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Is Jesus Your King?

King of the Jews

When a person was executed by Roman crucifixion, the crime the person was guilty of was written on placard and hung around the person’s neck and then nailed on the cross above their head. Jesus, the sinless and guiltless Son of God, was accused of being who He actually was. In the eyes of the people, Jesus was guilty of high treason, since he claimed to be the King of the Jews. The Jews believed He was guilty of blasphemy because He claimed to be the Son of God. Ironically, the only thing Jesus was guilty of being exactly who He was.

King of my heart

Not only is Jesus King of the Jews, but as Christians, Jesus should also be King of our hearts. The question we need to each ask ourselves is do we allow Him to be our King? He is King of kings, whether we allow Him to be King of our hearts or not. Nothing can change that. However, do we honor Him as King? Do we allow Him to sit on the throne of our hearts? Do we humbly submit and yield our allegiance to Him in every area of our lives.

King over every part of me

Is He King over your lips so that the words you say honor Him – or do they curse Him? Do you allow Him to be King over your wallet so that how you spend your money honors Him? Is He King over your eyes so that what you view on TV and on the internet honor Him? Is He King over your hands so that what you do with them honor Him? What about your feet? Is He King over them so that they take you where God leads you? Is He King in your marriage? Is He King in how you parent your children? Do you allow Him to be the King in your home? Is He King at your job?

Consider the areas of your life where you have not allowed Jesus to be King and humbly yield those areas to Him today.

Jesus, thank your enduring the cross because of Your great love for us. We don’t want You to be King in some areas, but desire that You be King in every area of our lives. Help us to humble ourselves and yield every part of our lives to you and allow you be King as we submit to Your will.


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Now you can enhance your Bible Reading with the Verse Mapping Template

Our Verse Mapping download is FREE and includes 6 pages: 3 pages of instructions for using the template and the 2 page template, plus the cover page. If you’re looking to go deeper into God’s Word, learn more about God and develop a stronger spiritual life, Verse Mapping will help you dig into the scriptures. As you apply God’s Word to your life, you will develop a more intimate knowledge and relationship with God.

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Download our Free 2021 Bible Memory Verse Plan

We’ve put together 52 memory verses for you to hide God’s Word in your heart! You can download the full document for free and then print a new verse each week and as many copies as you’d like. Each verse prints four times on a page so that you can then cut them into index size cards and place them in prominent places where you will see them frequently throughout the day to help you remember to memorize them. Just because you visited our site, they’re yours for free! Download today.

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Bible Reading Plan Download

Download our Free 2021 Daily Bible Reading Plan

With just 30-40 minutes per day, you can read the entire Bible in one year. The One-Year Bible Reading Plan consists of both Old Testament and New Testament readings for each day of the year. The Bible is God’s personal Word to you. What is He saying to you today? Open your Bible and find out!

One Year Bible Reading Plan

Download our Free Self-Care Wheel

The Self-Care Wheel provides ideas for practicing self-care in six dimensions of yourself: Spiritual, Physical, Emotional, Intellectual, Sensory, and Social. NOTE: You will need 11X14 paper to print the wheel.

Want to know more about self-care? Our Self-Care blog series targets people who serve in any ministry position and takes a Biblical approach to self-care.

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Isaiah 41:13

Need help? God holds your right hand and He says to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” No matter what you face in life, you are not alone.

Isaiah 41:13

Graduating Seniors

For all the seniors celebrating graduation in a few months. Includes Jeremiah 29:11. If you have a senior graduating, this design makes a great gift.

Graduating Seniors

Here are some of our favorite designs

  • Revive Us Again, Lord

New in the Teespring Store: The Prayer of Blessing

We’ve added a new canvas print to the Teespring Store.

God instructed the Israelite priests to pray the prayer of blessing every day over the people. The prayer is found in Numbers 6:24-26. Hang the canvass in your home or carry the mug, tote bag, or water bottle and let the prayer of blessing impact all those who you meet throughout the day.

We’ve also put this design on a poster, coffee mug, a stainless steel water bottle, phone cases, and a few other products.


Need some music to get you through the day? Check out one of our Playlists on YouTube

Click here for the Contemporary Christian Playlist
Click here for the Southern Gospel Playlist
Or Click here for the Hymns Playlist

You can also watch our animated devotionals on the YouTube Channel


God, Love and Marshmallow Wars by Julia M. Bruce

What’s Inside God, Love and Marshmallow Wars?

God, Love and Marshmallow Wars is a book that includes 365 daily activities and takes you on a guided journey through Biblical principles about Godly marriage that you can then apply to your marriage, as well as helping you talk through concepts that can help you develop a solid relationship. Inside you will find simple, quick activities that include:

  • Scripture to memorize and meditate on.
  • Conversation Starters.
  • Concepts from the Bible on Godly marriages.
  • Romance Builders.
  • Relationship Builders.
  • Personal reflections.
  • Date ideas.
  • Group date ideas for you and other Christian couples.

Available in hardback, paperback and ebook from Westbow Press Bookstore, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble. Click the icons below to purchase from your preferred bookstore. Now also available at WalMart online.

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Matthew 1:22-23. Did You Hear the News?

Dec 11So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying: “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.”

A Dallas Newspaper printed the following responses of children who answered the question, “Where do babies come from?”

  1. Linda Staley (age 5); “Mommies go and buy them at stores. Girls cost $5 and boys cost 50 cents.”
  2. Michael Sale (age 5); “I’m not sure, but I know moms have to get them. If you’re kind of handsome, it means you’re a boy; if you’re wearing lipstick, you’re a girl.”
  3. Alicia Crew (age 5); “From fairy godmothers. They make them out of yarn and crayons.”
  4. Kelly Sweat (age 6); “They come from the frozen food section in the supermarkets, just like TV dinners. All the mommies have to do is warm them up.”
  5. David Joyner (age 6); “My mommy told me that storks bring them, but I know that isn’t true, because we have lots of babies around here and no storks. I think they come by UPS.”

On a night long ago a baby entered the world that was like no other baby before then or since then. He didn’t come from the store. He didn’t cost 50 cents (although we often treat Him like that’s all He’s worth). He wasn’t kind of handsome. In fact, Isaiah 53:2 says, “For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him.” He was just your average looking man of Jewish descent. There was no fairy godmother that made Him out of yarn and crayons. Like every other infant born into the world, He was knitted together in His mother’s womb. Instead of yarn and crayons, it was atoms, cells, and DNA that was woven and knitted together. There was no frozen food section in the market place so that rules out that option. Wise young David already ruled out the stork theory. And not even the Pony Express had been created yet so he didn’t come that way.

So what makes His birth different from all the other births throughout history? I mean, after all, babies are born every day. About the only time you hear about a baby being born in the news is when there are 4 or more born at once to the same mother. Or maybe the news will print a story about the first baby born in a new year. Or when there is a tragic story such as a baby abandoned in a gas station restroom.

The baby born that night in Bethlehem didn’t get a news crew – he had a heavenly host of angels to tell the good news to everyone – and they started with some shepherds. After the shepherds saw the baby, they told everyone they saw. Can you hear them?

“Hey! Did you hear the news?”

“No. What news?”

“A Baby has been born!”

“Oh ok. Why is that news? What’s so special about another baby?”

In these two verses of Matthew (as well as prophetic verses from Isaiah and from Luke’s account in Luke 1-2, we can find five reasons that the birth of this baby is such as big deal that we still celebrate it more than 2000 years later: 1) the baby had a unique conception. 2) He had a divine origin. 3) The heavenly host of angles couldn’t contain their joy and bust into singing 4) His names show us His character while also revealing His deity. 5) He had a purpose for coming to earth .

The birth of Jesus was a big deal because this baby wasn’t conceived in the normal way. And there wasn’t IVF back then either.  This baby was born from a young girl who was still a virgin. Every other human being that has been born had both a mom and dad who contributed to their DNA. But Mary was a virgin when the child was conceived and she was still a virgin up to the time of Jesus’ birth. Matthew 1:25 says, “and [Joseph] did not know her till she had brought forth her firstborn Son.” Jesus’ conception was one of a kind and will never be duplicated again – He was conceived by the Holy Spirit of God. Listen to what the angel told Joseph in a dream: “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 1:20). When the angel visited Mary and told her she would have a son, she understood the way sons are made and she knew that she had never been with a man. So she asked, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” (Luke 1:34). The angel replied,”The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you;” Yes, a young virgin girl who was highly favored was chosen to mother God in the flesh. That’s big news! But that’s not all….

Not only was His conception newsworthy, but so was His origin. This baby born in Bethlehem to a poor, young virgin and laid in a manger had royal, Kingly blood. He’s the King of kings who was also the Architect of the entire universe. He fashioned the sun, heated it to 35,000,000 degrees Fahrenheit and hung it in the exact spot it needed to be so that there could be life on earth. A little bit closer and we’d all burn up. A little further away and we’d all freeze to death. Then He molded a cold, shining ball that is 2160 miles in diameter and gave it a substance that would reflect the light of the sun in such a way that it would give a soft light in the night hours. Then He made the stars and He must have really liked the stars because there are 100 billion of them just in the Milky Way. Then there is Earth. It only has six sextillion, 588 quintillion short-tons of elements that with just a spoken word they all came to be, joined together, and Earth was created. Then He created boundaries for the sea and told them they could only go that far – and dry land appeared. He added some trees, flowers, fruits, vegetables – all getting ready for Earth to sustain life. He added fish to the sea and birds to the sky. Then came animals of all kinds and finally, His greatest creation – Adam. This same Almighty Creator that spoke our entire world into being compressed Himself down to a single divine and holy cell and fused that cell with the ovum of a Jewish teenager. That cell divided and then divided again – and again – and again. Over and over as the tiny baby grew inside the womb of Mary. Then, “the days were accomplished that she should be delivered” and as the Holy, righteous Son of God entered our world as a tiny baby, thousands of joyful angels burst into singing – they simply couldn’t contain themselves.

Had Jesus been born in our world today, the angels probably would not have only sang at his birth, but they would have posted a picture of the proud mother and her precious bundle of joy all over social media and with that many angels, social media would have frozen. The news would probably pick it up, but while they might ask, “Who’s this baby?” the story angle would be about how his picture broke social media – not about the significance of His birth and certainly not that this child’s origin is one that is divine and holy – straight from Heaven itself. That is big news too – but wait – there’s more!

Have you ever noticed how baby’s born to royalty have a whole string of names? Jesus did too. When the prophet Isaiah foretold about this baby, he said, “his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6) Well that wasn’t enough so Isaiah also said his name would be Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14).  These names signified His character. The child would have extraordinary wisdom (Wonderful Counselor). He would have life that never ends (Everlasting Father). He will bring peace (Prince of Peace). But the two most significant names are Mighty God and Immanuel. As “Mighty God,” Jesus was not only 100% human, but He is also 100% God. The word translated mighty is Gibbor, which means “strength, power, hero.” The Mighty God has the strength to hold together every atom of the universe, endure the tortures of the cross, and still have enough strength for us to cast all our cares upon Him. He has the power to create the world from nothing with just a spoken word, turn water to wine, heal the sick, cast out demons, walk on water, feed 5000+ with just two fish and five small loaves of bread, and countless other miracles. And to every person  who comes by faith believing in Him for the salvation of their souls and forgiveness of their sins – He is our hero. Then there is this name Immanuel. Matthew tells us what is significant about this name. The meaning of the name is “God with us.” The Almighty God came to earth to live among His people. When the angel spoke to Mary, he said, “therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.” His origin is from the throne of Heaven and He came to earth be laid in an animal’s feeding trough and slept on some prickly hay because the world had no room in the inn for Him. Surely that is newsworthy! But yes – there is still more.

Thankfully, for kindergarten aged Jesus he didn’t have to write all those names on His papers in school. The angel that spoke to Joseph said, “And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus. Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua, which means “Yahweh saves.” So not only is the name Jesus much easier to spell, but it tells us what this baby’s purpose is: “for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21). It’s the whole reason He came. It’s His purpose. He was born so He could die and that through His death He would save us from our sins. For Jesus to leave Heaven to be born as a baby and live among us and dying for us held no benefit to Jesus whatsoever. It was all sacrifice for Him. Yet He did it – for you and for me. Had He chose not to come, we’d have no hope. His coming was for our benefit. Our sin separates us from a holy righteous God and the wages that we earn for our sin is eternal death in Hell. But God, because of His love and mercy provided a way for us to be redeemed and that way was to send His only Son to pay the price for us and through His death, we could have eternal life. So the purpose of His birth was to give hope to all mankind and it’s been giving hope for more than 2000 years so that we still celebrate the birth of this baby, Immanuel, God With Us. That not just news – it’s GOOD NEWS and tidings of joy for all people.

Please share today’s Devotion to your social media accounts. We’re using the following hashtags: #2ndweekinAdvent #Advent #preparing #secondcoming #athrillofhope #hopeoftheworld #WCM

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We hope you have a holly, jolly Christmas this year – and to help you celebrate, here is the another one of our Christmas designs:

Country Christmas

Country Christmas
Now available in the Teespring store and the Spreadshirt Store.
Product Description:

Christmas trees in red buffalo plaid, reindeer pattern, and red/gray/white plaid with message of “Merry Christmas.”

This design comes in men’s, ladies’, kids’, and infants’ in tees, long-sleeved tees, sweatshirts, and hoodies. There are also several accessories, including mugs, bags, pillow covers, and more. Visit the stores to see all the options. Remember Spreadshirt’s 15% off all products ends December 1. 
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Do you like this design? If so, please share this page to your social media using the links at the top of the page so others can find it too. 

 #Christmas #Christmastrees #plaidandraindeer 

Christmas tee shirt design line

Spreadshop promotion: 15% off everything from November 29-December 1

Teespring promotion: up to 20% of everything from November 29 – December 4

All proceeds go to the advancement of Wellspring Christian Ministries.

Thank you for helping us grow!

Click here to view the Teespring store. 

Click here to view the Spreadshop Store 

#fundraiser #tshirt #WCM #teespring #spreadshop #Christmas

All profits from these shops help support the work of this ministry. Thank you for supporting us. You can also support us with a year-end, tax-deductible contribution through Fundly. See the link below and thank you for helping us grow. 

FundlyBecome a distributor of Living Water with us by joining our fundraising campaign as we grow and expand our ministry. Click here to make your secure tax-deductible contribution.

Cover_mBOOKING 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

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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.

Image result for form pngTo request more information or a booking, 
fill out the online form here.

Or call us at 904.524.8073

#JuliaBruce #speaker #keynote #author

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Image result for Christian book distributors logoChristmas Items at Christian Book Distributors:

Here are a sample of items from CBD. We are an affiliate of CBD and receive an 8% commission on any product you purchase through these links which we then use to advance our ministry. If you need a Christian gift or looking for Christian Christmas decorations, go to CBD through any link below and search their website for books, Bibles, gifts, decor, and more.

092544: Expecting Christmas: Daily Readings for the Season of Joy Expecting Christmas: Daily Readings for the Season of Joy

By Iron Stream Media

Ever wonder what could happen this Christmas if you were truly centered on Christ’s coming? Immerse yourself in this series of devotional readings to help fix your heart on the Savior. Encounter joy as the real reason for the hope within us that comes to fruition, and celebrate his birth anew! Reflection questions included. 127 pages, 4″ x 6.25″ softcover from New Hope.

495648: Nativity Advent Wreath Nativity Advent Wreath

By Wendy Wiinanen / Demdaco

Christmas Journey Collection Advent wreath in earthenware, 8″ x 2.5″ with space for four taper candles

  • Christmas Scripture quote is displayed in the center “I am the light of the world. John 8:12”
  • Space in the center if you wish to add a pillar candle
  • Please purchase candles separately since they are not included
  • Explore the biblical story of Christmas with your family and guests as you light the candles each week of Advent
  • Molded relief design in dimensional detail shows the Nativity scene in amazing detail
  • Please be aware this should be washed by hand only
  • Christmas and table
  • Designed by artist WWendy Wiinanen
959072: Foundations, Holy Family LED Figure Figurine Foundations, Holy Family LED Figure Figurine

By Karen Hahn / Enesco Corporation

Holy Family figurine is designed by Karen Hahn for her Foundations Collection

  • One-piece figurine of Joseph and Mary embracing the Christ child
  • Crafted of smooth stone resin in gentle pastels
  • Lavishly embellished with textured fabrics, crystal trims, linen texture, and intricate details
  • Note the loving expressions as Joseph and Mary share this sweet moment together with the newborn Savior
  • Christmas star casts a soft glow over them, illuminated with soft white LED lighting.
  • Figurine is just over 10″ tall; button cell battery is included
  • An heirloom quality keepsake Christmas figurine to treasure
97179: Lighted Silhouette Nativity Wreath Lighted Silhouette Nativity Wreath

White wood nativity wreath with LED lighting, layered dimensional design

  • Intricate laser cut border of snowflakes and stars
  • The soft LED string of lights inside casts just the right amount of glow to showcase the Holy Family and Christmas star in silhouette
  • Wreath is lightweight and easy to hang; operates on three AA batteries which are not included.
  • 12″ diameter x 1″
  • A unique Christmas accent; above your mantell, on your door; at home or at church
97246: O Holy Night, Lighted Ceramic Decoration O Holy Night, Lighted Ceramic Decoration

Tabletop ceramic Christmas decoration, LED star, with gold lettered sentiment O Holy Night

  • Star with five diamond openings to let the light shine through.
  • 3.75″ x 3.75″; operates on two button-cell batteries which are included.
  • On/off switch on the bottom
  • Creamy ceramic in glossy finish; small space decor; tabletop, shelf, or mantel – a light-up accent; Christian Christmas
340591: The Case for Christmas: A Journalist Investigates the Identity of the Child in the Manger The Case for Christmas: A Journalist Investigates the Identity of the Child in the Manger

By Lee Strobel / Zondervan

Who was in the manger that first Christmas morning? Some say he would become a great moral leader. Others, a social critic. Still others view Jesus as a profound philosopher, a rabbi, a feminist, a prophet, and more. Many are convinced he was the divine Son of God.

Who was he really? And how can you know for sure?

Consulting experts on the Bible, archaeology, and messianic prophecy, award-winning legal journalist Lee Strobel searches out the true identity of the child in the manger. If Jesus really was God in the flesh, then there ought to be credible evidence, including:

  • Eyewitness Evidence – Can the biographies of Jesus be trusted?
  • Scientific Evidence – What does archaeology reveal?
  • Profile Evidence – Did Jesus fulfill the attributes of God?
  • Fingerprint Evidence – Did Jesus uniquely match the identity of the Messiah?

The Case for Christmas invites readers to consider why Christmas matters in the first place. Somewhere beyond the traditions of the holiday lies the truth. This little book is perfect as a gift or for use in ministry during the Christmas season or any other time of the year.

687569: A Baxter Family Christmas A Baxter Family Christmas

By Karen Kingsbury / Howard Books

The Baxters always spend Christmas together. Each family member struggles with their father’s decision to invite the new owner of their sister’s heart to such a joyous occasion. They may miss out if they choose not to go. Forgiveness doesn’t come easy when it’s yourself you must forgive.

159224: Maggie Maggie’s Christmas Miracle, DVD

By Karen Kingsbury / Hallmark

A single mom, Maggie tries to balance devotion to her son, Jordan, with her career. Then she meets Casey, a tutor who’s becoming more of a father figure to Jordan. With the help of faith and fate, will Maggie discover that anything is possible at Christmas—even finding happiness and love again? Based on the novel by Karen Kingsbury. English subtitles. Closed-captioned. Approx. 85 minutes.

464700X: Real Life Nativity Set, Complete Collection, 10.25-inch size Real Life Nativity Set, Complete Collection, 10.25-inch size

Traditional and elegant Real Life Nativity Complete set is truly lifelike in color, design, facial expression, and detail. Set includes 15 figures and lighted stable; figures range to 10.25″ tall.Mary kneels in loving adoration beside the Christ child and Joseph’s expression reflects love and joy. The baby Jesus can be held in Mary’s arms or swaddled in the manger. Kneeling Mary figure is 6″ tall; manger is 2.5″ high and baby Jesus figure is 2.75″ long.

Also included: shepherds and angel three-piece set, three kings with gifts of gold,frankincense, and myrrh; pedestal star; four animalsand lighted stable in which to display the Nativity Scene.

Crafted of resin, museum quality, heirloom nativity set in representation of the birth of Jesus Christ.

930895: Foundations, Nativity with Creche Set Foundations, Nativity with Creche Set

Foundations Collection by Karen Hahn Nativity Set with light-up stable and seven figures. The snow-trimmed roof of the stable is inscribed with Bible verse quote For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior 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.Each figurine is inscribed with Bible verses of the Christmas story from the gospels.

9101851: Nativity Set, Sparkle Frost, 11 Pieces, 5 Inches Nativity Set, Sparkle Frost, 11 Pieces, 5 Inches

Nativity Set 11 pieces, cast in resin, ranging to 5″ high.What makes this unique?
Full color figures; rich detail on all garments and accessories; each piece is coated with a permanent sparkle frost finish.

Set includes Holy Family, angel, three kings with gifts, and shepherd with sheep, plus three animals.

In the joy of holiday celebrations and family get-togethers, it’s easy to overlook the true meaning of our Christmas. The nativity set turns us to the arrival of the promised Savior, the Messiah, Emmanuel. God with us. In vivid imagery and detail, we see the Christ child in a stable, the Savior of the world has come.

496232: All is Calm All is Bright Pillow All is Calm All is Bright Pillow

Decorator Christmas pillow, 16″ x 16″

  • Lovely Christmas Collection by Lori Siebert
  • Polyester fiber; panel inset with soft touch greenery design and artisan lettering all is calm. all is bright
  • Wipe clean with damp cloth
  • Soft green
001156: Prince Of Peace Table Runner Prince Of Peace Table Runner

Prince of Peace Christmas table runner features chalkboard style design with Scripture verse in Christmas tree shaped typography. Cotton canvas runner; 12″ x 72″.His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, Price of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

959072: Foundations, Holy Family LED Figure Figurine Foundations, Holy Family LED Figure Figurine

Holy Family figurine is designed by Karen Hahn for her Foundations Collection

  • One-piece figurine of Joseph and Mary embracing the Christ child
  • Crafted of smooth stone resin in gentle pastels
  • Lavishly embellished with textured fabrics, crystal trims, linen texture, and intricate details
  • Note the loving expressions as Joseph and Mary share this sweet moment together with the newborn Savior
  • Christmas star casts a soft glow over them, illuminated with soft white LED lighting.
  • Figurine is just over 10″ tall; button cell battery is included
  • An heirloom quality keepsake Christmas figurine to treasure
427991: The Wonder of the Greatest Gift--An Interactive Family Celebration of Advent The Wonder of the Greatest Gift–An Interactive Family Celebration of Advent

A Family Advent Activity that can be used year after year!

Reclaim the wonder of Christmas as you open up this book and watch the tree pop-up! Every day of December, open the enclosed booklet and read your daily love letter from The Greatest Story ever told, right from our beginning in Genesis to our King’s coming under Bethlehem’s star. Know that His love has always, always, always been coming for you!

After the day’s reading, fling open the one of the 25 advent doors – and discover that day’s Biblical ornament to hang on your very own tree that will end up telling the grandest Gospel story, from the Beginning to Bethlehem!

Features:

  • Beautiful 360°, 14″ Pop-Up Tree
  • Daily Family Devotional Booklet
  • 24 Full-Color Ornaments
  • Star-Shaped Tree Topper
085087: Waiting Here for You: An Advent Journey of Hope Waiting Here for You: An Advent Journey of Hope

By Louie Giglio / Thomas Nelson

This year, anticipate the busy season of Advent and Christmas with hope rather than dread. Join Passion conference founder and pastor Louie Giglio as you take hold of God’s great promise embodied in the 24-day countdown to Christ’s birth. Discover that waiting is not wasting when you’re waiting on the Lord. You’ll come away with peace and encouragement for your soul! 112 pages, paperback.

810384: Merry Christmas Platter Merry Christmas Platter

Oval Merry Christmas platter with Bible verse quote from John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. Creamy ivory ceramic platter is 12″ x 9″ with recessed center and raised beaded design border. A festive accent for your Christmas table or party, and on display it’s a timeless Christmas message of hope.

Upscale font design; snowflake accent trim. Dishwasher and microwave safe. You’ll want one for yourself, and what a meaningful Christmas gift to give.

966396: Merry Christmas Pallet Art Merry Christmas Pallet Art

Christmas wall art, pallet decor

  • 17″ x 17.5″
  • Artisan font Merry Christmas surrounded by painted wreath of greenery and poinsettia
  • Handcrafted in the heart of Amish country USA
  • Authentic pine slats, kiln-dried
  • Rustic, natural, complete with wood grain irregularities and knots; sure to add to your country Christmas look
108796X: Nativity Ornament Nativity Ornament

Christmas ornament in elegant marquise shape, is crafted of wood and beautifully displays the true story of Christmas, the birth of Christ in museum quality artwork and design. 5″ x 3.25″, with quote from Isaiah 9:6 Wonderful, Counselor….Prince of Peace. Artwork by Jon McNaughton.Trim the tree, or give as a meaningful Christmas gift. Flat wood ornament with Scripture verse.

698937: Merry Christmas Door Mat Merry Christmas Door Mat

Seasonal doormat for Christmas

  • Outdoor/indoor
  • Thick, non-slip rubber backing
  • 17″ x 29″
  • Polyester top; permanent print; fade and mildew-resistant
  • Printed in the USA
  • Poinsettia and greenery design
  • Merry Christmas
489618: Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, Confetti, Platter Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, Confetti, Platter

By Lori Siebert / Demdaco

670372: Joy to the World Light Box Joy to the World Light Box

By Carson Home Accents

Add warmth to your room decor with plug-in light box framed design

  • Box is 6″ x 7.5″ x 3″
  • Insert image is 5″ x 7″ approximately
  • Electrical cord with handy on/off switch; includes 7-watt bulb
  • Illuminated accent
  • Seasonal Christmas theme
  • Joy to the World with dazzling ornaments and gifts.

Fisher-Price Little People Nativity Set   -

Fisher-Price Little People Nativity Set

Little hearts will love the Fisher-Price ® Little People ® Nativity Set! Engage your toddler in the joy of celebrating the true meaning of Christmas with their own nativity set, complete with chubby, child-friendly figures and all the key characters that bring to life the story of Baby Jesus’ birth.

Celebrate the joy of Christmas with family-friendly Fisher-Price Nativity, an interactive playset that focuses on the first Christmas. Colorful, durable Little People include figures of Joseph, Mary and Baby Jesus, plus the Christmas angel, wise men, animals, accessories and a stable, with light-up Christmas star! Includes 18 pieces altogether. Push the sound button to hear Away in a Manger softly play. On/Off switch for sound and light is in the back; requires 3 AA batteries (not included).

Kids can enjoy assembling the characters and retelling the story all through December.

Trusted toy design from Fisher-Price to teach the best Christmas story ever, for children and toddlers, Sunday School and nursery, baby shower and early Christmas gift idea.

Recommended age for play is 12 months to 4 years.

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John 19:30. It is Finished

Jun 12 John 19 30 nkjv.png

“It is finished.” Some of the most exciting words ever said. Whether it’s a child who just finished a test, an artist who just finished their best painting, an author who just finished a book, a housewife, who finished all the laundry (until tomorrow), an engineer who finished a complex and difficult project, or Jesus who accomplished all that God sent Him to do.

I love contemporary praise and worship music. There are so many songs that speak to me. Some encourage and some convict. But I also grew up with old hymns and my dad was a church music director before he was a pastor. I took piano lessons growing up and learned to play from the old Baptist Hymnal. I also grew up with the songs of Bill Gaither. His songs often found their way to the Sunday choir specials. One of those songs is “It is Finished.” Read the lyrics:

There’s a line that is drawn through the ages
On that line stands an old rugged cross
On that cross, a battle is raging
To gain a man’s soul or it’s loss
On one side, march the forces of evil
All the demons, all the devils of hell
On the other, the angels of glory
And they meet on Golgotha’s hill
The earth shakes with the force of the conflict
And the sun refuses to shine
For there hangs God’s son, in the balance
And then through the darkness he cries
It is finished, the battle is over
It is finished, there’ll be no more war
It is finished, the end of the conflict
It is finished and Jesus is Lord
Yet in
Yet in my heart, the battle was still raging
Not all prisoners of war had come home
These were battlefields of my own making
I didn’t know that the war had been won
Oh, but then I heard the king of the ages
Had fought all the battles for me
And that victory was mine for the claiming
And now praise his name, I am free
Songwriters: Gloria Gaither / William J. Gaither
It Is Finished lyrics © Capitol Christian Music Group

God had sent Jesus into our world for the sole purpose of bringing redemption and eternal life to all those who believe on Him. He arrived in our world as an infant, leaving the splendor of heaven for a dirty cattle stall. He lived and grew up in our world as part of a poor family. No splendor or grandeur. As a man of 30 years old, he called the 12 disciples and began his earthly ministry, teaching them and the people about who He was. Those who didn’t believe, called Him a blasphemer and for that, they had Him put to death. He was betrayed by one of His own disciples – but because Jesus is God, he knew even when He called Judas as a disciple that Judas would betray him – yet He called Him anyway. But as Jesus hung on the cross the battle for our redemption was raging. With his final words, “It is finished,” the battle was won.

As Jesus hung on the cross the battle for our redemption was raging. With his final words, “It is finished,” the battle was won. — click to tweet

For each one of us, created in His image, he knew that before we were created that we would cause Him to go to the cross – but he created us anyway. He fulfilled every Messianic prophecy and with all of His work done, as He hung on the cross, he cried out, “It is finished.” He had accomplished everything God sent Him here to do. So he bowed His head and willingly released His spirit. Then…three days later….He rose from the dead, conquering death. Defeating the grave. Raised to life. Because of His finished work, those who believe in Him have eternal life.

Even though the Jews had all the Messianic prophecies, they still did not recognize the Messiah when He stood right in front of them. So what is this Jesus like? In his choral musical, God For Us, Don Moen describes Him this way:

He is good and he is good all the time.
But as you focus on his goodness, don’t miss his greatness.
He is unparalleled and unprecedented.
He is the center piece of civilization.
He is the superlative of all excellence.
He is the sum of human greatness.
He is the source of divine grace.
His name is the only one able to save And his blood is the only power able to cleanse.
His ears opened to the sinners call His hand is quick to catch a fallen soul
He is the eternal lover of us all Everyone, and you can trust him.
He supplies mercy for the struggling soul
He sustains the tempted and the tried
He sympathizes with the wounded and broken
He strengthens the weak, the weary
he guards and he guides the wanderer.
He heals the sick and cleanses the leper
He delivers the captives and defends the helpless and he binds up the broken hearted
He’s for you and you can trust him
Jesus is the key to all knowledge
He is the well spring of wisdom
He is the door way of deliverance and he is the pathway of peace
He is the road way of righteousness
He is the highway of holiness
He is the gateway to glory
And yes you can trust him
Jesus is enough
He’s the all sufficient king
He’s the king of Jews
He’s the king of Israel
He’s the king of righteousness and he’s the king of the ages
He’s the king of heaven
He’s the king of glory
He’s the king of kings
And he’s the Lord of lords
And yes again you can trust him
And rejoice in this my friend
He is a sovereign king
There is no gauge to measure his limitless love
There is no barrier to block his blessings out poured
He’s enduringly strong
And he’s entirely supreme
He’s internally steadfast
He’s immortally faithful
He’s imperially powerful
And he’s impartially merciful
He is Jesus, God son, and you can trust him
I wish I could more accurately describe him to you
But he’s indescribable
He’s incomprehensible
He’s invincible
He’s irresistible
You can’t out live him and you can’t live without him
The Pharisees couldn’t stand him
But they found him they couldn’t stop him
Pilate couldn’t fault him
Herod couldn’t kill him
Death couldn’t conquer him
And the grave couldn’t hold him
My friends he’s the alpha and omega
The first and the last
He’s the God of the future and the God of the past
And we raise to speak his name again and again
Jesus! Jesus!!
He is Jesus! He is for us
And we can trust him

The work of salvation is finished. It is done. You can trust Him. There is nothing you can do for yourself to earn it. Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” It is by faith in the finished work of Christ that we find salvation from our sins – and no other way. Because it is finished, we can rejoice. It is finished! He is crowned King of king and Lord of lords.

Because it is finished, we can rejoice. It is finished! He is crowned King of king and Lord of lords. — click to tweet

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Cover_m God, Love and Marshmallow Wars: This 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 & Nobel

 

book now summer and fall

Looking for a 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.

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.

Image result for form pngTo request more information or a booking, 
fill out the online form here.

 

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Or call us at 904.524.8073

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Why We Worship

why we worship God

This book available for purchase at LifeWay Christian Stores