Clear The Board

It is almost New Year's Eve already! The last day of the year, the last day we have until we clear the board off, so to speak. A new year brings to many the ability to start over with a clean slate.

You do realize that this isn't real, right? The only way you can really clear the board is to start a relationship with Jesus who loves you more than you'll ever know.

Do you have a relationship with God yet? Do you know others who need a relationship with Him? If anyone truly wants to clear the board, then I pray that in this upcoming new year you are able to start a relationship with Him.

The Final Preparations

So, we have less than a week before Christmas comes. Are you ready? Have you wrapped all the presents, made all the food, traveled all over to events, etc.?

This week I won't take up too much of your time. Instead I just want to remind you to also prepare your heart. Prepare for Him to continue to use you for His glory. Prepare for Him to reach others for His kingdom. Trust me, this final preparation will be worth it!

God bless you all, and Merry Christmas!

Christmas Music Part 2

Christmas Music Part 2 - December 15th

So, has God put a smile on your face through any Christmas music this last week? He has done that to me many times. I don't know about you, but I have some real favorites when it comes to Christmas music, and all of them I love for different reasons. Here are three of my favorites, in no particular order:

A) “Wonderful Christmas Time”

I've always loved this song. I like the upbeat melody and the words that speak of simplifying this time of year. Isn't that a goal we should all have this season? Simply enjoy the season and everything about it! We often complicate the season, and this song reminds me to sit back and enjoy.

B) “Feliz Navidad”

This song is in some of my earliest Christmas memories. My parents use to play 94.5 (a station out of Port Clinton at the time) on the radio every Christmas morning. It never failed that this song would come on while I was opening my presents. This song is always positive and reminds me of all the other people in the world celebrating the birth of Jesus at the same time.

C) “The Little Drummer Boy”

I've loved this since I developed a bass voice. I have always enjoyed singing this song more than any others because of all the bass notes. Yet, more than that, I enjoy this song as it reminds me that often times the best gifts that can be given are often those that are the simplest. Using the gifts that God gives us is one of the best gifts we could ever give Him.

So, what does God lay on your heart this time of year? What songs do you keep encountering when He wants to put a smile on your face? No matter the song, or the meaning to you I pray that you are touched by Him this season and that He touches others through you as well.

Christmas Music Part 1

I don't know what it is about Christmas music, but hearing it almost always puts a smile on my face. In fact, if it wasn't for the snow, I think I'd have a smile on my face 24/7 through New Year’s Day. I love the time with family, time off work, various gatherings, giving gifts, etc.

To many, Christmas music resembles something else. They see crowds at stores, more work they have to get done, places they have to be, and money to be spent.

What does Christmas music mean to you? Do you hear it and envision all the positives of the season or the negatives? Do you remember the true meaning of the season?

I hope that you remember this quick devotional every time you hear any Christmas music this season. If you feel yourself focusing on the more difficult things this season, try to think about God instead. I know that He'll make the negatives go away and put a smile on your face as well.