed us love and gave us the breath and life, and also sent Jesus to restore our relationship with Him.

Take a moment to consider some people in your life who are difficult to love. Begin by praying for them. Pray for their salvation if they're not Christians, pray for their well-being. Think of one or two ways you can show love to your enemies and share the hope of Jesus.

How will you share your faith with someone difficult to love?

I will give a gift or send them a kind message without expecting anything in return

I will pray for God to bless them in their life.

I will ask others to help show love to the difficult person with me.

God, I forgive them: the people who've caused me pain and wronged and betrayed me. I forgive them because You forgave me. Please bless those people, Lord. Transform their lives and bless them like You have blessed me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

JOHN 12:26 If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.

What would it look like to follow God today? Honor God right now by asking Him to reveal how He wants you to follow Him. End this time by giving Him thanks.

PROVERBS 12:25 Anxiety in a man's heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.

Take a deep breath and pay attention to what's weighing down your heart. What comes to mind? Share your concerns with God and consider adding them to you Prayer list.

PROVERBS 25:21-22 If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.

You may not have "enemies" - but is there anyone in you life that you struggle to love? Re-read this verse and let God bring to mind the names of those people. Ask God to show you how you can apply this verse to you life. Nothing is impossible for God. Find power in the knowledge that He heard your prayers, and wants to continue the conversation.

DAILY BIBLE READING: GENESIS 36-38 MATTHEW 10:21-42 ESAU'S DESCENDANTS THE RULERS OF EDOM

JOSEPH'S DREAMS JOSEPH SOLD BY HIS BROTHERS JUDAH AND TAMAR JESUS SENDS OUT THE 12 (CONT.)

ROMANS 5:6-11 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through Him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

The book of Romans tells us that all humanity is sinful (3:23). We were once enemies of God (5:10) and objects of His wrath (1:18; 2:5). But “God, in his grace, freely makes us right in his sight . . . through Christ Jesus [who] freed us from the penalty for our sins” (3:24 nlt). In Romans 5:1-11, Paul points to the intensity of God’s love for us. First, “we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love” (v. 5 nlt). Second, while we were still His enemies and sinners, God gave us His one and only Son to atone for our sins (see 1 John 4:9-10), save us from God’s wrath (Romans 5:9-10), and restore our relationship with Him: “So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God” (v. 11 nlt) By: K.T. Sim

A NEW BEGINNING WITH GOD ROMANS 5:8 While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

“Did your sin also put Jesus on the cross?” That’s the question Dutch painter Rembrandt seems to be asking in his 1633 masterpiece, The Raising of the Cross. Jesus appears in the center of the picture as His cross is lifted and put in place. Four men are doing the lifting, but one stands out in the light surrounding Jesus. His clothing is different; he’s dressed in the style of Rembrandt’s day, wearing a cap the painter often wore. A closer look at his face reveals that Rembrandt has put himself into the painting, as if to say, “My sins had a part in Jesus’ death.” But there’s another who also stands out. He’s on horseback, looking directly out of the painting. Some see this as a second self-portrait by Rembrandt, engaging all who observe with a knowing glance that seems to ask, “Aren’t you here too?” Paul saw himself there, and we may also, because Jesus suffered and died for us as well. In Romans 5:10, he refers to himself and us as “God’s enemies.” But even though our sins caused Jesus’ death, His death reconciles us to God: “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (v. 8). We stand with both Rembrandt and Paul: sinners in need of forgiveness. Through His cross, Jesus offers us what we could never do for ourselves and meets our deepest need: a new beginning with God. By: James Banks

REFLECT AND PRAY: How were you once God's enemy? In what ways can you live as His friend today?

Dear Jesus, thank You for giving Yourself for me. Please help me to live in Your love today, In Jesus' name, Amen.

CHRONOLOGICAL BIBLE: JOB 6-9'

JOB REPLIES: MY COMPLAINTS IS JUST

JOB CONTINUED: MY LIFE HAS NO HOPE

BILDAD: JOB SHOULD REPENT

JOB REPLIES: THERE IS NO ARBITER

NAMES OF JESUS FOR ADVENT THE GOOD SHEPHERD The role of a shepherd was well understood during the time of Jesus’ ministry. A shepherd’s job was to take care of the sheep. When Jesus described Himself as the good shepherd, He was describing His character as unique. The Greek word kalos means beautiful, noble, wholesome, and good. As a good shepherd, Jesus is describing His character, His righteousness and beauty. Sheep are known to be some of the most vulnerable of animals. When described as a shepherd, Jesus is also telling us something about ourselves and our need for Him. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, not only takes care of His sheep, but He also paid the redemption price to call them His own—those who have received eternal life through His blood. All of us sheep have “gone astray.” However, Jesus rescued us by perfectly fulfilling His Father’s will through His death. We thank God for providing us with a great protector in Jesus, who would go to the ends of the earth to protect His flock.

JOHN 10:10-11 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

EZEKIEL 34:11-16 11“ ‘For this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them. 12As a shepherd looks after his scattered flock when he is with them, so will I look after my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on a day of clouds and darkness. 13I will bring them out from the nations and gather them from the countries, and I will bring them into their own land. I will pasture them on the mountains of Israel, in the ravines and in all the settlements in the land. 14I will tend them in a good pasture, and the mountain heights of Israel will be their grazing land. There they will lie down in good grazing land, and there they will feed in a rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. 15I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord. 16I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.

[gracefortheday]

GRACE FOR THE DAY

JANUARY 21, 2025 TUESDAY

Entry: 8:23am Quezon City

VERSE OF THE DAY: PSALM 119:11 I have stored up Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.

LEARN and keep LEARNING love what God loves, hate what God hates Live in alignment with God's Word and Will by meditating on it, allow it to direct your life. Keep you in the right path and strengthen you so you can have a life that flourishes

LOVING GOD'S WORD Learn everything you can about God, give time and minds to it so we can use it well. King David wanted to know God and in order to do that He needs to know His Word. Scriptures would keep us from sinning. PSALM 119:15 I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your waysknow God's Word, Know Jesus. Store up His wonderful Word on our hearts. We can know exactly what God wants and desires for us by reading Scripture. God's word gives us boundaries, guidance, and direction. His Word shows His purposes and character and reveals to us who He is. We get to respond with joy and obedience.

So today, what will you give your time to? In what ways will you store up God's Word in your heart?

Father God, Thank You for giving me You Word. Scripture is brimming with truth and life, and I never want to take that for granted. I know that I am easily distracted, but I also know that You give me strength to persevere. Show me how to meditate on Your Word so that I don't disobey You. Teach me to prioritize my relationship with You above everything else. In Jesus' name, Amen.

PRAY FOR DIVINE OPPORTUNITIES When you keep God's Word in your heart You'll start noticing more opportunities to share it with others. Ask God each day to guide you to someone who needs Him. Trust that He will open doors to share your faith. Be bold and ready to act when He leads. God is near, Ask Him to meet you where you are and trust Him with your thoughts and feelings.

PSALM 8:3-4 When I look at Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have set in place, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You care for him?

Look at the sky and see reminders of God's power. Spend a few moments reflecting on God's creativity, and thank Him for all He has done.

PHILIPPIANS 4:7 And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Whatever is on your mind matters to God. Spend the next few moments presenting your requests and concerns to Him.

1 Chronicles 16:11 Seek the Lord and His strength; seek His presence continually!

What would it look like for you to seek God's strength today? Spend several minutes to seek God through Prayer.

DAILY BIBLE READING: EXODUS 1-3 MATTHEW 14:1-21 ISRAEL INCREASES GREATLY IN EGYPT PHARAOH OPPRESSED ISRAEL THE BIRTH OF MOSES MOSES FLEES TO MIDIAN GOD HEARS ISRAEL'S GROANING THE BURNING BUSH THE DEATH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST JESUS FEEDS THE 5OOO

1 PETER 4:12-19 The apostle Peter penned his first letter to encourage believers in Jesus who-because of persecution in Jerusalem (Acts 8:1) had been scattered throughout Asia Minor (Modern day turkey). Peter's words still encourages suffering believers today. We're not to be surprised when we face persecution because of our faith (1 Peter 4:12) After all, Christ warned, "If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also" (John 15:20). Yet Peter tells us to rejoice when we suffer for being Christ's followers (1 Peter 4:13-16). We see this modeled by Paul in prison (Acts 16:22-25). God the Holy Spirit was with the early believers in their trials-and He's with us in ours (1 Peter 4:14; John 14:15-17, Romans 5:5) He comforts (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) and inspires His followers to persevere with rejoicing. By Alyson Kieda

1 PETER 4:14 The Spirit if glory and of God rests on you

THE GIFT OF TRIALS The 2 men conquered human flight, but the Wright brothers' journey to success was never easy. Despite countless failures, ridicule, money woes, and serious injury to one of them, the brothers weren't stopped by the trials they faced. As Orville Wright observed, "No bird soars in a calm." The idea, according to biographer DAvid MacCullough, means that adversity can "often be exactly what you need to give you a life higher." Said McCullough, "Their joy was not getting to the top of the mountain. Their joy was climbing the mountain." The apostle Peter taught a similar spiritual principle to the persecuted early church. He told them, "Do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you" (1 Peter 4:12) This wasn't a denial of suffering's pain. Peter knew that hope in Christ grows our trust in God. This is especially true when we suffer for being a believer in Jesus, as those early Christians did. Peter wrote to them, "Rejoice in as much as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed" He went on, "If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God, rests on you." As the Wright brothers' character was hailed by their biographer, may others see God's loving character at work in us. He uses our adversity to raise us to new heights. By: Patricia Raybon

REFLECT AND PRAY How have you suffered for Christ? How was He glorified?

Suffering tests me, dear God. Please grant me hope for Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.

CHRONOLOGICAL BIBLE: JOB 10-13 JOB CONTINUES: A PLEA TO GOD ZOPHAR SPEAKS: YOU DESERVE WORSE JOB REPLIES: THE LORD HAS DONE THIS JOB CONTINUES: STILL I WILL HOPE IN GOD

THE NAMES OF JESUS FOR ADVENT: SERVANT: When Jesus took on the role of a servant, this was a great challenge to the leadership model of the days in which He conducted His ministry. Jesus laid aside His majesty in order to show people the love of God and how we should live and serve one another. It was prophesied in Isaiah 42:1-4 that Jesus would come as a servant, and in Mark 10:45 Jesus said this of Himself: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many", and in Luke 22:27 Jesus said "For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves." But Jesus also modelled this role of servanthood through His actions-washing His disciples' feet, a role left to the least of servants to honor visitors to one's home as an example of what this servanthood might look like in a practical way. At that time, the role of a servant was so foreign to the experience of leaders that this was a revelation to some, and a challenge to others. We thank Jesus for showing us how He wants us to love one another.

MATTHEW 12:15-18 GOD'S CHOSEN SERVANT Jesus, aware of this, withdrew from there. And many followed him, and he healed them all and ordered them not to make him known. This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: "Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim, justice to the Gentiles.

ISAIAH 52:13-15 HE WAS PIERCED FOR OUR TRANSGRESSIONS Behold, my servant shall act wisely; he shall be high and lifted up, and shall be exalted. As many were astonished at you, his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that pf the children of mankind so shall he sprinkle many nations. Kings shall shut their mouths because of him, for that which has not been told them they see, and that which they have not heard they understand.

ISAIAH 42:1-4 THE LORD'S CHOSEN SERVANT Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry aloud or life up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a faintly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully being forth justice. He will not grow faint or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the coastlands wait for his law.

LUKE 22:27 For who is greater, one who reclined at the table of one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at the table? But I am among you as the one who serves.

[gracefortheday]

GRACE FOR THE DAY

JANUARY 14, 2025 TUESDAY

Entry: 8:15am Quezon City

VERSE OF THE DAY: ISAIAH 41:31 For I the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, "Fear not, I am the one who helps you."

CALM IN THE STORM Matthew 8:23-27, Mark 4:35-41, Luke 8:22-25 The entire time a deadly storm rages against the boat, Jesus was peacefully sleeping. Instead of looking at Jesus' reaction to their situation, the disciples allowed their situation to dictate their reactions. "Why are you afraid?" They struggled to believe Jesus will see them through it. They didn't understand what Jesus is capable of. Jesus is our strength, provider, protector, healer, leader, the source of peace and power. The same God in the boat is with us today. Jesus is near. There is no situation you have gone through that Jesus hasn't endured beside you. Jesus was there at the beginning of time and will still be there in the end. He has seen every event in human history and has not forsaken anyone who cries out for Him and trusts in Him. Nothing is impossible for God and His character never changes. He is for us so we have nothing to fear.

Good Father, I stretch out my hand to You now. I need Your help in so many ways, Father. Help me be more aware of Your loving presence as we walk together through this day. In Jesus' name, Amen.

PSALM 98:1 Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things! His right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.

Lord, I praise You because of Who You are, I bow down to You because of what You've done. I glorify Your Name because of who You made me to be, It's amazing to always enjoy and feel Your Holy Presence all day, everyday. I know, no matter I am going through, You never changes, You are great from beginning to the end, my life is in Your mighty, good, perfect hands. You're the most compassionate helper, the most personal intentional companion and the most powerful and merciful healer and deliverer, protector of my life and everything that I love. You gave me all I need to be good, to be holy, to be loving and to experience an abundant life of freedom. I know, You are the Author of my life and I believe You are the perfector of my faith. I live to love You and glorify Your Holy Name, In Jesus name, I pray, worship and honor you, in every way I know, Amen.

LUKE 10:41-42 But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."

What's worrying you today? Be honest about how you're doing at the moment and bring your concerns to God.

PRIVATE DO NOT POST** Dear my Heavenly, loving, most gracious and merciful Father God, I am so thankful that You are the discerner of my heart, in the past days, You really showed up in every interactions that I have, In every task and in every decision I thought about You, Lord, forgive me for not doing the things I committed to do to You and to others, Lord, I worry sometimes, forgive me, for complaining about deadlines and time limitations, I know the way You allowed us 24hours per day is perfect, I just can't manage it properly to be fruitful and responsible, Please help me to be truer to my commitments. Lord, give me the integrity, diligence, strength to always be punctual in keeping my word and my promises, Im sorry for making oaths I cannot fulfill, You can see the intentions of my heart and I pray that I stay or continue to have selfless intentions that only focuses on working for heavenly riches and not merely earthly gains. Keep my heart and my entire self devoted to You Lord. I am Yours and I need to be claimed by You. I love You Lord, You know it and I believe You can see it. Help me be more and more pleasing in Your sight everyday. Help me fix the areas in my life where I am still in compromise, my taxes, unpaid bills/dues, insurances, obligations and even my ministry activities that I still have not accomplished. Encourage me Lord to trust Your leading everyday, so that I may walk with You and not always be in a hurry, So that I may prioritize to stay in Your peaceful quiet rest everyday, first thing in the morning, I know it's the only way I will succeed for Your sake. In Jesus name, Amen.

Prayer items:

Azel Dahonog

Love and Grace Cgroup

Elevate Dgroup

future Cgroup/Dgroup members

Street Family/HFG/GLC/CCF/JLJM/EE/MM/EXALT/MondayDG/FamilyDG/CG

PSALM 35:18 I will thank you in the great congregation; in the mighty throng I will praise You

DAILY BIBLE READING: GENESIS 33-35 MATTHEW 10:1-20

JACOB MEETS ESAU Jacob went before them and bow down 7x until he came near to Esau. Esau ran and embraced, kissed him. they wept. Esau introduced his family who bowed before Jacob. Esau said "I have enough my brother; keep what you have for yourself." Jacob insisted: "For I have seen your face, which is like seeing the face of God, and you have accepted me, God has dealt graciously with me, because I have enough." Esau took it. They separated ways and Jacob erected an altar and called it El-Elohe-Israel. (the mighty One, God of Israel) THE DEFILING OF DINAH Dinah, daughter of Leah with Jacob. Shechem the son of Hamor saw her and lay with her. Jacob held his peace until they came. Hamor offered riches and trade with Jacob as bride-price. Jacob replied deceitfully: "We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one who is uncircumcised, for that would be a disgrace to us." Hamor and his son obeyed, on the 3rd day when they were still sore, Simeon and Levi killed all the males of Hivites, they plundered the city and took all their wealth. Jacob was indignant : You have brought me trouble, my numbers are few, I shall be destroyed both I and my household." the sons replied: "Should he treat our sister like a prostitute?" GOD BLESSES AND RENAMES JACOB "Arise, Go up to bethel and stay there. Make and altar" Jacob obeyed. "Put away the foreign gods, purify yourselves and change your garments so that I may make an altar to the God who answers me in the day of my distress and has been with me wherever I have gone. God protected them by sending terror to the cities around them so they will not attack the sons of Jacob. He named the altar El-Bethel (the God of bethel). "Your name is Jacob; no longer shall your name be called Jacob, but Israel shall be your name.I am God Almighy: be fruitful and multiply, A nation nad a company of nations shall come from you. The land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac I will give to you and your offspring. God went up from him in the place where he had spoken with him. Jacob set up a pillar of stone, poured drink offering and oil on it. THE DEATHS OF RACHEL AND ISAAC Benjamin was born, Rachel died in childbirth and was buried. Jacob's 12 sons:

Reuben

Simeon

Levi

Judah

Issachar

Zebulun

Joseph

Benjamin

Dan

Naphtali

Gad

Asher

Isaac died at 180years old, full of days and was buried.

THE TWELVE APOSTLES Jesus called to the apostles and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. The 12 Apostles:

Simon Peter

Andrew

James

John

Philip

Bartholomew

Thomas

Matthew

James

Thaddeus

Simon the Zealot

Judas Iscariot JESUS SENDS OUT THE 12 APOSTLES "Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, proclaim as you go "The kingdom of heaven is at hand." You received without paying so give without pay. Acquire no gold/silver, no bag. the laborer deserves his food. Whatever place you enter, find out who is worthy and stay there until you depart. greet the house and if it is worthy, let your peace come upon it, if not, let it return to you. if they don't listen, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town. Truly I say to you it will be more bearable on the day of judgement for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town. PERSECUTION WILL COME Behold, I am sending you out as a sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they will deliver you over to courts and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear witness before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you over, do not be anxioushow you are to speak or what you are to say, for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour. For it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.

GENESIS 5:21-24 The metaphor of walking with God is a prominent theme in the Bible. Waling describes a life of obedience and submission to His instructions. Genesis 5 says the Enoch walked faithfully with God. This imagery is also used throughout the book of Deuteronomy to remind Israel to follow the law by walking in it. In chapter 6, we see the explicit origin of this idea. Verses 4-9 are referred to as the Shema which means "hear", the first word in this section of Scripture: "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one" In the Shema, Israel is encouraged to make God's law central to everything they do. Observant Jews today still recite this prayer daily. Other examples of walking imagery appear in the Psalms (1,15,119,128) and in the New Testament. (Col 3:7, 1John1:7, 2John1:6) by Matt Lucas

GENESIS 5:24 Enoch walked faithfully with God.

WALKING WITH GOD According to the US-NIH, Adults who walk >8k steps a day had a reduced risk of death over the following decade than those who walked only 4k. Walking is good for us. Walking is also communing with God. In Genesis 3. God walked with Adam and Eve "in the cool of day" In Genesis 5, Enoch walked faithfully with God for 300 years then God took him. In Genesis 17, God invited Abram to walk before Him as He renewed His covenant with him. Jacob described God as his Shepherd and spoke of his ancestors who walked faithfully. In the New Testament, Paul instructs us to walk by the Spirit. (Galatians 5:16) Walk with God daily. Surrender your life to Him and be guided by the Holy Spirit. That's the path to true health. How's your walk? by Matt Lucas

Reflect and Pray How would you describe "walking with God"? Today, as you reflect on Scripture, how will you follow and obey it?

Father, please forgive me when I've chosen not to walk with You, but pursued my own agenda. Help me keep in step with You, In Jesus' name, Amen.

CHRONOLOGICAL BIBLE READING: JOB 1-5 JOB'S CHARACTER AND WEALTH Job was blameless and upright, fearing God and turned away from evil. 7 sons and 3 daughters. 7000 sheeps, 3000 camels, 500 yoke oxen, 500 female donkeys, many servants, greatest of all of the east. Job consecrates his offspring and rises early to make an offering according to the number of them all. "it may be that my children have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts." Job did continually. satan ALLOWED TO TEST JOB "Stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has and he will curse You to Your face" "Behold, all that he has is in your hand. Only against him do not stretch out your hand." satan TAKES JOB'S PROPERTY AND CHILDREN a lone surviving servant reported to job that the Sabeans struck them and took all. another reported that the fire of God fell from heaven and burned up the sheep and livestock. Another reported the Chaldeans raided the camels, Another reported a great wind came across the wilderness and struck and the house fell on all his children. Job arose and tore his robe, shaved his head and fell on the ground worshipped. "Naked, I came from my mother's womb, naked shall I return. the LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD" Job did not sin or charge God with wrong. satan ATTACKS JOB'S HEALTH "Job still holds fast his integrity although you incited me against him to destroy him without reason" "Skin for skin! All that a man has he will give for his life. But stretch out Your hand and touch his bone and flesh and he will curse You to Your face." "Behold, he is in your hand; only spare his life" satan struck Job with loathsome sores. Job's wife tells him: "Do you still hold fast your integrity? Curse God and die." Job replied: "You speak as one of the foolish women would speak. Shall we receive good from God, and shall we not receive evil?" In all this, job did not sin with his lips. JOB'S 3 FRIENDS Eliphaz, Bildad, Zophar made an appointment and came to show sympathy and comfort to job. they wept and tore their clothes, sat with him 7 days and nights. no one spoke to him. they saw his suffering. JOB LAMENTS HIS BIRTH Job cursed his birthday, "For then I would have lain down and been quiet, slept and at rest. the small and the great are there, and the slave is free from his master.Why is life given to the bitter in soul, who long for death but it comes not. ELIPHAZ SPEAKS: THE INNOCENT PROSPER

NAMES OF JESUS FOR ADVENT: IMMANUEL Immanuel is a Hebrew name which appears in the Book of Isaiah as a sign that God will protect the House of David. The Gospel of Matthew interprets this as a prophecy of the birth of the Messiah and the fulfilment of Scripture in the person of Jesus. The title Immanuel literally means “God with us.” Both Isaiah and Matthew affirm that the Christ who would be born in Bethlehem would be God Himself who came to earth in the form of a man to live among His people. (Isaiah 7:10-14), so we can have confidence in God’s goodness in Christ that we have all we need. To know Christ is to know God. We can take great encouragement and comfort in living this side of the cross. The faithful people of God in the Old Testament looked forward to the Son of God, and we have seen the fulfilment of God in Christ who lived a perfect life and went to the cross to save us. What a wonderful blessing to know the Son of God in such a way.

ISAIAH 7:14 14Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.

MATTHEW 1:18-23 18Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly. 20But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” 22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: 23 “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel”

[gracefortheday]

GRACE FOR THE DAY

JANUARY 7, 2025 TUESDAY

Entry: 8:15amFairview Quezon City

VERSE OF THE DAY: Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news about Jesus. Acts 8:35

FOLLOWER OF ONE Be ready to be used by Jesus. Think about opportunities to share Christ to others, open your mouth and share the good news about Jesus. You have a story and it matters. Practice to share the Bible to others, connect your story to the situations of life so you are ready to speak up when someone asks about your faith.

THE ROAD TO SCRIPTURE Every time we open God's Word, we hold a treasure in out hands. Many generations of God's people are in the Scripture, lives, times, cultures, all influenced and transformed by God's Word throughout history. God's Word is a treasure we have at our fingertips. It's rich and sometimes challenging to comprehend. We relate to the Ethiopian eunuch. Philip helped him and pointed out that the Scripture is about Jesus and he was saved because God opened his eyes and heart to the Gospel. Ask yourself whether you understand what you are reading and what the passages mean to you and your life now. Jesus is alive and faithful to reveal Himself to an open heart. You aren't alone in the journey, God places people around us to teach us and help us and most importantly He Himself, the Holy Spirit teaches us. Intentionally dive in the Scripture and ask God how we can apply it in our life. The Ethiopian sent on his way rejoicing.

How can we not? when we realize how great God's love is upon us?

God, I am thankful that You are always by my side. I ask that You open my understanding of Your Word. Bring me brothers and sisters in Christ that I can learn from. Lead me to love the Bible and embrace the Truth it offers. Build my trust in You as I fill my life with Your Word. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE READING: GENESIS 18-19 MATTHEW 6:1-8 ISAAC'S BIRTH PROMISED (cont.) ABRAHAM INTERCEDES FOR SODOM GOD RESCUES LOT GOD DESTROYS SODOM LOT AND HIS DAUGHTERS GIVING TO THE NEEDY THE LORD'S PRAYER

JOB 42:1-6 Job's friends insisted that his suffering was caused by sin. He relentlessly defended his innocence and sought his vindication from God. God asked Job a series of questions pertaining to His creation. God revealed his character. Job didn't need to fully understand God's ways, no man can. He only needed to humble himself, seek to know God deeply and trust Him wholeheartedly. His suffering taught him to run to God as the only sure place of refuge, safest place for comfort, sustenance, strength. He discovered that when life comes out short, God is enough.

Psalms 23:1,4 The Lord is my shepherd, i lack nothing. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

SEEING GOD IN CREATION JOB 42:5 My ears has heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Kenny, after years of backsliding, stood before the congregation saying he had been restored. God touched his heart through the witness of God's general revelation seen in natural world, and he now embraced the wisdom found in the special revelation of Scripture. He was baptized with his father in tears of joy. Job also was shaken after losing so much. "I cry to you, O God, but you don't answer. I stand before you, but you don't even look." (Job 30:20) God spoke to Job out of the storm (38:1) Job's vision needed to be expanded as he considered God's amazing intricate creation. God's amazing love and power is trustworthy. When doubts threaten your faith in Christ, consider the magnificence of God's creation. He reveals Himself in it if we only have eyes to see. by Tom Felten

REFLECT AND PRAY How has God revealed Himself in creation? How are awe of God and faith in Him linked?

Creator God, thank You for helping me see You in creation. In Jesus' name, Amen.

LIGHT OF THE WORLD: A sign of God's power (burning bush, bright clouds, pillar of fire etc) Psalm 27:1- God is our light and salvation. Light stood for the glory of God which is found in the person of Jesus Christ. He shed the light of life and truth through His work and His words. Those who trust in Him have their eyes opened by Him and walk in the light. Light is beautiful, mysterious and practical. it shows us where to go and helps us see the truth of all around us. See the fullness of God in human form, for all to see His glory.

JOHN 8:12 Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

ISAIAH 49:6-7 he says: "it is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." Thus says the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel and his Holy One, to one deeply despised, abhorred by the nation, the servant of rulers; "Kings shall see and arise; princes and they shall prostrate themselves; because of the Lord, who is faithful. the Holy One of Israel, who has chosen you."

[gracefortheday]

GRACE FOR THE DAY

JANUARY 5, 2025, SUNDAY

Entry: 4:55am, Quezon City

WORSHIP:

VERSE OF THE DAY LUKE 7:47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven-for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little, loves little.

Our response to Him in worship and gratitude shows the depth of which we understand His saving grace in our lives. worship little, understand little. 2 people owed money, the one who owed a lot was more grateful. "Your faith has saved you" The woman knows that no matter how far you go, God's love goes further and it can reach you wherever you are. Respond to God with everything in your heart God's love and grace is the foundation of gratitude. by Louie Giglio

God, thank You for saving and loving me. Thank You for forgiveness. Your Forgiveness changes everything. Help me to show You the honor and love that You deserve. Give me a heart of gratefulness that prompts me to worship You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

THE HABIT OF GRATITUDE Life doesn't always consist of those mountaintop moments. Gratitude will be tested by the barrage of trivialities and inconveniences of everyday life. PRAY. Pray continually. Direct your thoughts towards God. Gratitude is a response first and foremost to God's continual love. Gain the right perspective on life. You are a humble human before God. Humility brings rejoicing.

God, break through my barriers that keep me from gratitude, and elevate my eyes, that I would give thanks to You always. In Jesus name, Amen.

JOHN 3:16 For God to loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life

God's heart is so wonderfully great and unimaginably powerful, compassionate and generous beyond belief. God has repeatedly and consistently been loving and forgiving. His mercy is a testament of His great love. What an amazing time and opportunity everyday was and is because Jesus has saved me. It's the perfect reason for every season, IT's the perfect purpose for every creation. The Creator has provided all things we need even our greatest need, forgiveness He gave, immediately, with full power, and in the perfectly wonderful way. Such a wonderful life to live, in the presence of my Creator who loves me and cares deeply for me. Thank You Jesus.

MATTHEW 6:34 Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is it's own trouble.

God, thank You for leading me with love and compassion. Even Your corrections are filled with kindness. Right now, please help me to pay attention to how You are asking me to grow, and give me the courage to change. It is an honor to spend time with You -and I don't want to take this time for granted. So here I am, Lord. Please speak to me, use me, and change me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE READING GENESIS 13-15 MATTHEW 5:1-26

ABRAM AND LOT SEPARATE Abram to Egypt, Lot to Negeb. Abram went to Bethel and Ai, in his tent and first altar, He called upon the name of the Lord. There was strife between herdsmen of Lot and Abram when canaanites and perizzites were still in the land. Lot chose Jordan Valley to the east, to Sodom. Abram stayed in Canaan. The Lord said to Abram, "for all the land that you see I will give to you and to your offspring forever, arise, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you." Abram moved his tent and settled by the oaks of Mamre, in Hebron and built an altar to the Lord. ABRAM RESCUES LOT Sodom was under war and all Lot's posessions were taken. Abram was informed and he led forth his trained men, 318, and went in pursuit as far as dan and they were victorious against Lot's enemy. ABRAM BLESSED BY MELCHIZEDEK Melchizedek the king of Salem brought out bread and wine. (priest of God Most High) and blessed him and said. "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!" and Abram gave him a tenth of everything. "I will take nothing but what the young men have eaten, and the share of the men who went with me. Let Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre take their share." GOD'S COVENANT WITH ABRAM After these things the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision: "Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be shall very great." "O Lord God is the heir of my house Eliezer of Damascus?" "This man shall not be your heir; your very own son shall be your heir" God brought him outside "Look toward heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them, so shall your offspring be." Abram believed the Lord, and he counted it to him as righteousness. "I gave you this land to possess" "How do I know?" Abram obeyed God and offered animal sacrifices. A deep sleep and darkness fell on him. "Know for certain that your offspring will be sojourners and servants in a land not theirs, afflicted for 400 years, but I will bring judgment on the nation that they serve and they will come out with great possessions. You shall go to your fathers in peace; you shall be buried in a good age. And they shall come back here in the fourth generation, for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet complete" a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces. The Lord made covenant with Abram saying: "To your offspring I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river of Euphrates.." THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT Seeing the crowds, Jesus went on the mountain, sat down and disciples came. THE BEATITUDES Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Blessed are the reviled on My account, Rejoice and be glad for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

SALT AND LIGHT “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

CHRIST CAME TO FULFILL THE LAW “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished. Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

ANGER “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison. Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.

PSALM 139:1-12 1O Lord, you have searched me and known me! 2You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. 3You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. 4Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. 5You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it. 7 Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! 9If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, 10even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me. 11If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light about me be night,” 12 even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is bright as the day, for darkness is as light with you.

Psalm 139 is one of the most intimate of the psalms. Such closeness comes through in David’s extensive use of second- and first-person pronouns. John Stott makes this observation in his book Authentic Christianity: “ Psalm 139 is arguably the most radical statement in the Old Testament of God’s personal relationship to the individual. Personal pronouns and possessives occur in the first person (I, me, my) forty-six times and in the second person (you, yours) thirty-two times.” This intimacy prompts the psalmist’s praise (vv. 14, 17-18) and prayers that consider his and God’s enemies (vv. 19-22) and his desire for deeper communion with Him: “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (vv. 23-24). By: Arthur Jackson

GOD KNOWS EVERYTHING PSALM 139:3 You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do.

God truly knows all. But according to an article in The Wall Street Journal, the National Security Agency knows a great deal about us as well through our smartphone data trails. Everyone who owns a cell phone creates “metadata” that leaves a “digital trail.” While each individual crumb of data might seem insignificant, when it’s combined and analyzed, it provides “one of the most powerful investigative tools ever devised.” By tracing our metadata, investigators can pinpoint where we’ve been or where we are at any given moment. Far more superior than the NSA’s digital trail analysis, David said God knows where we are in relation to Him. In Psalm 139, he addresses a prayer to God, the one who alone can search and examine what’s going on inside of us (v. 1). The psalmist wrote, “Search me, God, and know my heart” (v. 23). He knows everything about us (vv. 2-6), is present everywhere (vv. 7-12), and “created [our] inmost being” (vv. 13-16). His thoughts are higher than our human understanding (vv. 17-18), and He’s even with us as we face our enemies (vv. 19-22). Because God is all-knowing, ever-present, and all-powerful, He knows exactly where we’ve been, what we’ve been doing, and what we’re made of. But He’s also a loving Father who will help us walk in His ways. Let’s follow Him down the trail of life today. By: Marvin Williams

Reflect & Pray How does it encourage you to know God truly knows you? How are you walking with Him?

Dear God, thank You for loving me even though You know all about me. Please help me to walk well with You. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

NAMES OF JESUS FOR ADVENT: THE WORD

Describing Jesus (at the start of the Gospel of John) is no small thing. In Jewish culture, words were powerful. In Genesis 1, we hear of the world being spoken into existence. Creation was brought into existence by the word. And in John 1, the Word is revealed as the second Person of the triune God, who said it and it was done. He spoke all things out of nothing in the first creation, He was in the beginning with God the Father, and was God, and by Him all things were created (John 1:14, John 1:9-18). Jesus not only spoke words that lead to eternal life, but according to this verse He is the very words of life, referring to the eternal life of joy and fulfilment which He provides.

Putting this all together for the Jews of Jesus’ time, The Word was more than just language and communication. The Word meant life, power, and was personally involved with them. Jesus as the Word of God means perfect relationship with God, and with us. We can approach the throne of God with confidence knowing that Jesus, as the Word of God, has done it all.

JOHN 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2He was in the beginning with God.

[gracefortheday]

GRACE FOR THE DAY

JANUARY 6, 2025 MONDAY

Entry: 6am, in transit from Quezon City to Nueva Ecija

WORSHIP:

VERSE OF THE DAY: JOHN 3:29 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.

FROM FEAR TO COURAGE Jesus invites us to bring all our doubts, fears, and questions to Him. Nicodemus came to Jesus one night to ask questions. He was afraid of judgment from other Pharisees, so he set aside his pride and status and went to Jesus. Jesus didn't judge him. He answered him with truth. Anyone who does not live like Jesus, run away from the light and live in darkness. Jesus challenged him to follow Him. In John 7, he defended Jesus to the other Pharisees, and in John 19, he was there to bury Jesus' body. Jesus meets us where we are and guides us toward His truth.

God, thank You that You are inviting me to come to You with all my doubts, fears, and questions. Instead of relying on my own strength, may I seek You and Your truth in all things. Help me set aside my pride and approach You with humble heart. Transform my fears into courage, just as You did for Nicodemus. Guide me toward Your truth and Your light. In Jesus' name, Amen.

PSALMS 115:3 Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.

God is a personal intentional God who is also the Almighty, Sovereign, Omniscient God, Good and perfect, Immutable, Unchanging, Wonderful, too wonderful for me. Amazing Gracious and Loving at all times.

JOSHUA 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

You are never alone, and there's nothing too big for God to handle. Let this truth sink in as you bring your cares and concerns to God.

God, You are good and Your mercy endures forever! Nothing can compare to You, and no one is like You. Thank You for being honest, kind, good, and true. I am so grateful that You allow me to enter into Your presence! It's in Your presence that I find complete joy. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE READING: GENESIS 16-17 MATTHEW 5:27-48

HAGAR AND ISHMAEL Sarai took Hagar to bore Ishmael by Abram. Sarai dealt with her harshly. She fled and God said: "Return to your mistress and submit yourself under her hand. I will multiply your descendants exceedingly so that they shall not be counted for multitude. The Lord has heard your affliction, He shall be a wild man, his hands against every man, and every man against him and he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren" She called the name of the Lord: You are the God who sees. EL ROI THE SIGN OF THE COVENANT "I am Almighty God, walk before Me and be blameless And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly. As for Me, behold, My covenant is with you, and you will be a father of many nations. You will be exceedingly fruitful, nations out of you, kings from you. Everlasting covenant to be God to you and your descendants, an everlasting possession. circumcise 8 days old children. Abraham laughed and questioned in his heart then Abraham obeyed.

ADULTERY IN THE HEART Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. pluck out and cast out what causes you to sin, for it is more profitable than your whole body to perish in hell. MARRIAGE IS SACRED AND BUILDING Whoever divorces his wife for any reason causes her to commit sexual adultery. Who marries a divorces woman commits adultery JESUS FORBIDS OATHS Do not swear at all because you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your "yes" be "yes" and "no" be "no". For whatever is more than these is from the evil one. GO THE SECOND MILE Do not resist an evil person. Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you, do not turn away. LOVE YOUR ENEMIES Love your enemies, bless whose who curse you, do good to those who hate you and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you. Act like a child of God who treats all with grace. Be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.

MATTHEW 2:1-11 Matthew’s gospel emphasizes gentile (non-Jewish) inclusion into God’s redemption story. His genealogy, for example, highlights three gentile women—Tamar, Rahab, and Ruth (Matthew 1:3, 5). And Bathsheba, Solomon’s mother, was previously married to a gentile, Uriah the Hittite (v. 6). In Matthew 2, gentiles—the magi (who may have been members of the Persian royal court)—come to worship Jesus (vv. 1-2). By highlighting gentile inclusion in Christ’s story, Matthew leads his readers to the good news that God’s redemption is for all people and His followers are called to “make disciples of all nations” (28:19). BY: Monica La Rose

MATTHEW 2:6 Bethlehem…out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.

LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM Pastor Phillip Brooks wrote "O little town of Bethlehem" after visiting the town. "it seems as if I could hear voices that I knew well, telling each other of the "wonderful night of the Savior's birth". In 1868, the song spoke peace into the aftermath of the American Civil War. "The hopes and fears of all the years are met in You tonight" We were overjoyed finding Jesus that night. We need the glorious news of our Savior's birth. Jesus came to cast out our sin and enter in and be born in us. In Him, we find peace.

REFLECT AND PRAY: Where in your life do you need the peace the Savior offers? What aspects of Jesus' story touches you most?

Dear Jesus, thank You for the hope and peace You've brought to me. In Jesus name, Amen.

NAMES OF JESUS CHRIST LAMB OF GOD Sacrifice. In the old testament, it was made in order to please God. In Exodus, the lamb was sacrificed and it's blood was painted on the doorpost (Passover). Christ is the Lamb without blemish, He is the ultimate sacrifice who took the punishment that belongs to us. The ultimate end to God's plan for salvation of the world. Revelation 5:9 pictures living creatures and elders falling before the Lamb because He purchased all of the people with His blood. We thank God for Jesus, the Lamb of God.

JOHN 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!"

ROMANS 5:1-11 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through out Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

CHRIST IN OUR PLACE For when we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.