Two ministry workers were discussing their problems over lunch one day. One of them said to the other one: “What I need is a blessing that isn’t in disguise.”

The lyrics to the chorus in Laura Story’s song entitled Blessings are:

‘Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise*

So many of the ways that God is at work in our lives every day goes unseen, unnoticed, taken for granted. But sometimes the difficult things in life – the dream that ended, the medical diagnosis, the loss of a loved one, the house deal fell through, the car broke down, you missed your exit because another driver didn’t let you over – are actually God at work. Sometimes what we think is detrimental, is God protecting us or drawing us closer to Him, or teaching us to be dependent on Him, or He is protecting us from something that we couldn’t yet see.

After feeling his brother’s anger under the guise of going to find a bride in Hebron, Jacob encounters God in a dream where he sees angels ascending and descending on a ladder that extends from Heaven to earth. At the top of the ladder is the Lord and He transfers the blessing given to Abraham to Jacob. As part of the promise the Lord gives to Jacob, He tells him that Jacob He will be with him wherever he goes and that He will direct him back to this place. God had already declared to Isaac that it would be Jacob’s lineage that would fulfill the promises God made to Abraham. The deception to steal Esau’s birthright and blessing were not needed for God to work out His plan for Jacob’s life and it caused a rift between the two brothers which had one fleeing the other. Alone on the cold, hard ground with a stone for a pillow, Jacob laid down to sleep. Can you imagine what went through his mind in that moment? I’m sure he must have wondered if he would ever see his home again and would Esau ever forgive him enough that he would not want to kill him. When Jacob arrives in Heron, God has one future father-in-law ready to teach Jacob some much needed lessons so that Jacob can mature and be prepared for what God will do in and through his life. And then when the time is right, God would direct Jacob’s steps back to the land of promise that Jacob knew as home.

Just as the Lord directed the paths of Jacob and brought him back to the land of promise, so He does in our lives every day. So whether its a God-sized dream, and uncertain future, and unexpected job loss, prodigal children, overwhelming responsibilities, underappreciated marriage relationship or job, aging parents, death of a loved one, a negative medical diagnosis, financial troubles or anything else you face in life, you can know that God is with you through every moment of life and He will direct your paths, even if the blessings are in disguise. Take some time to thank Him and praise Him for always being with you and look for the unexpected blessings and the blessings in disguise.

*Songwriters: Laura Story
Blessings lyrics © Capitol Christian Music Group

Please share today’s Devotion to your social media accounts. We’re using the following hashtags: #ask #seek #knock #Godswill #Matthew #WCM 

 

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Would you consider giving Wellspring a Christmas gift this year? We’re raising fund for some media equipment needed for our ministry.  Click here to make your secure tax-deductible contribution.

T-shirt Fundraiser Event: If you missed getting one of our Christmas designs, be sure to check out all the other designs. We have some great Christian designs based on popular Scriptures that can be a testimony of your faith and a witness to the lost.

In 2020, we are praying for a revival in America. The path to revival is found in 2 Chronicles 7:14. “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves…” As we focus on humbling ourselves, we created this design based on James 4:10 to help us remember to humble ourselves before the Lord. (Click the shirt to go to the store). The design is also available in mugs, mousepad, apron, backpacks, poster, pillow case cover, canvas and more.

Thank you for helping us grow!

Click here to view the Teespring store. 

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#fundraiser #tshirt #WCM #teespring #spreadshop #Revelation21:5 #allthingsnew

BOOKING NOW! Be a host site for the NEW God, Love & Marshmallow Wars Book Tour & Couples Conference:

This event helps couples understand why the daily activities found in the book will equip them to build a stronger marriage and the book provides them with 365 intentional activities to take what they learn at the event and apply it on a daily basis. Through the event, couples will discover the Biblical “why” behind the categories of activities found in the book and the “how” these activities are important to building a stronger marriage. Focus points of the event includes :

• How memorizing scripture together and studying God’s Word together as they study, meditate and apply scriptures related to marriage and life issues will help them develop marriages that honor God.
• Why utilizing fun conversation starters that spark meaningful conversations will keep interest alive as they continually learn new things about each other.
• Why keeping romance alive is essential to intimacy and connectivity.
• How making memories and working together builds relationship investment bonds and how these investment bonds can become the knots that keeps them together through the tough times.
• How they can understand what they are or are not contributing to the marriage as well as how they might be contributing to problems or potential problems within the relationship through the use of targeted, intentional personal reflections
• Why it is important that couples never stop dating and how group dates with Christian friends can be both an encouragement and accountability to their own relationship.

During the event, couples will be given an activity from each focus point to do together, making this event an interactive, fun, and engaging event with practical, hands-on learning. Unlike other couple events that are over when the event ends, couples who attend the GLMW event will be able to apply what they learn when utilizing the book on a daily basis for a year. Since the book is not dated, couples are able to reuse the activities year after year to continue being intentional in strengthening their relationship with each other and with God as they strive to live out God’s design for marriage every day.

Learn more about hosting this event at your church or conference site by clicking here.

About the book: The GLMW book contains 365 daily challenges for couples to strengthen their relationships to each other and with God. Couples will complete activities such as Scripture memory, conversation starters, relationship builders, learning about Biblical marriage, romance builders, personal reflections, and date ideas. Click here to purchase your copy. (This link will open a new widow and take you to Westbow Press’ bookstore.) It is also available at Christian Book Distributors, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble

#GLMW #couplesevent #GLMWbook #intentionalmarriage #Godlymarriage

Looking for a keynote speaker for your next ministry event? Julia is now booking for 2019 and 2020 Christian events for women’s and couples’ ministries for both small and large events.
Book with us now.

Julia is CEO of Wellspring Christian Ministries, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people and couples develop a passionate relationship with God. A public speaker, conference trainer, event planner, and blog writer, Julia is a two-time graduate from Grand Canyon University with a bachelor in Psychology and a masters in Professional Counseling. Saved as a child and raised in church and in a Christian home and private Christian School as a Pastor’s kid, Julia has taught Sunday school, led music, played the piano, served as Children’s Director, and engaged her gifts in many other areas of church life. Previously employed with the Florida Baptist Convention, Julia organized events and led conferences for church ministry assistants. Today, Julia enjoys sharing her journey as a growing Christian with others looking for a deeper connection with God. Through Bible study and her own life experiences, God has given Julia a passion to help couples understand God’s design for marriage while they learn to place God first in their marriage, cultivate meaningful relationships, build intimacy, and address the tougher issues that come in every marriage so that they can experience a marriage that honors and glorifies God. Julia also loves mentoring, teaching, and working with women to help them learn to live as Godly women.

With her history and experience growing up in both small and large churches, Julia enjoys bringing top level quality events to churches of all sizes. Her father largely pastored small churches and therefore she understands that these vital parts of the believing community need to be good stewards of the resources God provides them with. This knowledge inspires her passion for being available with a fresh perspective for those who want to provide their congregations with meaningful spiritual growth opportunities, regardless of size.

To request more information or a booking, 
fill out the online form here.

Or call us at 904.524.8073

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at CBD through any of these links. Your cost to purchase any item through an affiliate link is the same as purchasing directly from CBD.

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We are praying and seeking God for Revival in America in 2020. The path to revival can be found in 2 Chronicles 7:14. Watch the video on this verse created by our CEO.

2 Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves….” This week we have featured several resources on what Biblical humility looks like. We hope you’ll choose one for your own personal Bible study and join us in seeking God with a heart of humility and pray with us for God to send a revival to America in 2020.

Check out the Christian Book Distributor resources below.

Our organization receives an 8% commission on any item you purchase through these links. However, the product price is the same for you. There is no increase in your cost for us to receive the commission. All commissions receive support the work and ministry of Wellspring Christian Ministries. 

Humility By Andrew Murray / Aneko Press

Humility & Absolute Surrender By Andrew Murray / Hendrickson Publishers For over a century countless readers have found in Andrew Murray a trustworthy guide to the deeper Christian life. As a pastor, evangelist, educator, and writer driven by concern for the spiritual guidance of new converts–and for revival in long-time believers–Murray penned some of the most enduring devotional classics of Christian literature. Though he ministered in a deeply-divided nation, his vision seemed blind to race, class, or political persuasion. And from a remote corner of South Africa, his preaching, teaching, and writing would eventually fuel spiritual awakening with a worldwide impact. This edition pairs Humility and Absolute Surrender in one volume. Together these classics reflect Murray’s longing for a closer walk with Christ, and call us to a life of holiness and virtue, empowered not by our own strength but by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Hardcover.

Great Lives: Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility By Charles Swindoll / Thomas Nelson Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility is the fifth volume in the best-selling Great Lives from God’s Word series by Charles Swindoll. Swindoll presents an honest picture of this ordinary man who God transformed to be His personal spokesman against evil and idolatry in the ancient world. He was a man who walked courageously with his peers, and walked humbly with his God. His is a life worth emulating.

Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness, Updated Edition By Andrew Murray / Bethany House When Jesus “made himself nothing … taking the nature of a servant,” He modeled for all believers true humility. Murray calls this “our true nobility” and “the distinguishing feature of discipleship.” In twelve brief but powerful chapters, Murray journeys through Scripture and Christ’s life, underscoring the utmost need for humility—as opposed to pride—in the Christian’s life. With insightful, penetrating clarity, Murray calls all Christians to turn from pride, empty themselves, and study the character of Christ to be filled with His grace. Often called the best work on humility ever written, this edition has been edited for today’s reader.

True Princess: Embracing Humility in an All-About-Me World, Member Book By Erin Davis / Lifeway A True Princess is special because she is the daughter of someone special. Everything she does points back toward her Father. If a princess acts recklessly, it isn’t just her reputation that suffers. The honor and image of the throne is at stake. Help girls understand that their sense of entitlement won’t get them anywhere in the kingdom of God. Humility is essential, and True Princess will guide girls in grades 6-12 through Scripture as a group and individually to help them understand the importance of living as a daughter of the King. (7 Sessions)

From Pride to Humility: A Biblical Perspective By Stuart Scott / Focus Publishing God has given us a model to follow, in order to be what he wants us to be, and that model is the person Jesus Christ. We must first want to glorify God with our lives and realize that it is Christ likeness that will help us to do that. The humility of Jesus Christ is his most stunning attribute, and the sin of pride is probably the most detestable to God. Pride is a form of self-worship and is often manifested in the most subtle ways. Contained in this small volume is an exhaustive list of manifestations of pride, which we must put-off, followed by the challenging attributes of humility, which Christians can put on through the spirit.

How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth: Fourth Edition / Special edition By Gordon D. Fee & Douglas Stuart / Zondervan Enjoy God’s Word to the fullest! This classic reader-friendly manual, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth, Fourth Edition, explains the different kinds of biblical literature – such as prophecy, Gospels, poetry, and history – so you can get the most from them. The revised fourth edition includes updated language for today’s generation of readers, a new preface, bracketed Scripture references, and redesigned diagrams.

The Daniel Plan: 40 Days to a Healthier Life By Rick Warren / Zondervan The Daniel Plan teaches simple ways to incorporate healthy choices into a reader’s current lifestyle and helps them understand the kind of foods God created to keep them fit and strong. The book is categorized around five key concepts for optimal health that promote success: faith, food, fitness, focus, and friends. These concepts encourage readers to deepen their relationship with God and offer inspiration as they make positive choices each and every day.

NKJV Beautiful Word Bible, hardcover By Zondervan Be drawn into God’s Word through a fresh, creative expression of the beautiful words of God. Crafted on high-quality paper and balanced with inspiring full-color art and blank space, the NKJV Beautiful Word Bible will encourage a deeper and more authentic quiet time. With 500 verses illustrated to help you see the rich diversity of stories, characters, prophecies, rewards, and hope contained within Scripture, you will discover wisdom to sustain you in every season, drawing you deeper into God’s life-changing and inspired Word. Features include: Single-column text of the New King James Version (NKJV) Words of Jesus in red 500 full-color illustrated verses 2″ wide lined margins and high-quality paper for notes, journal entries or artwork Single-column layout Index of illustrated Scripture passages Presentation page for gift-giving Ribbon Marker 8-point text size 8.25″ x 6.50″ x 1.50″

Storming the Gates of Heaven: Prayer That Claims the Promises of God By Anne Graham Lotz / Zondervan In this adaptation of her bestselling book, The Daniel Prayer, Anne Graham Lotz unlocks a powerful pattern of prayer for claiming the promises of God. What is the secret to praying prayers that really “work”? In Storming the Gates of Heaven, a plan for praying effective prayers that God answers is presented through unpacking the ancient prayer of the prophet Daniel, a prayer that moved heaven and changed a nation and one that even today can deliver on God ‘s promises. It’s a prayer birthed under pressure. Heartache. Grief. Desperation. It can be triggered by a sudden revelation of hope. Here is the secret to answered prayer, a promise freshly received, a miracle that lies just over the horizon.

Jesus: The God Who Knows Your Name By Max Lucado / Thomas Nelson Come and meet the One at the center of the greatest story ever told! Inviting you to reflect on the heart of Christ, this updated edition of Lucado’s best-selling work introduces you to Jesus as Immanuel, friend, teacher, miracle worker, Lamb of God, returning king, and the God who knows and loves you. Includes never-before-published material. 240 pages, hardcover from Nelson.

3:16 The Church Experience Leader Kit By Max Lucado / Lifeway Based on Max Lucado’s bestseller 3:16 The Numbers of Hope, this six-session Leader’s Kit is a Parade of Hope, with enough resources to support a church-wide campaign, yet versatile enough to use for a weekend retreat or a six-session group study. Guided by Max’s warm and gracious storytelling style, each participant is encouraged to truly value the 3:16 verse, to form and share their own 3:16 story, and to begin living a 3:16 life. To help your church experience John 3:16, this Leader Kit contains: 2 DVDs with 6 25-30 minute videos of Max Lucado sharing his 3:16 message at Crossroads Tabernacle in The Bronx and featuring riveting 3:16 stories from people on the streets of New York City 1 CD-ROM that includes leader helps, an interview with Max, 3:16 stories, a 3:16 retreat plan, and additional church resources 1 Workbook 1 Copy of the best-selling book 3:16 The Numbers of Hope A Worship Musical CD based on the book Bonus Materials including essential resources to help promote and launch a community outreach program

What Happens When Women Say Yes to God: *Live More Fully *Love More Deeply *Experience God’s Best for You By Lysa TerKeurst / Harvest House Publishers Total obedience to Christ can transform an ordinary walk into a remarkable journey. Sharing personal experiences and biblical insights, TerKeurst shows you how to discern God’s voice, follow his direction, and discover a life of joy and purpose as you partner with him. Includes a Bible study. Previously titled Radically Obedient, Radically Blessed. 192 pages, softcover from Harvest.

Unburdened, Bible Study Book By Vance Pitman / Lifeway

Your Powerful Prayers: Reaching the Heart of God with a Bold and Humble Faith By Susie Larson / Bethany House Here’s a humbling thought to ponder: the all-powerful king of the universe loves you and wants to talk with you! Drawing from her own spiritual journey, radio host Larson shares the secrets to effective communication with God. Learn to pray specifically and persistently; overcome common hindrances; replace “begging and pleading” with “praying and believing”; and more. 208 pages, softcover from Bethany.

2020 Mornings with Jesus By Zondervan Begin each day with Jesus . . . and get to know him as your Redeemer, Friend, and Faithful One! Designed to take just five minutes every morning, these 365 engaging readings include Scripture verses, meditations from 13 different authors, and challenging “Faith Steps” meant to inspire and encourage you in your daily walk. 379 pages, softcover from Zondervan.

 

Overcomer DVD Bible Study Kit

By Stephen Kendrick & Alex Kendrick / B&H Books

Many people feel they are less than who God says they are. We get our identity from our careers, our political positions, family roles in the family, and other things. This small group study uses clips from the film Overcomer to examine how we determine our identity and how we can find our true identity in Christ.

The Bible study is geared for adult groups to use prior to the movie or just after seeing the movie. The study includes clips from the movie.

The Overcomer Bible Study Kit has five sessions and includes:

• one Bible Study Book
• one DVD with a promotional video and five 2-4 minute video sessions

Session Topics:

1. Who Are You?
2. You Are Broken
3. You Are Chosen
4. You Surrender
5. You Declare

Overcomer, Blu-ray/DVD/Digital By Provident Films From the creators of War Room, Courageous and Fireproof. Basketball coach John Harrison’s high school team is crushed by the closing of the town’s largest employer. Hundreds of families move, leaving him running a struggling cross-country program. But then he meets Hannah and begins helping this unlikely runner attempt the impossible in the year’s biggest race. Starring Alex Kendrick, Priscilla Shirer, and Aryn Wright-Thompson. Rated PG. Dove approved (12+). Approx. 119 minutes. Blu-ray Exclusives: The Heart of Overcomer Creating the Opening Drone Shot Working with the Kendricks Post-Production Behind-the-Scenes: Editing, Scoring, Coloring, and Sound Design “Enough” (Lyric Video) Featuring Koryn Hawthorne Don’t Mess with the Editors Special Features: The Making of Overcomer Bloopers 10 Minutes of Additional Scenes Commentary with Director Alex Kendrick and Producer Stephen Kendrick Overcomer in 60 Seconds The Theme of Identity The Power of Forgiveness “Overcomer” (Lip Sync Music Video) Featuring Mandisa and More! Other Features: Audio: English, French (PAR), Spanish, Thai Subtitles: English, English (SDH), Spanish, Chinese (Traditional and Simplified), Tagalog, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese

God, Love, and Marshmallow Wars: 365 Daily Challenges to Grow Your Marriage

By Julia M. Bruce / WestBow Press