Make a Decision for the New Year

Introduction: The New Year brings new DECISIONS. How will you make your decisions? Try this, it works.
 
1. Watch EXPECTANTLY — for PROVISION (Habakkuk 2:1) – “I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.”
 

It was a troubled time in Habakkuk’s day. Why? Because the Lord had allowed a heathen nation, the Babylonians, to surround and ultimately overtake the southern kingdom of Judah—God’s people. The chastening rod was bearing down heavily upon the Israelites.

Habakkuk did not understand why a good God would allow bad people to chasten His people. Isn’t that what people are thinking and saying today? “If your God is so good and powerful, then why doesn’t He do something?”

But He really does. He is in control, even though we might not understand what He is up to until later. That is where we must trust Him (Romans 8:32).

The prophet was desperately looking for a word from the Lord. Are you needing a word from the Lord? Then WATCH EXPECTANTLY.
 
2. Write OBEDIENTLY — for VISION (Habakkuk 2:2) – “And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.”
 

Once a word is given, do not miss it. Howbeit, we may not want to hear it. Nevertheless, obedience is the key. Without it, we cannot get any new light.

Light obeyed increases light. Light refused increases darkness.

Do you need more light? Obey the light that you already have.

3. Wait PATIENTLY — for DECISION (Habakkuk 2:3–4) – “For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”
 

Hurry up and wait! It is hard to wait patiently—but we must. God works on His timeline. Meanwhile, we must learn to exercise longsuffering (Galatians 5:22–23).

Do you need an extra dose of patience?
 

Conclusion: Did you notice the chronological order in these verses? One might think that DECISION would come first, then VISION, and finally PROVISION. However, it is reversed.

First comes WATCHING for a WORD — the PROVISION.
Then comes WRITING it down — the VISION.
And finally, after watching expectantly and writing obediently, comes WAITING patiently — the DECISION.

Makes sense?

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


A Chain Is Only as Strong as Its Weakest Link – Part 2

Leadership in the Home, the Church, and the Marketplace Christian Character in 2026
 

Introduction: Is the chain strong, or will it break down? How can we be more influential with our families, our friends, and in our workplaces? Are we forfeiting our influence because of a lack of understanding—or worse, an unwillingness to make an honest evaluation of ourselves?

How can we leave a more lasting legacy? Are we supposed to simply eat, drink, and be merry, without caring about our influence on others? Have we fallen into a rut of pleasing ourselves?

How does character connect to leadership? Should there be standards for leadership? Where do we draw the line? Do we admire others who lead well? And are we willing to pay the price to be effective leaders for our families and our peers?

What character traits need to change—whether good or bad? Truthfully and honestly, are you willing to take a moment to examine not just what you say, but what you do—or don’t do? More importantly, are you willing to take the necessary steps to make change as you pray, submit to God, and cooperate with His Holy Spirit?

Expect a lengthy process—not an overnight transformation. But we must start somewhere. Why not start today?
 
1. How Can We Change Unhealthy Habits? (Ephesians 4:22–24) – “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.”
 

Recently, I had a conversation with a Christian father who had not spoken with his stepson for months due to a serious conflict. After prayer and biblical counsel, it was decided that he would take the initiative as a leader and seek reconciliation. He did—and it worked.

Why? Because these are biblical principles laid out in the Word of God. Obedience to the Word of God, combined with being empowered by the Holy Spirit of God, is the only way to develop godly Christian character—and to change ungodly character. And remember, all of this should bring glory to the Lord, not to us.

Now for the practical side of “strengthening the links in the chain and making it stronger.”

For men, it has often been said that it is easier to lead an army of ten thousand men than to lead a family with Christian love and grace—without being overbearing and without under-disciplining. Our leadership sets an example, and our children are deeply affected by it.

For women, it has been said that only Spirit-filled women who overcome bitterness and performance-based acceptance can permanently influence their children or grandchildren toward stronger character traits—though not perfection.

Conclusion: Whether you realize it or not, you are in a leadership position. Every man and woman reading this devotion carries influence over others. What kind of influence are you portraying?

Is there a need for any changes? Honestly, are you being a stepping stone—or a stumbling block? How strong is your chain?

Why not let Jesus strengthen it today?
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


A Chain Is Only as Strong as Its Weakest Link Part 1

Leadership in the Home, the Church, and the Marketplace
 

Introduction: Is the chain strong, or will it break down? How can we become more influential with our families, our friends, and in our workplaces? Are we forfeiting our influence because of a lack of understanding—or worse, an unwillingness to make an honest evaluation of ourselves?

How can we leave a more lasting legacy? Are we supposed to simply eat, drink, and be merry, without caring about the influence we have on others? Have we fallen into a rut of pleasing ourselves rather than leading others?

How does character connect to leadership? Should there be standards for leadership? Where do we draw the line? Do we admire others who lead well? And are we willing to pay the price to be effective leaders for our families and our peers?

What character traits need to change—whether good or bad? Truthfully and honestly, are you willing to pause and examine not just what you say, but what you do—or don’t do? More importantly, are you willing to take the steps necessary to make change as you pray, submit to God, and cooperate with the Holy Spirit?

This is a lengthy process—not an overnight transformation. But we must start somewhere. Why not start today?

1. How Can We Develop Christian Character? (Proverbs 22:1) – “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.”
 

First, we must recognize the need for godly character. Next, we must be willing to ask the Lord to change us from the inside out.

God’s process works from the head (Romans 12:1–2) to the heart (Ezekiel 36:26–27)—or sometimes the heart to the head—as He overhauls our lives. The life of Christ on the inside is greater than the world’s influence on the outside.

Christian character is formed through the renewing of the mind and the submitting of the will. It requires renouncing self from the throne and surrendering the throne to Jesus Christ. This is the key.

By the way, this is not merely repeating the right words. It is a broken spirit—one willing to yield to the power of the Holy Spirit. Only God can bring a person through this kind of change. But oh, what a change He makes.

Conclusion: Now that we have established both the need for character and the way to build it, where do you stand? Is there a need? Honestly, we could all use improvement in this area.
 
Love y’all,,
Dr. Randy Reese


Spiritual, Mental, and Physical Health for the New Year

Introduction: Are you praying for good health in the coming year—mentally, physically, and spiritually? Certainly, this can be a New Year’s prayer. But is it biblical? John writes these words in his third epistle:

“Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 1:2)

1. Praying for a Prosperous Year for You (3 John 1:2) 

The word for prosper is εὐοδόω (yoo-od-o’-o), which means to cause to prosper or to have a successful journey.
 

As your pastor and friend, I am praying for you to have a blessed and prosperous year.

2. Praying for Your Health (3 John 1:2)

The word for health is ὑγιαίνω (hoog-ee-ah’-ee-no), which means to be well, sound, pure, uncorrupted, and right-minded.

God cares about our physical and mental well-being.

3. Praying for Your Soul to Prosper (3 John 1:2)

The word for soul is ψυχή (psoo-khay), which refers to the breath of life, the seat of our affections and will, and the inner person.
 

Our emotions and will are part of the soul. A healthy soul leads to a healthy life.

Conclusion: Will you make this a matter of prayer as well? If so, we can expect to see a truly blessed new year.
 

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese



New Year Promises

Introduction: We are embarking on another New Year. What will it be like? Where will it take us? What is in store? Only Jesus knows the future. But He has given us some great promises that will carry us into the New Year with assurance.
 
Keep reading to be reminded of a few of them.
 
1. Staying Promises (Hebrews 13:5) – “…for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

What a promise! That should bring security to every Christian. How about you?
 
2. Keeping Promises (Jude 1:24–25) – “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”

Let’s face it—we cannot keep ourselves, but our God can. Will you trust Him to keep you?
 
3. Eternal Life Promises (Titus 1:2) – “In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.”

That should give great assurance to believers. Do you have assurance of eternal life in Jesus Christ?
 
4. Provision Promises (Philippians 4:19) – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”

In context, the church had met Paul’s needs along with others, thus fulfilling God’s purpose—then this promise becomes applicable. Will you trust Jesus to provide?
 
5. Strength Promises (Deuteronomy 33:25) – “…and as thy days, so shall thy strength be.”
 
I love this verse. Even though it was a word from Moses to the younger generation, God still gives His people strength for the journey. Are you finding that to be true?
 
6. Overcoming Fear with Promises (Isaiah 41:10) – “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
 
Faith is the opposite of fear. Remember—if we feed our faith and fight our fear, faith will win. What are you feeding?
 
7. Grace for the Race Promises (2 Corinthians 12:9–10) – “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness…”

Our weakness becomes God’s strength! He strengthens the inner man while the outer man is weakening. His grace is truly amazing!
 
Conclusion: As we enter the New Year 2026, the good news is that we have some glorious promises. Our hearts can fully trust in the Word of God. Beyond that, the Holy Spirit is our teacher, guider, comforter, sealer, baptizer, indweller, and filler. With so many precious promises from our risen Lord and soon-coming King, 2026 could be the year He returns.

Keep looking up!

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Fear Not

Introduction: What is your biggest fear? 
 
  • Some are deathly afraid of spiders. 
  • Some are afraid of snakes.
  • Some are afraid of heights.
  • Some are afraid of flying.
  • Some are afraid of storms.
  • Some are afraid of the unknown.
  • Some are afraid of dying.
  •  
Fear is real. Even some of God’s choicest servants were afraid. Take the disciples for example, when they were going thru a storm, they were terrified! In our devotion for today, the angel reminds those shepherds who were keeping watch over their flock at night, not to be afraid.
 

1.What scared the Shepherds?(Luke 2:8,9)  – “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.” 

Have you ever seen an angel and bright lights like the shepherds did that holy night? Truthfully, most of us would have been shaken up as well.
 

2.What calmed their fears? (Luke 2:10) – “And the angel said unto them, Fear not.” 

The Word of God calms our fears. “Fear not.” Why? Because the one who wrote the Bible thru people has been through everything that we will go through, and then some. Therefore, we can trust Him.
 

3.Why did the angel say that they should not be afraid? (Luke 2:10,11) – “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” 

God sent His Son. God the Son left heaven’s glory to come down to this earth’s gory….
 
  • Heaven’s adoration to the earth’s abomination…
  • Heaven’s blessedness to the earth’s bareness…
  • Heaven’s coronation to the earth’s curses…
  • Heaven’s delights to the earth’s degradation…
  • Heaven’s hallelujahs to the earth’s hostility…
  • Heaven’s jubilation to the earth’s jeers…
  • Heaven’s majesty to the earth’s misery…
  • Heaven’s rejoicing to the earth’s reviling…
  • Heaven’s worship to the earth’s wrath…

Nothing this earth could afford to give our Lord would equate to what He left in Glory! He stooped way down!!

Why should we not be afraid?

Because of the……

“…..good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” (Luke 2:10)

Through Jesus Christ’s redeeming blood, man’s sins can be forgiven. That is GOOD NEWS!
 

Conclusion: Jesus is our Savior! …And He is Lord!! Jesus brings great JOY!! This CHRISTmas, when you are experiencing fear, remember in the middle of our troubles and trials, Jesus Christ can bring PEACE and SECURITY to our hearts.

Will you let Him be your PEACE through the power of the Holy Spirit?
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Christmas Eve in Heaven

Introduction: Have you ever imagined what it was like on CHRISTmas Eve in Heaven? Were the angels preparing? Did you ever think how God dispatched these disembodied spirits who would bring the Good News to the shepherds? Instead of JUDGMENT, there must have been JUBILATION! What a CELEBRATION!
 

1. A Body of Deity Was Prepared! (Heb. 10:5) – “Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me.

It had to be a human body in order to relate to HUMANITY. But at the same time, the body was wrapped in DIVINITY in order to be a part of the Godhead. This fleshly body would be clothed in immortality. After being crucified and buried, the body of Jesus Christ would be raised a spiritual body. John writes explaining that when Jesus comes again, then He will change our body into a body like His. This new body will be a glorified body (1 Cor. 15; 1 John 3). All of this operation was in place on CHRISTmas Eve.
 
2. Joseph and Mary Were on the Road Traveling to Their Destination (Luke 2:4–6) – “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. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.”
 
Prophesied by the prophet Micah some five hundred years before CHRISTmas Eve, which was the “little city of BETHLEHEM”! 
 
The exact PLACE, TIME, and EVENT were foretold by the prophets. The rejection and disappointment of finding “No Room” in the inn was all a part of God’s plan. But consider the deeper meaning. Unfortunately, many today do not have any “room” for Jesus Christ. Hopefully by now you have discovered the best thing that can happen this CHRISTMAS is to GIVE JESUS ROOM in your heart and your home. Have you? Only He can bring PEACE and real HAPPINESS!
 

3. An Angel Was Selected to Make the Announcement! (Luke 2:9–10) – “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. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.”

Other angels were dispatched to join in the proclamation! “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)
 
The ministry of angels is amazing! Throughout the existence of mankind, God has used angels to do His bidding. Even now, think about it—angels are all around us! You might have one sitting next to you!! Very likely.
 

Conclusion: What a glorious night! A Savior would be born. From eternity past, the Lord’s plan of redemption was being executed without a glitch, in spite of Satan’s attempts. Let JESUS be born in you. Give Him ROOM in your heart!

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


Wise Men Still Follow the STAR: A Star of Wonder

Introduction: Follow the right star. Choose the right star. Which one are you following? Keep reading to see your choices. Astrology is becoming more and more popular. However, it is forbidden in the Bible. “And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.” (Deut. 4:19)
 

Horoscopes, along with so-called innocent mediums or spirits, are guiding people astray, further from the God of creation. The Greek term for star is ἀστήρ, and it appears twenty-four times in the New Testament. Take a look at the reference to the kind of star in the Word of God and follow the God who made the stars. In fact, He has named and numbered all of them! (Psa. 147:4) “He telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by their names.”

So now take a journey with the WISE MEN as they followed the STAR to see JESUS.
 

Why FOLLOW the STAR from AFAR, instead get as CLOSE as you can? (Matt. 2:1–2) – “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.”

Perhaps these men, who were Persians, which saw the star in the east while traveling hundreds of miles, had read the Old Testament prophecy in Numbers. Some believe that Daniel instructed them.

“Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon.” (Dan. 2:48)

Many scholars believe that to be the case. Balaam, the compromising prophet—although he did not curse Israel but did cause them to sin against God—made this prophetic statement about the STAR, meaning JESUS: “I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.” (Num. 24:17)

By the way, there are all kinds of speculation about the “star.” Apparently, it was a supernatural light God placed in the sky to declare to the world a SAVIOR has been born, Christ the Lord. The angels announced His entrance to the shepherds: “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.” (Luke 2:10–11)

Miraculously, the specific place was Bethlehem, Judea, which had been prophesied approximately five hundred years prior to the birth of Jesus by Micah the prophet: “But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” (Micah 5:2)

Again, as prophesied, the Word of God was fulfilled. Now back to the journey of the WISE MEN.

Being led by the Lord contrary to Herod’s request, these men found the child and brought gifts to the NEW BORN KING. “And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” (Matt. 2:11)

Apparently, they arrived after the birth of Jesus Christ. In fact, the phrase “young child” indicates that it was some time after His birth. Have you ever wondered, “Why myrrh”? Remember, myrrh was used in preparing a dead body. JESUS was born to die! Thank God He died for our sins, but also arose from the dead! Besides that, He has promised to come again.

But also please notice about the WISE MEN: they who were “far away” moved “as close as they could” to be with JESUS! This Pastor believes that they were forever changed after being with JESUS!! Like you and me, they could not keep it a secret. They had to GO and TELL what they had SEEN and how they had been TOUCHED. Will you do that right now? Howbeit, you may have to come out of your “COMFORT ZONE—CURLED UP on the COUCH”! However, when we pursue JESUS CHRIST, He always makes it well worth it!

May it be said about us what was said about Peter and John: “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese


CHRIST Formed in You This Christmas

Introduction: I love how the apostle Paul, who was led by the Holy Spirit to write the letters to the Churches in the New Testament, poured his heart into them. One letter is Galatians. After describing the precise timing of the birth of JESUS CHRIST, then the apostle shared the Lord’s desire for both these believers as well as believers today. Listen carefully to what he is inspired to write.
 

1. The Right Place! (Gal. 4:4) – “But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law.”

It was the perfect time. God’s time. He’s on time! Never late!! We can depend on Him. Are you? Will you?
 

2. The Right Purpose! (Gal. 4:5–6) – “To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.”

Don’t you like that? Jesus redeems us! Then adopts us!! We need Him!!! His love, His acceptance, His grace, His power, His presence, etc.
 

3. The Right Plan! (Gal. 4:19) – “My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you.”

Check out the word “travail.” It is ὠδίνω. All mothers can relate to this word. It means pain, labor, or birth pangs, especially at childbirth. Put it together. Paul is saying that he was experiencing SPIRITUAL birth pains for the Christians in the Galatian Church. Perhaps many pastors, Sunday School teachers, or parents, grandparents, Christians have experienced the same. Can you relate?
 

Conclusion: Tell me. Do you have a burden for other Christians? Are you going to carry them, as it were, until they become mature in the Lord?

Lord bless you as you do!

Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese
 
 


Before the King Comes Again

Introduction: Whereas there are no SIGNS before the RAPTURE of the Church, there are definite SIGNS before JESUS CHRIST’S second coming. Not only are these SIGNS listed in the Olivet Discourse found in Matthew 24, but there are also additional SIGNS identified by Micah the prophet—written some five hundred years before the birth of the Messiah.

This brief devotion explores those SIGNS which will occur during the tribulation.
 

1. Rebuilding of the Temple! (Micah 4:1–2) – “But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills; and people shall flow unto it. And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.”

Did you notice the key words? “LAST DAYS.” By the way, The Temple Institute has already begun preparations for the next temple—articles, furniture, and priestly garments are ready. The Jewish people fully anticipate rebuilding the next temple, since there has not been one standing on the Temple Mount for approximately 2,000 years. Do not forget, Herod’s Temple was destroyed in A.D. 70. However, the Antichrist will inhabit the next temple, as described next.
 

2. Restoring of Peace in the Middle East! (Micah 4:3–5) – “And he shall judge among many people, and rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree; and none shall make them afraid: for the mouth of the LORD of hosts hath spoken it. For all people will walk every one in the name of his god, and we will walk in the name of the LORD our God for ever and ever.”

Eventually there WILL be peace in the Middle East—but not until the PRINCE OF PEACE sets up His Kingdom on earth. Before that, there will be a counterfeit peace plan between the Antichrist and the Jews.
 

3. Returning of Jews to Their Homeland! (Micah 4:6–7) – “In that day, saith the LORD, will I assemble her that halteth, and I will gather her that is driven out, and her that I have afflicted; And I will make her that halted a remnant, and her that was cast far off a strong nation: and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever.”

As of today, thousands of Jews are returning to their homeland. Some of this is likely due to the rise of antisemitism across the world. Still, their return is clearly prophesied in Scripture—thus this is a partial fulfillment of Ezekiel and Micah.
 

4. Resentment of Nations Against Jerusalem! (Micah 4:11–12) – “Now also many nations are gathered against thee, that say, Let her be defiled, and let our eye look upon Zion. But they know not the thoughts of the LORD, neither understand they his counsel: for he shall gather them as the sheaves into the floor.”

In keeping with Ezekiel’s prophecy, many nations will form a coalition and attack Israel from the north. However, the LORD will intervene—destroying five-sixths of the invading armies—thus preserving His chosen people. Do you know what that means? It means He will keep His promises to preserve His Church as well.
 
Conclusion: With all of these SIGNS seemingly on the horizon, that must mean the RAPTURE must be close!

Are YOU ready for the RAPTURE? Remember: after the RAPTURE of the Church, followed by seven years of tribulation, the KING will come again. But for now—stay focused. Keep serving, growing, loving, reaching, and looking.
 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese