jlee

Advent 2025

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 02:48:32 GMT

Are you ready to bring more peace, joy, and hope to your December?

As we get closer to the Christmas season, I’d like to take a little time to share about Advent in case there might be some questions. Honestly, I didn’t really know much about it until six years ago. At that time December was approaching and I wanted a way to keep the focus of the month on Jesus. That’s when the Lord prompted me to write 25 devotions on the names of Jesus to help keep myself and others focused on Jesus during the season that celebrates his birth. It was at this time that I began to understand the true purpose of Advent, a time to turn our focus to Jesus .

In this post I’ll be sharing what Advent is, why it should be celebrated, and how to make it meaningful. So let’s get started.

What is Advent?

Advent is the four-week season leading up to Christmas. The word Advent means the coming or arrival of Jesus into the world. It speaks of both the first coming of Jesus, his birth in Bethlehem, and the future coming of Jesus when he returns.

Celebrating Advent is simply being intentional in taking time to prepare your heart for the birth of Jesus and the hope of his return. Without this intention, it’s easy for December to become busy, rushed, and distracted from what truly matters. The same is true about the future return of Jesus. If you are not intentional in expecting and waiting for his return you may find yourself preoccupied and unprepared when he arrives. “Watch, keep alert, and pray; for you don’t know when the time is.” Mark‬ ‭13‬:‭33‬

“True Christians are men of expectation. They live looking for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” — J.C. Ryle

Why celebrating Advent matters?

It centers your heart on Jesus.
It helps you slow down the busy season.
It builds appreciation for the birth of Jesus.
It creates meaningful family traditions.
It reminds you of the hope of his future return.

How is Advent celebrated?

There are many ways. But here are a few:

Lighting a candle each week in December along with reading a short passage of Scripture or a prayer.

Reading an Advent devotional.

Adding small amounts of quiet into your routine to read Scripture and pray.

Choosing to simplify the season by limiting commitments to make room for Jesus.

Who can participate?

Anyone is welcome to participate.

How to participate in Advent?

As I mentioned above, there are many different ways to participate in Advent. My personal favorite is by meditating on the names of Jesus. Meditating on who Jesus is helps draw your heart to worship and prepares you for His coming.

If you don’t have a way to focus on Jesus this season, please download my devotional . It is free and easy to save to your phone or computer. It’s a great way to help you slow down, prepare your heart, and reflect on who Jesus is each day of December. Simply read one devotion a day starting December 1st. They will only take five minutes of your day. In these five minutes you will learn a name of Jesus, what the name means and how it applies to you personally. There is also a daily prayer. I know you will be so blessed spending this time each day with the Lord.

With all this said, Advent invites you into a slower, more reflective December that prepares your heart for the incredible truth of Christmas; God came down from heaven to draw near to you. May this beautiful truth draw you closer to him this season.

If you'd like a sample of one of these devotions, just click here .

Also make sure to follow my Cherished Word blog, Facebook page where I will post the devotions daily.

One last thing. In my previous blog post I mentioned I created a set of 25 Advent cards with the names of Jesus that accompany the devotions. If you are interested in this card set you can find out more about it here . They are a beautiful visual reminder to display in your home. You can view a picture of the cards below.

I pray you will join me in preparing your heart for Jesus.

Much peace, joy and hope to you.

♥️ Jenny

... We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.

‭‭Titus‬ ‭2‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NLT‬‬

A Short and Sweet Update

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:30:30 GMT

It’s been a while since I’ve written, so it’s time for a little update. First, a personal update. This December is the four year mark of my life completely shattering. Many of you know that I lost my marriage and my ministry. The road to recovery has been extremely painful, but also mixed with sweetness. I definitely could write a book sharing how the Lord has been bringing me through but for now I will share a few of my sweet joys.

My number one joy is the daily presence of Jesus in my life. He continues to show me His faithfulness and never ending love. I'm thankful for the healing, peace and hope I have in Him. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” Psalms‬ ‭107‬:‭1‬

Another sweet joy: my grandchildren. They bring sunshine and smiles to my heart. They are so full of energy and entertainment. We have so much fun together. I added two pictures of them below. At Grandma's house, they love playdough and playing the piano.

The next joy I have to share with you is my job teaching piano lessons. I absolutely love what I do. I teach all ages, in person and also online. If you happen to be interested in information about taking lessons, please contact me and I’ll reach out to you.

Okay, now for my big announcement. December is almost here, and I will be sharing my Names of Jesus Advent devotions again on Facebook. Last year, I took a break from posting them, but this year I really want to share them again. I want to ask if you will please join me in setting time aside in December to focus on the beautiful names of Jesus. I’ve written 25 devotions that are free to download . It's a wonderful way to reflect and worship Jesus in the upcoming season. I pray that you'll join me.

This year, I also have a limited number of sets of Advent cards with each of the 25 names of Jesus. They are pictured below. They are 4 x 4 inch, professionally printed cards designed to accompany the devotions. If you are interested in purchasing a set, let me know. I have received many encouraging comments about both the devotions and the cards. Recently, a mother bought several card sets to give as Christmas gifts to her adult children. I also had a women’s ministry purchase them as early Christmas gifts for all the women of the church. This blessed me so much. Again, I only have a limited quantity of these cards. They will only be for sale for the next couple of weeks. Please contact me to purchase them. I don't have anything set up for purchasing them online, so we'll have to do it the old-fashioned way. They are $12 each, plus shipping. Just send me an email here , and I'll get your info and ship them out to you. Or, if you live locally, we can arrange a time for you to pick them up, and there won't be a shipping charge.

I pray you are all well and that you, like me, find sweetness in the midst of the trials and challenges of life.

That’s it for now. I will write more soon.

♥️ Jenny

April Scriptures

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:56:58 GMT

Understanding God's Sufficiency

Today I'm sharing scriptures on fulfillment. These scriptures will give you a deeper understanding of God's sufficiency for your heart and life. If you're like me, there are times you feel discontent. You easily believe the lies that whisper, "If you just had that one thing in your life you could be happy". But, God made our souls to be filled with Him. Nothing in this world will satisfy our longings. God's word points us to Jesus, the Bread of life. He is our true satisfaction.

Take a minute to think about the lies you're believing and then replace the lies with the truths below.

10 Verses and Truths about God's Sufficiency

God's Power is Enough

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”

Ephesians 3:20 NLT

God's Presence is Enough

“This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.””

Joshua 1:9 NLT

God's Provision is Enough

“And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.”

Philippians 4:19 NLT

God's Grace is Enough

“Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”

2 Corinthians 12:9 NLT

God's Goodness is Enough

“Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the Lord will lack no good thing.”

Psalms 34:10 NLT

God's Sacrifice is Enough

“But our High Priest offered himself to God as a single sacrifice for sins, good for all time. Then he sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand. There he waits until his enemies are humbled and made a footstool under his feet. For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy.”

Hebrews 10:12-14 NLT

God's Blessings are Enough

“All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.”

Ephesians 1:3 NLT

God's Love is Enough

“And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.”

Ephesians 3:18 NLT

God's Strength is Enough

“My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever.”

Psalms 73:26 NLT

God's Forgiveness is Enough

“He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.”

Ephesians 1:7

Dear Lord, Thank You so much for reminding me of Your truth. Forgive me for looking to other things to complete me and satisfy me. Help me to draw close to You by meditating on Your Word. And help me to trust, in a greater way, that You are more than enough for me. Today, I declare that You are all I need. In Jesus' name, amen.

Take time to write these verses down on index cards or paper. Or, copy and paste these verses and print them. I would love for you to join me in meditating on one verse a day, these next 10 days, leading up to Easter.

All Glory to God, our all in all!

If you would like some helpful ways to meditate on scripture click, here .

I'm praying for you.

- Jenny

February Scriptures

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 22:23:30 GMT

A deep understanding of God's love

I'm sharing these verses about God's love with you today, not only because Friday is Valentine's Day, but because God's love is the foundation of your faith. His love is what you build your life upon. His love is what provides stability and security to you when life is good or when the world around you falls apart.

The most familiar passage that speaks of love in the Bible is, 1 Corinthians 13. This chapter describes what true spiritual love looks like. "Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud...". These verses continue to give a beautiful understanding of perfect love. Though we often look at this passage to help with understanding God's love, there are so many other verses throughout the Bible that teach us about His love.

I pray that the following scriptures will give you a greater understanding of the depth of the love God has for you. And that you will experience more and more of His perfect love in your heart and life.

Scriptures that teach about God's love:

1 Chronicles 16:34

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

God's love for you never ends.

Romans 5:8

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

God's love for you is not only spoken about but is demonstrated.

Ephesians 5:2

“Live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

God's love for you is sacrificial.

Romans 8:37-39

“In all these things, we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death or life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

His love for you is constant. Nothing can separate you from God's love.

Isaiah 54:10

“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,’ says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”

God's love is unfailing. His love never fails you.

Ephesians 3:19

“May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.”

God's love is too great to fully understand but can be experienced by you.

Psalm 63:3

“Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you.” ‭‭

God's love is a love that is better than life itself.

Psalm 117:2

“For his unfailing love for us is powerful; the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. Praise the Lord!”

‭‭

God's love is powerful.

1 John 4:18

“Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.”

God's love toward you is perfect and a love that expels all fear.

1 John 3:1

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!”‭‭

God's lavishes His love on you and calls you His child.

Zephaniah 3:17

“The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.”

God's love is calming.

Psalms 136:23

“Give thanks to the God of heaven. His faithful love endures forever.”

God's love is a faithful love that remains true forever.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank you for being a God of love. Thank you that your love is greater than I can understand but at the same time you allow me to experience your love in so many ways. Let the truth of your love be known in greater and greater ways in my heart and life. Strengthen and secure me, so my heart will not be shaken. Thank you for your constant, faithful love that never fails. Grow my faith in you today. In Jesus name, amen.

Happy Valentine's Day. You are dearly loved.

-Jenny

‭‭

January Scripture Challenge

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Sat, 04 Jan 2025 22:55:42 GMT

20 Ways to Meditate on Scripture

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 01:55:43 GMT

Scripture challenge starts soon!

In my last blog I invited you to join a scripture challenge. If you missed the last blog and would like to read more about the challenge, click here "Life update and November Challenge".

I'm so encouraged by how many said they would like to join this scripture meditation challenge!

As a reminder, this challenge will begin on Monday, November 11th. Anyone can join. We will meditate on a different Bible verse each day for 12 days. The scriptures all have to do with your mind and thoughts. You can read more about why I'm doing this and why I chose the specific topic here. There are free scripture cards already made with these verses. Download them here , or you can write the verses on paper or index cards, with the following verses. Also below are the dates that correspond with the scripture we will be meditating on each day.

November

11th- Romans 8:5

12th- 2 Timothy 1:7

13th- Isaiah 26:3

14th- Ephesians 4:22-24

15th- Luke 12:29-31

16th- Mark 12:30

17th- Lamentations 3:21-23

18th- 1 Corinthians 2:16

19th- 2 Corinthians 10:5

20th- Romans 12:2

21st- Philippians 4:8

22nd- Colossians 3:1-2

I will be posting these verses, and encouragement for you, throughout the challenge on my Cherished Word Facebook page . If you have Facebook make sure to follow this page so you can see my posts.

Below, I have written 20 helpful ways to meditate on Scripture . I really encourage you to at least use the first three ways listed every day during the challenge. They are in bold lettering below. Then, if you like, choose several of the other ways throughout the challenge.

You can also download this list of 20 ways to meditate on scripture .

20 Ways to Meditate on Scripture

1. Choose specific times of the day to read a verse. For example, make a commitment to read it first thing in the morning, at lunchtime, and before bed.

2. Ask God to reveal the truth of His word to your heart.

3. Read the verse very slowly and think about what it is saying.

4. Place a scripture card in a place where you will see it often, such as on your desk, mirror, or refrigerator.

5. Choose to meditate on a verse instead of reaching for your phone to scroll through social media or engage in something else that uses up your time.

6. Write out the verses on index cards in a version you like.

7. Write out the verses in a different version of the Bible than you usually use.

8. Write scriptures on post-it notes and stick them where you will see them often.

9. Write the verse down several times.

10. Highlight each verse in your Bible.

11. Share a verse with someone God puts on your heart. When we share with others, it blesses them, but it also helps us retain it in our own hearts.

12. Memorize the verse or a small part of the verse.

13. Say the verse out loud each day.

14. Turn the verse into a prayer.

15. Turn the verse into a praise.

16. Think about how the verse applies to your personal life.

17. Journal about the verse.

18. Use an app such as Blue Letter Bible to do a word study on a particular word that stands out to you.

19. Read the verse in context by reading the surrounding verses in your Bible.

20. Listen to the verse in its context by listening to an audio Bible.

Download this list here.

I hope this list inspires you. I'm looking forward to meditating on God's word with you. I pray you're looking forward to doing this together too!

"I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word." Psalm 119:15-16 ESV

-Jenny

Life Update and November Challenge

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Sat, 02 Nov 2024 22:16:19 GMT

Seasons are changing

By far, the last three years have been the most devastating years of my life. I’ve battled deep sorrow, anger, confusion, shame, intense anxiety, and suffered loss upon loss. Never did I foresee deception, unfaithfulness, and the death of my marriage. This all came as a great shock to me. There’s been a lot to work through.

It’s now one year post divorce and the update I have to share is that I’m doing so much better and healing well. I’m finally starting to live again, laugh again, and enjoy God’s blessings. Even though it’s the season of fall, my heart is feeling springtime. Newness is all around me- grand-babies, new job, new church, new friendships, new desire to hope and dream again, and new understanding of God’s never-ending love and faithfulness to me.

Of course, there are still challenges, like getting used to the holidays. They're different now and I’m having to adjust to my new normal. As the holidays quickly approach one of my prayer needs is for my mind and thoughts to stay fixed on the Lord. God reminded me that I made scripture cards to meditate on for just this. I felt him prompt me to go to my website, download and print them, and start meditating on them. So I have, and God is using these scriptures to keep me grounded in Him.

I’d like to ask if you would like to join me in meditating on these same scriptures? I’m calling this the November scripture challenge. Your situation may or may not look like mine, but maybe like me, you are needing help with your thoughts as we prepare for the upcoming holidays. Or maybe the holidays are not your concern and there's something else causing unrest. I trust God has led you to read this today because you are in need of this- you are in need of God’s word filling your heart and mind, and keeping you grounded in Him, so that you can flourish in this season.

There is a blessing in meditating on scripture. Psalm chapter 1 says, those who meditate on God’s word will flourish like trees along a river. The word flourish has the idea of spiritually thriving and prospering.

“Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Psalms‬ ‭1‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬

The dates of this challenge will be, November 11-23, a little over a week away. There are twelve verses to meditate on, all having to do with your mind and thoughts. You will meditate on one a day for 12 days. I will also be posting one scripture a day on my Cherished Word Facebook page, along with some encouragement for you. Be sure to follow this Facebook page so you will see my posts.

To prepare, download the free scripture cards here . And if you'd like, start meditating on them right away. Let God’s word saturate and satiate your heart.

Hope you will join me!

A huge thank you to all of you who have been a support to me these last few years with all I’ve been going through. I appreciate you all so much. God bless you my friends.❤️

Jenny

Knowing God As Your Friend, Part 2

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Thu, 23 May 2024 00:53:19 GMT

Your devotion to God matters.

In my last blog, I shared how God graciously befriends you and listed several ways you can personally know Him as your friend. A friend who welcomes you into His presence to have face to face fellowship with Him. Click here if you missed it and would like to read some of the beautiful privileges you have in a friendship with Jesus.

In part two, I’d like to focus on what the Bible teaches about being a friend to God. It’s important to understand His friendship with you, but it’s equally important to know your part in being a friend to Him. Your devotion to Him matters.

The book of James tells us that the Spirit who is in us yearns jealously. God yearns for you to have a friendship with Him. He is jealous for you (James 4:5).

Jealousy is most often thought of as a negative character trait. But the scriptures teach that there is a righteous type of jealousy. In fact, in Exodus 34, Jealous is one of God’s names.

You must worship no other gods, for the LORD, whose very name is Jealous , is a God who is jealous about his relationship with you. Exodus 34:14 (NLT)

The friendship God desires is compared with a friendship between a husband and wife, an intimate and personal relationship. One that requires devotion and commitment .

One of the strongest passages about being a friend to God is in James. These verses are very clear that to have a friendship with Him, you cannot be a friend to the world. In fact, friendship with the world makes one an enemy of God. The chapter goes as far to say those who love the things of the world are adulterers.

Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you think that the Scripture says in vain, “The Spirit who dwells in us yearns jealously”? James 4:4-5 (NKJV)

The book of 1 John explains this even further.

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever. 1 John 2:15-17 (NLT)

This passage is very clear that not only is God calling you to not crave and participate in what the world offers but to be devoted to Him and actively commit to doing what pleases Him.

The way to be a friend to God is not only to turn away from loving the things of the world, but to put into practice those things that are pleasing to Him.

Ways to please God

The following are several ways you can be pleasing to God and deepen your friendship with Him:

Faith. There is an initial putting your faith in God and receiving salvation, and then there is the day to day faith you need as you live for Him. Trusting God through the good and bad times both honors Him and pleases Him.

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)

Trust in Him at all times... Psalm 62a (NKJV)

Love. A true friendship with God requires whole-hearted love and devotion.

A friend loves at all times... Proverbs 17:17 (NKJV)

Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment..." Matthew 22:37-38 (NKJV)

He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me...John 14:21 (NKJV)

Prayer. Talk to Him. He already knows what's on your heart and what you're going through. Yet He desires to hear your voice, connect with you, and lighten the heaviness you carry. Talking to Him pleases Him.

Trust in Him... Pour out your heart before Him... Psalm 62:8

The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but he delights in the prayers of the upright. Proverbs 15:8 (NLT)

Knowledge. To fully please Him you must continue to seek to know Him. You will never arrive at a place where you completely know and understand Jesus this side of heaven. Keep increasing in the knowledge of Him by spending time at a Bible-teaching church and in your own study of the scriptures.

But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ... 2 Peter 3:18 (NKJV)

...that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, ...increasing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:10 (NKJV)

Mindset. Having a mind controlled by the Spirit pleases God. Take your thoughts captive and replace your human mindset with the things of the Spirit. Your obedience in this area blesses God and keeps you near to His heart.

Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.Colossians 3:2 (NKJV)

Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. Romans 8:5-6 (NLT)

...bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ... 2 Corinthians 10:5 (NKJV)

Holiness. Guard your heart and be aware of temptations. Submitting to God and resisting the devil honors God, and helps you draw close to Him.

But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:15:16 (ESV)

Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts...James 4:7-8 (NKJV)

But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts. Romans 13:14 (NKJV)

Share. Looking out for the needs of others and finding ways to meet those needs pleases God.

And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:15-16 (NLT)

At the moment I have all I need—and more! I am generously supplied with the gifts you sent me... They are a sweet-smelling sacrifice that is acceptable and pleasing to God. Philippians 4:18 (NLT)

Praise. A heart full of praise and thanksgiving is beautiful to God.

Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. Hebrews 13:15 (NKJV)

Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous! For praise from the upright is beautiful. Psalm 31:1 (NKJV)

Questions to reflect on

In what ways are you deepening your friendship with God?

How can you put into practice today, one or more of the actions above?

My prayer for you

I pray after reading this that your heart is stirred to bless God and be a good friend to Him. I also pray that you will feel His presence, and His smile on you as you deepen your friendship with Him.

Faith. Love. Prayer. Knowledge. Mindset. Holiness. Share. Praise. These are all possible in your life by God's Spirit living within you. May your life be empowered to live in a way that delights the heart of God.

Click here for a free Bible study that will help you to grow in your relationship with Jesus, and guide you in loving Him with all your heart, soul and mind.

Knowing God As Your Friend

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 21:41:14 GMT

He calls you friend.

No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you. John 15:15

In the Bible, Jesus describes a beautiful relationship He has with those who believe in Him. He calls this relationship a friendship. Do you ever stop to think about what it means to have a friendship with God?

There are not many times in the Old Testament where God calls someone His friend. Moses was one of the few that had the privilege of having a friendship with God. Exodus 33:11 says, "...the LORD spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend".

In the New Testament, God calls all those who follow Him, friends. What a change! In the Old Testament, being in God's presence, much of the time, resulted in death. And now we are welcomed into God's presence to have face to face fellowship with Him.

Let's think about this for another minute...face to face.

When you are face to face with a friend, you can talk about things that you talk to no one else about. You laugh together, cry together, do things together. What an incredible privilege God gives us.

The difference is the death and resurrection of Jesus. Because of Jesus, we now have the Spirit of God living inside of us. It's the Spirit who awakens our hearts to a friendship with God. Thank you Jesus!

As we get closer to celebrating Resurrection Sunday this month, spend time thanking the Lord for all that He accomplished for you. Not only forgiveness of all your sins and new life, but a beautiful friendship.

Privileges of being a friend of God

Below is a deeper look at some of the wonderful blessings you can be grateful for:

His constant presence. He is always by your side. Our friends on this earth will come and go but you can be sure that God is always with you. He will never leave you.

The Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. John 14:7

…I will never leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews 13:5

His knowledge and understanding of your life. At times you may feel like no one understands. It’s especially difficult when you feel those you’re closest to don’t understand. But God understands. In fact, He knows you better than you know yourself.

O Lord, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off. You comprehend my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways. Psalm 139:1-3

Communication with Him. Prayer is a beautiful part of your relationship with God. You can talk to Him about everything. You can pour out your heart to Him and know that He is always listening.

Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know. Jeremiah 33:3

Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Psalm 62:8

Revelation from Him. God gives revelation to those who take time to spend with Him. He has many deeper truths to reveal to you as you spend time seeking Him in His word and prayer.

And He said to them, “To you it has been given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables…Mark 4:11

And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples. Mark 4:33

His Faithfulness. God will always keep His promises. He will never lie to you or be unfaithful to you. He is a loyal Friend.

He is the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, A God of truth and without injustice; Righteous and upright is He. Psalm 32:4

His love. As a friend of God you get to share in the goodness of His unconditional love, comfort and care.

Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. John 15:13

Just as a father has compassion on his children, So the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. For He Himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust. Psalm 103:13-14

His Power. God has power for your life. Through His Spirit you are victorious and able to live a life that pleases Him and a life that’s a blessing to others.

He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Isaiah 40:29

But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. Acts 1:8

There are so many other benefits of friendship with God. The list could be endless. My prayer is that these will encourage your heart to be aware of God's closeness and His goodness to you.

And remember, like any good friendship, the more time spent together the better the relationship becomes. So invest in your relationship with Jesus, because He is graciously invested in you.

A Prayer For You

Addition to Advent Devotions

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Sun, 24 Dec 2023 23:38:33 GMT

Merry Christmas!

Thank you all so much for joining me this month in reading the Names of Jesus Advent Devotions. It’s been a true blessing to share them. Remembering who God is and putting our trust in Him brings so much peace and hope. I know many of you, like me, are going through devastating times. I pray these devotions have been a blessing to your heart and that your faith has been strengthened this Christmas season.

On the blog today, I’m sharing an additional Advent devotion. Three years ago at this time God put it on my heart to write these devotions and share one devotion a day on social media. Honestly, I didn’t know what I was getting into when I said yes to this assignment. I wrote each one the night before. The first week went really well. Each night before bed I would spend a few hours researching, praying, and typing. By the next morning, I had a devotion ready to post. It didn’t take long to realize this wasn’t going to be easy, especially during the busiest month of the year. So, to make a long story short, by the time it was Christmas Eve I didn’t have the time or energy to write another devotion for Christmas day. You might have noticed, if you’ve read these in previous years, there isn’t a devotion for day 25. I’m happy to say I had time to write this year. So, below you will find Advent Day 25.

I pray more of the love, peace and hope of Jesus will fill your heart this Christmas and New Year.

♥️ Jenny

Day 25

Jesus is “The Word”

In the very beginning of the Old Testament we find how powerful God’s words are. Genesis chapter one says that each day, for six days, God spoke creation into existence. We also find out very quickly, in the story of Adam and Eve, that God’s words are to be listened to and obeyed. This is always for our protection and our good. Throughout the Bible God continues to speak His heart to mankind to draw them to Himself. In the Old Testament much of the time God used prophets to share His message. But many times His people would not listen and they would suffer the consequences. In the New Testament we learn that God sent His Son into the world to reveal His message of grace and truth to all. Many have listened and received His grace. Sadly and tragically many have not.

When Jesus is transfigured on the mountain, God speaks from heaven and says,

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” Matthew 17:5

Hebrews chapter one says, “Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…”

Theologian W.H. Griffith Thomas says “Christ is God’s thought made audible and His will made intelligible. It is for us to listen and learn, because the message is for all men, at all times, and for all things.”

May this old Maranatha worship song be our prayer for all this Christmas.

Open our eyes Lord

We want to see Jesus

To reach out and touch Him

And say that we love Him

Open our ears Lord

And Help us to listen

Open our eyes Lord

We want to see Jesus

“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth… For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.” John 1:14,16

Advent Devotions and Free Gift

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 23:55:54 GMT

Making December Meaningful

First, I'd like to say thank you to everyone who reached out to me this month. Your words and kindness have been healing to my heart. I didn’t expect to receive all the messages you sent. You made me feel well supported and loved. You have truly blessed my heart ❤️

For the last three years, in the month of December, I have shared the names of Jesus advent devotions. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I’d be sharing them again this year. Four years in a row felt like a little too much. Plus, as most of you know, I’ve been going through the most difficult season of my life. But before I completely dismissed them for this year, I decided to pray first. Not much later after praying, I asked a friend if she thought I should share again and the answer she gave back was an encouraging “Yes!”.

If you think it’s easy for me to share these since I’ve already written them and all I need to do is re-post, it's not. It’s hard every single time. I don’t write and share things because I think I’m great at it. I actually think the exact opposite. Writing was my worst subject in school. To this day I still thank my mom for basically writing most of my school papers ��. Writing is a struggle for me. I write in weakness. And I share in weakness, especially this year. I need reminders, just as much as you or anyone, of the names of Jesus. Reminders that His name gives knowledge and understanding of who He is. He is a loving and powerful God, who is perfect in every way. A God who has a good plan for His children, who desires to have a friendship with us and spend all eternity with us.

LORD, there is no one like you! For you are great, and your name is full of power. Jeremiah 10:6 (NLT)

I really believe God wants to do a new and special work in your heart and mine as we set our hearts to praise His name this next month. But there is also something else I believe the Lord desires to do.

In my Bible time this week the Lord reminded me of the urgency to share about Him. Do you sense this urgency too? Our world is not getting better every day, it’s getting worse. This shouldn’t be a surprise to us. The Bible teaches that things will worsen until Jesus returns to set up His Kingdom. Most of us would be extremely overjoyed if Jesus came back today...we are ready! But tragically a majority of the world is not ready. This should stir our hearts to share Good News! This is our calling as believers, to be those who share.

So with all this said I want to encourage you in the following ways:

1. Make a commitment to read these devotions daily, whether on your own or with your family.

2. Pray each daily prayer from your heart.

3. Let your mind dwell on His name throughout the day.

4. Share them. Let’s share Jesus with the world this season! Social media makes this easy for us with the “share” button��. So, whether you share Jesus by word of mouth or by pressing the share button, let’s be those who share the wonderful name of Jesus!

I will be posting daily starting December 1st on my Facebook page Cherished Word and on Instagram @cherishedword

Or you can download all the devotions to keep on your phone or computer, or to print here .

Also, I have a free gift for you (pictured down below). I have made a printable version of the names of Jesus cards so that you can print on paper or cardstock and cut them out. That way you can display them in your kitchen, living room, on your desk, or anywhere you will see them most.

If you have any questions, let me know. It's a joy to have you join me. I pray this will be a great blessing to you this season! ♥️ Jenny

God is in the darkest valley

jennynlee4@gmail.com (Jenny Lee) — Mon, 30 Oct 2023 19:08:09 GMT

This is so hard to share. I never thought I’d be sharing a post like this.

Friends, I can’t pretend like everything‘s been okay. Social media can make it seem that everything is great when it's not. There's no easy way to say what I have to say, so here it goes...My life has been in turmoil.

I have been living in the darkest place these last two years. I have experienced devastation words can’t describe. Betrayal by my best friend and love of my life hurts to the deepest place of the heart. There have been days when I just wanted Jesus to take me home. That’s the best way for me to describe this deep hurt. I desperately wanted to be in a place without tears, pain, and suffering.

A divorce is never something I imagined, but that’s what it’s come to. This is my reality, I am divorced. I have not been able to say anything until now because I have been mentally and emotionally drained. Shock, anger, confusion, and sadness have been overwhelming me.

I am doing so much better now as I’m learning to rest in the Lord, and trust that He is with me in this place. He is holding me and sustaining me. I’m healing and moving forward, and trusting that He will provide day by day for all my needs.

A lot is changing, but my main goal in life remains the same, to share God‘s word and tell of the faithful love of Jesus. I look forward to sharing with you more of the goodness and mercy He has shown me during this time.

If like me, you also are walking through a dark time and Jesus lives in your heart, I want to encourage you that you have never been alone, not one single moment. He is with you, my friend, and He is always faithful. If you have never asked Jesus to come into your heart, take time to invite Him in. He will be a constant source of love and comfort. And He will give you hope to continue on.

"I will never leave you nor forsake you". So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear...". Hebrews 13:5-6

If you are seeing this through my Facebook link, please don’t comment on the post, as what I’ve shared is very sensitive. I would love to hear from you but please direct message me on Facebook or send an email by scrolling down and pressing contact at the bottom of this page.

I really appreciate your love, support and prayers for both me and my family in this time.

❤️Jenny

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me... Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:4,6

How to have meaningful devotion times

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 22:31:00 GMT

How are your devotion times? However this looks for you, whether they are already meaningful, or you desire to experience more heartfelt devotions, I pray this will encourage you.

Today, I'd like to share 5 helpful ways to make your devotion time full of purpose.

5 ways to have meaningful devotion times:

#1 Choose: You must make a choice to spend time with the Lord. If you don't purpose in your heart to spend time with Him your day will fill up with other activities. Choose to dedicate part of your day to spend alone, just the two of you.

You will also need to choose a passage of scripture or a devotional book that uses plenty of scripture. I go back and forth with both of these. Preferably, I like using devotionals that others have already taken time to prepare. This helps my times be more focused. There are many devotional books available, with many topics. Be prayerful about choosing one that will be best for your life at the time.

#2 Prepare: Before you meet with the Lord take a few minutes to prepare your heart. If your heart is distracted, in a hurry or not in the right place, you can miss what God is desiring to do.

One way to prepare is to recognize who you are meeting with. You are meeting with a King; And not only a king but the King of kings. At times you might not feel worthy to come into His presence. Remember that you come to Him wearing a robe of righteousness that Jesus purchased for you at the cross. You can come boldly to His throne of grace at all times (Hebrews 4:16).

#3 Pray: You have a King that listens and responds to the cry of your heart. Come to Him with a desire to see His will accomplished in your life and the lives of those around you. Wow, and how amazing to think your prayers can affect, not only those around you, but the whole world.

#4 Read: God's word is alive (Hebrews 4:12)! When you open the Bible be ready to be transformed.

Billy Graham wrote: "Reading God's word and meditating in its truth will have a purifying effect upon your mind and heart, and will be demonstrated in your life. Let nothing take the place of this daily privilege."

#5 Believe: Believing what God's word says is more than intellectual. The word must go from your mind to your heart. This will happen as you slow down and take time to meditate on God's word during the day. How important it is to think it through, seeking how it can be applied to your daily life. Application is the key.

I pray that these 5 ways are helpful to you and you are encouraged to spend daily time with your King. There is nothing better than being in His presence.

If you need something to help keep you focused and to help you apply what you learn, download this free devotion page.

Also, if you need a Bible study that will help draw you close to the Lord, make sure to click here to download my free Bible study "Loving God". This s tudy is a great resource to help you begin having a meaningful devotion time.

7 Verses to help you let go and trust God

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 22:31:00 GMT

Releasing control of our lives into God’s hands isn’t always easy. Let’s face it- we like to be the ones in control.

Here are 7 reasons to let go today and let God have complete control of your life:

1. Psalm 32:8 (NLT)

The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”

2. Exodus 15:13 (NIV)

In Your unfailing love You will lead the people You have redeemed. In Your strength You will guide them to Your holy dwelling.

3. Psalm 73:24 (NLT)

You guide me with Your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny.

4. Isaiah 58:11 (NLT)

The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.

5. Psalm 23:4 (NLT)

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.

6. Psalm 18:30 (NIV)

As for God, His way is perfect: The LORD’s word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him.

7. Psalm 18:32 (NLT)

God arms me with strength, and He makes my way perfect.

Prayer- Lord, I declare Your truth today! You are perfect and Yo ur ways are perfect! Please give me a heart that allows You to be in the lead. Have Your perfect way in me and my life. Even when things are difficult, I thank you that You never leave me and that You are here to comfort and protect me. Thank you that I can trust You to strengthen me and to lead me along the best pathway for my life. In Jesus name, Amen.

The blessings you have in Christ

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 22:31:00 GMT

Physical blessings are wonderful but spiritual blessings are far better. Our physical blessings are temporal but our spiritual blessings are secure. They are ours for eternity.

The book of Ephesians tells us that in Christ you have been blessed with every blessing in the heavenly places. The word “every” shows God’s incredible goodness to you. Below are just some of the spiritual blessings (from Ephesians chapters 1 and 2) that you have through Jesus Christ.

You are loved.

You are chosen.

You are a part of God’s family.

You are redeemed.

You are forgiven.

You have peace with God.

You are holy and without blame.

You are sealed with the Holy Spirit.

You have been created for good works that He already prepared for you.

You have His great power working in you.

You have an inheritance.

You have hope.

Charles Spurgeon says this all so well:

“Our thanks are due to God for all temporal blessings; they are more than we deserve. But our thanks ought to go to God in thunders of hallelujahs for spiritual blessings. A new heart is better than a new coat. To feed on Christ is better than to have the best earthly food. To be an heir of God is better than being the heir of the greatest nobleman. To have God for our portion is blessed, infinitely more blessed than to own broad acres of land. God hath blessed us with spiritual blessings. These are the rarest, the richest, the most enduring of all blessings; they are priceless in value.”

jlee

Advent 2025

Are you ready to bring more peace, joy, and hope to your December?

A Short and Sweet Update

April Scriptures

Understanding God's Sufficiency

10 Verses and Truths about God's Sufficiency

February Scriptures

A deep understanding of God's love

Scriptures that teach about God's love:

January Scripture Challenge

20 Ways to Meditate on Scripture

Scripture challenge starts soon!

20 Ways to Meditate on Scripture

Life Update and November Challenge

Seasons are changing

Knowing God As Your Friend, Part 2

Your devotion to God matters.

Knowing God As Your Friend

He calls you friend.

A Prayer For You

Addition to Advent Devotions

Merry Christmas!

Advent Devotions and Free Gift

Making December Meaningful

God is in the darkest valley

This is so hard to share. I never thought I’d be sharing a post like this.

How to have meaningful devotion times

How are your devotion times? However this looks for you, whether they are already meaningful, or you desire to experience more heartfelt devotions, I pray this will encourage you.

Today, I'd like to share 5 helpful ways to make your devotion time full of purpose.

5 ways to have meaningful devotion times:

#1 Choose: You must make a choice to spend time with the Lord. If you don't purpose in your heart to spend time with Him your day will fill up with other activities. Choose to dedicate part of your day to spend alone, just the two of you.

#2 Prepare: Before you meet with the Lord take a few minutes to prepare your heart. If your heart is distracted, in a hurry or not in the right place, you can miss what God is desiring to do.

#3 Pray: You have a King that listens and responds to the cry of your heart. Come to Him with a desire to see His will accomplished in your life and the lives of those around you. Wow, and how amazing to think your prayers can affect, not only those around you, but the whole world.

#4 Read: God's word is alive (Hebrews 4:12)! When you open the Bible be ready to be transformed.

Billy Graham wrote: "Reading God's word and meditating in its truth will have a purifying effect upon your mind and heart, and will be demonstrated in your life. Let nothing take the place of this daily privilege."

I pray that these 5 ways are helpful to you and you are encouraged to spend daily time with your King. There is nothing better than being in His presence.

If you need something to help keep you focused and to help you apply what you learn, download this free devotion page.

Also, if you need a Bible study that will help draw you close to the Lord, make sure to click here to download my free Bible study "Loving God". This s tudy is a great resource to help you begin having a meaningful devotion time.

7 Verses to help you let go and trust God

Releasing control of our lives into God’s hands isn’t always easy. Let’s face it- we like to be the ones in control.

Here are 7 reasons to let go today and let God have complete control of your life:

1. Psalm 32:8 (NLT)

The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.”

2. Exodus 15:13 (NIV)

In Your unfailing love You will lead the people You have redeemed. In Your strength You will guide them to Your holy dwelling.

3. Psalm 73:24 (NLT)

You guide me with Your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny.

4. Isaiah 58:11 (NLT)

The LORD will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.

5. Psalm 23:4 (NLT)

Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and Your staff protect and comfort me.

6. Psalm 18:30 (NIV)

As for God, His way is perfect: The LORD’s word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him.

7. Psalm 18:32 (NLT)

God arms me with strength, and He makes my way perfect.

The blessings you have in Christ

Physical blessings are wonderful but spiritual blessings are far better. Our physical blessings are temporal but our spiritual blessings are secure. They are ours for eternity.

The book of Ephesians tells us that in Christ you have been blessed with every blessing in the heavenly places. The word “every” shows God’s incredible goodness to you. Below are just some of the spiritual blessings (from Ephesians chapters 1 and 2) that you have through Jesus Christ.

You are loved.

You are chosen.

You are a part of God’s family.

You are redeemed.

You are forgiven.

You have peace with God.

You are holy and without blame.

You are sealed with the Holy Spirit.

You have been created for good works that He already prepared for you.

You have His great power working in you.

You have an inheritance.

You have hope.

Charles Spurgeon says this all so well:

So many blessings, so many reasons to be thankful. May your heart be full and your day blessed as you think about all your blessings in Christ.