This will probably be my last post of the year. As we enter the new year, be reminded that America will be celebrating her 250th anniversary. It is time to stand firm by honestly preserving and teaching America’s story to the next generation. May this new year bring a generational shift of patriotic youth. Let’s bring back the faith, courage, and conviction that shaped our nation to all our students by taking the Gospel into the public square(ekklesia).
I found a different version of the Bible that I like called the Jubilee Bible 2000. It gives you insight into the original language so you read the intended imagery and message.
“And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, a small rock and upon the large rock I will build my congregation, {Gr. ekklesia – called out ones} and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against her” (Matthew 16:18).
I love the word “shall” for some reason. I think it is because of the intent behind the word. It is an imperative command, usually indicating that certain actions are mandatory and not permissive. “It shall be done” is powerful because there is an expectation that it will come to pass. It is not like the word should.
“If you believe, you ‘should’ not perish, but do whatever is revealed to accept this free gift of God (His Son). But, ‘should’ doesn't automatically denote reception of an action. You should, but you also might not! “Shall” denotes more of something that “will” be done.”
Isaiah 9 has so many “shalls” and the one that stands out is:
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government is placed upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called The Wonderful One, The Counsellor, The God, The Mighty One, The Eternal Father, The Prince of Peace.”
Luke 2 recounts the prophecy of Isaiah 9:6:
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”
This time of year is when I think back to all I am grateful for, but also all my missteps, mistakes, and outright failures. Forgiveness matters! It releases shackles you may not even be aware of. It can be a hard time for people, so be kind even when they are not kind to you. Lift up those you love and those who hate you in prayer. Remember to acknowledge your blessings so you are more patient with others as they sit in their anger, bitterness, and darkness.
Put on the full armor of God believers and be prepared for the battles awaiting us in 2026. Here is a reminder for each of you.
The phrase “Do not fear” is repeated 364 times in the Bible. One for every day of the year. Let’s start on January 1, 2026.
“After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram; I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward” (Genesis 15: 1).
Blessings and Merry Christmas
dreamsdontfade.com
Let these lyrics wash over you no matter the season you are in. “Let It Be a Hallelujah” by Lauren Daigle
All my hopes and all my fears
Every trial, every tear
In the chaos, You remain
Faithful all the way
Through the victories
Through the scars
Let me echo who You are
For the glory of Your name
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvfPK0gCdUc&list=RDBvfPK0gCdUc&start_radio=1