Introduction: Do you ever feel like “GIVING UP”? We’re not home yet! God is not finished with you. God reminds us through Paul (I believe the author, inspired by the Holy Spirit), do not go BACKWARD but PRESS FORWARD to maturity in Christ.

 

There are three ways to PRESS on:

 

1. Don’t Give Up Your “CONFIDENCE”! (Heb. 10:35) – “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward.”

 

Some things NEED TO be thrown away — clutter.
Some things DO NOT need to be thrown away — “confidence” (παρρησία (parrhesia), which means freedom, boldness).
Payback on the way — rewards.

 

2. Don’t Forget to Hold On to “PATIENCE”! (Heb. 10:36) – “For ye have need of PATIENCE, that after ye have done the will of God, ye may receive the promise.”

 

To know the will of God — “PATIENCE” (ὑπομονή (hupomone), meaning endurance, steadfastness, to remain under).
To do the will of God.

 

3. Remember, JESUS Is Coming Soon! (Heb. 10:37) – “For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.”

 

Keep Looking Up.
Keep Looking Out.

 

Conclusion: It is easy to get discouraged these days. Constant focus on “The BIG Picture” — God’s purpose and plan — will keep us motivated to not GO BACK but to PRESS ON, loving, serving, and waiting for JESUS to come again. That will be worth it all!

 

PRESS ON!!

 

Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese

Introduction: What a model prayer Paul had for the believers in Philippi. Are you praying daily for others? What should you pray? The devotion today should be a blessing to its readers.

 

Please notice the direction as well as elements in this prayer.

 

1. Pray for Overflowing LOVE! (Phil. 1:9) – “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment.”

 

The word “abound” is περισσεύω, which means to be in abundance or to overflow. It can mean to excel. Is the love of Christ living in your heart for others?

 

2. Pray for Spiritual Knowledge Along with DISCERNMENT! (Phil. 1:9) – “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment.”

 

Do you know what this word “knowledge” means? Is he talking about head knowledge? The word is ἐπίγνωσις. It means full spiritual knowledge. It can refer to discernment. Next, look at the word “judgment.” It does not mean criticism; instead, it is the word αἴσθησις, which means perception, discernment, or even insight. In other words, if we have a full and experiential knowledge of Jesus Christ, then as believers we can exercise discernment without being critical. Are you a critical person?

 

3. Pray for CHARACTER! (Phil. 1:10) – “That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.”

 

What does “approve” mean? It is the word δοκιμάζω. The word reveals to test or to prove. Furthermore, it can have to do with examining. Actually, this word was used in testing metals and coins. Why? The answer is to see if they were real and met certain standards. In addition, the word “excellent” means to excel, or to be better, and it can mean to surpass. When you have been tested, do you pass the test with approval?

 

4. Pray for WISDOM to Avoid Being an Offense! (Phil. 1:10) – “That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ.”

 

The word “offense” is ἀπρόσκοπος, which does not mean faultless but blameless. It literally describes not causing someone to stumble. Besides that, it speaks of being free from hurt or harm. Wow! That encompasses quite a bit! Now granted, if you are teaching or preaching from the Bible, it is going to be offensive to some. However, this passage seems to be more directed to what we say and do. Have you ever been an offense unintentionally? Probably so, since we are mere human beings, although redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ.

 

Conclusion: What a beautiful prayer to pray! Besides love, pray for discernment and understanding. Certainly, do not forget to pray for wisdom. And when all is said and done, give God the glory!

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

Introduction: Have you ever been to a wedding? Every wedding consists of at least both the bride and the groom. Get ready for the wedding. But how? First, a careful study of the texts reveals the meaning.

 

1. Will You Be at the Wedding and Marriage of the Lamb? (Rev. 19:7-8) – “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.”

 

Question: Is this verse referring to the “wife” of God the Father of the Old Testament or perhaps the “wife” of Jesus Christ (Bridegroom-wife), which would be the Church of the New Testament? Some suggest the former, others the latter. Listen, either way, it does not erase the truth of either one taught in the Scriptures. Chronologically speaking, first, Christ will come back for His Church in the rapture. Notable scholars have drawn the parallel between this event and the reference in John 14:1-3. In this passage, the Son of God goes back to His Father’s house to prepare a place for He and His Church to spend eternity. By the way, Jesus Christ is referred to by John the Baptist as the “LAMB of God.” From an exegetical standpoint, that should identify this passage as JESUS CHRIST (the LAMB) being joined to His wife, the Church.

 

2. Will You Attend the Marriage Supper of the Lamb? (Rev. 19:9) – “And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb.”

 

Following the wedding of the Lamb comes the marriage supper. Again, the terminology “LAMB” should be a “giveaway” to which this passage is a futuristic event that celebrates the marriage of the Church to Jesus Christ. Imagine, what a spread!

 

3. How Can We Get Ready for These Futuristic Events? (Rev. 19:7-9) – “And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.”

 

Will you reread the last few words again?“…the righteousness of the saints.” This can be translated as the “righteous acts” of the saints. In other words, Christians living and serving through obedience to the “Will and Word” of God will purify their wedding garments.

 

Conclusion: Are you planning on going to the wedding? Are you preparing now for that heavenly event? Start now.

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

Introduction: Could this be the year when Christ comes again? BLOOD moons are scheduled to appear on March 13th and 14th. Does that mean Bible prophecy is going to be fulfilled? Is this a “sign” of the “time”? Certain Bible teachers and preachers will certainly attempt to hype up this event to make others feel that this is the fulfillment of the Bible. But is it really?

 

Let’s see. Here are references to BLOOD MOONS in the Scriptures:

 

 

By the way, this was not completely fulfilled in the book of Acts. How can we know? The answer is because all of these phenomenal occurrences did not take place in that day. Therefore, we must conclude it to be futuristic.

 

 

Again, these supernatural signs will occur when Jesus Christ comes in His second coming — not in the rapture.

 

 

When does this happen? During the tribulation, the moon will turn BLOOD RED! By the way, this is after the rapture of the Church. Get ready!

 

Conclusion: As we’ve seen, the Bible reveals the true meaning of the BLOOD MOONS. In the context of each book and certain phrases lies the key to understanding the timing. With that being said, keep looking UP — the rapture will happen first!

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

 

Introduction: Did you know that some fear is good? According to the Bible, we need to take some fear into the New Year. Like what?

 

Check out the writings of both Paul and Solomon under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost. Also, Jude mentions fear.

 

 

Reread that last phrase: “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” Greek scholars define the word “fear” as φόβος. It can mean terror, reverence, or respect. In this case, it is apparently used to mean the latter. In other words, as believers in Jesus Christ, we are to work “out” what God the Holy Spirit works “in”! By the way, he is not talking about working FOR your salvation; rather, he is saying because of your salvation, there should be some works. James says the same (James 2:14-25). Also, do not forget that one day we will have to give an account of our salvation—the process of sanctification; i.e., spiritual gifts.

 

 

The Hebrew word “fear” is יִרְאָה, which similarly means reverence or awe. In summary, we do not need to necessarily be afraid of God, but we should certainly RESPECT and have a holy REVERENCE for Him! Do you have reverence for the God of the Bible?

 

 

The same word is used for “fear” as in Philippians 2. Here, it can mean the object or cause of fear, or even terror. Some suggest that in the context of “save others with fear,” it means with an anxious heart, being concerned lest we be defiled by the wickedness of those whom we are rescuing. In addition, any soul winner knows the awful consequence of rejecting Jesus Christ as God’s remedy for sin and going out into eternity lost forever, destined for the lake of fire! Do you experience a sense of godly fear when witnessing?

 

Conclusion: While some fear is negative, as we’ve discussed in this devotion, some fear is positive. Will you stop and pray for the “good” kind of FEAR in the NEW YEAR?

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

 

Introduction: How is your vision? Do you need spiritual glasses? Are you spiritually nearsighted or farsighted? Is God’s will blurry? Can you see biblical principles? Are your eyes open to the needs of others? Habakkuk needed a spiritual vision test. Why? Because he did not understand why a “Good God” would allow “Bad things” to happen to His people.

 

Are you in the same boat? Take this VISION test.

 

1. When you need a Word from God, you need to WATCH EXPECTANTLY! (Hab 2:1) – “I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.”

 

The Chaldeans (Babylonians) were on the brink of overthrowing the southern Kingdom of Judah. Keep in mind, the northern Kingdom of Israel had been invaded by the Assyrians in 722 B.C. Have you noticed that in order to hear the Lord speak or to know His will these days, it requires diligent and persistent expectation?

 

2. When the Lord speaks, you need to WRITE OBEDIENTLY! (Hab 2:2) – “And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.”

 

For Elijah, God did not speak through the wind, earthquake, or fire; instead, it was the still small voice. (1 Kings 19:11,12) – “And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.”

 

Are you listening for the still small voice? Don’t forget, when God the Holy Spirit speaks through the Word of God, write it down.

 

3. When the Lord reveals His Vision, you need to WAIT PATIENTLY! (Hab 2:3,4) – “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”

 

When our Lord reveals His VISION, it can be trusted. But make no mistake about it, our faith will be tested!

 

Conclusion: Now then, what is your VISION for 2025? Will you go back and review this devotion? Follow the guidelines whereby Habakkuk discovered God’s VISION.

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

Introduction: We are blessed! Really, go ahead and admit it. Our Lord has been good to us! Not only are we blessed to be alive physically, but more importantly, we are staying revived spiritually. I love this chapter in the book of Psalms.

 

Here is how to stay alive in 2025:

 

1. It begins with a HEART-CRY to God in prayer! (Psa 143:1) – “Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: in thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.”

 

Prayer works if you work it! Not just when we are facing troubles—praying the right way releases God’s supernatural power. Is prayer a daily practice for you?

 

2. It can turn into a HEART-SIGH for relief! (Psa 143:4) – “Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my heart within me is desolate.”

 

Interesting to note, the word “overwhelmed” is עָטַף. It means to cover or to envelop. It can also have to do with fainting. Finally, here it can describe being feeble. Everyone faces being overwhelmed at times. Are you feeling overwhelmed right now? Keep reading.

 

3. It can call for a HEART-ELECTRIFY—come to life! (Psa 143:11) – “Quicken me, O LORD, for thy name’s sake: for thy righteousness’ sake bring my soul out of trouble.”

 

The word “quicken” is חָיָה, which means to live, to be alive, to revive, or to restore to life. Because of life’s stress, our spiritual batteries get drained. Are you feeling tired and weary?

 

Conclusion: Is one of your desires in 2025 to stay ALIVE—spiritually? In summary, these three steps will guarantee you can stay alive. Through the vehicle of prayer, the act of casting our burdens upon the Lord, and finally trusting and receiving the “Quickening” of the Holy Spirit, you will definitely experience spiritual growth in the coming year.

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

Introduction: What is 2025 going to bring? Blessings or curses? Peace or trouble? Victory or defeat? Adversity or misery? Joy or sadness? Hope or hopelessness? Success or failure? Wisdom or foolishness? Understanding or confusion? Truth or deception? Faith or fear?

 

Wait a minute. Stop and consider God’s promises for the New Year:

 

1. His Peace! (John 14:27) – “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”

 

This PEACE money cannot buy. We all need this kind of peace! Are you experiencing this kind of peace?

 

2. His Comfort! (2 Cor 1:3-5) – “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort.”

 

The word “comfort” is παράκλησις, which means encouragement or exhortation. It can have the idea of consolation. God’s comfort is like a soft pillow for a weary body.

 

3. His Presence! (Heb 13:5) – “…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

 

You talk about not being alone! Jesus has promised to always be with His people. That should help bring security to His people. Do you recognize His presence in your life?

 

4. His Promises! (Rom 4:17-21) – “…and calleth those things which be not as though they were… according to that which was spoken, so He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.”

 

What God promises, He fulfills! Abraham was a recipient of His promises! Have you? By the way, faith is the key that unlocks the door to God’s promises.

 

5. His Security! (Psa 46:1-10) – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea…”

 

When trouble comes, Jesus is there. With His power, we are strengthened through the storms of life. Anybody going through a storm? Are you needing strength to face the challenges of life? Will you call upon His name?

 

6. His Safety! (Prov 18:10) – “The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.”

 

Since our Lord is a strong tower, we can find refuge in Him. Do you need a place of shelter and safety? Why not run into His arms that are wide open? He is waiting.

 

7. His Forgiveness! (Heb 8:12) – “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.”

 

Whereas Satan wants to remind us of our past sins, the God of the Bible FORGETS them! Don’t you love that? Once forgiven, our sins are gone!

 

8. His Grace! (2 Cor 12:9-12) – “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

 

His GRACE is available for the race! It is in place. Remember, grace is God doing for us what we do not deserve. Will you stop this minute and thank Him for His AMAZING GRACE?

 

9. His Pardon! (Isa 55:6-7) – “Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.”

 

The word “pardon” is סָלַח, which means forgive. It also has to do with sending away. That is, because of the full payment of the precious blood of Jesus, the Judge of all the earth declares the guilty sinner no longer guilty! Bless the Lord! What a Savior!

 

10. His Power! (Phil 3:10-14) – “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.”

 

This word “power” has its roots in the word dynamite. The power of God is unlimited, unchangeable, and unmatched! There is nothing like it. Shouldn’t we be telling others about this power?

 

11. His Purpose! (Rom 8:29-30) – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren… whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.”

 

There you have it. Follow this train of thought: Since our God knows beforehand and is in control, we can trust Him. Will you today?

 

12. His Word! (Psa 119:105) – “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

 

Walking through a dark world calls for a bright light. The Word of God shines like a bright light to give guidance to those who seek His will. Are you searching for His will and way?

 

13. His Provisions! (Phil 4:19) – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

 

Our needs and our wants are different. Did you notice the context of this book and chapter? It was inspired by the Holy Spirit directly to the Church of Philippi. You may be aware that they gave and partnered with Paul as he fulfilled his mission work. With that being said, God gives that irrevocable principle in regards to giving. Are your needs being met? Are you giving back what’s rightfully God’s?

 

Conclusion: God’s promises are within reach of our grasp. First, know them. Second, line up under them. Third, embrace them. Fourth, receive them. Fifth, enjoy them by sharing them with others!

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese

Introduction: Are you afraid? Fearful? Why? If the enemy has his way, many will go into the New Year with FEAR. Look at those who could have been afraid but overcame their fears. God will give us faith in His Word and His will to go into the New Year without fear.

 

 

Think about it. You are leading a nation of about two million people who had been wandering in the wilderness for forty years. Imagine the complaints! Naysayers! Doubters! Skeptics! What a daunting task. Yet, God knew that Joshua would need to fight his fear. Stepping into the overflowing Jordan River without a bridge required great faith. Shouting down the walls of Jericho without firing a shot, after marching around it for seven days, seemed ridiculous—until the walls fell flat!

 

 

Esther could have taken the easy route and looked after herself. But she trusted the Lord no matter what. God honored her faith.

 

 

They could have easily taken a knee to please the king. But contrary to their fears, as well as their rational thinking, they overcame their fear with faith in God.

 

 

Remember, Peter had witnessed Jesus Christ being arrested and beaten until He was ultimately nailed to a cross.

 

 

Look who is saying this: a man who had been stoned and left for dead, beaten numerous times with rods, jailed, shipwrecked, bitten by a poisonous snake, and eventually beheaded.

 

Conclusion: Over and over again, Jesus told His disciples not to be afraid. Can you hear His words? In the storms of life, He told His disciples, “fear not” (Mark 4, Matthew 8, 14, Luke 8, etc.).

 

You can start off on the right foot by fighting your fear and feeding your faith as you go into the New Year. How about it? Why not go into the New Year without fear?

 

Love y’all,

Pastor Randy Reese