We should never be apprehensive about following the example of biblical history in crafting our own festive traditions to honor and celebrate God’s redemptive work in Christ.

While life in this world can be confusing and complex, there remain a few simple and timeless components to living right for God.

Earthly powers will always be subject to the sovereign judgment of God, our job is to humbly serve the King of Kings and promote his greatness throughout the earth.

Our prayer lives ought to be an exercise in bolstering our confidence in God’s plan, power and purposes amid this seeming chaotic world.

We must never forget that the church is destined for violent opposition from earthly authorities, but we can gain the necessary strength and patient endurance through a fervent prayer life.

We ought to always be attuned to the practical needs of God’s people, ready to do what we can to demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways.

God will strongly support and unify the church devoted to Christ, responsive to her leaders, and engaged in his work.

Knowing Christians will have sincere and ardent disagreements, we should be ready when needed to employ reasoned and scriptural explanations in pursuit of Christian peace and unity.

God is at work preparing people for their engagement with his gospel message which we should always be ready to deliver with conviction, hope, and expectation.

As dependent followers of Christ our prayers lives must be defined by grit, developing alertness for battle, and devotedly grateful.