November is a hard month in the northern hemisphere. As days are getting shorter and shorter, it seems our moods are getting darker and darker. It feels like all the weight in the world is on our very own weak shoulders. Will this last forever or is there a way forward? We are in desperate need of hope. Is there any left? Actually, my friend, there is plenty of hope for people who walk in darkness. Nevertheless, that time of…
It feels like darkness was overcoming the world, doesn’t it? Just look outside. It’s the darkest time of year. Without snow and sunshine, it’s pitch black. Also, all kind of hate speech is increasing, right? Malice seems to take over us. Today is also Friday the 13th, many people are afraid of evil forces. Spiritual darkness seems to be spreading. But I have good news for all who walk in darkness. The people who walk in [spiritual] darknessWill see a…
It’s really inspiring to hear how my texts and teachings have touched hearts (thank you for all your feedback). However, I have to admit that I feel immense emptiness and powerlessness as I get back to teaching, especially after a break. I was sharing this with God this morning and I understood that especially as empty and inadequate I was exactly the right kind of sharer of the Good News. Because it’s not about my message but about God’s Word….
Sometimes we think we should have strong faith right away. And that belief might cause some to shy away from faith altogether because they think they’re not cut out for faith. But faith is a gift from God, to begin with. And very few of us start out strong in faith. We slowly grow strong in faith. It’s a process empowered by the Holy Spirit and not about our own merits. Faith is based on grace from start to finish….
I love Psalms. My whole life fits in the book of Psalms. It confronts, consoles, and counsels me. And, yes, it lifts my spirit and encourages me to go on with God. It reminds me what is important, who is in charge and why it matters what I choose and how I live. The book of Psalms guides me to the river of pure joy. Your faithful love is priceless, God! Humanity finds refuge in the shadow of your wings….
I just love this time of the year. The days are getting longer and soon we need – even here way up north – some sunglasses to protect us from the bright rays of the sun. Have you ever heard of spiritual shades? I hadn’t either. But, believe me, spiritual shades make sense in more ways than one. You see, just this morning I was discussing with my children about mirrored sunglasses. Our discussion started when my son said that…
Rise and shine, folks! Don’t forget that Christ is risen and if your are his, you are on the victor’s side. Arise [from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you—rise to a new life]! Shine (be radiant with the glory of the Lord), for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you! (Isaiah 60:1, AMP,*) There you have it. Arise from the depression and prostration in which circumstances have kept you….
It’s getting dark very early these days. Even the days seem gloomy. We yearn to have more light. We try to get rid of darkness by putting up Christmas lights. But no amount of Christmas lighting can take away darkness of our lives. Only God can do that. Psalm 36 verse 9 has been giving me comfort and perspective as it gets darker and darker around us: For you are the fountain of life, the light by which we see….
Have you turned to God today? Or are you going on your own way? These questions right here defines your faith. Do you have a sunflower faith? A heart that follows God’s light all the time? Or are you focused on yourself and your problems? And then wonder why God feels so distant? There really is no other way to live abundantly than starting each and every day by turning to God. When we are focused on God, everything else…
Spring is here. I especially love how there is more and more light. It does invigorate us – at least me – so much. But there is a problem. You see, here in Finland we get light around the clock in summer time. Yes, it is wild. Yes, it is wonderful. But. It is hard to sleep when it’s so bright all the time. So what do I do? I block the sunlight out. Then it’s nice and dark and…
