Are You a Grinch?

THIS WEEK’S BOLD STEP DEVOTION

In Dr. Seuss’ book How the Grinch Stole Christmas, we’re introduced to a grumpy hermit who hatches a plan to steal Christmas from Whoville. Bitter and hateful, the Grinch does everything he can to irritate the Whoville citizens and destroy their Christmas celebration. His attempts backfire, though, when the villagers gather together to celebrate Christmas even without presents and decorations. Overcome by their joy in the midst of their loss, his heart is stirred, and the ending is quite moving.

Our thoughts can have a great impact on how we feel and behave, for good or for bad. When we treat negative thoughts as facts, we may view ourselves or act in such a way that’s based on faulty assumptions. This can affect every part of our lives, from our relationships with others, to our view of God. Ultimately, the thoughts you entertain will determine how you live. Would others describe you as someone who’s more like a “grinch,” or do you exude the kind of joy that the Whoville citizens had?

Joy is a precious commodity these days. It seems as if bitterness and hate are on the rise in our cities and in countries around the world. Even Paul dedicated an entire letter to joy when he wrote to the Philippian church. Paul reminded his readers that the true source of joy is a relationship with Jesus. When we believe that God is in control of our lives, we can approach any circumstance or situation with confidence—not in ourselves, but in God. Jesus and Jesus alone is our joy.

Replace your wrong thinking and maximize your joy starting today when you click the link below.

Listen to the sermon series: How Wrong Thinking Can Kill Your Joy

Part 1Part 2

Ministry Update from Mark

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of leading parents in a child dedication at New Life Community Church. I had dedicated one of the mothers as a baby over 30 years ago, and she and her husband were now dedicating their own two children. There are moments of generational beauty in long-term pastoral ministry (I started pastoring this church when I was 21 years old). To top it off, I also had the honor of dedicating my grandson, Saint Ivy Jobe, who turned one last week and whose dad, Josiah, preached a powerful message that same morning. God has been so faithful!