We live in a world of cell phones and the internet. They connect us to the world. And when the network is down, we feel lost and disconnected. We will do what's necessary to connect and stay connected. Spiritual disciplines are ways of strengthening our connection to God. The spiritual disciplines help teach us to consistently turn our lives over to God and to be surprised by the ways he transforms our lives. The practice of spiritual disciplines begins with small steps toward holiness. 

A new year brings the opportunity of new things. But as we begin this journey of 2022, God has a purpose for us. The promises of God are sure. When we embrace them, by faith, it's just the beginning. But, by returning God’s promises to him in prayer our faith is put into action. 

What was the morning like after the birth of Jesus? How did that birth change the lives of the shepherds in the field, Mary and Joseph, and how does it change us? 

The Angels' Song announces the birth of a child named Jesus, but it's not just a birthday song—it is A Song of Salvation.

Zechariah's Song thanked God for remembering His people and delivering them from oppression and exile. Jesus was born because God never forgets His people.

Mary's Christmas song praised God for exalting the humble. She was a young, unmarried, ordinary girl, but God chose to use her to bring His Son into the world.

The love of God is greater than any person, circumstance, sin, or failure. As we trust in God’s unfailing love as the strength of our lives, we will experience his promise of our being more than conquerors.

Transformation is an ongoing process. We are formed, conformed, and transformed into the image of Jesus. In times when life is difficult, we can find comfort in knowing we have an incorruptible inheritance in heaven, and we are not alone in our groaning and longing. All the earth is looking forward to that day. Our ultimate hope is in the completion of our salvation when we will be with God, face-to-face.

We have a new relationship with God that is now the foundation for a new life of belonging. An adoption is a one-way act from the Father. When we are born again, we are adopted as sons and daughters into God’s family, transforming our identities and our lives forever.