Daily Devotional
Do You Need a Friend This Christmas Eve?
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1).
For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5b).
Psalm 46:1 and Hebrews 13:5b
December 24, 2020
Ponder This
Some people over this holiday season feel so alone. One Christmas Eve I went to talk to a person who was hurting. I said, “Why don't you call a friend?” She said, "I don't have a friend." I said, "Oh yes, you do." And I told her His name. It is the One who said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Greek scholars tell us that sentence has five negatives in it. Now we say a double-negative is bad English, but evidently, it wasn't bad Greek. Here's what it literally says: "I will never, no not ever, no, never leave nor forsake you."
Famed research analyst Dr. Abraham Maslow said, "The truth is that the average American does not have a real friend in the world." And psychiatrist Alfred Adler said, "All human failures spring from a lack of love.” People need someone to love, and they need to be loved. Without it, their lives are full of fear and frustration. Hebrews 13:5 tells us we can face a new year with the certainty of His provision and with His companionship in our hearts and lives.
Practice This
Who do you know that might need a call from a friend today? A new widow? An empty-nester? A stay-at-home mom? Make that call.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
