For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 Dreams are motivating. If you went to college or university, a dream of one day being able to work in your career of choice is what drove you to turn off the TV and hit the books. And if you ever built or renovated your house, that hard work was also driven by a dream. You likely envisioned hosting parties and enjoying cozy winter nights or summer fun in the yard with the family. These dreams fueled you to work hard for weeks, staying motivated to see the dream to the end. Actually, having a dream is …

Do all things without grumbling and faultfinding and complaining [against God] and questioning and doubting [among yourselves]. Philippians 2:14 (AMPC) A man once said to me, “Pastor, I wish I had your job. You get to encourage and pray with people…I would love to do what you do.” I love what I do as well, but the two things he mentioned only comprise a small part of what I do. We all have aspects of our jobs that are not much fun. Although it would be great if every day were perfect, the fact remains that life is hard work. We need to learn to work hard at the same time as we enjoy each day, living life to the fullest. And, because of Holy Spirit within us, we have the …

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. Romans 8:14 Like many others, my job keeps me from home a fair bit. Whether it’s training pastors or speaking at conferences, a big chunk of my year is spent on the road, at airports and in hotels. The best part about being away is coming home. There’s a certain feeling I get when I walk through my front door. It doesn’t matter what we do—eat dinner together, hang out, laugh, talk, or watch a movie—I’m relaxed and content to be with my family again. Spending time with God is like that, too. When I spend time in his presence—reading my Bible, meditating or praying—a calm, peaceful, contented feeling washes …

Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests. Luke 2:14 Did you know that Jesus was born to bring you God’s favour? Over 2000 years ago, the angels spoke of God’s favour that would come to rest on mankind because of what a little baby boy who had just been born would do. When something rests on you, it’s with you continuously. In other words, God constantly gives believers special advantages and preferential treatment. But to have this favour, it is absolutely necessary to trust in Jesus. When we decide to make Jesus our Lord and Saviour, we become a new creation with the nature of God. There are no hard feelings or punishments held …

You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy, at Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore. Psalm 16:11 (AMPC) For many of us, Christmas holidays means spending more time with family and friends and less time at work. But having a few more holidays doesn’t necessarily translate into a joyful celebration. Certain joy-killers can seem to ruin your Christmas. The key to experiencing unbelievable joy, regardless of your situation, is to keep God in the forefront. Keep in mind, joy is different from happiness. If you’re grieving the loss of someone you love, happiness might seem impossible. But somehow, joy is possible. You may not be laughing and the pain may be just as real. Yet you might …