As we begin our journey into this new year of 2009, we will find twists and turns to our paths that we do not expect today. None of us know what the future holds or with whom we will cross paths. Our steps may be side-by-side with others who have differing view points.

When we are confronted with others who believe differently from what the Bible teaches, so much sounds good, it sounds spiritual, and it even sounds reasonable ““ what is the basis on which we are to believe? What way is the “˜right”™ way?

One of the questions that we can ask is, does it agree with what God”™s word says?

How can anyone know God”™s truth? How can anyone find the way that leads to God Himself? Many are searching and seeking spirituality today. And followers of Christ, those who have received Jesus into their hearts and lives, those who obey God”™s word, have the answer. We can point to the Holy Bible, the word of God, and say this is the truth; this tells how to find God and life, peace and love.

Zacharias spoke at the time of his son”™s circumcision; it is his prophecy concerning Messiah and his son”™s future work. In this devotional today we will consider two verses that speak of Messiah.

(NASB) Luke 1:70 “As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets from of old ““

71 Salvation from our enemies,

And from the hand of all who hate us;”

God has given His promises from the beginning”¦He has promised to save His people (that would be all of Christ”™s followers) from our enemies, from those who hate us. We are not to be surprised, we have been forewarned.

In this world today, there are those who truly hate believers in Christ, and have vowed to kill them. And they are using terrorist methods to do just that. There are others who hate the living God and say He does not exist.

Christians do have enemies. But Christians also have a Savior. Does this mean we will not have problems, trials and tribulations? No!

(NIV) 1 Peter 4:12-19 “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the suffering of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. 17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18And,

“˜If it is hard for the righteous to be saved,

what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”™

19 So then, those who suffer according to God”™s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”

God”™s word is true. It can be counted on in a world of uncertainty and fear. God does not change”¦but people can be changed from being sinners into children of God. Are you one who has been changed? Blessings! Who does God want you to pray for to be changed and blessed? Should we say, “˜Father, begin with me”™?

Where will you go for strengthening and encouragement as a Christian today?