Dear Ones,
Hope you are having a good day and keeping warm. We have lots of snow but Al got to men’s group this morning and I just got back from Aldi’s.  I baked cookies for Al and am doing more cleaning of cupboards. This afternoon we have Bible study and we are going to start the book of Ephesians when we finish I Peter today. 
Devotions from Judy’s heart
  How wonderful that our Heavenly Father did not choose to keep himself distant but wants a close relationship with each of us. He loves to hear our voice and to accompany us throughout our day…that means through even the most difficult things that come our way. He loves us unconditionally ever since we were in our mother’s womb. His desire is not so much about what we can do for Him, but simply being with Him.
As I was reflecting on my own relationship with Him, the song came to mind:
  “Just a closer walk with Thee
   Grant it, Lord if you please
   Daily walking close with Thee
   Let it be, dear Lord; Let it be.
   
   I am weak, but Thou are strong
   Jesus Keep me from all wrong
   I’ll be satisfied as long
   As I can walk, dear Lord, close with Thee.”
 The song goes on to say He is the One we can share all our burdens with. There is nothing too hard for Him that He will see us through. Sometimes He also sends other believers to encourage us and help us if we fall.  How wonderful that the Lord gives us close friends on our spiritual journeys that if one falls down the other is there to pick up. As it says in Eccl. 4:12 (NIV), “Though one may be over powered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not easily broken.”
   Let us remember this as we begin a New Year, that we don’t walk alone on our journey through life. We are not orphans.  We have a Heavenly Father who is as close as our very breath, and we may also have other pilgrims on the journey to accompany us. We are so very rich and blessed!
Challenge for today: Spend some alone time with your Heavenly Father and share your heart with Him.
Blessings on your day and prayers and love, Judy