I’m Not Sure What the Next Step Looks Like
Ruth Schwenk
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
“And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:15 (NIV)
“When the angels had left them and returned to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go straight to Bethlehem and see what has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.’ They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the manger.” Luke 2:15-16 (CSB)
Gracious God, on this fourth Sunday of Advent, we open our hearts in quiet expectation and love. As we draw near to the celebration of Christ’s birth, help us to welcome Him with faith and humility, like Mary did. Fill our homes and lives with Your peace, even as the world waits in longing. Let our love for others reflect the love You so freely give to us. We thank You for the gift of Immanuel — God with us — now and always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)
“After Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained the way of God to him more accurately.” Acts 18:26b (CSB)
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6 (NIV)
“The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble, And He knows those who take refuge in Him.” Nahum 1:7 (NASB)
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)
“The woman saw that the tree was good for food and delightful to look at, and that it was desirable for obtaining wisdom. So she took some of its fruit and ate it; she also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.” Genesis 3:6 (CSB)
Lord God, on this third Sunday of Advent, we rejoice in the nearness of Your coming. Fill our hearts with the joy that flows from knowing You and trusting in Your promises. Help us to carry that joy into the world, especially to those who are weary or burdened. May our lives reflect the light of Christ, shining with hope and compassion. We thank You for the gift of Your Son, our source of everlasting joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)
“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? …” Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)
“Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30 (ESV)
“After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil...