Many of us wrestle with the idea that God loves us but wonder, does He like me? We may believe He loves us because He has to—it’s in His nature. But liking someone feels personal, optional, and intimate. So, does God like you?

Let’s turn to the life of Jesus to find the answer. At His baptism, before He had begun His public ministry, a voice from heaven declared, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). God expressed delight in Jesus, not because of what He had accomplished but simply because of who He was.

This delight wasn’t reserved for Jesus alone. Through faith in Him, believers are united with Christ (Galatians 2:20), sharing in His identity as God’s beloved. The same delight God takes in Jesus, He also takes in His children. He isn’t waiting for you to prove yourself. He delights in you because you are His.

The enemy loves to distort our view of God, whispering lies like, “You’re too flawed for God to enjoy you,” or “You have to earn His approval.” These lies take root, distorting our identity and making us feel distant from Him. Yet Scripture gives us powerful tools to counter these lies. When the enemy says, “God can’t like you,” respond with truth: “I am accepted in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:6).

Understanding God’s delight changes everything. Instead of striving for approval, you live from a place of acceptance. This foundational truth brings freedom: God’s delight is not tied to your performance. It’s rooted in His nature and your identity in Christ.

Imagine waking up each day knowing God is in a good mood when He thinks about you. This assurance transforms your relationships, work, and worship. You no longer strive for significance in fleeting things like career achievements or social approval. Instead, you reflect God’s love and delight in the world around you, becoming a light in dark places.

1. Meditate on Scripture: Reflect on verses that affirm your identity in Christ, such as John 17:23 or Isaiah 42:1.

2. Speak Truth Daily: Make it a habit to declare, “I am loved, and God delights in me.”

3. Rest in His Presence: Spend time in prayer and worship, letting His love renew your heart and mind.

4. Reject Lies: When self-doubt or condemnation creep in, confront them with God’s Word, just as Jesus did.

God’s delight in you is not an abstract concept—it’s deeply personal. He formed you, knows you fully, and still delights in you. The cross is proof of His love and joy in you. As you embrace this truth, let it shape your identity and overflow into your life. You are not just tolerated; you are His beloved, and He is well pleased with you.

So, does God like you? Yes—more than you can imagine.

1. How does knowing God delights in you—not because of what you’ve done but because of who you are in Christ—change the way you view yourself and your relationship with Him?

2. What are some lies you’ve believed about your worth or identity? How can Scripture help you counter those lies and live in the truth of God’s delight?

3. What does it look like to live from a place of God’s acceptance rather than striving to earn it? How can this mindset impact your daily decisions and relationships?

4. If God delights in you, how might you share His love and joy with others? In what ways can you reflect this truth in your community or workplace?

5. When you struggle to believe that God delights in you, what practical steps can you take to reconnect with His truth? Share examples of how you’ve overcome doubts in the past.

In today’s world, the search for identity is often tied to performance, roles, or others’ opinions. But what if your identity wasn’t something you had to earn or discover within yourself? What if it was already given to you—unchanging and secure?

Many people live by the mantra: I am what I do. This belief is tempting because it offers a sense of control. If you work hard enough, achieve enough, or perfect yourself enough, you can define who you are. But what happens when you fail, when relationships crumble, or when life throws curveballs? Suddenly, the foundation of your worth feels shaky.

Our culture’s obsession with self-definition and performance often spills into spiritual lives too. Many believe that being “good enough” earns God’s love or approval. But this couldn’t be further from the truth of what the gospel says about your identity.

At Jesus’ baptism, before He performed miracles or preached sermons, God declared, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him, I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). This statement wasn’t based on Jesus’ accomplishments—it was rooted in His relationship with the Father.

The same is true for those who trust in Christ. When you place your faith in Jesus, you are united with Him. God doesn’t see you through the lens of your mistakes or successes; He sees the righteousness of His Son. Your identity becomes secure, unshakable, and rooted in God’s love.

Instead of working for love and acceptance, the gospel invites you to live from love and acceptance. This shift changes everything.

• Freedom from Performance: You no longer need to strive for perfection to prove your worth. God’s love is already yours, not because of what you’ve done but because of who He is.

• Confidence in Struggles: Even when you fall short, God’s view of you doesn’t change. His grace meets you where you are and empowers you to grow.

• Boldness in Purpose: Secure in your identity, you can step into God’s calling without fear of failure or rejection.

For those in Christ, the answer is clear: you are chosen, loved, and significant. When doubts creep in, remind yourself of this truth. Your identity isn’t tied to fleeting successes or failures but to the eternal, unchanging love of God.

So, who are you really? You are a beloved child of God. And that changes everything.

1. What shapes your sense of identity the most—your accomplishments, others’ opinions, or something else? How do these influences compare to the truth of your identity in Christ?

2. Jesus was affirmed as God’s beloved Son before He accomplished anything in His ministry. How does this challenge the way you view your worth and value?

3. Have you ever felt like you had to earn God’s love or approval? How does understanding your identity in Christ change that perspective?

4. How does living from a place of being secure in God’s love (rather than striving for it) impact your relationships, decisions, and personal struggles?

5. What practical steps can you take to remind yourself daily of your identity in Christ and live confidently in that truth?

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself, Who am I, really? It’s a question that lingers in many hearts, and for good reason. In a world that often labels us by what we do, where we come from, or the mistakes we've made, it’s easy to lose sight of who we truly are. But what if your true identity isn’t found in what you’ve done, but in who God says you are?

From childhood, we are shaped by experiences, words spoken over us, and the ways we respond to life. Whether it’s the pressure to achieve, the scars of past hurts, or the lies we’ve believed about ourselves, these influences can leave us with a flawed sense of identity.

Society tells us to measure our worth by our success, appearance, or even the number of followers we have. But chasing these standards often leads to exhaustion, comparison, and disappointment. Is there a way to break free from these faulty measurements?

The good news is that Jesus offers us a new foundation for identity. When He was baptized, before He performed any miracles or preached any sermons, the heavens opened, and God declared, “This is my Son, whom I love; with Him, I am well pleased” (Matthew 3:17). Notice something remarkable: God’s affirmation of Jesus wasn’t based on His achievements. It was based on their relationship.

This same truth applies to us. When we are in Christ, our identity is not defined by our past, our failures, or even our successes. Instead, it is anchored in the unchanging truth that we are God’s beloved children, fully loved and accepted by Him.

Sometimes, our struggles reveal how we see ourselves. Do you find yourself constantly seeking approval? Avoiding vulnerability? Feeling trapped by past mistakes or fearing the future? These symptoms often point to a misplaced identity.

But here’s the invitation: What if you stopped believing the lies that say you’re unworthy or not enough? What if you allowed Jesus to replace those false labels with His truth?

In Christ, you are:

• Loved: No action can increase or diminish God’s love for you.

• Secure: Your worth isn’t tied to your performance but to your relationship with Him.

• Significant: You have a God-given purpose that flows from who you are, not what you do.

2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us, “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This means your past no longer defines you. Instead, God’s promises shape your future.

Imagine what life could look like if you embraced your identity in Christ. You’d approach relationships with confidence, not fear. You’d face challenges knowing that failure doesn’t define you. You’d rest in the truth that you are already enough because Jesus is enough.

This transformation isn’t instant, but as you allow the Holy Spirit to reshape your thoughts through God’s Word, prayer, and community, your identity will become rooted in His truth.

Who are you, really? You are God’s beloved child. You are loved, secure, and significant. Let go of the false identities you’ve been carrying and embrace the freedom Jesus offers.

The question isn’t just who you think you are—but who God says you are. And in Him, you are more than enough.

1. What does the world often use to define identity, and how do these measures influence the way we see ourselves?

2. Read 2 Corinthians 5:17. What does it mean to you to be a “new creation” in Christ? How does this reshape your view of your past or present?

3. Think about the labels or lies you’ve believed about yourself. How does God’s declaration of “You are my beloved child” challenge those beliefs?

4. How does knowing you are loved and secure in Christ change the way you approach relationships, work, or challenges?

5. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping you live out your identity in Christ? How can you invite Him to guide you more intentionally?

As we step into the new year, many of us are met with a mix of excitement and uncertainty. The calendar change brings with it not only fresh opportunities but also potential challenges. What if there’s a divine door of opportunity waiting for you—one that leads to healing, purpose, or restoration? How do we discern it, and more importantly, how do we walk through it with courage?

The truth is, every new season comes with its share of adversaries. The Bible speaks often of doors—doors of opportunity that God opens for His people. Yet these doors are rarely free of resistance. Whether it’s fear, doubt, or external opposition, the obstacles can feel insurmountable. But the good news is that Jesus is with us. He not only opens the right doors but empowers us to walk through them.

In Acts 4:29-31, the early church faced threats and opposition, yet they prayed boldly for courage. Their prayer wasn’t just for protection; it was for boldness to proclaim the gospel and step into their God-given opportunities. They relied on the Holy Spirit to fill them with the power they needed to move forward.

This Christmas season reminds us that Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us. He is not distant; He is present, leading us through every door of opportunity, even in the face of adversity.

Prayer is the key to discerning God’s will and receiving the strength to overcome obstacles. However, many of us struggle with prayer. Whether it’s busyness, feelings of unworthiness, or doubts about its effectiveness, these barriers can keep us from experiencing God’s power. But Jesus invites us to come as we are. Simple, honest prayers—like “Help me, Lord”—are powerful when offered with faith.

When we abide in Jesus, remaining connected to Him through prayer, we align our hearts with His will. As John 15:7 says, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”

The opportunity before you may look like a new direction, a restored relationship, or a deeper spiritual life. It might even be the chance to share God’s love with someone far from Him. Whatever it is, it’s not just for your benefit. Beyond the door lies God’s purpose—to bring healing, hope, and transformation to others through you.

This year, let’s ask the Holy Spirit to shake us out of fear, complacency, and doubt. Let’s seek His guidance to recognize the doors He’s opening and the wisdom to walk through them.

So, what door of opportunity is God calling you to step through in 2025? Whatever it may be, trust that Jesus is already on the other side, ready to walk with you every step of the way.

1. What does it mean to you that Jesus is “Emmanuel, God with us”? How does this truth impact the way you approach challenges and opportunities in life?

2. Have you ever experienced a "door of opportunity" in your life that required boldness and faith to step through? How did you respond, and what did you learn from that experience?

3. What are some common barriers that hinder people from praying consistently? How can you overcome these in your own prayer life?

4. How can abiding in Jesus (John 15:7) help you discern the difference between a “good” opportunity and a “God” opportunity?

5. If God is calling you to step through a new door in 2025, what practical steps can you take to prepare, pray, and partner with Him in faith?

Christmas is a season filled with lights, music, and traditions that seem to come alive everywhere we look. Yet, amidst the busyness, it’s easy to miss the profound hope the season offers—the thrill of hope that transforms lives.

This hope finds its roots in the story of a holy night, over two millennia ago. It wasn’t just any night; it was the night that heaven kissed earth, when the Light of the World stepped into darkness. Jesus, born in a humble stable, came to bring light to weary hearts, peace to troubled souls, and a joy that the world could not take away.

Life, even in the best seasons, can be heavy. For some, Christmas highlights the weight of challenges—financial strain, broken relationships, or the ache of loss. Yet, the birth of Jesus reminds us that hope can shine brightest in the darkest moments. He didn’t come to a perfect world; He came to a world struggling with oppression, division, and pain.

Jesus’ arrival wasn’t just a historical event. It was a divine interruption—a message that no matter how heavy life feels, hope is here. His presence invites us to lay down our burdens and embrace the new and glorious morning His birth offers.

What makes this hope so transformative is that it’s deeply personal. Jesus isn’t just a distant deity; He is Emmanuel, God with us. He knows our struggles, shares in our pain, and meets us right where we are.

When the angels announced His birth to shepherds—ordinary, overlooked people—they declared “good news of great joy for all people.” This joy wasn’t reserved for the privileged or perfect; it was for everyone. Jesus came as a Savior for the broken, the weary, and the lost, extending His hand of friendship to all who would receive Him.

Christmas also calls us to carry the peace of Jesus into a divided world. His law is love, and His gospel is peace. This isn’t just peace for our hearts but peace that flows through us to others. Imagine bringing the reconciling love of Jesus to your holiday gatherings, workplaces, and communities.

In a world longing for unity, Jesus teaches us to love one another, to forgive, and to work toward breaking chains of oppression and division. His example compels us to be ambassadors of His peace.

The gift of Jesus isn’t like any other gift. It’s one thing to hear about Him, sing carols, and enjoy the season, but the real joy comes when we receive Him into our lives. To those who receive and believe in His name, He gives the right to become children of God.

This Christmas, consider what it would look like to invite Jesus into your life anew. Let His hope, friendship, and peace shape not just your holiday season but your every day.

A weary world can still rejoice because the Light of the World has come. Will you embrace the thrill of hope this Christmas?

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1. What does “the thrill of hope” mean to you personally during this Christmas season? How can you embrace that hope amidst life’s challenges?

2. How does the reality of Jesus being “God with us” (Emmanuel) shape your perspective on loneliness or difficult circumstances?

3. The blog mentions carrying Jesus’ peace into a divided world. What practical steps can you take to share His peace in your relationships or community?

4. Reflect on the idea that Jesus offers hope not just for eternity but for our everyday lives. How can you invite Him into specific areas of your life this week?

5. Receiving Jesus is compared to opening a gift. What barriers might prevent someone from fully receiving the hope and peace Jesus offers? How can we overcome them?

As Christmas approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of the season. Shopping lists grow longer, calendars fill up, and the pressure to make everything “perfect” builds. But amid the chaos, a simple, timeless truth quietly waits to be rediscovered: Christmas is a declaration of peace.

At the heart of this season lies the story of a silent night in Bethlehem, where peace entered the world in the form of a newborn King. Jesus, the Son of God, came into a world filled with strife and uncertainty. The Roman Empire was powerful yet oppressive, its “peace” enforced through war and domination. But Jesus offered a different kind of peace—a peace that surpasses understanding, rooted in love, grace, and the promise of salvation.

It’s remarkable how God used the ordinary to announce the extraordinary. He chose shepherds—men who were considered outcasts, unclean, and insignificant in society—to hear the angelic proclamation of Christ’s birth. These shepherds, who tended lambs destined for sacrifice, were the first to meet the Lamb of God, born to take away the sins of the world.

This unexpected invitation to witness the Savior’s birth reminds us that no one is too far, too broken, or too ordinary to encounter God’s grace. In fact, it’s often in our moments of greatest need that His peace finds us.

The peace Jesus brings isn’t like the fleeting calm we might feel after checking off our to-do lists or finding the perfect gift. His peace is enduring, reaching into the depths of our hearts and bringing stillness to our restless souls. It’s the kind of peace that holds firm in the face of anxiety, loss, and disappointment.

Jesus offers this peace freely to anyone willing to trust Him. As He said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27). This peace isn’t earned through effort or perfection—it’s a gift, wrapped in the love of God and delivered through the Holy Spirit.

This Christmas, let the message of the silent night in Bethlehem invite you to pause. Consider what it would mean to let go of the hustle and embrace the peace that Jesus offers. His birth wasn’t just a moment in history; it was the beginning of a kingdom marked by love, joy, and reconciliation. It’s a kingdom that calls us to live in step with the Prince of Peace.

Whether you’re facing chaos, heartache, or uncertainty, remember that the same Jesus who came to bring peace to a troubled world is still offering that peace to you today. Let His presence calm your heart and fill your soul with hope.

As you sing carols this season, reflect on their deeper meaning. Songs like Silent Night remind us that the peace of Jesus is not just a sweet sentiment—it’s a transformative reality. This Christmas, may you experience the joy of knowing the Savior who was born to bring peace on earth, and peace to you.

1. How do you typically respond to the busyness and stress of the Christmas season? What steps can you take to experience the peace that Jesus offers amid life’s chaos?

2. The shepherds were the first to hear the good news of Jesus’ birth. Why do you think God chose them, and what does that say about who God invites into His story today?

3. How does the peace Jesus offers differ from the temporary calm the world provides? Can you share a time when you experienced God’s peace in a challenging situation?

4. Jesus was born in a humble manger, yet His birth changed the world. How does God use unexpected situations or people in your life to accomplish His purposes?

5. The shepherds couldn’t keep the good news to themselves—they shared it with everyone they met. How can you share the message of Christ’s peace with others this Christmas season?

Every Christmas season, the world buzzes with anticipation. Shoppers line up, carols echo through malls, and children eagerly await the magic of Christmas morning. But beyond the lights and traditions, a deeper question lingers: what are we truly waiting for this Christmas?

Centuries ago, Israel waited in longing, yearning for a Messiah who would bring hope and restoration. That first Christmas was the culmination of their waiting—a moment when God stepped into history as Emmanuel, God with us.

But waiting isn’t just a relic of the past. It’s something we all experience, whether it’s waiting for a breakthrough, healing, reconciliation, or simply peace amidst life’s storms. And waiting can be hard—it tests our patience, challenges our faith, and sometimes threatens our hope.

The beauty of Christmas lies in the reminder that we are not alone in our waiting. Jesus came as Emmanuel, not just to fulfill promises made long ago, but to meet us in the here and now. He entered our world to bring light into our darkness, hope to our despair, and life to our weary souls.

In the waiting, Jesus offers His presence. He’s the God who knows the weight of humanity’s struggles, having walked among us. His birth, life, death, and resurrection remind us that no matter how long the wait, God’s promises remain sure.

So this Christmas, let’s refocus on the gift of Emmanuel. Are we simply filling our waiting with distractions, or are we inviting Jesus into our hearts and situations? He doesn’t just want to visit our lives; He wants to transform them.

Take a moment to pause amidst the busyness. Reflect on the gift of Emmanuel, who came not just to bring us to heaven someday, but to bring His hope and presence into every corner of our lives today.

What are you waiting for this Christmas? Whatever it is, may the God who is with us fill you with His peace, joy, and the confident hope that He keeps His promises—always.

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1. What are some things you find yourself waiting for in life right now? How does the Christmas story of Emmanuel, “God with us,” encourage you in that waiting?

2. In what ways can the busyness of the Christmas season distract us from the deeper meaning of Christ's coming? How can we stay focused on Jesus during this time?

3. Reflect on the name Emmanuel, which means "God with us." What does it mean to you personally that God chose to step into humanity and walk among us?

4. Think about a time when God fulfilled a promise in your life or someone else’s. How does remembering His faithfulness strengthen your hope in seasons of waiting?

5. Jesus brings light, hope, and peace to our lives. What are practical ways we can share these gifts with others this Christmas season?

The Christmas season often feels like a dazzling highlighter, amplifying both our joys and our struggles. Amidst the decorations, carols, and festivities, it's easy to let the familiar blur into the background. But could it be that in our busyness and routines, we're missing the true miracle of Christmas?

This is the season to "hark"—to listen attentively. Over 2,000 years ago, shepherds were among the first to hear the heavenly news: Jesus, the Savior, was born. These weren't the prominent or powerful, but the overlooked and undervalued, proving that God's message is for everyone.

So what about today? Jesus didn't come to add another item to your holiday checklist. He came to bring peace where there is strife, hope where there is despair, and salvation where there is sin. Yet, familiarity can dull the wonder. The same carols, the same nativity scenes—do they still stir your heart?

This Christmas, pause and see Jesus with fresh eyes. He’s more than a figure in history; He’s the hope for your family, your struggles, and your future. The Holy Spirit invites you to embrace this truth: God became flesh to dwell among us, to break the power of sin and death, and to reconcile us to Him.

Don’t let the noise drown out the divine. Lean into the miracle of the season. Jesus is here, offering a new beginning. Will you recognize Him? Will you respond?

1. John 1:10 says, “Though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.” How can we ensure we don’t miss recognizing Jesus in our daily lives, especially during the busy Christmas season?

2. The blog discusses how familiarity can make us overlook the extraordinary. Have there been moments in your life where you’ve overlooked God’s work because it felt “too familiar”? How can we cultivate fresh eyes to see Him at work?

3. Reflecting on the statement, “He came for the broken, the weary, and the lost,” what does Jesus as Savior mean personally to you? How has this understanding impacted your view of Christmas?

4. The shepherds and wise men responded to Jesus with worship and action. What does a meaningful response to Jesus’ arrival look like in your life? How can we encourage others to respond to this good news?

5. How does the truth of Jesus’ divinity challenge the way you live, make decisions, or approach relationships? What practical steps can you take this season to align your life more with this truth?

In a world where scarcity often feels like the default, the Bible offers a profound and countercultural truth: what you have in your hands, no matter how small, can become an abundant blessing when placed in the hands of Jesus. This principle is beautifully illustrated in the story of the boy with five loaves and two fish (John 6:1-14). What seemed insufficient for a crowd became more than enough when entrusted to Jesus.

But what does this look like in our everyday lives?

Generosity isn’t just about money. It’s about how we use our time, talents, and resources to bless others. When we release what we’re holding onto—whether it’s our finances, our abilities, or even our schedules—we make room for God to do immeasurably more than we could on our own.

The act of giving can feel daunting. Maybe your "five loaves and two fish" seem insignificant compared to the vast needs around you. Yet the Bible assures us that God isn’t asking us to meet every need by ourselves; He’s asking us to trust Him with what we have.

The beauty of generosity is its ripple effect. When we give, we not only meet a tangible need but also become conduits of God’s love. Consider this:

• A simple meal given to a hungry family does more than fill their stomachs; it restores hope.

• A word of encouragement or a shared skill can inspire someone to dream again.

• Supporting a pastor in a rural community equips them to minister to countless lives.

In these acts of giving, we reflect the heart of God—a heart that blesses so that we can be a blessing.

Generosity also liberates us. In a culture fixated on accumulating more, giving is a radical act of freedom. It breaks the grip of consumerism and reminds us that our identity isn’t tied to what we own but to who we belong to.

As Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” When we refresh others through our giving, we discover the paradox of God’s kingdom: in losing, we gain; in giving, we receive.

So, what’s in your hands today? Is it time to volunteer, a skill to share, a financial gift, or simply a heart open to serve? Whatever it is, know that when you offer it to Jesus, He multiplies it for His glory and the good of others.

Let’s embrace the opportunity to give extravagantly, knowing that our generosity leaves a lasting legacy—one that points others to the abundant love of Christ. In a world desperate for hope, we have the privilege of being His hands and feet.

Take a moment to reflect: How might God be inviting you to use what’s in your hands today? Your “little” could be the very thing He uses to bring about a miracle.

1. What does generosity mean to you personally? Have you ever experienced the joy or challenge of giving beyond what felt comfortable?

2. In the story of the boy with five loaves and two fish, how do you see God’s power in turning “not enough” into abundance? How might this apply to something small you currently have in your life?

3. How does our culture’s focus on accumulating wealth and possessions conflict with the biblical call to generosity? What practical steps can you take to prioritize giving over getting?

4. What resources, talents, or opportunities do you currently have that could be used to bless others? How might trusting God with these open up new possibilities?

5. Think about the ripple effect of your actions. How might your generosity today impact others for years to come? What motivates or challenges you to leave a lasting legacy for good and for God?

When it comes to living as a follower of Jesus, one question stands out: Are you living today with the future in mind? Building a legacy that echoes into eternity requires more than just fleeting moments of generosity or emotional reactions. It calls for consistent, thoughtful preparation.

In a world that preaches instant gratification and a “me-first” mindset, Jesus offers a radically different approach. He calls His followers to stewardship—a mindset that understands that everything we have is on loan from God. In the parable of the talents, we see that faithful stewardship is rewarded. But stewardship isn't just about avoiding recklessness; it's about preparing and planning with the resources entrusted to us.

Stewardship stretches beyond money. It’s about how we use our time, manage relationships, and build our lives. Proverbs 6:6-8 illustrates this through the ant’s tireless work to store food in summer, preparing for the inevitability of winter. This wisdom challenges believers to plan for the seasons of life that require more than impulsive decisions.

Life has its seasons: times of abundance and times of need. Those who live with legacy in mind understand that winter will come, and only those who prepared during times of plenty will thrive. Jesus Himself underscored the importance of preparation in Luke 14:28 when He said, "Suppose one wants to build a tower, won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost?"

A prepared life is one that allows for generosity, not driven by sudden emotional highs, but rooted in a steady foundation. Just as Jesus was deliberate in His life and ministry, He invites His followers to be intentional, to reflect His wisdom in how they handle their resources.

Consumerism can often take a subtle hold on our lives, tempting us to believe that the next purchase or upgrade will bring fulfillment. The Holy Spirit helps believers break the cycle of restlessness and discontent. By practicing disciplines like frugality and Sabbath rest, we can shift our focus from acquiring more to appreciating what God has already provided.

Dallas Willard insightfully noted that our desire for more is infinite because we were created for an infinite God. True contentment comes when we feast on God’s goodness, recognizing Him as the ultimate source of joy. This shift in focus allows for a life marked by generosity, freedom, and legacy.

Being a person of legacy means seeing beyond the present and preparing for what is to come. It’s about building a life where financial decisions are made with wisdom, generosity is premeditated, and resources are used in a way that honors God.

Jesus doesn’t call us to a life of temporary fixes but to one marked by wise, lasting choices. Whether it's planning a budget, committing to savings, or learning to live with less so that others can have more, preparation is essential. The Holy Spirit is here to guide us, offering wisdom and strength as we seek to steward our resources faithfully.

1. Have you ever planned ahead to be generous, or have you mostly given on impulse? How did each approach affect you and others?

2. Read Proverbs 6:6-8. How can the wisdom of the ant's preparation apply to your current season of life? What practical steps can you take to prepare for future challenges?

3. What areas of your life are most affected by consumer culture (e.g., fashion, tech, experiences)? How does recognizing Jesus as the ultimate source of joy shift your perspective on these areas?

4. In what other areas (relationships, time, talents) do you feel called to be a better steward? What steps can you take to surrender these areas to God’s guidance?

5. How would you define a “legacy” in your own life? What changes can you make today to build a legacy that reflects your faith and prepares for the future?