Publication date Dec 22, 2021

Listen for God’s joyful good news!

Publication date Dec 22, 2021

I had a unique surprise this morning that God had planned for me. I made a cup of coffee; heated a scrumptious croissant; and prepared to read my Bible, pray, and write down thoughts. This is my daily routine. You might call it a discipline that helps me to seek God, hear His thoughts, pray, worship, and write down a few things that come to my mind. I love these quiet times that I’ve committed to carve out of my busy schedule.

For me, prayer is not a rigid structure where I recite a series of phrases that I’ve learned from the saints of old. Although these prayers are very powerful, I prefer to talk to God as my good Father in my own words: “...the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him, we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” (Romans 8:15, NIV) To be honest with you, I don’t talk very much. I prefer to listen to Him, read His Word, worship, and process my life in these sacred moments.

friend, have you carved out sacred moments and places with the Lord that become channels of blessings and revelations? Sacred places and moments with His Father empowered Jesus to fulfill the mission that God gave Him: “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” (Luke 5:16, NIV) 

God wants to be real and present in your life, career, and family. This is why the angel announced, “‘Do not be afraid! Listen carefully, for I proclaim to you good news that brings great joy to all the people.’” (Luke 2:10, NET) I love this revelation...the angel is bringing good news. friend, I have no bad news for you—only good news! “‘Today your Savior is born in the city of David. He is Christ the Lord.’” (Luke 2:11, NET)

Another revelation the young boys heard was “listen carefully.” friend, would you please listen carefully to my words today? God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. Take time these few days leading up to Christmas to listen. Listen to the God who loves you, to your friends, and to your family. Listen to the words from the Bible that boldly reveal a better day ahead: “‘I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.’” (Luke 2:10, NIV)

Because you are His miracle, and I’m praying for you.

Paul Marc Goulet
Author