Spiritual growth isn't about having the right skills or education - it's about proximity to God's Word. When Scripture shapes our thoughts, emotions, and actions, it naturally overflows into our relationships and conversations. King Josiah exemplified this transformation when he allowed God's Word to completely reshape his life at age 26. Research shows that people who engage with Scripture four or more times per week experience dramatically different thinking and living patterns. The goal isn't perfection or expertise, but consistent daily immersion in God's Word and intentional community with His people.

True love for God requires complete commitment, not partial dedication. The Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4-5 calls us to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and might. This isn't about admiring God from a distance, but entering into genuine relationship with Him as your personal God. Just as athletes give everything to their sport, we're called to hold nothing back in our relationship with God. Through Jesus Christ, God has made this relationship possible by addressing our spiritual heart defect and removing the barrier of sin. The question isn't whether God loves us, but whether we'll be all in with Him.

Starting each day with the right foundation matters more than New Year's resolutions. The ancient Jewish practice of reciting the Shema - declaring that the Lord our God is one - provides a powerful daily rhythm for believers. This declaration from Deuteronomy 6:4 reminds us that God is uniquely different from all other gods because He speaks directly to His people, rescues through mighty acts, and pursues us with love. Unlike other religions that require earning divine favor through good works, Christianity is unique because God has already done everything for us. Beginning each morning by acknowledging God as Lord and King, and ending each day by examining whether we lived under His lordship, transforms our purpose, challenges, and decisions throughout the day.

All religions fall into two categories: self-righteousness and God's righteousness. Most religions require human effort to earn divine favor, while Christianity operates on God removing our sin so His goodness can remain in us. This distinction appears in Genesis with Cain and Abel's offerings. Cain brought produce from his garden representing human effort, while Abel brought sacrifice representing what God provides. Jesus came as the promised Branch from Nazareth, whose name means salvation. Through His death and resurrection, He became our Tree of Life, inviting us to find our righteousness in Him rather than our own works.

Christmas lights remind us of the true Light of the World who came to earth over 2,000 years ago. Just as God spoke light into existence at creation, He stepped into our world as Jesus Christ to pierce through spiritual darkness. The prophet Isaiah foretold that people walking in darkness would see a great light, fulfilled when Jesus declared Himself the light of the world. Unlike physical darkness, spiritual darkness isn't overcome by adding good or removing bad, but by the presence of Christ's light. Jesus came not to condemn but to save, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him. This Christmas, let the lights around you serve as reminders of Christ's light and consider how you can share that light with others who are still walking in darkness.

The Christmas story in Luke 2:8-20 reveals the fulfillment of God's first promise made in Genesis 3:15 - that He would send a Savior through the seed of a woman. When Jesus was born, God chose to announce this world-changing event to shepherds, society's outcasts who were essential yet despised. An angel appeared to them with incredible news: a Savior, Christ the Lord, had been born in Bethlehem. After finding the baby exactly as described, the shepherds became the first evangelists, spreading the good news everywhere. Christmas represents the great exchange where we give God our sin and shame, and He gives us His righteousness and character.

The Christmas story isn't what you think! Jesus wasn't born in isolation - God orchestrated a Roman census to get Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born surrounded by family in a crowded home. Sometimes God's greatest works happen through life's most unexpected moments. What unexpected circumstances might God be using in YOUR story this Christmas?

Scott Krippayne Christmas Concert - December 7 2025

The first Christmas was anything but expected, yet it fulfilled centuries-old promises. When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary with unexpected news, her response differed dramatically from Zechariah's doubt. Mary's faith was rooted in knowing God's Word, understanding His character, and choosing surrender over self-protection. Her example teaches us that when unexpected circumstances arise, we can trust God's promises and faithfulness. The foundation for handling life's surprises isn't found in our own strength, but in anchoring ourselves in God's unchanging character and proven track record of keeping His word.

Paul's letter to the Colossians reveals that ministry is a team effort, not a solo endeavor. He introduces ten diverse ministry partners, each bringing unique gifts to advance the Gospel.

From Tychicus the faithful messenger to Luke the skilled physician, these individuals demonstrate that everyone has something valuable to contribute to God's Kingdom work. Their stories show us the power of diversity, the importance of using our professional skills for ministry, and the possibility of restored relationships through Christ. Just as Paul relied on his team, the church today needs every believer to actively participate using their unique abilities and resources.