– Todays Community Scripture – 12/31/2024

And now I have a word for you who brashly announce, “Today—at the latest, tomorrow—we’re off to such and such a city for the year. We’re going to start a business and make a lot of money.” You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow. You’re nothing but a wisp of fog, catching a brief bit of sun before disappearing. Instead, make it a habit to say, “If the Master wills it and we’re still alive, we’ll do this or that.” As it is, you are full of your grandiose selves. All such vaunting self-importance is evil. In fact, if you know the right thing to do and don’t do it, that, for you, is evil.

James 4:13–17 (MSG)

– Reflection:

Don’t Wait For Tomorrow; Be Better Today

Many of us often take our health, wealth, and talents for granted. Life has a way of humbling us if we ignore the finer details. I’ve realized that working from home has weakened my immune system, making me more susceptible to colds and flu than those who are out in the world daily. I realized this when some friends invited me to an outreach center I’ve frequented over the years. After attending, by Christmas evening, I found myself unwell. Despite my attempts to convince myself it would pass by the next day, the flu had a firm grip on me. Interestingly, the person at the outreach center who transmitted it didn’t even seem sick; my immune system simply had no defense. Although this experience doesn’t make me want to venture out more, I must prepare for what I might encounter when I do go out.

– Where do we go from here?

We must prepare our hearts daily to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. If not, you could be walking into sickness or fighting for your finances or talents. Start small with a devotional like this one or another. Just get the word into your spirit. I have seen too much not to believe He is real. The best lie ever told by the devil was that He didn’t exist. If you believe that, then you are who I am speaking to this morning.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for allowing us to honor you with the presence you prepared in us. It is an honor to get up and walk with you each morning and do the work that is needed of me. Allow our service to help others see the strength you provide us so they want to have it, too. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Coach Arthur Poston Jr.
Focused Development Organization
Middle School Coach

– Today’s Community Scripture – 12/30/2024

God spoke to Moses and Aaron: “How long is this going to go on, all this grumbling against me by this evil-infested community? I’ve had my fill of complaints from these grumbling Israelites. Tell them, As I live—God’s decree—here’s what I’m going to do: Your corpses are going to litter the wilderness—every one of you twenty years and older who was counted in the census, this whole generation of grumblers and grousers. Not one of you will enter the land and make your home there, the firmly and solemnly promised land, except for Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun.

                         Numbers 14:26–30 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                         Are You Speaking For Victory?

Moses led the Israelites out of slavery to the border of the Promised Land, where God had promised they would defeat their enemies and live in abundance. Despite receiving a positive report of victory, ten spies brought back a discouraging report, claiming the enemy was too powerful. Instead of trusting God, the Israelites allowed fear to dominate their thoughts and began to complain, saying, “We’ll never get in. We’re going to die out here in the desert.” Significantly, God responded, “I will do exactly what I heard you say. You will all die in the desert.” They didn’t realize that by speaking these words, they were telling their future.

– Where do we go from here?

If God were to do exactly what you’re saying today, would it be what you want? Are you speaking of victory, health, abundance, freedom, and new levels? Or are you talking about how big the giants are, what you’ve been through in the past, how you can’t accomplish your dreams or break an addiction? Don’t let mouth trouble keep you out of your promised land.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for always being greater than any difficulty or adversity we will ever face. Thank You that You are listening as we declare that, based on Your promise, we are well able to take the land. We believe that You are going to bring us to the next level. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Coach Arthur Poston Jr.
Focused Development Organization
Middle School Coach

The birth of Jesus took place like this. His mother, Mary, was engaged to be married to Joseph. Before they came to the marriage bed, Joseph discovered she was pregnant. (It was by the Holy Spirit, but he didn’t know that.) Joseph, chagrined but noble, determined to take care of things quietly so Mary would not be disgraced. While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God’s angel spoke in the dream: “Joseph, son of David, don’t hesitate to get married. Mary’s pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God’s Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus—‘God saves’—because he will save his people from their sins.” This would bring the prophet’s embryonic sermon to full term: Watch for this—a virgin will get pregnant and bear a son; They will name him Immanuel (Hebrew for “God is with us”). Then Joseph woke up. He did exactly what God’s angel commanded in the dream: He married Mary. But he did not consummate the marriage until she had the baby. He named the baby Jesus.

                                Matthew 1:18–25 (MSG)

– Reflection:

                 The Birth of Jesus

Joseph was a fine, upstanding young man. When he found out that Mary was pregnant, he felt upset and humiliated. I think that would be any man today. However, because he was honorable and wouldn’t expose her to public disgrace, he determined to divorce her quietly. Significantly, the angel had to come to Joseph and say, “Stick with Mary. I know it looks wrong. I know it doesn’t make sense, but what you think is wrong is God’s purpose. Stand strong. You’ve been equipped and empowered for this season.” Today I don’t think many men would be able to stand in the fire for something like this, especially if it happened while they were engaged to women they were about to marry. GOD had to be there for this one to work.

– Where do we go from here?

The spirit caused the birth of Jesus and gave us our Savior. He died for us, giving His life to those who didn’t believe in Him. Tomorrow, while spending time with your families, remember the blessing that we celebrate first before you allow commercialism to take over. Sometimes, What you’re facing may be unfair, but those wrongs are not random; they’re strategic. If it’s a big wrong, there’s a big right in your future. Now, do your part and stick with it. God is in control. You may be on a detour, but it’s a divine detour. God is ordering your steps. He hasn’t failed you in the past, and He won’t start now. Keep going through the wrongs with a good attitude, as Joseph did, and you’ll see God’s plan unfold.

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank You for having the power to take what looks and feels like wrongs and make them detours. Thank You for directing our steps and working out Your purpose for our lives. We will stay in peace, knowing that no one and nothing can stop Your plan for every one of us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Coach Arthur Poston Jr.
Focused Development Organization
Middle School Coach

– Today’s Community Scripture – 12/23/2024

God can’t stand deceivers,  but oh, how he relishes integrity. Count on this: The wicked won’t escape scot-free,  and God’s loyal people will triumph. Like a gold ring in a pig’s snout is a beautiful face on an empty head. The desires of good people lead straight to the best, but wicked ambition ends in angry frustration. The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped. Curses on those who drive a hard bargain! Blessings to all who play fair and square!

Proverbs 11:20–26 (MSG)

– Reflection:

Reflecting on these words, we see a considerable contrast between integrity and deceit, generosity and selfishness. God’s anger for deceit highlights the importance of living truthfully and with integrity. Those who deceive may find temporary success, but ultimately, they will face consequences. In contrast, those who live with integrity and loyalty to God will find triumph and fulfillment. The imagery of a gold ring in a pig’s snout reminds us that outward beauty or success is meaningless without wisdom and substance. The desires of good people lead to the best outcomes, while wicked ambitions only result in frustration and anger. Generosity expands our world, bringing blessings and abundance, while stinginess shrinks it, leading to isolation and lack. Helping others not only blesses them but also brings blessings back to us. Fairness and integrity in our dealings bring blessings, while hard bargains and unfair practices bring curses. This passage encourages us to live generously, truthfully, and honestly, knowing that these virtues lead to a fulfilling and blessed life.

– Where do we go from here?

If we struggle with traits or behaviors that God detests, the first step is to seek His guidance and strength. Here are some steps to help us move forward:

1. Prayer: Begin with sincere prayer, asking God for forgiveness and the strength to change. Prayer helps us connect with God and seek His help overcoming our weaknesses.
2. Self-Reflection: Reflect on your actions and identify areas for improvement. Acknowledge your shortcomings and commit to making positive changes.
3. Study Scripture: Regularly read and meditate on the Bible. Scriptures provide wisdom and guidance on how to live a life that pleases God. Verses like Proverbs 11:25 can inspire and direct us.
4. Seek Support: Surround yourself with a supportive community, such as a church group or trusted friends, who can encourage and hold you accountable.
5. Practice Integrity: Make a conscious effort to act honestly and honestly in all areas of your life. Small, consistent actions can lead to significant changes over time.
6. Be Generous: Look for opportunities to help others and practice generosity. Acts of kindness not only bless others but also transform our hearts.
7. Forgive Yourself. Change is a process, and it is essential to forgive yourself for past mistakes. Focus on progress, not perfection.

Remember, God’s grace is always available to us, and with His help, we can grow and become the people He desires us to be. If you need more specific guidance or support, feel free to ask!

– Our Prayer for Today

Father, Thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. Proverbs 11:25 reminds us that a generous person will prosper, and those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed. Lord, help us embody this generous spirit in our daily lives. Grant us the grace to give freely and joyfully, knowing that in blessing others, we, too, are blessed. Teach us to see the needs around us and to respond with kindness and compassion. May our actions reflect Your love and bring glory to Your name. Help us to trust in Your provision, believing that as we pour into others, You will pour into us. Strengthen our hearts to be selfless and to seek the well-being of those we encounter. Thank You for the promise that generosity leads to abundance. May we live out this truth and experience the fullness of life that comes from serving others. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.