When we imagine the type of person that God works in and through in this world, we likely have a specific image that comes to mind. They’ll have a certain clothing style – modest, but stylish. They’re probably good-looking with a magnetic personality and popular for all the right reasons. But, as Dr. Timothy Brown will point out in today’s message, God sees those we see as the least likely and uses them in great ways.

Hate has become the norm in our divided culture. We’re constantly encouraged by media, political leaders, and influencers to openly hate and despise anyone who disagrees with our stance on religion, policy, party, or a specific person. As Dr. Timothy Brown leads us through today’s study, we’ll be challenged to picture those people we see as representatives of evil and remind ourselves that Jesus loves them and died for them. 

Negative thoughts can pile up like weeds in a garden—small at first, but quickly taking over if we let them grow. We all face those moments when our minds drift toward fear, doubt, or discouragement. But God never intended for those thoughts to shape us. His Word is the truth that pulls the weeds and plants something better. Dr. Timothy will remind you today that when you replace lies with Scripture, your mind becomes clearer and stronger.

We all walk through difficult seasons that are like what a caterpillar goes through in its cocoon. But those are often the times when God is doing a great work in us. The struggle isn’t pointless; it’s what forms the wings. Today, Dr. Timothy will explain to you that God uses these cocoon moments to strengthen, shape, and prepare you. And when the time is right, He brings you out ready to fly in ways you couldn’t before.

We all walk through seasons that don’t look anything like we hoped—moments of stress, disappointment, or uncertainty. But even there, we can find a deep contentment in God. Our circumstances don’t shake him, and He offers a peace that doesn’t depend on how life feels. Dr. Timothy will tell you today that true contentment isn’t found in what you have, but in who holds you. When your confidence is in God, you can have peace.

Being sheep is actually a good thing. Sheep stay close to their shepherd, trust his voice, and move where he leads because they know he cares for them. And that’s exactly what Jesus calls us to—following Him with confidence, not stubbornness like goats. Today, Dr. Timothy will share with you that there’s strength in staying near the Shepherd. When you listen for His voice and walk in His steps, He guides you toward what’s good and life-giving.

Sometimes we get stuck in our daily routines and start believing the ordinary tasks we do aren’t significant. But when we remember that everything can be done “as unto the Lord,” those moments suddenly matter. All become offerings to Him. Today, Dr. Timothy will remind you that worship isn’t limited to church; it’s lived out in every choice you make. When you serve Jesus with that mindset, even the simplest tasks become ways to honor Him.

As we head into a new year, Dr. Timothy wants to encourage you to be a light in the darkness. Have you ever used one of those glow sticks? They are just a piece of plastic with no purpose, but when you bend and break it, the materials inside begin to glow. It may not put off very much light, but when you’re in a dark space, it can make a big difference. We live in a very dark world, and the light we reflect from Christ can make a difference.

When you face persecution and suffer for your faith in Jesus, how do you respond? You may want to turn to social media, local news, or even consider taking legal action to restore your religious liberty. The persecution we endure in our country is generally mild and little more than an inconvenience. In today’s message, Dr. Timothy encourages you to find joy and peace in suffering for the One who endured unimaginable suffering for all of us.

This life can be hard. This short existence is all we know, and as fast as it flies by, it can feel very long and challenging when you’re living through a trial or oppression in some form. As Dr. Timothy will encourage us in today’s message, you can take heart in knowing that this life is but a vapor in the scope of eternity. It passes quickly, and in Christ, you have the hope of an everlasting life with no pain or suffering at all.