DAILY READING Micah 5:2-5a REFLECTION   God’s Plan for the Little Guy By Pam Mann What a prophecy Micah has for small-town Bethlehem! Don’t our hearts rejoice at how God uses the little guy to do great things? Don’t we all root for the underdog in fiction and in sports? Here is little Bethlehem, always overshadowed by mighty Jerusalem on the heights. Now at last, Bethlehem is called into the game. God loves using the little guy to lead in the unexpected moment of grace intervention. When life...

DAILY READING Isaiah 59:16-21 REFLECTION   Our Redeemer By Pam Mann As we read a rich passage like this one from Isaiah 59, it’s easy to understand why Isaiah is the Old Testament book that New Testament writers quoted most. Earlier in chapter 59, Isaiah lists many of the ways that humanity is lost in depravity. It’s grim. On our own, our situation is hopeless. No one among us can take us from death to life. God knows we need a Savior. No human effort can manage it. God Himself must reach out...

DAILY READING Isaiah 44:2-5 , 21-28 REFLECTION   Don't You Forget It By Pam Mann   In Isaiah 44:21, God speaks to Jacob (and to us): Remember these things, Jacob, for you, Israel, are my servant. I have made you; you are my servant; I will not forget you.   Even in the ancient world, though devoid of social media clammer, God instructs His chosen to challenge negative self-talk and to think what is true. Face reality. Don’t be afraid. God is who He says He is and you are who He says you are....