Category Archives: Thankfulness

Provider, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Give Thanks to the LORD for He Is Good – Table devotional (Thanksgiving)

We should always seek to be thankful to the Lord for all He provides, but Thanksgiving is a great time to remind ourselves to come together as a family and as a community, and as a nation to give thanks together to our Lord,  YHWH. For those who follow Yeshua (Hebrew for Jesus), we always have that most important gift of salvation through grace by faith for which to be thankful… no matter what else may be going on in our lives.

I have found it is very easy to lose focus on the Lord as we get busy with our holiday traditions and celebrations… even Thanksgiving. It seems the Lord dropped a surprise in my shopping bag on trip to the store several years ago.  I want to share it with you. Lifeway Christian store put together a small booklet of scriptures into a “Thanksgiving Table Devotional”. We have it at our table and we read and share as we come together to eat our meals.

Psalm 106:1

1Praise the LORD!
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for He is good;
For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

18in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Colossians 3:17

17Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Philippians 4:6

6Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

Psalm 9:1-2

1I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart;
I will tell of all Your wonders.

      2I will be glad and exult in You;
I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High.

As we read these scriptures together we take time to go around the table and ask about examples of things that are specific to us for which we are grateful to our Father who provides. This is not particularly unique, but it sure is easy to overlook. I appreciate the Lord putting these scriptures where I would find them as I was looking for ways to make Thanksgiving more meaningful and focused on Him for my family. Praise the Lord He cares for each of us as His children!

What will you make the focus of this Thanksgiving season? Football, shopping, food, fellowship… or our Creator and Father and the right attitude towards Him? My suggestion is to focus on our Father with a healthy side of family fellowship.

Take some time to pray right now and give Him thanks in your own words. Ask Him to help you have wisdom on how to approach your family traditions such as those around Thanksgiving.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

A Heart Full of Thanks and Trust (Psalm 138)

Are you preparing your heart for Thanksgiving — not just the holiday, but the posture of gratitude that draws you nearer to God?

Key Verse:
“I will give You thanks with all my heart; I will sing praises to You before the gods.” —Psalm 138:1 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 138 is a psalm of David, written as a declaration of wholehearted thanksgiving to the Lord. David reflects on God’s faithfulness in times of trouble, His unfailing love, and His fulfilling of promises made. Even when surrounded by enemies or uncertainty, David chooses to give thanks — not because circumstances are perfect, but because God is faithful.

In the days leading to our modern celebration of Thanksgiving, Psalm 138 invites us to remember that gratitude is not merely an emotion but an act of worship. It is a confession of trust in the God who hears, answers, strengthens, and sustains His people.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalms 138

Thanksgiving for the LORD’S Favor.

A Psalm of David.

     1I will give You thanks with all my heart;
I will sing praises to You before the gods.

      2I will bow down toward Your holy temple
And give thanks to Your name for Your lovingkindness and Your truth;
For You have magnified Your word according to all Your name.

      3On the day I called, You answered me;
You made me bold with strength in my soul.

      4All the kings of the earth will give thanks to You, O LORD,
When they have heard the words of Your mouth.

      5And they will sing of the ways of the LORD,
For great is the glory of the LORD.

      6For though the LORD is exalted,
Yet He regards the lowly,
But the haughty He knows from afar.

      7Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me;
You will stretch forth Your hand against the wrath of my enemies,
And Your right hand will save me.

      8The LORD will accomplish what concerns me;
Your lovingkindness, O LORD, is everlasting;
Do not forsake the works of Your hands.

Reflection on Psalm 138:
Psalm 138 beautifully captures the heart of biblical thanksgiving. David gives thanks “with all his heart” because he has experienced the character of God — His lovingkindness, His truth, His presence in hardship, and His faithfulness to complete what He begins.

As we approach Thanksgiving, this psalm reminds us of several truths:

  • Thanksgiving begins with remembering — remembering what God has done, how He has answered prayers, and how He has strengthened us when we were weak.

  • Thanksgiving is rooted in God’s character — not in circumstances, but in His faithful love and unchanging truth.

  • Thanksgiving grows in the valleys — David gives thanks even though he walks “in the midst of trouble,” because he knows the Lord is with him.

  • Thanksgiving looks forward with hope — David declares, “The Lord will accomplish what concerns me.” Gratitude strengthens our trust that God will continue His work in us.

This season often reminds us to count our blessings. But Scripture teaches something deeper: thanksgiving is not only gratitude for what God has given — it is confidence in who God is. And that confidence lifts our hearts, deepens our worship, and renews our faith.

Application:

  • Make time to reflect intentionally. Don’t rush into Thanksgiving distracted — pause and remember the specific ways God has been faithful to you this year.

  • Give thanks for God’s character, not just His gifts. His steadfast love and truth remain even when circumstances shift.

  • Let gratitude strengthen your faith. Thankfulness turns your eyes from what is uncertain to the God who never changes.

  • Thank God in your trials. Like David, trust that God is at work even in difficult seasons — and give thanks for His presence and purpose.

This Thanksgiving, let your gratitude anchor you in God’s faithfulness — not just for what He has done, but for who He is and how He continues to sustain you.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your steadfast love, Your truth, and Your unfailing faithfulness. As Thanksgiving approaches, prepare my heart to remember Your goodness with sincerity and joy. Help me to give You thanks with all my heart — in blessing and in hardship — trusting that You will accomplish what concerns me. Fill my spirit with gratitude that strengthens my faith and draws me closer to You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Church / Body of Christ, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

A Grateful Heart, A Journey of Thanksgiving (Colossians 1:1-12)

As we approach the season of Thanksgiving, let’s embark on a journey through the uplifting words of Colossians 1:1-12. In this passage, the apostle Paul expresses gratitude and offers a prayer that resonates with the spirit of thanksgiving. Join us as we explore the profound theme of thankfulness that intertwines seamlessly with the upcoming holiday.

Summary of Key Points:

  1. Introduction and Thanksgiving: Paul begins his letter to the Colossians with greetings and expressions of thanksgiving. His gratitude is not just a formality but a heartfelt acknowledgment of the faith and love demonstrated by the Colossian believers.
  2. Prayer for Spiritual Growth: Paul’s prayer in these verses is not only a thanksgiving but also a heartfelt plea for the Colossians’ spiritual growth. He desires that they may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, and bear fruit in every good work.
  3. Qualities of a Thankful Heart: The passage outlines qualities such as endurance, patience, and joy with thanksgiving, emphasizing the connection between gratitude and a resilient, joyful spirit in the face of challenges.
  4. Thanksgiving and the Holiday Season: As we read Paul’s words, we can draw parallels between his expressions of thanksgiving and the spirit of gratitude we cultivate during the Thanksgiving holiday. The emphasis on faith, love, and hope mirrors the values celebrated during this special time.

Colossians 1:1-12

Thankfulness for Spiritual Attainments

     1Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

      2To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ who are at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.

      3We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 4since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have for all the saints; 5because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel 6which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth; 7just as you learned it from Epaphras, our beloved fellow bond-servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf, 8and he also informed us of your love in the Spirit.

      9For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; 11strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously 12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light.

As Thanksgiving approaches, let’s reflect on the spirit of gratitude that permeates Colossians 1:1-12.

How can we incorporate Paul’s expressions of thankfulness into our own lives and celebrations?

Share your thoughts on the qualities of a thankful heart and how they align with the values of the upcoming holiday.

As we give thanks for the blessings around us, let’s also take a moment to uplift one another in prayer, just as Paul did for the Colossians.

Join the conversation in the comments.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Government, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Reclaiming Thanksgiving: A Call to Rediscover Faith and Gratitude

Reignite the true spirit of Thanksgiving beyond the common trappings of family, football, and feasting.

Explore the forgotten roots of this cherished holiday in President George Washington’s Thanksgiving Proclamation of 1789, shedding light on our nation’s Christian foundation.

Join us in reclaiming the essence of gratitude and prayer, making God the focal point of your Thanksgiving celebration this year.

Thanksgiving has a lot of potential if we focus on our Lord instead of football, feasting, and family… and more recently, shopping. Perhaps it is overly obvious, but people still miss it. It is nonsense to be thankful without clearly focusing on and relating to the one who provided what we are thankful for. In other words, it is even silly to say we are thankful but not complete the thought that we are thankful to whom and have that be a major / primary focus as we celebrate.

Though it is not a Biblical holiday, it was clearly founded as a holiday in the USA by a Christian president, George Washington, who wanted to call the people to a time of thanksgiving to our Lord for all the blessings poured out on this nation and its people. (Text of Thanksgiving Proclamation)

Actually studying this history and the contents of the Thanksgiving Proclamation, for people who will take time to do so, deals another blow to the lies of separation of church and state. We were founded a Christian nation, by the grace of God. That’s just an historical fact, despite how many people want to erase that history and replace it with “separation of church and state” nonsensical interpretations of our founding government documents. The original intent was simply that the state would not choose which Christian doctrine someone would believe or follow. It was never intended to limit someone in government freely expressing their Christian faith.

I encourage all of you to go back to the roots of Thanksgiving to truly come together in thanks and prayers to God. Build this into your traditions and celebrations. Do not let God be erased from yet another holiday, this time in favor of football, feasting, visiting with family, or shopping. Though the Pilgrims were godly people, do not even let them be placed as the centerpiece of the holiday but rather YHWH Himself. I suggest even doing a quick history lesson for your family and sharing the Thanksgiving Proclamation and start including that as a new tradition to celebrate annually.

I have included the text of the Thanksgiving Day Proclamation from George Washington below.

By the President of the United States of America.

A Proclamation.

Whereas it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; and whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me “to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”

Now, therefore, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed; for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted; for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and, in general, for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations, and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; to enable us all, whether in public or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shown kindness to us), and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally, to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

Given under my hand, at the city of New York, the third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine.

Washington.

*reference: https://wallbuilders.com/proclamation-thanksgiving-day-1789/

As a side note for conclusion and your additional thought… Congress asked the President to present this proclamation to the people of the USA very recently after founding our nation. Could there be any more obvious evidence that the founding fathers and the documents they created (with God’s help) did not intend to shut down people in government from freely expressing their faith?  There are many more examples for those who wish to study them and educate their children properly on what actually happened and how our government is actually intended to work.

Final thoughts on Thanksgiving… what do you want your family to associate with Thanksgiving? football? big meals? a family dinner? Where does our submission and thankfulness to YHWH fit in? What do you want to be the primary focus? Plan your celebration consistent with the desired outcome.

I invite you to pray with me:

Father, thank You for blessing our nation in its founding and over the course of its history. Thank You for blessing Your people with opportunity for close relationship with You through grace and mercy and forgiveness of our sins through Yeshua. Please help increase righteousness and defeat wickedness in our nation and across the world. Help Your people to flourish in personal freedom to worship You and live according to how You call us. Please protect us from ever growing efforts for centralized government control. May Your blessings of peace and prosperity fall upon Your people! Amen. 

 Shalom

Devotion by John in service to Christ

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Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Grace / Forgiveness, Learning To Pray Effectively, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms, Thankfulness, Tribulation

From Mourning to Dancing (Psalm 30)

Have you ever gone through a season when you felt far from God — when your own mistakes, pride, or sin created a distance between you and His presence? And then, after repentance, you experienced His mercy again — realizing that His anger lasts only a moment, but His love welcomes you back for a lifetime?

Key Verse:
“For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.” —Psalm 30:5 NASB

Background Context:
Psalm 30 is a psalm of David, written for the dedication of the temple (or possibly his palace). It’s a song of gratitude for deliverance — likely reflecting a time when David had been near death or facing a severe trial and God restored him. The psalm moves from personal testimony to public praise. David recalls his pride, his fall, his cry for mercy, and God’s gracious restoration. The tone shifts from sorrow to joy, reminding us that God’s discipline and hardship are temporary, but His favor and love endure forever.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Psalm 30

1I will extol You, O LORD, for You have lifted me up,
And have not let my enemies rejoice over me.

2O LORD my God,
I cried to You for help, and You healed me.

3O LORD, You have brought up my soul from Sheol;
You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit.

4Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones,
And give thanks to His holy name.

5For His anger is but for a moment,
His favor is for a lifetime;
Weeping may last for the night,
But a shout of joy comes in the morning.

6Now as for me, I said in my prosperity,
“I will never be moved.”

7O LORD, by Your favor You have made my mountain to stand strong;  You hid Your face, I was dismayed.

8To You, O LORD, I called,
And to the Lord I made supplication:

9“What profit is there in my blood, if I go down to the pit?
Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your faithfulness?

10“Hear, O LORD, and be gracious to me;
O LORD, be my helper.”

11You have turned for me my mourning into dancing;
You have loosed my sackcloth and girded me with gladness,

12That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent.
O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.

Reflection on Psalm 30:
This psalm beautifully captures the rhythm of the believer’s life — moments of despair followed by restoration, nights of weeping followed by mornings of joy. David begins by exalting God for lifting him up, rescuing him from enemies, and healing him when he was near death. Yet his story also includes a moment of painful honesty: “Now as for me, I said in my prosperity, ‘I will never be moved.’” (v. 6)

Like many of us, David grew comfortable in his success. Confidence slowly turned into self-reliance, and God allowed hardship to humble him. When God’s face seemed hidden, David was dismayed — he realized how fragile his stability really was. It’s in that moment of weakness that David cries out for mercy, and God answers.

The lesson is clear: God’s discipline is never cruel — it’s corrective. His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime. The night of suffering always gives way to the dawn of joy for those who trust Him.

David’s response is gratitude and worship. His mourning turns to dancing, his sackcloth to gladness. The same man who once wept now sings: “That my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever.”

Psalm 30 reminds us that while God may allow pain, He always restores. His goal is not to break us permanently but to draw us closer, to renew our gratitude, and to fill our hearts with praise that will not be silent.

Application:

  • Remember that discipline is temporary. God’s correction comes from love and leads to restoration.

  • Trust God through the night. Joy is already on its way, even if you can’t yet see the morning light.

  • Turn pride into praise. Prosperity is safest in the hands of those who remember its source.

  • Testify of His goodness. Don’t stay silent — share how God has turned your mourning into joy.

Your story may include nights of sorrow, but those nights will not have the final word. The morning belongs to God — and with it comes joy.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for being the God who restores. Even when You allow me to walk through dark nights, Your favor never leaves me. Help me to trust You in every season — in abundance and in need, in joy and in sorrow. Turn my mourning into dancing, my fear into faith, and my silence into songs of praise. I give You thanks forever. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Interceding for Others, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Honoring Our Veterans: A Christian Reflection on Veterans Day

As Veterans Day approaches, let us reflect on the profound sacrifices made by our military veterans and explore how our faith calls us to honor and support them.

Introduction:

Veterans Day, observed every November 11th, offers a sacred opportunity to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This day provides a moment to reflect on the virtues of courage, sacrifice, and loyalty—qualities deeply rooted in Christian values.

Body:

Gratitude for Service:

  • Sacrifice and Commitment: Recognizing the immense sacrifices made by veterans is crucial in understanding the depth of their service. These men and women have put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms and rights that we cherish, mirroring Christ’s sacrifice for humanity.
  • Prayers for Peace and Strength: As Christians, it’s our duty to pray for peace and to ask for God’s strength and healing for those who have served. Just as Christ sought peace and healed those who were hurt, we too should pray for the healing of veterans’ physical and emotional wounds.

Christian Values in Action:

  • Service and Selflessness: The service rendered by veterans is a powerful example of selflessness. They put the needs of their country and fellow citizens above their own, reflecting Christ’s call to serve and love one another.
  • Community Support: Veterans Day is an opportunity to strengthen community ties by coming together to support those who have served. Whether through volunteer work at veterans’ homes, participating in local parades, or simply reaching out to veterans in your community, every act of kindness is an expression of Christ’s love.

Conclusion:

Veterans Day serves as a poignant reminder of the costs of freedom and the value of service. As Christians, we are called to show unwavering support and gratitude to our veterans, recognizing their bravery and sacrifices as reflections of Christ’s teachings.

Call to Action:

Consider how you might honor our veterans on this Veterans Day. Attend a local event, visit a veterans’ hospital, or write thank-you cards to those who have served. Commit to ongoing prayer for their wellbeing and for peace, honoring their service not just on this day but throughout the year.

Prayer:

Lord, we lift up our veterans to You as Veterans Day approaches, thanking You for their bravery, their service, and their sacrifice. Bless them with Your love and peace, heal their wounds, and strengthen them with Your grace. May we, as a community, never forget their sacrifices and always express our gratitude not only through our words but also through our actions. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Compassionate, Faith / Trusting God, Faithful, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Hope, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Thankfulness

From Pain to Praise (Genesis 29:31-35)

When people overlook you, God still sees, values, and blesses you.

Have you ever felt invisible — like your efforts or love went unnoticed?

Key Verse:
“Now the Lord saw that Leah was unloved, and He opened her womb, but Rachel was barren.” —Genesis 29:31 NASB

Background Context:
After years of serving Laban, Jacob finds himself with two wives — sisters, Leah and Rachel. Leah, given to him through deception, is unloved, while Rachel holds Jacob’s affection. Yet God, who sees every heart, takes notice of Leah’s pain. In compassion, He opens her womb while Rachel remains barren. Leah bears four sons in succession — Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah — naming each one in response to her longing for love and recognition. Her story reveals that even when human love fails, God’s love never does.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 29:31-35

    31Now the LORD saw that Leah was unloved, and He opened her womb, but Rachel was barren. 32Leah conceived and bore a son and named him Reuben, for she said, “Because the LORD has seen my affliction; surely now my husband will love me.” 33Then she conceived again and bore a son and said, “Because the LORD has heard that I am unloved, He has therefore given me this son also.” So she named him Simeon. 34She conceived again and bore a son and said, “Now this time my husband will become attached to me, because I have borne him three sons.” Therefore he was named Levi. 35And she conceived again and bore a son and said, “This time I will praise the LORD.” Therefore she named him Judah. Then she stopped bearing.

Reflection on Genesis 29:31–35:
Leah’s story is one of both heartache and hope. She lived in the shadow of her sister, married to a man who did not choose her. Yet while Jacob’s eyes were fixed on Rachel, God’s eyes were fixed on Leah. Scripture says, “The Lord saw that Leah was unloved.” Those words remind us that no sorrow escapes His notice.

Each child Leah bore reflected her yearning for affection:

  • Reuben (“See, a son”) — “Surely now my husband will love me.”

  • Simeon (“Heard”) — “Because the Lord has heard that I am unloved.”

  • Levi (“Attached”) — “Now my husband will become attached to me.”

But by the time she bore her fourth son, something shifted in her heart. She named him Judah, meaning “praise,” saying, “This time I will praise the Lord.” No longer striving for Jacob’s approval, Leah turned her gaze toward God. And from Judah’s line would one day come the Messiah — Jesus Christ, the Lion of Judah.

Leah’s pain became the path to God’s greatest promise. In her weakness, His grace shone brightest. God often chooses the overlooked to display His glory, proving that our worth is found not in who notices us, but in who redeems us.

Application:
If you’ve ever felt unseen or undervalued, take comfort in Leah’s story. God sees you. He knows your heart, your tears, and your longing to be loved. Instead of looking for affirmation from others, fix your eyes on the Lord who never overlooks you. Choose today to praise Him — not because every wound is healed, but because His love is constant through it all.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for being the God who sees me when I feel forgotten or unloved. Help me to rest in Your perfect love and to find my worth in You alone. Teach me to turn my pain into praise and to trust that You are working through every circumstance for Your glory. Thank You for never overlooking my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hebrew Roots / Commands / Law, Joy / Happiness / Rejoicing, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Seeking God, Thankfulness, Traditions / Holidays

Embracing Sukkot: Dwelling with God from the Wilderness to the Kingdom

Imagine a celebration that not only reminisces about God’s past miracles but also joyously anticipates the glorious return of Yeshua. Sukkot is just that—a divine festival that combines profound gratitude with holy anticipation.”

Sukkot, also known as the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths, invites us into a vivid scriptural experience that celebrates God’s past providence and anticipates the future kingdom. This festival is not merely a historical observance but a vibrant, living event that draws us nearer to the heart of God, reminding us of His constant presence and His ultimate plan for humanity.

Historical and Prophetic Significance: Sukkot serves as a dual memorial: first, it commemorates the Israelites’ wandering in the desert, living in temporary shelters, and second, it looks forward to the Messianic age, when Yeshua will dwell among us once again. As described in Leviticus 23:37-44, this festival is deeply rooted in both gratitude for harvest and remembrance of dependence on God during the Israelites’ wilderness journey.

Practical Observance: While we may not all construct booths or dwell in tents as ancient Israel did, embracing this festival can take many forms. Starting as simply as camping out in our living rooms to setting up tents in our backyards, each act revives the essence of Sukkot—recognizing our transient journey on earth and God’s continual provision.

Future Fulfillment: Sukkot also points us toward the future kingdom when Yeshua returns to establish His reign. Revelation 20 offers a prophetic glimpse into this era, painting a picture of a time when God will dwell physically among His people, wiping away every tear and ushering in an era of unmatched peace and joy.

Deepening Our Understanding: As we prepare for Sukkot, delving into the Scriptures enriches our understanding and celebration. Reflect on these passages and consider how they speak to both the historical context of Sukkot and its future fulfillment in Christ:

  • Leviticus 23:37-44 – Details the observance of Sukkot as a time of joy and rest, highlighting its significance in the Jewish liturgical year.
  • John 7 – Chronicles Yeshua’s own observance of the Feast of Booths, emphasizing its importance and prophetic fulfillment in His ministry.
  • Several passages in the Book of Revelation describe Jesus’ return to dwell among us, each highlighting different aspects of His Second Coming and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. Here are a few key scriptures:
    1. Revelation 19:11-16 – This passage describes the appearance of Jesus Christ returning as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. It depicts Him riding a white horse, symbolizing victory and justice, coming to defeat the forces of evil in a final battle.
    2. Revelation 20:1-6 – This section discusses the binding of Satan and the reign of Christ for a thousand years, often referred to as the Millennium. This period is characterized by peace and righteousness, with Jesus ruling directly over the earth.
    3. Revelation 21:1-4 – This passage provides a vision of the new heaven and new earth after the final judgment. Here, God’s dwelling is with humanity, and He will live among them. This portrays a restored relationship between God and His people, with no more death, mourning, crying, or pain.
    4. Revelation 22:1-5 – The final chapter of Revelation describes the river of life and the tree of life in the New Jerusalem. It emphasizes the eternal presence of God and the Lamb among their people, and how His servants will serve Him and reign forever.

    These scriptures collectively paint a picture of Jesus’ return and His eternal reign, providing a foundational hope for Christian eschatology and worship practices related to the anticipation of His coming.

Resources for Further Study:

Conclusion: As you step into the celebration of Sukkot this year, let it be more than just a ritual; let it be a renewal of your heart and mind as you dwell in the temporary shelters of this world, looking forward to the eternal dwelling place prepared by Yeshua.

Call to Action: Begin this Sukkot by setting up a space that reflects both humility and celebration. Engage with the provided resources, share insights with your community, and let every aspect of your observance draw you closer to the heart of God.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, as we observe Sukkot, we thank You for Your everlasting presence and providence. Inspire us to truly dwell in Your presence, reflecting on our journey with You and anticipating the glorious return of Yeshua. May our celebrations honor You and deepen our faith as we await Your kingdom. In the name of Yeshua, we pray, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Purposeful / Intentional, Seeking God, Thankfulness

God’s Choice, Man’s Response (Genesis 25:19-34)

God’s purposes stand, but our choices reveal how we value His blessings.

Key Verse:
“Thus Esau despised his birthright.” —Genesis 25:34 NASB

Background Context:
Genesis 25:19–34 introduces the next generation after Abraham. Isaac and Rebekah face barrenness, echoing Abraham and Sarah, but God answers Isaac’s prayer with twins. Before their birth, God reveals that two nations are in Rebekah’s womb and that the older (Esau) will serve the younger (Jacob). When the boys grow, Esau becomes a hunter, while Jacob stays near the tents. The chapter climaxes with Esau trading his birthright—the inheritance of covenant blessing—for a bowl of stew, showing his disregard for the spiritual significance of God’s promise.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 25:19-34

Isaac’s Sons

      19Now these are the records of the generations of Isaac, Abraham’s son: Abraham became the father of Isaac; 20and Isaac was forty years old when he took Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel the Aramean of Paddan-aram, the sister of Laban the Aramean, to be his wife. 21Isaac prayed to the LORD on behalf of his wife, because she was barren; and the LORD answered him and Rebekah his wife conceived. 22But the children struggled together within her; and she said, “If it is so, why then am I this way?” So she went to inquire of the LORD.

23The LORD said to her,
“Two nations are in your womb;
And two peoples will be separated from your body;
And one people shall be stronger than the other;
And the older shall serve the younger.”

24When her days to be delivered were fulfilled, behold, there were twins in her womb. 25Now the first came forth red, all over like a hairy garment; and they named him Esau. 26Afterward his brother came forth with his hand holding on to Esau’s heel, so his name was called Jacob; and Isaac was sixty years old when she gave birth to them.

      27When the boys grew up, Esau became a skillful hunter, a man of the field, but Jacob was a peaceful man, living in tents. 28Now Isaac loved Esau, because he had a taste for game, but Rebekah loved Jacob. 29When Jacob had cooked stew, Esau came in from the field and he was famished; 30and Esau said to Jacob, “Please let me have a swallow of that red stuff there, for I am famished.” Therefore his name was called Edom. 31But Jacob said, “First sell me your birthright.” 32Esau said, “Behold, I am about to die; so of what use then is the birthright to me?” 33And Jacob said, “First swear to me”; so he swore to him, and sold his birthright to Jacob. 34Then Jacob gave Esau bread and lentil stew; and he ate and drank, and rose and went on his way. Thus Esau despised his birthright.

Reflection on Genesis 25:19–34:
This story reminds us of two key truths: God’s sovereignty and human responsibility. God chose Jacob before birth to carry the covenant line, showing that His plan does not depend on human custom or firstborn rights. Yet the choices of Jacob and Esau matter. Jacob, though flawed, valued the birthright enough to pursue it. Esau, on the other hand, despised it, treating God’s promise as something cheap compared to satisfying his hunger.

Esau’s decision is a sobering warning. Hebrews 12:16 calls him “godless” for trading his inheritance for a single meal. His short-sightedness led him to despise what was holy and eternal for what was temporary. Meanwhile, Jacob’s grasping nature will bring its own challenges, but God will shape him to fulfill His purposes.

Application:
What do you value most—eternal blessings or temporary satisfaction? Be careful not to trade spiritual inheritance for fleeting desires. God calls us to treasure His Word, His promises, and the eternal inheritance in Christ above anything this world offers. Learn from Esau’s mistake: don’t despise what God has given. Instead, guard it, cherish it, and live in a way that reflects its value.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for the reminder that Your promises are eternal and priceless. Forgive me for the times I have chosen temporary desires over lasting blessings. Teach me to treasure the inheritance I have in Christ and to live in a way that honors You. Keep me from despising what is holy, and help me to walk faithfully in Your covenant. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you. John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Guide, Learning To Pray Effectively, Seeking God, Thankfulness

Providence at the Well (Genesis 24:1-27)

When you ask God for guidance, do you expect Him to answer?

Key Verse:
“And he said, ‘Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken His lovingkindness and His truth toward my master; as for me, the Lord has guided me in the way to the house of my master’s brothers.’” —Genesis 24:27 NASB

Background Context:
As Abraham grew old, he sent his chief servant on a sacred mission: to find a wife for Isaac from among his relatives, not from the Canaanites. The servant set out in faith, praying that God would give him a clear sign at the well. Before he finished praying, Rebekah appeared, fulfilling his exact request by offering water for him and his camels. Immediately, the servant praised God for His faithfulness and guidance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Genesis 24 (1-27)

A Bride for Isaac

      1Now Abraham was old, advanced in age; and the LORD had blessed Abraham in every way. 2Abraham said to his servant, the oldest of his household, who had charge of all that he owned, “Please place your hand under my thigh, 3and I will make you swear by the LORD, the God of heaven and the God of earth, that you shall not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I live, 4but you will go to my country and to my relatives, and take a wife for my son Isaac.” 5The servant said to him, “Suppose the woman is not willing to follow me to this land; should I take your son back to the land from where you came?” 6Then Abraham said to him, “Beware that you do not take my son back there! 7“The LORD, the God of heaven, who took me from my father’s house and from the land of my birth, and who spoke to me and who swore to me, saying, ‘To your descendants I will give this land,’ He will send His angel before you, and you will take a wife for my son from there. 8“But if the woman is not willing to follow you, then you will be free from this my oath; only do not take my son back there.” 9So the servant placed his hand under the thigh of Abraham his master, and swore to him concerning this matter.

      10Then the servant took ten camels from the camels of his master, and set out with a variety of good things of his master’s in his hand; and he arose and went to Mesopotamia, to the city of Nahor. 11He made the camels kneel down outside the city by the well of water at evening time, the time when women go out to draw water. 12He said, “O LORD, the God of my master Abraham, please grant me success today, and show lovingkindness to my master Abraham. 13“Behold, I am standing by the spring, and the daughters of the men of the city are coming out to draw water; 14now may it be that the girl to whom I say, ‘Please let down your jar so that I may drink,’ and who answers, ‘Drink, and I will water your camels also’—may she be the one whom You have appointed for Your servant Isaac; and by this I will know that You have shown lovingkindness to my master.”

Rebekah Is Chosen

      15Before he had finished speaking, behold, Rebekah who was born to Bethuel the son of Milcah, the wife of Abraham’s brother Nahor, came out with her jar on her shoulder. 16The girl was very beautiful, a virgin, and no man had had relations with her; and she went down to the spring and filled her jar and came up. 17Then the servant ran to meet her, and said, “Please let me drink a little water from your jar.” 18She said, “Drink, my lord”; and she quickly lowered her jar to her hand, and gave him a drink. 19Now when she had finished giving him a drink, she said, “I will draw also for your camels until they have finished drinking.” 20So she quickly emptied her jar into the trough, and ran back to the well to draw, and she drew for all his camels. 21Meanwhile, the man was gazing at her in silence, to know whether the LORD had made his journey successful or not.

      22When the camels had finished drinking, the man took a gold ring weighing a half-shekel and two bracelets for her wrists weighing ten shekels in gold, 23and said, “Whose daughter are you? Please tell me, is there room for us to lodge in your father’s house?” 24She said to him, “I am the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Milcah, whom she bore to Nahor.” 25Again she said to him, “We have plenty of both straw and feed, and room to lodge in.” 26Then the man bowed low and worshiped the LORD. 27He said, “Blessed be the LORD, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken His lovingkindness and His truth toward my master; as for me, the LORD has guided me in the way to the house of my master’s brothers.”

Reflection on Genesis 24:1–27:
This passage shines a spotlight on God’s providence and the power of prayer. Abraham trusted God to provide a wife for Isaac, and his servant demonstrated the same trust by praying for specific guidance. Notice how detailed his request was—he asked not only for water but also for the woman to offer water to his camels, a sign of kindness and generosity. And God answered immediately, before he had even finished speaking.

The servant’s response is just as important: he stopped to worship and thank God on the spot. He didn’t chalk it up to coincidence or his own cleverness—he recognized the Lord’s hand at work and gave Him glory.

Application:
Like Abraham’s servant, we can bring our needs and decisions to God in prayer, asking for His guidance. But we should also pray with expectation, believing that God will answer in His time and way. When He does, let’s be quick to give Him thanks and praise. Guidance in life is not about luck or chance—it is about walking with the God who faithfully leads His people.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for being a God who guides and answers prayer. Help me to trust You with my decisions and to pray with faith, believing that You hear me. Teach me to recognize Your hand at work and to give You praise for Your faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.