Liz Curtis Higgs's Blog

As Surely as the Sun Rises

Even in January, the sun rises. It might seem slow in coming, it may be hidden behind a canopy of gray clouds, but the sun is definitely there. Every morning. Without fail.

We don’t rush to our bedroom windows in fear. What if it doesn’t rise? What if we live in darkness? We know better. We trust, we believe, we have faith, because every morning of our lives, the sun has risen.

And every moment of our lives, God is with us. Even if we don’t see Him, we can experience His light, His warmth, His presence.

Hosea 6:3 builds on that assurance, encouraging us to draw closer to the One who said, “Let there be light,” and there was light.

Take a look at this beautiful verse with me.

Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth. Hosea 6:3

Let us acknowledge the Lord;… Hosea 6:3

Such a good plan for a new year. “Let’s strive to know the Lord” (CSB), who so intimately knows and loves us. Let’s make it our goal to “become personally acquainted with Him” (AMP) by studying His Word and reaching out to Him in prayer.

If reading the whole Bible in a year sounds intimidating, how about simply reading the Bible every day? For me, five minutes soon becomes fifteen, as I’m drawn into the story or the lesson or the glorious truth of God’s grace.

And how about praying before we rise from our beds each morning? Before we reach for our phones or our slippers, imagine the first word we think or speak being His name. Lord Jesus, good morning.

What if we made this the cry of our hearts this year? “Oh, that we might know the Lord!” (NLT).

…let us press on to acknowledge him. Hosea 6:3

I love this challenge to press on. The Hebrew word is often translated “pursue, chase.” It’s active, it’s physical. Let’s go. Let’s move. Let’s “seek to know the Lord!” (NET).

If you’re thinking, Liz, I already know Him, perhaps now is the time to get to know Him better. To know His character, to know His trustworthiness. If we’re truly “eager for God-knowledge” (MSG), then let’s “follow on, that we may know the Lord” (DRA) and learn to “honor, heed, and deeply cherish Him” (AMP).

A wise course for the months ahead, dear friend. For you, for me, for all of us.

As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; Hosea 6:3

It’s the perfect visual aid. Our hearts and minds quickly picture that moment when the upper curve of the sun breaks the horizon and daylight pierces the darkness.

Ohhh.

This is how God comes to us. In the weighty silence of His presence, we feel utter peace and exceeding joy. A new dawn. A new day. Hope.

As the prophet Hosea described it, “His going forth is prepared as the morning light” (DRA), and “as certain as the morning sun” (CEV). In the same way sunrise is never a surprise, when the Lord draws near, “we know he is coming, just as we know the dawn is coming” (ERV).

It must be said, these promising words from Hosea are surrounded with difficult ones, beginning with “There is no faithfulness, no love, no acknowledgment of God in the land” (Hosea 4:1). Chapter after chapter, the prophet charged Israel with unfaithfulness. “But you have planted wickedness, you have reaped evil, you have eaten the fruit of deception” (Hosea 10:13).

Painful to read, and more painful still to confess our own unfaithfulness. Even the most devoted among us has failed the Lord countless times. As the psalmist wrote, “If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?” (Psalm 130:3). Not one of us could.

And yet, in the next breath, redemption. “But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you” (Psalm 130:4). It’s the same with the whole book of Hosea. Buried in the center is this hope-filled promise, “You can be sure the sun will rise. And you can be just as sure the Lord will appear” (NIrV), rescuing His people, giving them hope and a future.

…he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth. Hosea 6:3

Another visual aid, engaging even more of our senses. Rain has a scent all its own, fresh and earthy. And a sound all its own, pelting our windows. When it lands on our skin, rain can be as soft as a warm caress or as hard as icy needles.

One thing is certain. Rain cannot be resisted or ignored. Nor can the Lord.

Even if our faith has grown cold, He comes to us “as gathered rain” (YLT), “renewing the earth” (CEV) and “refreshing the ground” (MSG). In time, our hardened hearts yield to His living water and receive the healthy seeds He plants inside us. Grow. Grow.

He has not forgotten us, even if we’ve forgotten Him. “As surely as the rains come each year — those spring rains that drench the earth — He’ll come back to us” (VOICE).

This year and always, make Him welcome, beloved.

Lord Jesus, in the same way You created the sun to shine and the rains to fall in due season, You continue to fill us with Your light and wash us with Your cleansing grace. We can never thank you enough. Amen and amen.

I can hardly wait to see you again! Starting February 1, join me for Rise and Shine Mondays on Facebook LIVE. A scripture, a story, a question, and a prayer, shared in a few lively minutes. All the joy-filled encouragement you need to start your week with a smile, every Monday @ 8am EST.

Too early? Catch it later on Facebook. I’ll be waiting for you, I promise.

Not on Facebook? No problem. Each video for Rise and Shine Mondays will be posted on my website for two weeks. Rise, sister mine. And shine!

Here’s a fun way to read Rise and Shine with me, or share these 100 devotions with a friend. To enter to win an autographed copy, scroll down to the bottom of this email and click on “Share Your Thoughts.” Then scroll down below the post itself and you’ll see where to add your response to this question: When was the last time you intentionally watched the sun rise? And what do you remember about that moment?

Thanks for taking time to respond. I’ll choose five winners on Monday, January 11 at 8am.

So grateful to start the new year with you!

Your sister, Liz

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Love, Wrapped in Swaddling Clothes

Love. In the end, it’s all that matters. God’s love for us. Our love for others.

Two thousand years ago, in the fulness of time, His love became flesh, came to earth, came to us. As you read these familiar verses, I pray you’ll experience the story of His love as if it were newly written, full of miracles and wonders, just for you.

Lord Jesus, may every morning be Christmas morning in our hearts!

And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. Luke 2:1-3

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. Luke 2:4-5

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:6-7

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. Luke 2:8-9

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Luke 2:10-12

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:13-14

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. Luke 2:15-16

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. Luke 2:17-18

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. Luke 2:19-20

This is the Word of God for the people of God.

Thanks be to God!

Glorifying and praising God are perfect ways to celebrate this holy season. Gift giving comes a distant third, but it is one of the joys of Christmas.

My gifts for you this year, beloved? Autographed copies of my Christmas collection — A Wreath of Snow, The Pine Tree Parable, and The Women of Christmas — each with a beautiful pendant created by Fifi LeFan of BluebirdSkiesStudio.

How to enter? Since I featured photos here from our home, I hope you’ll describe your favorite ornament or Christmas decoration from your home in the comments below. On Monday, December 21 at 12noon EST, I’ll choose three winners and pop your books and necklace in the mail. Merry, merry, merry!

One of the things we’ve discovered this year is the surprising power of online worship. Our church has put together several events you can watch on your computer, tablet, or smart phone that we hope will brighten this season for you:

For music lovers: A New Creation Christmas Concert
For those suffering from loss: Blue Christmas Worship Service
For your children and grands: Christmas Wishes
For everyone this Christmas Eve: Home for Christmas

Merry Christmas, dear friend. Oh, how He loves you!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. We’ve spent many happy minutes together on Facebook LIVE this year. On Tuesdays@Twelve, we read Embrace Grace and 31 Verses to Write on Your Heart, and on Sundays@Seven, we studied The Women of Christmas. What’s on for 2021? Watch for a NewsNote from me with all the details right before we ring in the New Year!

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A New and Different Season

Remember last March, when we thought our lives would be back to normal by May? June at the latest. Okay, July. Could be August. September? Nope.

Now it’s October. The bright blue skies and colorful leaves are as beautiful as ever, but nothing is quite the same this season. Where we go, what we do, who we see, how we connect, and when we travel — even across town — is different now.

Even so, God is the same yesterday and today and forever. His mercies remain new every morning. And He continues to recreate us in the image of His Son.

Here’s one verse to help us stay the course this season:

Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:24

Put on the new self,… Ephesians 4:24

Yes, please. Because I am so tired of my old self. Aren’t you? I’m weary of being that woman who frets and fusses and dithers and delays and keeps planting her stake in the ground with one hand, and then pulling it out with the other.

The Lord knows us well, which is why this is a command, not a suggestion. “Start living a new life” (NIrV), He tells us. “Put on your new nature” (NLT) and “be that new person” (ERV).

I love how He makes it so visual for us. “Enrobe yourself” (OJB), His Word says. “Put on the clean fresh clothes of the new life” (PHILLIPS).

Sister, we know all about clothes. About getting dressed three times in one morning, trying to figure out what to wear. But our spiritual selves? Vastly more significant and a far better way to invest our time and energy.

Help us, Lord. Fashion our made-new selves in a way that’s pleasing to You.

…created to be like God… Ephesians 4:24

This is the new self God is eager to see: the one that looks like Him.

Since we were “created according to God’s image” (CEB) and “made by God’s design” (PHILLIPS), He is providing all the strength we need to lay aside our old lives — the bad habits, the wasted hours, the pointless purchases, the uncharitable thoughts — and step into our new lives, “modeled after the very likeness of God” (VOICE).

He has in mind for each of us a fresh and vibrant life, “which is being created the way God intended it” (NTE). Yes, even in 2020, with all we’re going through. In fact, especially with all we’re going through, we need a restart, a reset, a rejuvenated faith in the One whose Holy Spirit lives in our hearts, remaking us from the inside out.

…in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:24

Okay, both those words give me pause. Can we really manage “the true life that is upright” (GNT) and hope to attain “genuine holiness” (NTE)?

The short answer is no. And yes, absolutely.

No, if we’re depending on our own willpower and effort. Yes, if we trust entirely in God, who alone has the power to produce in us “the righteousness and holiness that flow from the truth” (CJB).

Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of this verse captures His truth perfectly:

“Take on an entirely new way of life — a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you” (Ephesians 4:24 MSG).

Lord Jesus, please help us. We don’t simply want to be better. We want to be different, altogether new, remade in Your image and for Your glory. Amen and amen.

A new season with my sisters

For eight Sunday evenings, October 11 through November 29, I’ll be teaching The Women of Christmas Sundays@Seven on Facebook LIVE at 7pm ET/6pm CT/5pm MT/4pm PT. Thousands of women joined us the first night. We’d love to see next week!

Not on Facebook? Sunday nights won’t work? No problem. As soon as the live event ends, I’ll post a link on my website that anyone can watch, even if you don’t have a Facebook account. Look for it on this page on my website. Scroll down a bit and you’ll find the latest video link and the printable handout.

Each week’s video will be available to watch for a full seven days, and then will disappear Sunday evening, ready to be replaced by the new week’s teaching.

If you’d like to buy the book, you’ll find it HERE, along with lots of helpful resources. You can also win a copy!

Just post a comment below, sharing the one good thing you’re looking forward to this bound-to-be-different holiday season. On Friday, October 16 at 12noon EDT, I’ll choose five winners to receive an autographed copy of The Women of Christmas.

God bless you, dear friend, every season of the year.

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you or someone you love is going through cancer, I’d encourage you to watch the Trusting God Through Cancer Virtual Summit this week, October 13-16. It’s free, you can watch it from anywhere on your computer, tablet, or phone, and it’s filled with encouragement and inspiration from more than twenty speakers and writers (including me) who’ve discovered the faithfulness of God in the midst of a cancer journey. Do take a look, beloved. Hope, strength, peace, confidence, and even joy await you!

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Celebrating Our Sisters

­You already know this, but I’ll state it for the record: I’m all about women. (This group of travelers shouting “Ta-da!” by the Sea of Galilee? Adorable.) My role models are women, my ministry is for women, and I’ve been teaching, speaking, and writing about our sisters in Scripture for three decades. Why? Because God loves women, calls and equips women, and honors women in His Word.

Elizabeth heralded the Messiah (Luke 1:42), Mary gave birth to the Messiah (Luke 2:7), and Anna spoke about the Messiah to all who were looking for the redemption of Israel (Luke 2:38).

When the time of His Passion drew near, Mary of Bethany anointed the feet of Jesus (John 12:3), Mary of Nazareth stood at the cross of Jesus (John 19:25), and Mary Magdalene spoke with the risen Jesus and told His disciples, “I have seen the Lord” (John 20:18).

Makes me wanna jump up and shout, “I’ve seen Him too, Mary!” Because I have seen Him, and so have you. He is alive and He is on the move in women’s hearts, filling us with His power, so we can tell a hurting, angry world about a loving, life-changing God. Yes, even in the middle of a pandemic. Maybe especially in the middle of a pandemic.

This verse says it all: “The Lord announces the word, and the women who proclaim it are a mighty throng” (Psalm 68:11). Indeed we are. With photos of Israel and a Nazareth guide named Hannah, let’s explore this beautiful truth.

“The Lord…” Psalm 68:11

This is where everything begins: acknowledging that God alone is our source of strength. That’s what the heroines of the Bible did, and what we must do as well.

Leah rose above the pain of her loveless marriage and declared at the birth of her fourth son, “This time I will praise the Lord” (Genesis 29:35). Miriam, with her brothers Moses and Aaron, led the Israelites through the Red Sea, and then she led them in worship: “Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted” (Exodus 15:21). And Hagar, an Egyptian slave, presented God with a new name: “She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: ‘You are the God who sees me’” (Genesis 16:13).

These ancient sisters paved the way, so we can follow in their footsteps, praising God in every circumstance. 

“…announces the word,…” Psalm 68:11

When the Lord “gives the message” (NIrV), it’s time to listen. When He “gives the command” (AMP), it’s time to act. Don’t say, “Oh, but Lord, I’m a woman.” He is well aware of who we are and what we can accomplish in His Name. 

If He is calling you, pay close attention. If He is sending you, beloved, go.

Look at our fearless foremothers. The queen of Sheba traveled hundreds of miles in search of wisdom, then discovered its Source and told King Solomon, “Praise be to the Lord your God” (1 Kings 10:9). Ruth, a Moabitess, left her people, her country, and her false gods when she vowed to her mother-in-law, “Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16). And Queen Esther approached King Xerxes on behalf of God’s people, having bravely declared, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16).

Bold and courageous, these women were a force to be reckoned with, unafraid to rise up and speak up.

“…and the women who proclaim it…” Psalm 68:11

These were the sisters who “carried the news” (GNT), the ones God entrusted to “publish the tidings” (ASV) of Israel’s victories over their enemies in Canaan. 

Consider Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho, who sheltered two spies on her roof, and then made a daring confession of faith: “The Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below” (Joshua 2:11). And Deborah, a prophetess serving as judge over Israel, who commanded Barak to lead the charge: “Go! This is the day the Lord has given Sisera into your hands” (Judges 4:6).

These “lady evangelists” (OJB) got the word out. These “female proclaimers” (YLT) spread the good news. And there were tons of them.

“…are a mighty throng.” Psalm 68:11

We’re talking “many, many women” (NET). Yes, a whole “company” (EXB). After all, it takes a “great host” (ESV) to tell a big world about a big God.

Our sisters today who proclaim the gospel are definitely a mighty throng. Think of all the gifted Bible teachers we’ve heard over the years at Women of Faith, Women of Joy, She Speaks, Extraordinary Women, IF:Gathering, and dozens more. Not to mention the women you’ve seen leading Bible studies in churches and homes and coffee shops in your town — women who are passionate about God, His Word, and His redemptive mission.

But you don’t need a microphone or a platform to share the good news. Just go. And tell. Be the Deborah of your workplace, the Mary Magdalene of your neighborhood. Listen for His voice. Stand to your feet. Follow where He leads. Tell all who will listen: “This is the God who sees us. This is the God who loves us. This is the God who sends us.”

Wow, do I love our biblical sisters. From Bad Girls to Really Bad Girls, from Ruth and Naomi to a Shebalicious queen, from The Women of Christmas to The Women of Easter — I could write about women in the Word until the moment I step into heaven. (Come to think of it, that’s kinda the plan.)

And because our God is a God of surprises, this spring I stepped into a new role at my home church in Louisville, as Director of the Women’s Ministry Team. I know. Surprise! Am I excited? Is this a prayer come true? Most definitely. Will I still be writing? speaking? teaching Tuesdays@Twelve on Facebook LIVE? Count on it.

Now for a giveaway that’s just right for Mother’s Day: The Power of a Woman’s Words by Sharon Jaynes. At the bottom of this page, please share your thoughts about a woman who has served as a role model for you — whether ancient or modern, whether she’s someone you’ve admired from afar or known for a lifetime. I’ll choose three winners on Sunday, March 10 at 6:00pm EDT.

Can’t wait to meet your role models. And, when it’s safe to gather again, I can’t wait to meet you in person!

Your grateful sister, Liz

P.S. If any of the above sounds vaguely familiar, that’s not your imagination. I updated this post from several winters ago, hoping you’d find it a good fit for this special weekend.

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Living Hope

Right now, in the midst of the confusion, I’m thinking we need all the words in this verse, especially mercy and new and hope. Yes, yes, yes.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.  1 Peter 1:3 

This encouraging letter from Peter starts where we need to start — where we must start — with praising God, exclamation point.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! 1 Peter 1:3

We know and love God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, but Peter is pointing us to God the Father, reminding us “how fortunate we are to have him, this Father of our Master Jesus!” (MSG). Amen to that.

If ever we needed to give “all honor to God” (TLB), it’s today. With the world around us falling apart, our Heavenly Father is the One who remains immovable and unchangeable.

So, beloved, “let us give thanks” (GNT) and “celebrate with praises” (TPT) the Father of our Savior, “Yeshua the Messiah” (CJB), who deserves to be “gratefully praised and adored” (AMP) no matter what is happening on the news and in our lives. 

Here’s why.

In his great mercy… 1 Peter 1:3

The photos in this post were taken on a beautiful spring day in New York’s Central Park, reminding us to pray for this great city, for its heroes and its fallen, for God’s mercy to shower its people like sweet April rain.

Someday this novel coronavirus will be held in check, but the Lord’s “abundant and boundless mercy” (AMP) can never be contained. His compassion is so “extravagant” (TPT), His grace so “vast” (CEB), and “His loving-kindness” (NLV) so beyond measure, it’s positively contagious.

One of the reasons we’re struggling right now is the uncertainty of what lies ahead. But dear friend, we know what lies ahead for us because our future is guaranteed.

…he has given us new birth… 1 Peter 1:3

However anxious we might feel emotionally, however worried we might be about our physical well-being, if He has “caused us to be born again” (EXV), we can rest in knowing whatever happens, we are safe, we are secure, and we are altogether His.

When the Lord “granted us a new birth” (ISV), we were “spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose” (AMP). Nothing that comes our way can change that reality.

Some of us celebrate a specific day when we were “given a brand-new life” (MSG). Others among us may remember a certain season when we were “born anew” (CEB). Even if you can’t recall the exact details, you are no less “reborn” (VOICE), if you call Him your Father and He calls you His child.

…into a living hope… 1 Peter 1:3

This is what belonging to Him means for us. Not a faint and fragile hope, but “an ever-living hope” (AMP), filled with “great expectation” (NLT). This world, much as we cling to it, is not our home. Instead, “we live in the hope of eternal life” (TLB).

What’s happening now doesn’t matter nearly as much as what’s happening next.

This is where my cancer adventure comes in handy. Since I had to face the possibility of leaving this life behind, I was forced to consider what heaven might be like. And guess what? It is going to be amazing.

Nothing describes it better than this phrase, living hope. It’s “an immortal hope” (ISV), a “living, energetic hope” (TPT), a “hope that never dies” (NLV). You and I “have everything to live for, including a future in heaven — and the future starts now!” (MSG).

That future, that hope was secured for us on Easter morning.

…through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. 1 Peter 1:3

That glorious day we celebrated earlier this month gives us everything we need to face down our fears, day in and day out. Very simply, “this hope is ours because Jesus was raised from the dead” (NLV). He conquered the grave. He left death in the dust. We can be born anew because of “the again-rising of Jesus Christ” (WYC).

No wonder Peter exclaimed, “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!”

Lord Jesus, we confess that fears sometimes overwhelm us, and a thousand anxious questions often crowd our thoughts. Remind us, again and again, that You alone are our living hope, our promise of salvation, our assurance of heaven, our guarantee of eternal life. In a world full of bad news, You are our Good News. Amen and amen.

Our giveaway this month is a timely new book, Human(Kind), from a talented new author, Ashlee Eiland, who explores how embracing kindness can bring us back together. Publishers Weekly calls it a “revealing and enthralling debut.” I’d love to call one of these three copies yours.

To enter, leave a comment below, describing one new experience you’ve had or new discovery you’ve made during this challenging season. I’ll choose three winners at random on Friday, April 24 at 10pm EDT. Thanks for sharing.

Join me Tuesdays @ Twelve on Facebook LIVE, as I read the book of my heart, Embrace Grace: Welcome to the Forgiven Life. I’ll post the weekly links on my website, so if you miss one, each chapter is easy to find. Here’s Chapter One, recorded live. Can’t wait to see you on Tuesday!

“Ours is not a false hope spun from well-meaning wishes but a trustworthy hope based on the reality of countless lives changed by a leap called faith into the arms of a hero called Faithful and True.”

The post Living Hope appeared first on Liz Curtis Higgs.

Take This Cup

When I picked “new” as my word for 2020, I didn’t have in mind a scary new virus. Oh my.

As we struggle to keep up with the latest reports from around the world, a soul-calming reminder for us all: God remains unchanged (Hebrews 13:8) and His Word endures forever (Isaiah 40:8).

Even so, as He gathered with His disciples on the night He was betrayed, Jesus did introduce something new, planned before the beginning of time. Let’s take a look.

In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” Luke 22:20 

In the same way, after the supper he took the cup… Luke 22:20

This opening phrase points back to an action taken moments earlier during the meal, when Jesus “took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me’” (Luke 22:19).

So, first the bread. His body, broken for us.

On hundreds of Sunday mornings, I’ve held a thin wafer, small pellet, or torn piece of bread in my cupped hands and reflected on the immensity of His sacrifice. Wherever and whenever we participate in this sacrament – the eucharist, the Lord’s Supper, communion – bread comes first.

Then, “in like manner” (ASV), while the disciples surely looked at one another, trying to grasp the true meaning of His words, Jesus “did the same” (CJB) with a cup of wine.

…he took the cup saying “This cup is the new covenant…” Luke 22:20

With a “cup of wine in his hands” (CEV), Jesus told them about “the new promise” (NOG) His sacrifice would make possible, “the new testament” (KJ21) His death would usher in. A new and “binding relationship between God and his people” (EXB), which harkened back to the old covenant that God introduced through the prophet Moses.

“Moses then took the blood, sprinkled it on the people and said, ‘This is the blood of the covenant that the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words’” (Exodus 24:8).

God knew the old covenant wouldn’t be sufficient, that the blood of a young bull could never atone for the sins of the world. That’s why He told His people through the prophet Jeremiah, “‘The days are coming,’ declares the Lord, ‘when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah’” (Jeremiah 31:31).

All the animals ever born couldn’t spill enough blood to cover our sins. But God could.

“…in my blood,…” Luke 22:20

And so, we take the cup, as we must. I always find this element harder to swallow than the bread, as I hold a thimbleful of wine or grape juice and think about our Lord nailed to a cross, spilling His blood to give me eternal life.

So much love. So much mercy.

This new covenant of grace was “written” (MSG) and “established” (HCSB) and “made” (VOICE) with His blood. “Sealed” (EXB) and “confirmed” (NLT) and “ratified” (AMP) in His blood.

There was nothing tidy and neat about His death. It was dirty, sweaty, grimy. The skin on His back was torn to shreds, His hands and feet were pierced with crude nails, even as a crown of sharp thorns pressed into His scalp.

So much pain. So much blood.

All of it was necessary. All of it was purposeful. “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace” (Ephesians 1:7).

“…which is poured out for you.” Luke 22:20

For you, beloved. For you. His blood was “shed for you” (KJ21), “as a sacrifice for you” (NLT), with one glorious goal, “to purchase back your souls (TLB).

Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lord Jesus.

If you’re wondering why I scattered this post with pink begonias and dahlias, rather than images of suffering and pain, it’s not meant to soften His sacrifice; it’s meant to glorify it, highlighting the beauty and perfection of His gift to us.

Our special giveaway this month is a lovely book with 365 devotions written for women by women, new from Our Daily Bread. They kindly asked me to write the foreword for God Sees Her, which was a joy to do, since I’ve read every word and loved it.

To enter, leave a comment below, describing what God sees when He looks at you. I’ll choose five winners at random on Friday, March 27 at 10pm EDT, then reach out via email. Thanks for sharing!

Since our Women’s Bible Study can no longer meet on Tuesday mornings at our church, we’re gathering online and you are invited. Join me the next three Tuesdays – March 24, March 31, and April 7 – for Tuesdays @ Twelve on Facebook LIVE with Liz, as we continue our study of The Women of Easter.

Don’t do Facebook? No worries. You can watch the video anytime after it’s live, from any device you own. I’ll post the links each week on my website too, so they’re easy to find.

Meanwhile, stay safe, stay well, and stay close to the One who sees you and loves you.

The post Take This Cup appeared first on Liz Curtis Higgs.

Dear Lady

Gotta love a Leap Year. February’s Facebook LIVE was all about love (naturally), so I thought we’d close this month with one more look at what Christ is asking of His beloved Bride.

And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. I ask that we love one another. 2 John 1:5

Ooh! Did John the Elder write this brief epistle to a woman? Let’s find out.

And now, dear lady,… 2 John 1:5

Does this “dearest woman” (TPT) have a name? The book of 2 John begins, “To the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth” (2 John 1:1), so it seems she is someone in particular, and “a very special woman” (CEV) at that.

Several translations appear to include a proper name — “Kyria” (YLT) or “Cyria” (AMPC) or “Gevirah” (OJB) — but all three are simply the Greek word for “lady.”

Okay. No name. Still, she’s impressive, and here’s why:

She is called “the chosen gentlewoman” (CEB), “the lady Elect” (DRA), and “one of God’s very own” (TLB).
She is loved and respected by John the Elder, who assures her she’s “held in the highest affection not only by me but by all who know the truth” (Phillips).
She is also a fine mother, “a woman of great renown, who brought up her children in the fear of God” (GNV).

 

Much as I love the idea of one of the Epistles being addressed to a woman, there’s another possibility. John may be using “lady” as a metaphor for the church, and “children” for the members of that church. As in, “My dear congregation…” (MSG).

Sigh. Whether one woman was listening or a whole gathering of believers, we’ll press on with John’s vital message meant for all of us.

…I am not writing you a new command, but one we have had from the beginning. 2 John 1:5

You and I already know about this command, since earlier this month we studied the words of Jesus, when He said, “A new command I give you: Love one another” (John 13:34).

John is quick to admit this isn’t “some new commandment” (VOICE) they have to follow, or a “new Law” (NLV) they must heed. Instead, he’s “simply reminding” (AMP) God’s children, “This is the first thing you heard, and nothing has changed” (MSG).

Truth is always worth repeating.

I ask… 2 John 1:5

“Ask” is a bit soft, since the Greek word means “implore, request.” I’m thinking “beg” (AMPC) or “urge” (HCSB) or “beseech” (OJB) or “plead” (NKJV) better captures what John is leading up to here.

You can probably guess what the Lizzie Revised Version would be: “Heads up, people!”

…that we love one another. 2 John 1:5

There it is. Easy to say, yet hard to do, to “love and unselfishly seek the best for one another” (AMP). Putting the needs of others before our own. Showering them with genuine love and affection at every turn. Making “agape” (OJB) the driving force of our lives.

John goes on to say, “And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands.” (2 John 1:6). So, love isn’t a feeling thing; it’s a doing thing. Oof. I really need to pray about this, sisters and brothers.

Lord Jesus, you ask so little of us. Just three words: love one another. You loved us first, showing us how it’s done, giving us the best reason to follow Your example. Now we need Your strength to love one another with our whole hearts, depending entirely on the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen and amen.

Kristen Welch walks out the Lord’s command to “love one another” by empowering impoverished women around the world through Mercy House Global. This month I’m giving away her latest book, Made to Move Mountains: How God Uses Our Dreams and Disasters to Accomplish the Impossible, along with a beautiful matching notebook, a handmade coin purse, and a mint-and-vanilla soy candle (yum).

To enter, leave a comment at the bottom of this page with a suggestion of how we can practically and effectively love one another. I’ll choose one winner on Tuesday, March 3 at 9pm EST, and reach out via email. Meanwhile, I’ll be eager to read your thoughts.

Coming Soon

On March 4, join me at 12noon EST for another Facebook LIVE First Wednesday, as together we unwrap Ezekiel 36:26, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” How I love opening God’s Word with you.

It’s also pure joy to encourage you in person. Take a look at my calendar to see where I’ll be speaking in the weeks and months ahead. It would be grand to see you.

And if you’re curious where these photos were taken, three summers ago I visited the enchanting island of Lewis and Harris in the Outer Hebrides, doing research for my next Scottish historical novel. Not yet, but soon, beloved.

The post Dear Lady appeared first on Liz Curtis Higgs.

A New Thing

When I chose the word new as my theme for 2020, I quickly found out God is all about new.

His people made offerings of new grain (Numbers 28:26). They carried the ark of the Covenant using a new cart (2 Samuel 6:3). And the prophet Elisha requested a new bowl filled with salt to purify Jericho’s water (2 Kings 2:20). All three verses include the same word in Hebrew, chadash, meaning (you guessed it) new.

We get the spiritual significance of using something new. It’s clean, pure, undefiled. Holy and set apart.

But what about when God does something chadash, something altogether new in our lives? That’s what this month’s verse is all about.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19

See,… Isaiah 43:19

God wants us to open our eyes, to “watch closely” (VOICE). It’s a call to action. “Behold” (DRA). “There it is!” (CEV). “Look!” (CEB).

He understands how easily we focus on temporal things — what’s for lunch? what’s on Netflix? — and miss seeing eternal things unfolding all around us. Miracles and wonders only God could orchestrate. Blessings we take for granted, from the birth of a child to the dawn of a new day.

…I am doing a new thing! Isaiah 43:19

Once we fix our gaze on Him, the Lord gives us a heads-up: He is “going to do” (EXB) something we’ve not seen before, and is “about to carry out” (ISV) “a brand-new thing” (TLB).

My pulse quickens, imagining what it might be. The God who can do any thing will surely do a good thing, especially if it’s a new thing.

Are you feeling stuck in the same old thing? The same routine? The same daily grind? Then this good news is especially for you, beloved: God is doing something new.

Now it springs up;… Isaiah 43:19

Just the word we need this winter: the hope of a new season on the horizon. “Even now it is coming” (CSB), the Lord assures us. In fact, He declares, “I have already begun!” (NLT).

Because we’ve had some unusually warm days in Louisville, I’ve been watching for crocus to appear on our lawn. God is asking us to pay even more attention to signs of progress in our spiritual walk, to the doors of opportunity He is flinging open for us, and the certainty of His efforts on our behalf, “bursting out!” (MSG).

…do you not perceive it? Isaiah 43:19

Because God knows us so well, He offers a second reminder to keep our eyes on what He’s doing in our lives. “Be alert, be present” (MSG), he cautions us. “Will you not give heed to it?” (AMPC).

We’re trying, Lord. The truth is, we get so bogged down with old things, dead things, we struggle to see new things, fresh things, even as You promise us, “you can see it now!” (GNT).

I am making a way in the wilderness… Isaiah 43:19

Wilderness? Oh, we get that. Dry and barren days full of going through the motions. But that’s not where God wants us to live, which is why He is charting a new path, “a road in the desert” (CJB).

We get so stuck in the now, we can’t see the next. But God can.

…and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19

How like our God, to refresh us when we need it most. A friend calls, a letter arrives, a text appears, a prayer is answered, and suddenly life is good again. “Waters will flow where there had been none” (VOICE) and in the “dry and empty land” (NIrV) we discover “flowing streams” (TPT).

The literal translation? “In a desolate place — floods” (YLT), something God alone could miraculously accomplish.

Only you and the Lord know the dry and empty places in your soul. Are you ready to believe He is doing something new for you this year?

And now, I have two special giveaways for two winners: two copies of a new forty-day devotional, Women of Courage, by our friends at (in)courage,  and two lovely Woman of Courage necklaces from DaySpring.

Simply leave a comment below about the new thing you sense God doing in your life this year. I’ll choose two winners on Friday, February 7 at 9pm EST, then reach out via email. Thanks for sharing.

Last month on Facebook LIVE, we celebrated the mercies of God, which are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). If you missed it, take a listen. Tomorrow, for our First Wednesday in February, join me for another LIVE adventure at 12noon EST, as we discover the new command (John 13:34) Jesus gave His followers. You’ll love it, I promise!

The post A New Thing appeared first on Liz Curtis Higgs.

Perfect Faithfulness

I love everything about December. The dark mornings. the moody grayness of the sky, the silence of falling snow. Against that somber backdrop, candlelight shines brighter, music rings merrier, and our hearts open wider in expectation.

The Messiah is coming. The Messiah is here. The Messiah will come again.

Our verse this month is a multifaceted wonder:

LORD, you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name, for in perfect faithfulness you have done wonderful things, things planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1

LORD, you are my God;… Isaiah 25:1

A statement of fact. A statement of faith. “You, LORD, are my God!” (CEV). We are boldly proclaiming the proper name of the God of Israel and our deeply personal relationship with Him.

Even after three dozen years of knowing Him, I’m still astounded by this truth — I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine (Song of Songs 6:3).

Is He yours, dear friend? Can you say the words — “Lord, you are my God” — with your whole heart?

If not, perhaps this is your season to fall into His loving embrace. If your answer is yes, this is your next step.

…I will exalt you and praise your name,… Isaiah 25:1

When we love someone and are proud of what they’ve accomplished, we gladly brag about them to anybody who’ll listen. (Grandparents are especially good at this.)

How much more, then, should we brag about our God. He is so worthy of our applause and so deserving of our public praise. That’s why Isaiah declared, “I will honor” (NLT) and “celebrate” (MSG) and “extol your fame” (NET). The Hebrew word literally means “to rise, to lift up.”

The Lizzie Revised Version? “Look at this, everybody!” (LRV)

See, it’s not enough to silently acknowledge His greatness in our prayers. We need to say it aloud. We need to tell the world. We need to speak His Name.

…for in perfect faithfulness… Isaiah 25:1

Isn’t this phrase delicious? Perfect faithfulness. It’s a finished work, something God has already “accomplished” (CJB) and “fulfilled” (AMP) and “faithfully carried out” (GNT).

Your faithfulness never ends, Lord. “You have always done what you said you would do” (EXB). Always.

…you have done wonderful things,… Isaiah 25:1

There it is, our word for 2019: wonderful. “Miracle-wonders” (MSG) like filling Elizabeth with the Holy Spirit. “Marvels” (CJB) like an angel army singing to a flock of awestruck shepherds. And “miraculous things” (AMP) like a virgin giving birth to the Savior of the world.

Yes, Lord, You have done wonderful things. May we always be quick to see and swift to praise. Because miracles don’t occur by happenstance. You planned them from the beginning.

… things planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1

These wonders were “planned and promised since ancient times” (CEV). Before the coming of man. Before the coming of earth. Before the coming of time. So “long, long ago” (AMP) that You alone were present, Lord.

Unlike our plans, which are ever changing, You created “well-thought-out plans, solid and sure” (MSG), the embodiment of “truth unchanging” (JUB).

This is why we speak Your name without apology, Jesus. This is why, especially at Christmastime, we point to the miracle of Your love unfolding and sing with the angels, “Glory to God!”

Heavenly Father, help us always stand in awe of Your perfect faithfulness. In the sweet name of Jesus, Amen.

’Tis the season for stories. So, here’s this month’s special giveaway — a Victorian novella for a fiction reader, a picture book for a little one, and a verse-by-verse look at our Savior’s birth through the eyes of Elizabeth, Mary, and Anna.

To enter, simply scroll down to post your answer to this question: “What would you say to the newborn Jesus, nestled in a manger?”

On Tuesday, December 17 at 9:00pm EDT I’ll choose one wonderful winner to receive all three of my best-selling Christmas books.

How I love celebrating Advent with you!

Your sister, Liz

P.S. If you missed December’s Wonderful Wednesday on Facebook LIVE, watch and listen now as we meet our final Jesus Girl of 2019, Anna the Prophetess from Luke 2. And if you’re curious where I’m speaking next year, take a look at my calendar. We have 20 events scheduled for 2020, with more details to come. Can’t wait to see you!

The post Perfect Faithfulness appeared first on Liz Curtis Higgs.

I Will Give Thanks

Meet my birthday girl, Prisca. She turns eight today, November 14. Though she lives in faraway Malawi, she is close to my heart. Though she is not my grandchild, she is my God child.

The moment I laid eyes on her, I knew the Lord chose her for me (and me for her). I mean, look at that smile. She also likes the color red and loves to pray. Me too.

And the Bible study I’m currently writing? It includes the story of Priscilla, whose proper name is — you got it — Prisca. So, obviously, I had to say yes.

Coming up, more about my new God daughter and the other beautiful children shown here, including this shampoo brigade in Cambodia. Right now, let’s give thanks to the One who is in all ways wonderful.

I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1 

I will give thanks to… Psalm 9:1  

Not I might. I will. It’s a commitment to go public with our gratitude. “I shall acknowledge” (WYC) and “confess” (YLT) and sing His praises in unexpected places, willingly and joyfully giving Him credit for everything.

Instead of simply feeling grateful, or thinking thankful thoughts, “I will praise” (KJ21) the One I love. Not just once, but all the time “I’m thanking” (MSG) Him. It’s an ongoing practice, a habit worth developing to honor the One who is more than worthy.

…you, Lord,… Psalm 9:1

So personal. “Thee, O Lord” (KJ21). David, the psalmist, wasn’t talking about God, he was talking to God, just as we’re invited to do when we pray and when we praise “Yahweh” (HCSB).

Today I am thanking You, Lord, for the ministry of Prison Fellowship International, which rescues children of prisoners from poverty and neglect and hunger and need. You are a generous God who cares about “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40), and You call us to do the same.

…with all my heart;… Psalm 9:1

Nobody wants to do things in a half-hearted way, lacking spirit or enthusiasm or interest. If it matters to God, I’m going for it “with my whole heart” (ASV). I’m all in.

I’m guessing you feel the same way, eager to pour out “from a full heart” (MSG) all God has done for you. I hope you’ll share your thoughts in the comments below. Meanwhile, I’ll go first.

… I will tell of… Psalm 9:1

 Yes, I’ll gladly “declare” (CBB) and “recount” (ESV) and “tell aloud” (AMP) the story of how God brought Prison Fellowship International to my doorstep with an idea for a series of events for women (we have two more this weekend in Illinois and a final one in Arkansas in December).

We called our tour “Endless Hope,” because who doesn’t need that? For two full years, worship leaders Austin and Lindsey Adamec and I have carried hope-filled messages and music to thirty-two cities. You can be sure God went before us, preparing hearts and planting seeds.

When we offered the opportunity to sponsor children of prisoners in impoverished countries like Rwanda, Zambia, Togo, and Colombia, providing safe living conditions, healthy food, education, and spiritual nurturing for a dollar a day, many, many women said yes.

How many? Keep reading.

…all your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1

Nothing is more thrilling than seeing God perform “marvelous works” (KJ21) and “wonderful acts” (CEB) right before your eyes. Through the hearts of the women in our audiences, we watched Him rescue children who were living in the street, digging through trash for food, hiding from predators and traffickers, or working for strangers who forced them into dangerous hard labor.

For a clearer picture of what these little ones are facing, meet Seu Eye from Cambodia. To understand what sponsoring a child could mean to you, meet KiAnna.

It’s amazing what $35 a month can do. Thank You, Lord, for “all the miracles you have done” (EXB) and “the wonders you have worked” (CEV) in the hearts and lives of almost 900 children as we’ve traveled around the country offering Endless Hope.

Beloved, you knew this was coming. Would you pray about sponsoring a child? There are lots of great child sponsorship ministries, but PFI has a different mission. They seek out children of prisoners who bear the stigma of their parents’ crimes. Ostracized by neighbors and relatives alike, ignored by their governments, these little ones need hope and help from those of us whom God has blessed.

It really isn’t about how much we have. It’s about how much we love.

Everything you need to know is here. If you want to see their sweet faces, look here.

Meanwhile, my Prisca in Malawi wants to become a doctor someday — a far-reaching dream. Isn’t it wonderful we serve a far-reaching God?

Heavenly Father, everything we have is Yours. Do with it what You will. Fill our mouths with gratitude and our lips with praise. Open our hearts to You and our hands to others. May everything we do bring glory to You. In the sweet name of Jesus, Amen.

Ready to share something our good God has done for you? Scroll down to post a comment. Forgive me for not offering a giveaway this month. I simply wanted to keep our focus on these dear children who need us.

Your grateful sister, Liz

P.S. People sometimes ask me if Prison Fellowship International is a trustworthy organization, if the money really goes to the kids, that kind of thing. I can assure you they are the Real Deal, because I checked them out thoroughly before I ever considered partnering with them, and I am honored, through God’s provision, to sponsor nine girls. Esther in Rwanda, Shalom in Zambia, Lida in Cambodia, Samiksha in India, Ani in Nepal, Shalem in Colombia, Akossiwa Davi in Togo, Resha in Nepal, and Prisca in Malawi, I love you.

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