New Life Wichita

There are a lot of things you need to do this year. There are lots of things you can and will do. But what’s one thing you must do? It’s different for everybody.

Even if surrounded by incredibly difficult circumstances (which we are), Christmas is a reminder that we can find hope in difficulty, and we have something to celebrate.

The offer of Christmas is even better than we imagine, and sometimes, we miss or forget what's really being offered.

Christmas is a reminder that God is active in our world, that he keep his promises, and neither your faithfulness nor your hope in God is in vain.

When was the last time you said something encouraging to a co-worker? Your spouse? Your family? When was the last time someone said something encouraging to you? Which comments are you most likely to remember?

Do you tend to be trusting or suspicious of people? Do you assume the best or worst about people? How do you respond when what people promise is different from what people deliver? How do you respond to those gaps? One of the Bible’s most famous verses states that “love always trusts.” Always??!! Really??!! What do I do with all my suspicions?

What kind of person do you become when you don’t get enough rest? Are you more or less productive? Taking a nap can be one of the most spiritual things you do today!

The concept of “confession” conjures images of a veiled priest sitting in a confession booth ready to absolve you of your sins. Protestants have it a little easier; they can go directly to God and ask for forgiveness without involving a middleman. Regardless of the religious system, the outcome tends to be the same - a relieved conscience. However, “confession” doesn’t necessarily result in life-change. What happens if “confession” simply provides a license to sin again?

There's something in us all that longs for certainty, but only one thing is certain: uncertainty! But, what and who we focus on can make all the difference!