Do you avoid reflecting on the year because of personal sins and failures? Even though it's painful, it's important to address the past with God in order to move forward with purpose and strength.

The final prophecy before the voice of the Lord is silent for 400 years. Malachi's word will be heard again, as it is fulfilled in the arrival of the messenger John the Baptist.

What is the gift that benefits both the recipient and the giver? A spiritual gift. Paul tells us how in his letter to the church in Rome.

Nearing the end of our Old Testament lessons in the New, we will focus on a difficult passage. How can God love Jacob but hate Esau? It's about his sovereignty.

Is our gift giving more to our selves, our families, or others? How far do your gifts reach? By giving to missions and ministries, you can literally reach the nations for Christ and maybe hasten his return. God loves a cheerful giver.

Jesus, the One they pierced, was seen by those who witnessed his crucifixion. This is not the last time his scars will set him apart. No, the nations will see him and mourn. When? At his return as conquering King.

A recent sending celebration of new missionaries taught me some encouraging lessons.

What do thirty pieces of silver have to do with a shepherd? They were the wages prophesied by Zechariah centuries before one of his own disciples would take the same amount to betray him.

I am so thankful. This has been an amazing year, and I just want to talk about the goodness of God in my life and give him praise. What are you thankful for?

Without full trust in the Shepherd, the sheep are prone to scatter when the going gets tough. Thankfully, we have a Shepherd who seeks out the lost and is able to bring them back into the fold.