Jesus24365 Weekly #8 | Spiritual Nourishment #3 - Finding Strength in Psalms: Reflections of Advent Hope | Jesus24365 Ministry | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |

Spiritual Nourishment #3 - Finding Strength in Psalms: Reflections of Advent Hope

Jesus24365 Weekly #8

Jesus24365 Ministry | Wednesday, December 18, 2024 |

🌟 Dear Beloved Jesus24365 Community,

Welcome to this week’s Christian devotional from Jesus24365 Weekly! As we reflect on Advent and prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming, this is a place for spiritual growth and renewed faith. Whether you’re facing temptation, searching for peace, or longing for strength, God’s Word meets you here. Advent reminds us not only of Christ’s birth but also of His second coming—a promise that fills our hearts with both urgency and hope.

I am so grateful you’re walking this journey with us. You are part of a growing Christian community seeking strength, purpose, and deeper faith in God. This week’s reflections focus on Finding Strength in Psalms as we anchor ourselves in Isaiah 9:6:

🔑 Key Verse of the Week

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

This verse is the cornerstone of Advent reflections. Christ is our Wonderful Counselor, guiding us in wisdom. He is our Mighty God, giving us strength when we are weak. He is our Everlasting Father, offering unending love, and our Prince of Peace, calming the chaos in our hearts. These truths are echoed beautifully in the Psalms as we uncover God’s refuge, renewal, and strength this week.

Supporting Psalms of the Week 📖

🌊 1. Psalm 18:2 – God Is Our Rock and Fortress

💬 “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

Life Connection 🌪️:

Temptation often disguises itself as relief, whispering lies like, “Just one time—what harm could it do?” I’ve been there. I’ve heard Satan’s deceitful voice: “You deserve this. It won’t take hold like before.” In those moments of weakness, I’ve turned to Psalm 18:2 for strength.

Spiritual Nourishment 🌱:

Psalm 18:2 reminds us that God is our rock, fortress, and deliverer—a stronghold against the enemy’s lies. When temptation calls, run to Him. He is steady, unshakable, and ready to shield you. Pray: “Lord, You are my refuge. Rescue me from these lies and ground me in Your truth.” His strength is always enough to overcome.

Reflection Question: 

What temptation or struggle do you need to surrender to God today? How can you make Him your fortress this week?

🌼 2. Psalm 29:11 – God Gives Strength and Peace

💬 “The Lord gives strength to His people; the Lord blesses His people with peace.”

Life Connection 🌸:

Life drains us—whether it’s emotional burdens, spiritual exhaustion, or daily responsibilities. When you feel empty, where do you turn for renewal?

Spiritual Nourishment 🌱:

Psalm 29:11 offers two priceless promises: strength and peace. God doesn’t just help us endure—He restores us with deep, lasting calm. This week, pause when you feel overwhelmed. Pray: “Lord, renew my strength and fill me with Your peace.” His presence can quiet even the stormiest heart.

Reflection Question: 

Where in your life do you need God’s peace to replace chaos?

🌟 3. Psalm 34:18 – God Is Near to the Brokenhearted

💬 “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Life Connection 💔:

Heartache and disappointment can leave us feeling crushed and alone. Grief often isolates us, making it hard to see God’s nearness.

Spiritual Nourishment 🌱:

Psalm 34:18 is a tender reminder that God is close to the brokenhearted. He doesn’t turn away from our pain; He steps into it with us, bringing comfort and healing. If you’re feeling crushed, pray: “Lord, I need You near. Heal my wounds and renew my spirit.” His love is a balm for every broken place.

Reflection Question: How has God comforted you in a season of heartache?

🌌 4. Psalm 121:1-2 – God Is Our Ever-Present Help

💬 “I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.”

Life Connection 🏔️:

When life feels overwhelming, it’s easy to look for solutions in the wrong places—people, achievements, or distractions. But where does true help come from?

Spiritual Nourishment 🌱:

Psalm 121 shifts our perspective: our help comes from the Lord, the Creator of all things. Lift your eyes and focus on Him. This week, pray: “Lord, I lift my eyes to You. Be my help, my guide, and my strength.” Trust that He is watching over you.

Reflection Question: 

What area of your life do you need to entrust fully to God’s help?

🎶 Song of the Week: “Silent Night” by Chris Tomlin featuring Kristen Getty🎶

After exploring the depth and beauty of Chris Tomlin’s Adore: Christmas Songs of Worship (Live), we now focus on one of its most sacred moments—Silent Night (Live). This rendition captures the timeless stillness of the beloved carol, inviting us to pause, reflect, and embrace the peace that only Christ can bring. As the familiar melody unfolds, it transforms into a holy encounter, reminding us of the wonder of that night when the Prince of Peace entered the world.

An Invitation to Worship: Recorded live, Silent Night is filled with sacred reverence as the voices of believers unite in harmony. The live setting brings authenticity and intimacy, making it feel as though we are gathered at the manger, where heaven touched earth. Kristyn Getty’s powerful recitation of Isaiah 9:6—“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given… and He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”—grounds the song in the eternal promise of God’s love.

Timeless and Fresh: While Silent Night has been cherished for generations, this version breathes new life into its message. The blend of gentle instrumentation and scripture creates a moment of reflection and awe. The song’s delicate progression mirrors the peace of Christ’s coming while drawing us deeper into worship.

The featured track, “Silent Night (Live),” is a quiet yet powerful reminder that Christ’s birth was the beginning of our redemption. It speaks to the stillness and wonder of God’s presence, offering peace to weary hearts and hope to a broken world. This sacred moment is not just for Christmas—it is an eternal invitation to embrace His peace EVERY MOMENT, EVERY DAY!

Coming This Week 🌟

• Friday – Founder’s Reflections #22: I’ll share how my second Christmas Walking With Christ has deepened my understanding of Advent. Knowing Christ’s second coming fills us with urgency to grow God’s Kingdom and live purposefully.

  
  

• Monday – Art of Grace #10: Reflecting on my first Christmas at St. Marcus Church and the awe-inspiring Nine Lessons and Carols for Christmas Day, I invite you to join me for a beautiful exploration of Luke 2:11: "Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord." This reflection will be paired with iconic artwork and uplifting music, setting the tone for a heart-centered and grace-filled week ahead.

💬 Join the Conversation

• Which Psalm spoke to your heart this week?

• How has God been your refuge, your strength, or your helper?

  
  

Share your reflections below and spread the message. Share this devotional with a friend, post it on social media, or invite others to grow with us. Together, as a Christian community, let’s share His light and expand His Kingdom.

🌟 Final Word: A Poetic Blessing for You

May you lift your eyes to the eternal King,

Find refuge in His unshakable peace,

And trust His reign over every battle you face.

This week, let His love strengthen you,

His peace calm you,

and His presence transform you.

Share His hope boldly with those around you—you never know whose life might be changed.

For His Kingdom,

Jeff ❤️

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