FROM THE KEYBOARD

Too many want a cross-less Christ or a Christ-less cross, but you cannot have one without the other. You see, Christ without the cross leaves us in our sins; and the cross without Christ leaves us without salvation. Both are necessary for the gospel to be life-transforming. "But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world" (Galatians 6:14).

Trouble may test you, but trusting the Lord through it will transform you. You see, when life feels uncertain, let His promises be your anchor, His name your defense, and His victory your assurance. "May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; may the name of the God of Jacob defend you" (Psalm 20:1).

What you allow into your heart shapes who you become. Protect it with God’s Word, and let His truth guard and guide your every step." "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" (Proverbs 4:23).

The narrow way may feel lonely, but you are never alone on the narrow way. You see, even when others forsake you, God’s presence is your strength and comfort. "At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them. But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me" (2 Timothy 4:16-17).

As we step into a new year, let us be resolute in our conviction to the Lord and absolute in our devotion to His Word. May we be faithful in sharing the Good News with the world! "And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).

There will be moments when following Christ requires standing alone. In those times, remember that standing with Christ, even in solitude, is far greater than blending into the crowd and losing your way. The crowd may tempt you to compromise, but true peace and purpose are found only in faithfully walking with Jesus. "For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it" (Matthew 16:25).