The fear of the lord is the foundation for wisdom. So, to have reverence for the greatness and goodness of God places us is a portion to receive and grow in wisdom.

Isaiah foretells the birth of the messiah and calls him the "Prince of Peace." Luke reiterates this in Chapter 2. Peace is initiated through Christ and it is experienced through submission.

On this third Sunday of advent we will light the candle of joy and remember that joy will eventually come —there is a light of joy coming in the darkness and yes joy will come in the morning.

Being thankful is an act of faith. Therefore, thankfulness is important to model for those observing you in the faith. Especially, having an attitude of thankfulness in the middle of difficulty.

To live out our faith, we must live courageously --Stepping out in faith, trusting in Gods guidance and provision takes courage. Living out our faith is a calling against the flow of culture and to do so one is marked with courage.

If we want to express our faith to those coming behind us, then we must persevere through struggles so they can see the reality of what we claim to believe. Living out our faith through hardship reveals the sincerity of our faith and allows others to see a faith which is dynamic.

How can confession, not only relieve us and restore us through the grace of Christ, but also demonstrate faith to others. Confession of our wrongs opening us up to vulnerability is where God's Spirit moves and where faith imprints are formed.

Jeremiah spoke harsh words to his people and the people of Judah did not listen to his warning and instruction leaving the people of Judah unprotected by God and delivered into hands of Babylon. Even though this is a bleak time in their history, God still provides a plan full of hope and a future for them.

Jeremiah continues to share God's word to the people of Judah. Jeremiah talks to them about finding rest as you walk in devotion to God. Yet, the people of Judah continue to disobey and neglect God. Therefor, they will not experience rest and peace

Jeremiah continues to share with the people of Judah about their need to turn back to God. We see that the people have forgotten God and even though they will be disciplined, God will never give up on them.