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Daily devotional

More of Reformed Perspective!

Search TAG: Nearer to God daily devotional

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Daily devotional

January 4 - New wine

“And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine will burst the wineskins and be spilled, and the wineskins will be ruined. But ne...
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Daily devotional

January 3 - New Year’s resolutions

“Again, a new commandment I write to you, which thing is true in Him and in you, because the darkness is passing away, and the true light is already...
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Daily devotional

January 2 - A sanctified start

“So it was, when the days of feasting had run their course, that Job would send and sanctify them, and he would rise early in the morning and offer ...
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Daily devotional

January 1 - Introduction to the new year!

For those of us who follow a calendar basically inherited from the ancient Romans, this month of January marks the start of the New Year. We Christian...
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Daily devotional

December 31 - The Bride and Spirit in sync

“The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come, let the one who desires take the water of life without price.” - Revelation 22:17  Scripture reading: Revelation 22:12-21 Here, at the end of the book, we are not in the vision any longer. The Spirit of God and the bride (not the Lamb’s wife) are together in their longing for the completion of the plan of God, where everything will be in submission to God, as Ephesians 1 talks about. In response to the vision, the body of believers, whom the Spirit has united in faith, longs for the coming of Jesus to make all things new, and to see the destruction of the wicked. We pray, “Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will be Done!” Let this full salvation come quickly. Amid our longing, we extend with John the invitation. Anyone who is thirsty for the abundant and free life, whoever longs to know forgiveness and mercy and righteousness and love, let him drink the water of life without price. Christ has paid the price, and all may come to Jesus to find life. Free salvation is offered. Just believe that Christ has accomplished justification for confessing sinners on the cross. As the Heidelberg Catechism says, “All I need to do is accept this gift of God with a believing heart.” Jesus makes everything new. He makes us new creations. This whole creation will be renewed to the glory of God. All who long for this, who work for this, take heart. Jesus is coming soon. We invite all sinners to repent, believe and enjoy the abundant and eternal life found in Jesus. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! Suggestions for prayer As you anticipate a new year, pray that your anticipation may, more importantly, be for the day of Christ’s appearing and the new creation! In this hope, purify yourself as He is pure (John 3:3) Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 30 - His reward is with him

“Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done.” - Revelation 22:12  Scripture reading: Revelation 22:6-21 Jesus is coming soon! Of course, we have been hearing that for almost 2000 years! But don’t let that make you dozy, for He will come on a day when you least expect. Any who continue to live in disobedience, who do not take holiness seriously, who live out of harmony and fellowship with God, refusing to live by faith, will suddenly find it too late for all the words of this prophecy will have come true. Then there will be no time to change. Today is a day of salvation! Jesus is coming, bringing His recompense (reward) with Him. Romans 2:6-11 says, He will render to each one according to his works, to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury … God shows no partiality. Those who wash and make themselves clean will enter the city. But those who do not wash, those who love and practice falsehood, will go into the lake of fire. Jesus sent His angel to testify about these things for the churches. The word “you” in v. 16 is plural, meaning this is for all believers to hear and take to heart. Be comforted, He is the Christ, the root and offspring of David, the bright and morning star. Are you comforted in the coming of Jesus to reward each one? Suggestions for prayer Pray for strength to be awake and watching for the day of the Lord. Rejoice together in the certainty of His return to bring us into the fullness of our inheritance! Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 29 - Keeping the vision

“And behold, I am coming soon. Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” - Revelation 22:7  Scripture reading: Revelation 22:6-21 At the beginning of the book of Revelation, we read, “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near” (Revelation 1:3). Nearing the end of the book we find the thought repeated. We are reminded that these words are trustworthy and true. God sent His angel to communicate to us what must soon take place. How crucial then that we take note of this book and its message. What does it mean to keep the words of the prophecy? It means first to believe, to take to heart. These words are intended to comfort and strengthen us in the days ahead. And if we believe this vision, it also means that we shall live our lives focused on Christ, Who is shown as the conquering, victorious Lord of lords and King of kings. It means then that we shun evil and all that opposes Christ, that we guard ourselves against the dragon, the beasts and Babylon. It means, as we read in verse 14, that we wash our robes, that we clothe ourselves in righteous living even as we have been clothed in the righteousness of Christ. As He forgives, we forgive; as He loves, we love; as He shows mercy, we show mercy. It means we live focused on already being the new society that we shall be in the new heavens and earth. Let us so live. Suggestions for prayer Ask God for His Spirit to enable you to keep the words of this book, that this vision may shape your vision, and that Christ may be your Lord, and His bride your concern. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 28 - His name on our foreheads

“They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads.” - Revelation 22:4  Scripture reading: Revelation 22:1-5 The blessedness of the paradise of God is also pictured in the words, “They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.” As finite creatures, we will know Him in glory as fully as we are able. We shall see Him! So we shall be like Him! His name will be on our foreheads, marked as His, as the priests in the Old Testament were, with ‘Holy to the Lord’ written on their foreheads. We will all be priests of God, serving Him. Clearly, we will not be living a life of leisure. We say that our Sundays are a foretaste of eternal rest. This is not because they are idle days, because our Sundays are busy! We spend our Sundays in preparation for worship, worshipping God, enjoying fellowship with God and His people and in doing good deeds. This equips us for living all week long for our God, resting from our sinful ways as we do the work we are called to do. Our life in glory will be filled with constant service and worship. We will have a constant source of nourishment. In glory there will be no night, nothing to hinder our fellowship with God and each other. We shall see clearly, and God will reveal Himself clearly. And we shall reign with God forever! As prophets, priests and kings we will serve and enjoy our God forever! To Him be the glory! Abraham lived looking forward to the city whose builder and maker was God. Do you? Suggestions for prayer Pray for the Spirit’s empowerment to live now in anticipation of the day when sin shall be no more, but we freely live for the praise and full enjoyment of God. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 27 - The trees of life

“Also, on either side of the river, the tree of life, with its twelve kinds of fruits, yielding its fruit each month. The leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” - Revelation 22:2b Scripture reading: Revelation 22:1-5 The picture of paradise continues with a picture of a tree of life on both sides of the river of life. We read of the tree of life in Genesis where Eden was at the headwaters of four great rivers. There Adam worked and lived in fellowship with God, glorifying Him in true knowledge, righteousness, and holiness. The tree was a sign and seal of God’s favour, which is the essence of life itself. Apart from God’s favour, there is death. So we see that since man sinned, death reigns along with increasing corruption and disease. Paradise restored gives access to the tree of life on both sides of the river. All restrictions from it are removed, and not only do we have the river that nourishes us, but we continually have the marvellous fruit of the tree of life and its leaves! In glory, we have healing from all our diseases. We have abundant life, indicated by 12 kinds of fruit every month! On either side of the river flowing down the center of the city, we have a picture of a park or paradise. It portrays a place of marvellous fellowship with God and each other. No more curse, for the price has been paid. God Himself will provide all we need for fellowship with Him and each other. God is enthroned in our midst! We will worship Him in our submission to His will, being and doing what we are made to be and do. Suggestions for prayer Pray for the day when there will be no more sin and its consequences. Pray for the day when nothing will inhibit our worship, our glorifying and enjoyment of God in all we are and do. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 26 - The river of life

“Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the city.” - Revelation 22:1-2a  Scripture reading: Revelation 22:1-5 The beauty of the church is her fellowship with God. The Lamb’s wife, for eternity, shall live with Him and He with her. The church is here described as a garden (paradise) inside the city, as it were, and we first see the River of Life. The river of the water of life flows from the throne of God and the Lamb, and down the middle of the great street of the city. A River of Life! Life is essentially found in fellowship with God, something we have on the merits of Christ’s life and work. Jesus said, “If any man thirst, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’ Now this He said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified” (John 7:37-39). In the paradise of God, a river flowing from the Throne symbolizes that the Triune God is our eternal source of life and strength. In Ezekiel 47, the river flowed from the temple, the presence of God into all the world to gather the elect. In glory, we will have pure fellowship with the Triune God because of the work of the Spirit poured out by the glorified Christ and the Father. One life, through the Spirit, fills all believers, uniting us in fellowship with the Triune God. Suggestions for prayer Ask God to fulfill His promises speedily and thank Him for His Spirit Who is a guarantee of our eternal inheritance found in Christ alone. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 25 - Christ, the light of the world

“And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives its light, and its lamp is the Lamb.” - Revelation 21:23 Scripture reading: Revelation 21:9-27 Today, we celebrate the incarnation of Christ as the Light of the world. In the new heavens and earth, where our dwelling with God will be perfect, we shall see clearly, for we shall see Christ, Who is the light of God, face to face, and He shall illumine all things. Now we see as through a glass darkly, but then we shall see clearly. No temple is in the city, because God dwells with His people and they with Him in perfect fellowship. There is no sun or moon because Christ Himself perfectly radiates God. The glory of God radiates everywhere, so the nations walk in His light. Haggai prophesied a day when God would shake the earth and the wealth of the nations would pour into the temple. Believers are the precious jewels that come pouring into this radiant fellowship with God. John sees the gates of the city open, and people from all nations entering. But no one and nothing evil shall be found within the gates, within the wall. Only the glory and honour of the nations, those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life, are found in this city. All impurity, falsehood and what is detestable will not be found in the city coming down out of heaven. If we have done shameful, impure things, do we have hope? Yes, there is forgiveness in Christ, Who took on flesh to bear our guilt. Everyone who trusts Him has their name written in the Lamb’s book of life. Suggestions for prayer Praise God for the birth of Jesus, Who took on flesh to take away our guilt so that we could be restored to perfect fellowship with God. Thank God for the purity we have in Jesus, and our eternal fellowship with our Triune God. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 24 - A view of the city #2

“And I saw no temple in the city, for its temple is the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb.” - Revelation 21:22  Scripture reading: Revelation 21:9-27 As we read the description of the city for the third time we certainly must see that its description is rather fluid. The wall is jasper, clear as crystal. Jasper is usually green, red, or blue, but here it is like a crystal, so pure. The city itself is made of gold, but pure gold, like clear glass. The wall has 12 foundations, and 12 angels at the 12 gates. The names of Israel’s tribes are on the gates, and the names of the apostles on the foundations. Each gate is a single pearl. The idea portrayed is that the church is a combination of Old and New Testament believers, perfectly united in faith in Christ. Ephesians 2 says, “Consequently you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” The church is portrayed as a city, not because she is made of buildings, but because she is a new society, a sharp contrast to Babylon. Babylon’s work, recreation, art and education was all for the glory of man, but the church exists for the glory of God. People come from all directions into this unity with Christ! So beautiful! Suggestions for prayer As you reflect on Christ’s first coming, remember that He came to earth to bring us to heaven. Pray for His second coming, when all the elect shall be gathered in and the church will be complete, one in Christ. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 23 - A view of the city #1

“ showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal.” - Revelation 21:10b-11  Scripture reading: Revelation 21:9-21 We see the city, the bride of the lamb, as it is coming down out of heaven from God. This is the Church that was built by Christ, whose inheritance is kept in heaven with Christ, and He shall bring it to completion on the glorious day. It is filled with the glory of God, a radiant, clear crystal. The church has been made pure and perfectly radiates the glory of God! This city is a perfect cube, 1380 miles in every direction. Traveling 55 miles per hour it would take 24 hours to cross the city, which stretches the approximate distance from Nags Head, NC, to Salina, Kansas, from Southern Maine to North Florida, and then as high. The church is immense, a number we cannot count. John is not seeing a literal city, but a symbol of the victorious church, the Lamb’s wife. The church does not live in the city, but the city is the church who dwells in perfect harmony with God. The beauty of the church here is our perfect fellowship with the Triune God. As Revelation 21:3 says, “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be His people, and God Himself shall be with them and be their God.” No more tears, death or pain. All will be new. On earth we are the bride, but we will be the lamb’s wife, perfectly reflecting the glory of our Transcendent God. Suggestions for prayer Praise God for His work in bringing His church to completion. Thank Jesus for coming in humility to take away our sins, so that we may look forward to the glory that shall be ours when He comes again. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 22 - The vision of the bride

“Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” - Revelation 21:9b  Scripture reading: Revelation 21:9-27 When the Queen of Sheba came to see Solomon, she found that the reality of his splendour was far beyond anything she had been told. What we are going to see about the bride, also called the New Jerusalem, is shown in ways we can understand, but when we get to heaven itself, we shall agree with the Queen of Sheba, saying that the half has not been told to us. There will be blessings such as no eye has seen, no ear has heard, nor man has ever imagined. The angel who shows John the vision is one who had a bowl of the seven last plagues. This connects us with what took place in Revelation 15-16, but here in contrast. There John had seen the vision of the great prostitute, who sought to allure us from Christ as if she had something more worthwhile to offer. But she led to death. Now we see the Lamb’s wife. Her glory is in sharp contrast to the prostitute’s doom. John was brought into the wilderness to see the prostitute, but here is brought to a high mountain. And as the Harlot was a picture of Babylon, the city of man in rebellion against God, the bride here is Jerusalem, the city where God dwells with His people, His church. We will see spiritual things in symbolic, physical ways, to help us understand the spiritual beauty and glory that awaits. This is crucial to understand as we look at the New Jerusalem. Suggestions for prayer Ask for the Spirit’s guidance as we begin to look at the New Jerusalem. This Christmas season we can be easily distracted by other things, but need help to focus on what is true and eternal. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 21 - Trustworthy and true words

“It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be his God and he will be my son.” - Revelation 21:6-7 Scripture reading: Revelation 21:1-8 The Apostle Peter says that the inheritance of believers is incorruptible, undefiled and unfading, kept in heaven for us (1 Peter 1:4). By God’s power believers are guarded through faith for a salvation that will be revealed in the last time. This is trustworthy and true. When Christ returns, we will have a place in the New Heavens and Earth, in the New Jerusalem, a place of eternal blessing with Jesus. This is so certain that in verse 6, we read that it is accomplished! These are the words of God, the One on the throne, Who is the beginning and the end, The Alpha and the Omega. Jesus is faithful and true. He was before all things, made all things, and all things exist for Him. In Him, all things have their purpose. He is the sovereign Lord through Whom and for Whom and unto Whom are all things. So what He says is reliable and trustworthy! Notice, however, what is trustworthy and true. Those who seek after God, who are faithful unto the end will enjoy this inheritance. But for unbelievers, those who live for themselves and this world as it is under the curse, their portion will be in the lake of fire and sulphur, that is, eternal death! Those who thirst for Christ and rest in peace in Him are freely given the water of eternal life. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied”(Matthew 5:6). Suggestions for prayer Thank God for His words revealed in this vision, for they are trustworthy and true. Pray for the day when you shall see Christ face to face and be like Him since you shall see Him as He is. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 20 - The new heavens and the new earth II

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.” - Revelation 21:1  Scripture reading: Revelation 21:1-8 What will the new heavens and earth be like? We are not told much. That there is no sea is a picture meaning no more turmoil of the nations. It will be a place of peace with God and each other. God will wipe away every tear from our eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying, for the old things have passed away (not to be remembered; Isaiah 65:17). Everything will be made new. The creation will be refined by fire, as it once was by water. Out of the great cleansing fire emerges a whole new earth, reshaped in righteousness and purity; the same earth, but gloriously reshaped with no evidence of the curse. Even our bodies will be renewed like Christ’s glorious body. Everything will be in harmony under Christ. Ephesians 1:9ff says He will, when the times will have reached their fulfillment “unite all things in Him, things in heaven and things on earth.” This echoes Colossians 1:19-20, “For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of the cross.” The sufferings of this present age are not worth comparing with the glory to be revealed in us. Of this glory 1 Corinthians 2:9 says, “No eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” What a glorious hope. Lord Jesus, come quickly! Suggestions for prayer Praise God for the hope we have in Christ. Pray for the Spirit to prepare us for the day of His glorious return. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 19 - The new heavens and the new earth I

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.” - Revelation 21:1  Scripture reading: Revelation 21:1-8 In the book of Genesis we see the devil’s deceit, but here in Revelation we see him thrown into the lake of burning sulphur. Genesis shows man hiding from God, while Revelation shows man restored to fellowship with God. “Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people and God himself will be with them and be their God.” Here the theme of Revelation comes to light. God has faithfully delivered the salvation He promised in the garden. Christ has crushed the serpent’s head. Christ triumphs and we are delivered from the curse and enter a renewed heavens and earth. Hallelujah! In Isaiah 65:17 God said, “Behold I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.” 2 Peter 3:13 says, “But according to his promise we are waiting for a new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells.” John here sees, in a vision, this happening. As Jesus says, “I make everything new.” What a blessing it will be. As Isaiah 66:22-23 says, “For as the new heavens and the new earth that I make shall remain before me … so shall your offspring and your name remain … all flesh shall come to worship before me, declares the Lord.” What a marvellous hope we have. All things shall be made new, and the former things (sins) shall not be remembered (Isaiah 65:15). Suggestions for prayer Pray that Jesus may come quickly. How we long for the day when sin shall be no more, and all things shall be made new, and we will have perfect fellowship with our Savior and Lord. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 18 - Day of judgement

“Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it … And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened … and the dead were judged by what was written in the books.” - Revelation 20:11, 12 Scripture reading: Revelation 20:11-15 Today we catch a glimpse of the day of judgment. We see the great throne and Him Who was seated on it. Creation is seen to flee from God’s presence and it is as if all people were left ‘alone’ before the Judge. All are here; even the sea, and death and hades give up the dead. No one misses judgment day! Then the books opened, including a book of life. All who have died were judged, along with all who are yet living, by what was written in the books, according to what they had done, which reflects what was in their hearts. We see Death itself and Hades thrown into the Lake of fire, along with everyone whose name was not written in the book of life. All who believe, whose sins are covered in the Lamb’s blood, whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life from before the foundation of the world (see chapter 13:8), are saved. Not because they are worthy, but because God graciously gave them faith and life eternal, clothing them in the righteousness of Christ, and they believed and followed Jesus, striving to live as He lived, loving and forgiving as He loved and forgave them. Jesus secured their salvation in His death, resurrection, and ascension. He loses none of those who are His. Believe this and rejoice in the certainty of Christ’s work! Don’t fear the final judgment: your Judge is your Redeemer. Only those who do not believe need fear Jesus’ coming. Suggestions for prayer Pray for the coming judgment and give thanks to God that we are, by God’s mercy, clothed in the righteousness of Christ and our names written in the Lamb’s book of life. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 17 - The destruction of Satan

“…the devil, who had deceived them, was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever...” - Revelation 20:10 Scripture reading: Revelation 20:7-10 At the end of the Thousand years (a symbolic term for the age of the Christ reigning in heaven) the devil will be released to deceive the nations again, and he will unite the world in opposition to Christ. We have already seen pictures of this great battle in which the beasts are destroyed along with the great city. “Gog and Magog” is an expression taken from Ezekiel 38-39 that refers to a great attack against the people of God. Little chance of survival, yet God’s people survived. This pictures, just before the final judgment, how the devil, when he will try once more to be victorious over the seed of the woman, will be defeated and thrown into the lake of burning sulphur where the beast and false prophet had been thrown. From this he will never escape, but suffer torment forever. Hallelujah! Christ is victorious. So here is another assurance of the defeat of Satan and our enemies. Nothing, no one will stop the Word of God from accomplishing what He says, what God has planned from before the foundation of the world. As we read in Ephesians 1, His purpose is to unite all things in Christ, things in heaven and on earth. And in Him, we who believe have the guarantee of the Spirit until we acquire possession of our inheritance, to the praise of God’s glory. Considering the growing opposition we see to our Lord and His church, we should take courage and rejoice. Our victory is certain. Suggestions for prayer Give God glory. Express your trust in His Word, His promises of our inheritance in the new heavens and earth, of an eternity of fellowship with our Triune God. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 16 - The victorious in Christ

“Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection.” - Revelation 20:6  Scripture reading: Revelation 20: 4-6 Now John sees thrones upon which are seated those who have been given authority to judge. Here are those who have died for Christ’s sake and all believers who died prior to the second coming. They are reigning. Early Christians expected a quick return of Christ, and when family and friends began dying, they began to wonder about the reality of the kingdom and the promises of Christ. John's vision shows them that they are alive with Christ and share in His victory and authority. They have come to life and reign with Him. Those in glory are one with us who yet live. The first resurrection includes all who confess Jesus and follow Him rather than serve the creation and the gods of this world. All who have died to sin with Christ share in His life, His resurrection, and since we are raised with Him, we also reign with Him in glory. Even on earth, we are the authority of the Word, which has the power to make alive forever those who are dead in sin. In Christ, as 1 John 2 says, we have been given victory over the evil one. Those who are not in Christ do not share this new life, but blessed and holy are those who know the joy of this first resurrection. Though we die, we still live, forever! Our Mediator reigns, and we with Him by faith while we yet live on earth, but by sight if we have ascended to glory. Suggestions for prayer Praise our Triune God for the marvellous blessing of everlasting life, for God has set us apart for His praise for all eternity. Pray for the day of complete and final victory. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 15 - The binding of Satan

“Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, holding in his hands the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain. And he seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years.” - Revelation 20:1  Scripture reading: Revelation 20:1-6 The book of Revelation is a book of comfort, assuring us of our victory in Christ. The book gives us a look behind the scenes of what takes place in our world to encourage us to be faithful. It doesn’t give us a timetable, but pictures to assure God's sovereignty and justice in all things. In 2 Corinthians 4:4, we read that “the god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ.” Satan at that time was free. He was the prince of the world who was deceiving the nations and often the covenant people. Thus the Old Testament period was one of darkness. God had promised a light would come to shine, revealing sin, but also destroying all darkness. Christ came into the world, as 1 John 3:8 says, to destroy the devil’s work. And in His ministry He said, upon hearing that the demons were subject to the gospel, “I saw Satan falling like lightning from heaven.” This was the beginning of the binding of Satan that will last until close to the end of time, when he will be loosed again. This is what John sees here in a vision. While at times it seems like Satan reigns supreme (some think he is loosed again!) remember that Christ is proclaimed and worshipped throughout the world, and is sovereign over the nations. Trust Him and be strong. Suggestions for prayer Thank God for assuring us that Jesus is victorious. Satan is subject to His authority, and those who believe share in the victory of Christ. Those who die in the Lord are reigning with Him! Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com. ...

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Daily devotional

December 14 - The great feast

“Then I saw an angel standing in the sun, and with a loud voice he called to all the birds that fly directly overhead, “Come, gather for the great supper of God.”” - Revelation 19:17  Scripture reading: Revelation 19:11-21 Christ is coming to meet all who are opposed to Him. He is going to tread the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. All His enemies have gathered to defeat Him and those with Him. But the angel calls the birds of heaven to come feast on the bodies of the mighty men, as well as all men, both slave and free, small and great. Any who follow the devil and his minions will be defeated! Thus we read in verse 20 that the beast was captured as well as the false prophet who had deceived so many. Here is the fulfillment of Isaiah 63:1-3: “Who is this who comes from Edom, in crimsoned garments. “It is I, speaking in righteousness, mighty to save.” Why is your apparel red…? “I have trodden the winepress alone … in my anger…; their lifeblood splattered on my garments…” Notice that He defeats His enemies by the sword of His mouth, His Word. His Word is not just ancient writings, but the very power of God unto salvation for all who believe, and death for His enemies. As II Thessalonians 2:8 says, “Then the lawless one will be revealed, whom the Lord Jesus will kill with the breath of his mouth.” We must hold fast to the word of Truth. God’s Word always accomplishes what He intends. We who ride with Him will share in the victory. The beast and the false prophet are destroyed. They are thrown into the lake of fire. Believe the Word. Suggestions for prayer Thank God for the assurance that all worldly power and those who proclaim lies will be destroyed, as well as those who serve them. Pray for the Spirit that we may faithfully follow Jesus, Whose word provides life for all who believe. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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December 13 - The rider on the white horse

“Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse! The one sitting on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he judges and makes war.” - Revelation 19:11 Scripture reading: Revelation 19:11-21 The groom stands in front of the church, anticipating the moment the doors of the church swing open and he sees his bride. And the bride anticipates seeing her groom waiting for her. We anticipate seeing Christ coming, but as heaven opens, we see Him dressed as a warrior, crowned, yet His robes dipped in blood. Behind Him is a whole army, but they are white and pure on their white horses. This is because Christ is the One Who fights our battles and defeats our enemies. He is the word of God that fells our enemies. He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. In the order of Revelation, the prostitute is destroyed. But before we see the final victory the Spirit reassures us of the destruction of the two beasts, the antichrist and the false prophet, and the dragon. He takes us back briefly to the last battle of Armageddon, when all the world is posed to destroy the church. We anticipate the wedding feast, but first must come a feast of a different sort! Jesus is coming in victorious judgment to make all things new. He does not come with vicious bloodlust, but with justice, as Psalm 96:13 says. No sin goes unpunished, no one will be judged too harshly. Notice His eyes, like a flame of fire. Nothing is hidden from Him. As Revelation 2:23 says, He “searches out mind and heart” and will “give to each as their works deserve.” Suggestions for prayer Ask God for patience as we long for the day of Christ’s appearance as the victorious Lord. Yet ask Him to come, defeat His enemies, establish His Kingdom, and take us home. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 12 - The marriage supper of the Lamb

“And the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.” And he said to me, “These are the true words of God.”” - Revelation 19:9 Scripture reading: Revelation 19:6-10 The word Hallelujah is often used in music and movies to portray ecstasy. But here in Revelation 19 our hearts soar with the fall of the prostitute and the victory of Jesus, and all believers join in the majestic Hallelujah chorus. Yet, there is further reason to praise God, for we have longed not only for the defeat of our enemies, but for everything to be in submission to God. “Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty reigns.” Further we rejoice “…and exult and give him the glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come and the Bride has made herself ready – it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure.” All because we are clothed in the righteousness of Christ! Oh, how blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb. Yes, the church is now the bride. From heaven He came and sought us to be His holy bride; with His own blood He bought us and for our life He died. In anticipation we ready ourselves. How blessed we are, for we do not share in the curse of the prostitute, but rather an eternity with our God. The angel reminds us that “these are the true words of God.” Let us not grow weary, but encourage each other as the day of the Lord draws near. Let us be faithful in our worship of God, for His promises are true and our union with Him is certain. Suggestions for prayer Pray for faith to believe the word, the testimony of our Lord and the spirit of prophecy. Pray for strength to live in anticipation, always ready for the wedding feast of the Lamb. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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Daily devotional

December 11 - Rejoicing in heaven

“Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God for his judgments are true and just, for he has judged the great prostitute who corrupted the earth with her immorality, and has avenged on her the blood of his saints.” - Revelation 19:1b-2 Scripture reading: Revelation 19:1-5  The word Hallelujah is used only four times in the New Testament, all in this chapter. It means, “Praise the Lord.” It is sung three times over the destruction of Babylon and once over the marriage feast! In response to the destruction of Babylon, John hears the roar of multitude shouting Hallelujah! This is the response of the Church Triumphant. They are rejoicing because of God’s salvation, power and justice. God promised salvation in the Garden and here at the end it comes – all praise and glory belongs to our God. “Hallelujah, the smoke from her goes up forever and ever.” This is perfectly just. God said that those who seek this life will lose it, while those who are willing to lose this life for Christ’s sake, will find it. God is being perfectly true to His promises. And never again shall rebellion and sin arise. Nothing on earth or in heaven shall again detract from God’s glory. Salvation will be complete and eternal. We see the 24 elders, representing the church of all ages, and the four living creatures worshipping God and saying, “Hallelujah!” And from the throne a voice cries out, “Praise God, all you his servants, you who fear him, small and great.” Here we are called to praise God, for sin shall be destroyed and we will live in a new heavens and earth. What a glorious day that will be when Jesus comes to judge the world in righteousness. Let us make ourselves pure for that day. Suggestions for prayer Give God praise and glory for His great plan of salvation that He is working out in time. Rev. Calvin J. Tuininga was born in Grand Rapids Michigan, but as a PK grew up in different places, mostly in Canada. He served in four churches: Burdett Alberta (CRC), Telkwa, B.C. (CRC), Trinity St. Catharines, Ontario (CRC/URC) and Covenant URC in Pantego, North Carolina. He retired in September 2019, and he and his wife presently reside in Washington, North Carolina. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com....

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