Not the End of the World—Just the Beginning

It's 12:01 a.m., Saturday, December 22, 2012, and the earth and it's 7 billion plus inhabitants are still thriving (more or less). And, while the world didn't end as all the conspiracy theorists and doomsday forecasters predicted, I do believe it has changed. Perhaps we've moved into the new heaven and new earth that Peter spoke about? (See 2 Peter 3:13)

In any event, now that you've survived the "end," how do you intend to live the rest of your life?

Only you can decide: Fear or hope? Love or hate?

As so perfectly stated by Lionel Richie and the Commodores, "This. Is. Your life!"  Watch video

(Thanks to 4eva68 and the Commodores for the video.)

The Victory that Overcomes Evil

The attack on innocent children a few days ago in Connecticut, and earlier at a school in China, still have me reeling, trying to understand it all, as if that were even possible. But tonight, I read a powerful message by Gregory Dickow, one of the ministers that I follow, which helped me gain some amazing insight. (It also reminded me that I can see much more clearly with my spiritual eyes.)

I had to share it with you: http://powertochangeblog.com/2012/12/massacre-of-the-innocents-from-tragedy-to-destiny/

Also, if you enjoy reading this blog, please let me know. I certainly enjoy writing these posts, but would love to hear from you.

"...and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." - 1 John 5:4

Renewed Strength. Renewed Hope.

As the last month of the year unfolds and we prepare for the celebration of Christmas and the start of a new year, I find myself reflecting over the whirlwind that was 2012. It was a year filled with many good moments, and yet more than a few disappointments and setbacks. To be honest, as I look back over this year, I feel like I've been through both the fire and the flood. Wilderness seasons are tough! By God's grace, I'm still standing—weakened and a bit weary, perhaps, but still standing.

Along the route I sometimes travel from my parents home to mine, I pass by a church that like most has a sign with the week's message/sermon topic. For the past few weeks, the following message has been posted:

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." - Isaiah 40:31

I would like to say that I was immediately comforted by this message. I wasn't. But after some time, some pondering... Renewed strength. Renewed hope. Sounds like the perfect way to begin the last month of a challenging year.