When you and I have hope in human beings, how many possessions we have, or how much money we have saved up for retirement, the reality is it's shifting sand. So at one point, we can have all that we hope for, but in another season, we can lose it all. So the unique offer of Christianity is that we have a foundational hope that will never change. Jesus becomes our rock, our stability, and security.

The Wise Men came looking for a very unexpected King of Kings. Jesus humbled himself so we could have eternity with him. Are you ready to humble yourself for the sake of God’s people?

Maybe you’re like Martha right now, in need of reminding just how great your God is. As you read through this devotional may you be reminded of God’s character. That He is good, and His mercy is forever. That He is not a man that He should lie. That His plans are to prosper you and not harm you. Or maybe, you’re like Lazarus, in need of a miracle. Today, put yourself in the story, bring your circumstances to God, and reactivate your faith.

The truth is, in my better moments, I do not think winning the Lottery is going to make me a better person. Neither did God! That's why He sent Jesus… not to make me a billionaire… but to save me from sin. Because that's what I need most not to shipwreck my life, but to live life to the fullest!

Hope is a light shining in the darkness. The Advent Candle of Hope is also known as the Prophecy candle, assuring us that God will both fulfill the promises declared in the Old Testament about Jesus, and the Hope of His Second Coming, when all things will be reconciled unto God.

I was in a store three weeks ago today, and couldn’t believe it. They were already playing Christmas music. What happened to Thanksgiving? Is pausing to gather with family and friends and acknowledging all we are grateful for a tradition that has suddenly come to an end? As you might be able to tell, it’s really bugging me that “Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas” is playing already. As I’ve been obsessively thinking about that, recognizing that this devotional will be published two days after Thanksgiving, I’d like to ask you to think about some things with me.

The word “meditate” is literally to ponder and give serious thought and consideration. When you and I get serious about being a disciple of Christ, we will pursue and meditate on the Bible day and night. We will give it serious thought. In other words, serious meditation leads to careful obedience.

No matter what your Thanksgiving feels like, His love endures forever. Psalm 118 reminds us of the victory we can find through God, and the thankfulness that should permeate our hearts.

The world may be pulling you in many different directions but, if you continue to fix your eyes on Jesus, He will mold you more into His likeness. Let God deeply transform you; allow Him to add a lot more of Him and a little less of you.

You know any Christians who look like they've been baptized in pickle juice - grumpy? Chances are they have not discovered the greatest secret of the Christian life: It's not about being good… It's about being in relationship with Jesus!