Out of You Will Come a Ruler

For this is what the prophet has written: “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” — Matthew 2:5-6  

The prophet Isaiah promised long ago that a ruler would come.

Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, will be the place where He will be born.

And Bethlehem will call out a ruler of Judah.

One who will shepherd His people Israel.

And who will save us from our sins.

Put on the Full Armor of God

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. — Ephesians 6:12-13

We are only visitors to this world.

It's not our home, thank goodness.

We don't struggle agains humankind but again the spiritual forces of evil.

God has let the evil powers run rampant in our world today.

But we know the end of the story.

And He reigns supreme over earth and heaven and all creation.

When I remember to put on the breastplate of righteousness and the helmet of salvation, I am protected from the evil around me.

When I put on the shoes of the gospel of peace, I'm able to stand against it all.

And the full armor of God protects me but also helps me stand.

The Sword of the Spirit gives me the protection of God's Word to guide and direct my life.

All Things Have Been Created Through Him

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. — Colossians 1:16

God has created all things.

Things in heaven and things on earth.

Everything visible and invisible.

Powers, rulers, and authorities - the Lord has created them all.

He. has created us for His purpose.

God Made Them

You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet. — Psalm 8:6

Here's another view of the concert we went to last night.

Abby and I had such a fun time singing along, dancing and singing.

The weather was perfect and the sound was amazing.

Each band was amazing.

From Switchfoot to Need to Breathe.

The best part was spending time together.

God has blessed us.

All Things Have Been Created By Him

For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. — Colossians 1:16

All things were created.

And what an amazing creation it is.

Just beautiful.

Kirk has been feedting our plants, and they look very healthy.

They're bursting with happiness.

All things have been creaed by God.

Created for our enjoyment.

Thank you, Lord!

He Has Lifted the Humble

He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. — Luke 1:51-52

God has performed mighty deeds.

He has done great things for us.

And has lifted up the humble.

Including me.

During this Advent season, we thank Him for sending His Son for us.

Jesus, our Savior.