Morning Devotional 122125 God's Love Surrounds Us

Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room

December 21, 2025 

Psalm 42:5-8

5 Why, I ask myself, are you so depressed? Why are you so upset inside? Hope in God! Because I will again give him thanks, my saving presence and my God. 6 My whole being is depressed. That’s why I remember you from the land of Jordan and Hermon, from Mount Mizar. 7 Deep called to deep at the noise of your waterfalls; all your massive waves surged over me. 8 By day the LORD commands his faithful love; by night his song is with me a prayer to the God of my life.

Good Morning! God is nearer than the breath we breathe!

As Christmas approaches, memories flood my soul. Many of those memories are of happy, joyful times, but there are others tugging at my heartstrings, those no longer present with me. Despite my belief that they are celebrating with God, I miss their physical touch: a hug, a hand in hand, a kiss. 

I can’t imagine how hard these times are for nonbelievers. What if the death of a loved one meant they were gone to the depths of the earth? As Christians, we rely on the promise that we will one day be reunited with all the believers who have gone before us. 

On this day and all the days to come, I lean into God’s presence in my life. I have seen God overcome death through the resurrection of Christ, and I know that my redeemer lives. Because he lives, I can face tomorrow with hope, peace, joy, and love in my heart. 

Redeeming Lord, you bless us abundantly! In our time of sadness, you are with us, giving us the support we need. Thank you. We love you. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.

Thought for the day: God blesses us every moment of every day.

Love came down at Christmas! Pastor Liz