Jesus Loves You - Be Encouraged!

Psalm 42:11 (NIV) Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

Is it possible at this time of the year where joy is sung about, expressed, dramatized, shared among family and friends that some may be downcast?  Yes, it is, perhaps even you.

Today I want to encourage you to look to the God that created everything you see.  How's your faith? Have you recognized God in the midst of your life? Even as troubles, sickness, bankruptcy, addictions, heartache, etc. are at times part of this life....I want you to look to the Author of Life. He's not an imaginary friend or he's not an excuse to go to church on Christmas Day. NO...he has loved & known you before you were even born. Perhaps you find that hard to believe...but that is what the Word of God tells us.  Don't rationalize it, excuse it, dismiss it, but press in and receive by faith what he is telling you. No one loves you like Jesus!  This little child, born in a manger, grew up, lived, and then died for you & for me...because he loves us! Receive his love.....keep your focus, your gaze upon the Creator.  He made you...knows you better than anyone else...knows you better than you know yourself.  Rest in his arms.....Let the joy that God gives well up in you……His  love, joy & peace….rest in him! Merry Christmas!

God bless you!~Liz

www.lizrod.com

Share Christmas

Luke 2:11-12 (NIV)

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Surely as the Christmas Season begins, even this weekend you will begin to hear "Christmas songs" sung in our churches.  Some will begin to experience anxiety...you know.....it's Christmas and we have to buy gifts and we're in a recession, etc.  I propose that you apply more of yourself in the gift than your wallet.  Personally...I love when someone bakes me cookies....I know they took the time to prepare the cookies, bake them, wrap them...and all the while thought of me. Those kinds of gestures bring joy to my heart.

Be creative this year....invite someone to Christmas Program and then take them out for coffee...chat about the simplicities of life....keep your conversation on what's really important....people...laugh....smile  at a stranger walking down the street...that may be the only smile they receive...bring a cake to the elderly couple in your neighborhood....invite friends & family to your home...it does not have to be a three course meal....perhaps coffee & tea..and some cookies.....that's why He came....Jesus...born in a manger...for you & for me!

God bless you!~Liz

www.lizrod.com