Take Time

Screenshot
Take time to stop and smell the roses,
Life rushes by as the door closes.
In the bloom of red, the softest hue,
Lies a moment waiting just for you.

The world may spin with endless haste,
But joy is found in moments chased.
A petal’s curve, a fragrant breeze,
A quiet pause beneath the trees.

Take time to hear the robin’s song,
To watch the clouds drift slow and long.
For beauty whispers, soft and sweet,
In every corner, at your feet.

The roses wait, their story untold,
A fleeting treasure, more precious than gold.
So pause, be still, let the world compose
Take time to stop and smell the rose.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

Small Things

It’s the smallest things that make a life,
A whispered word, a softened strife.
A glance, a touch, a fleeting smile,
Moments that linger, just for a while.

The morning light through windowpanes,
The rhythm of softly falling rain.
A child’s laughter, a warm embrace,
The quiet joy of a familiar face.

The scent of bread, the bloom of spring,
A songbird’s call, the joy they bring.
A cup of tea, a hand to hold,
The warmth that lingers when nights are cold.

It’s not the grand, the loud, the bold,
But tiny threads of silver and gold
That weave the tapestry of our days,
Binding hearts in intricate ways.

So cherish the little, the small, the slight,
The glow of stars on a quiet night.
For life is built on these gentle things—
A world of whispers, where meaning sings.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

December 3

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Verse of the Day
Luke 6:38
"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Reflection
In our journey of faith, generosity plays a crucial role. This verse from Luke emphasizes the abundant blessings that come from giving with a sincere heart. When we give selflessly, we not only bless others but also open ourselves up to receive God's overflowing grace and provision. Our Father, who knows what we need, promises that our generosity will be met with His boundless blessings.

Devotional Thought
Giving is not merely about sharing our material resources; it also involves our time, love, and kindness. As we extend these gifts to others, we align ourselves with God's character, reflecting His love and compassion. Trust that God, who sees your heart, will bless you abundantly. His measure is far greater than ours, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.

Prayer
Dear Lord,
Help us to give generously and selflessly, knowing that You see our hearts and will bless us in return. Teach us to trust in Your promises and to remember that Your measure of blessing far exceeds our own. May our acts of giving reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name.
Amen.

Application
Today, look for opportunities to give. It could be through a kind word, a helping hand, or a material gift. Remember that your generosity is a reflection of God's love and will be returned to you in ways you may not expect. Trust in His promise that as you give, you will receive abundantly.

Thought for the Day
Our Father knows best and promises that our generosity will be met with His overflowing blessings. Give with a joyful heart, knowing that God's measure is always pressed down, shaken together, and running over

A Vessel for Him

I am called to live, not for my own acclaim,
But to bear the light of His holy name.
A perfect bond with God I seek,
To let His strength shine through my weak.

Not admiration for who I appear to be,
But a yearning for Him through what others see.
For thoughts of self are chains that bind,
Hindering the work of the divine.

God’s purpose isn’t a showcase display,
But a vessel refined for His chosen way.
Not polished pride, but a heart made pure,
To carry His message, steadfast, sure.

So I surrender, let Him take control,
Molding my life to fulfill His goal.
Whatever He asks, wherever He leads,
I trust in His plan; He meets my needs.

Lord, make me useful, humble, and true,
A mirror of grace that reflects only You.
For when I am nothing, Your power is known,
Through me, may Your glory alone be shown.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

December 2

Daily Devotional Theme: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Verse of the Day
Colossians 3:23
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters."

Reflection
As we navigate through the tasks and responsibilities of our daily lives, it is essential to remember that our efforts are not just for our own gain or the approval of others, but ultimately for God. This perspective can transform even the most mundane tasks into acts of worship and service to our Heavenly Father, who sees and values our dedication and sincerity.

Devotional Thought
In every aspect of life, whether it is at home, work, or in our community, we face moments that test our patience, diligence, and integrity. The verse from Colossians reminds us to carry out our duties with a heart full of passion and commitment, not for human recognition but as a service to God. Our Father knows the best path for us, and when we align our work with His will, we find purpose and fulfillment.

Prayer
Dear Lord,
Help us to remember that every task we undertake is an opportunity to serve You. Grant us the strength to work wholeheartedly and the wisdom to recognize Your hand guiding us. May our efforts be a reflection of our faith and devotion to You. Teach us to trust in Your perfect knowledge and plan for our lives.
Amen.

Application
Take a moment today to reflect on your current tasks and responsibilities. Consider how you can approach them with a renewed mindset of serving God. Whether you are caring for your family, working at your job, or volunteering in your community, do it with all your heart, knowing that your Father in Heaven sees and appreciates your efforts.

Thought for the Day
When we work for the Lord, every task becomes a meaningful part of His divine plan. Remember, our Father knows best, and He values our dedication and heartfelt service.

Holy Spirit of Christmas

The Holy Spirit of Christmas came to us long ago,
When in a humble manger, divine love began to glow.
A baby born in Bethlehem, a gift from Heaven above,
Sent by our gracious Father, a token of His love.

For those who seek and welcome Him within,
The Holy Spirit of Christmas breaks the chain of sin.
It lives within us daily, a light that never fades,
Guiding, comforting, and strengthening in life’s trials and charades.

Oh, the Spirit of Christmas, pure and bright,
Fills our hearts with hope, joy, and light.
It whispers peace in the quiet of night,
And shines through faith with heavenly might.

So let us honor the miracle of that sacred morn,
When the Savior of the world to us was born.
Through every season, let His Spirit remain,
Living in our hearts, again and again.

Created by
MarkWaldrop

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
It brings back Memories of yesteryear 

The wonderful times when I was a kid
Mom and Dad kept me very near

Pressing my nose to the window pane, searching for a glimpse of the Red light
Seeing what I thought was the Star of Bethlehem Shining so Bright

I knew Santa’s first stop was Bethlehem 
To bring gifts to the Great, I Am

The Love Santa has in His Heart for all the children in the world
Comes from his Maker above with His Love unfurled

Keep the Love of God and the Spirit of Santa close to you today 
We bow our heads and thank Him for the Love He sent our way. 

December 6, 2022
Mark Waldrop

December 1

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Romans 8:28
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Reflection:
Life is a journey filled with both joy and challenges. There are moments when we may question the path we are on or the circumstances we face. However, as believers, we are reminded through Romans 8:28 that our Heavenly Father has a perfect plan for each of us. Even in times of difficulty, God is at work, weaving together every detail for our ultimate good and His divine purpose.

This verse assures us that nothing is wasted in God's economy. Every trial, every triumph, every sorrow, and every joy are all being used by God to shape us into the people He created us to be. Our Father knows best, and His plans are always for our benefit, even when we can't see it in the moment.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance that You are always at work in our lives, orchestrating everything for our good. Help us to trust in Your perfect plan, even when we don't understand our circumstances. Give us faith to see Your hand in all things and to rest in the knowledge that You know what is best for us. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Application:
Reflect on a time when a challenging situation ultimately led to something good in your life. Thank God for His wisdom and guidance during that time.
- When facing a difficult circumstance, remind yourself of Romans 8:28 and trust that God is working for your good.
- Share this message with someone who might be struggling to understand God's plan for their life. Encourage them with the truth that our Father knows best.

November 30

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Isaiah 40:28
Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.

Devotional Thought:
In our moments of doubt and fatigue, Isaiah 40:28 serves as a powerful reminder of who God is. He is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. Unlike us, He never grows tired or weary. His strength and endurance are limitless, and His understanding surpasses all human comprehension.

Our human perspective is often limited and can lead to frustration and confusion when we encounter life's challenges. Yet, God's perspective is infinite. He sees the bigger picture and understands the intricate details of our lives. When we recognize His omnipotence and infinite wisdom, we can find comfort and reassurance in His ability to manage all things perfectly.

Trusting that our Father knows best means relying on His never-ending strength and wisdom. It means believing that even when we don't understand our circumstances, God is in control and working all things for our good. His plans for us are rooted in His deep love and perfect understanding.

Reflection:
Reflect on areas in your life where you feel weary or confused. How can you shift your focus from your limitations to God's limitless power and understanding? Take time to meditate on God's attributes and trust in His ability to sustain and guide you through every situation.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being the everlasting God who never grows tired or weary. Help me to trust in Your infinite wisdom and strength, especially when I feel weak and uncertain. Remind me that Your understanding is beyond my comprehension and that You are in control of every aspect of my life. Strengthen my faith and help me to rest in Your perfect knowledge and love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

November 29

Daily Devotional: Our Father Knows Best
By Mark Waldrop

Scripture:
Acts 9:5
"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked. "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied.

Devotional Thought:
The story of Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus is a powerful reminder that God's plans and understanding far exceed our own. Saul, who was fervently persecuting Christians, encountered Jesus in a dramatic and life-changing way. His question, "Who are you, Lord?" signifies the beginning of a profound transformation, revealing that our Father knows best how to reach us and redirect our paths.

Jesus' response, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," highlights the deep connection between Christ and His followers. It also serves as a reminder that God sees and understands our actions and motivations, even when we are misguided. Despite Saul's zeal in the wrong direction, God had a plan to use him for a greater purpose.

This encounter teaches us that no matter how far we might stray or how misguided our efforts may be, God knows best how to guide us back to Him. His plans for us are rooted in His deep love and wisdom, and He can transform our lives in ways we never imagined. Trusting in God's knowledge and direction can lead us to fulfill our true purpose and experience a profound relationship with Him.

Reflection:
Reflect on moments in your life where you might have been heading in the wrong direction. How has God intervened or redirected your path? Consider how you can remain open to His guidance and trust in His plans for your life.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your boundless wisdom and love. Help me to trust in Your plans, even when I do not understand them. Guide me and redirect my path when I stray, so that I may fulfill the purpose You have for me. May my life be a testament to Your grace and transformative power. In Jesus' name, Amen.