DAILY DEVOTIONS with MICHELE

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of you shall come forth to Me the One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." Micah 5:2 The prophet Micah uttered these words that are planted like a gem in the Old Testament. God had a plan from the beginning of time that would change the world forever.

The world was shaken when the Seed of Heaven fell to the threshing floors of Bethlehem. Our Kinsman Redeemer came to wrap us in His robe of righteousness, call us His bride, and extend His covenant to make us heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus. Through the Bread of Life, we will never hunger again.

Be careful not to bury the greatest Gift beneath the twinkle lights and tinsel, the stockings and sleds, the elves and evergreens. Find a silent night to kneel before the Savior – the Babe of Bethlehem who became the Champion of Calvary. Make Him the center of every celebration this holy season. 

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. Rest in the safety of your loving Father’s hand. May the goodness, mercy, peace, and blessings of God overtake you. In the name of Jesus…amen

When we speak the promises of God, they become the Living Word to bring us victory over the evil one’s intention to defeat and destroy. God has placed him under our feet. It is written.

May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you and give you His peace. As you submit to the Lord’s pruning, rejoice that He is working all things to your good and for His glory. Take heart! Your harvest will be great!

Partner with God in prayer today. Listen for His still, small voice and watch for His answers in response to the constant outcry of your heart.

Jesus is our Bridegroom, and we are the bride of Christ. This illustration calls to mind the rich love of a long marriage – the quiet conversations, hard questions, inside jokes, easy laughter, and vulnerable tears. He knows the lines of her face, and she recognizes his voice. Jesus yearns for that love relationship with us. Unceasing prayer keeps us in His presence. As we learn the cadence of His voice, intimacy grows between us. May we glory in knowing and understanding Him.

Differences are as unique as difference makers. It is the woman who rocks babies at the local hospital. Or, the man who drives the church van. Or, the person who serves meals at the homeless shelter. Or, someone who sends a timely text. It is as simple as seeing a need and stepping in to meet it.