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LUKE 2:11-12  “Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you;  You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

During my devotional time this week as I journaled in my Yada notebook, I heard the Lord say to me to slow down and draw my attention to all the signs around me that remind me of who Christ is and why he came to live on this earth; born as a child fully human yet fully God.  There are so many things this time of year that can draw our attention away from Jesus to things that are intrinsically meaningless but often have a lure. Intent on putting a halt to the season rush and to finding peace, beauty and joy this Christmas, I set out one night to enjoy Christmas lights with my grandchildren.

As we drove by homes all decked out with Christmas lights, I was reminded that Christ is the light of the world that stepped down into the darkness, giving us hope. Christmas trees, topped with stars peering through windows brought to my attention the star of Bethlehem that led the shepherds and the Magi to the city of David where the new born babe laid peacefully wrapped in swaddling cloths, while other trees were topped with heavenly hosts of angels seemingly singing and praising God saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” The final touch, the ornaments on the tree, shiny, glistening and bright remind me of the beauty and majesty of our Lord, the King of Kings. And the gifts we lay under our trees have the last word, beautifully wrapped with pretty ribbons and bows waiting to be opened on Christmas morning; a vivid reminder of God’s greatest gift to mankind, the Christ child, Savior and Redeemer.

This Christmas let’s look to the manger to unwrap and discover the greatest gift of all amid all the hustle and bustle of the season; the Christ child, the fulfillment of God’s promise to us through the prophets to provide hope and a plan for the redemption of mankind.

Beverly Ristuccia, YadaFactor Coach

In the aftermath of recent hurricanes, countless individuals are facing devastating circumstances. Families have been separated, homes have been lost, and communities are working tirelessly to rebuild after nature’s wrath. During these difficult times, the story of Jesus calming the storm becomes profoundly relevant, reminding us of his constant presence and power over our lives. Even if you haven’t been directly affected by the hurricanes, you may still be navigating your own personal storm.

In Mark 4:35-41, we encounter a powerful story that mirrors our own experiences of fear and uncertainty. Jesus and his disciples set out to cross the Sea of Galilee, only to be caught in a violent storm. Despite the disciples’ expertise as fishermen, fear gripped them as the boat was overwhelmed by waves while Jesus remained peacefully asleep.

This scene vividly portrays life’s sudden upheavals. Just when everything seems routine, adversity strikes, and it feels like God might be distant or unaware of our struggles. The disciples’ desperate question to Jesus—“Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” (Mark 4:38 ESV)—echoes our own cries in times of crisis.

Jesus responds with extraordinary authority. He wakes up, rebukes the wind, and commands the sea to be calm, instantly restoring tranquility. This miraculous act reveals Jesus’ mastery over creation and his ability to bring order to chaos.

But Jesus does more than quell the storm; he challenges his disciples’ faith: “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” (Mark 4:40 ESV). This is an invitation to trust him completely, despite circumstances. The disciples, despite witnessing Jesus’ miracles, allowed fear to overshadow their faith in that critical moment.

This exchange prompts us to examine our own responses to life’s storms. Do we fixate on the turmoil or trust in Jesus’ presence with us? The disciples’ error wasn’t seeking Jesus but doubting his care amid adversity.

Revealing Where Our Trust Lies

Life’s storms reveal our true convictions. It’s easy to trust God in calm waters, but crises test our faith. Jesus’ calming of the storm teaches us that true peace isn’t the absence of adversity but the presence of Jesus himself. His authority surpasses any storm, offering security and peace regardless of circumstances.

What’s striking is Jesus’ calm amidst the storm, symbolizing his unwavering trust in God’s plan. In our trials, we’re called to emulate this restful posture—not denying reality but actively trusting in God’s sovereignty (Psalm 46:10).

Jesus’ command, “Peace! Be still!” not only silenced the storm but also reassured his disciples—and us. When we focus on Jesus, we find a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7), independent of external conditions.

Peace in Christ’s Presence

The story of Jesus calming the storm isn’t just a historical event but a promise for today. Amid life’s storms, Jesus is with us in the boat, seeing our fears and offering his peace. Whether he calms the external storm or the turmoil within, he invites us to trust in his presence.

Remember, you are never alone in life’s storms. The one who calms the seas walks with you. Trust in his presence, let his peace guard your heart, and find reassurance that he is in control.

One of YadaFactor’s core values is “Reorder Vertically.” But what does this mean, and how can it shape our daily lives? This powerful principle invites us to reorient our hearts and minds toward God, placing Him at the center of all we do. As believers, we are constantly pulled in different directions by the pressures of life—career demands, family obligations, personal desires, and societal expectations. Reordering vertically means bringing all of these things into submission to the will and purpose of God, seeking His guidance above all else.

In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” This verse serves as a foundation for understanding what it means to reorder vertically. It’s a call to align our priorities with God’s kingdom. Instead of chasing after the temporary, fleeting things of this world, Jesus instructs us to pursue God’s righteousness, trusting that He will provide for our needs.

The Power of Vertical Alignment

When we reorder vertically, we’re shifting our focus away from the horizontal—our earthly circumstances—and looking upward to God. This shift transforms the way we approach everything from decision-making to relationships. Proverbs 3:5-6 echoes this wisdom: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” It’s about surrendering our limited perspective to God’s greater plan, acknowledging that He knows better than we do.

This surrender, however, is not passive. It’s an active choice to live in constant communion with God, allowing Him to guide our steps. Reordering vertically is not a one-time action, but a daily commitment to recalibrate our lives to His will. We are called to trust that His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:9).

Reordering in the Face of Challenges

One of the most profound examples of reordering vertically comes from Jesus Himself. In the Garden of Gethsemane, facing immense suffering, He prayed, “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). Even in His deepest agony, Jesus chose to submit to the Father’s will, reordering His desires vertically in obedience to God’s greater plan.

In our own lives, there will be moments when reordering vertically requires us to make difficult choices, to surrender what we think is best for ourselves, and to trust God’s direction. It may mean saying no to a job offer that doesn’t align with God’s calling, or being still in a season of waiting when we’d rather rush ahead. But as Jesus showed, surrendering to God’s will leads to ultimate victory and fulfillment.

How to Reorder Vertically in Everyday Life

So, how do we practically live out this core value? Here are a few steps we can take:

1. Daily Prayer and Scripture Reading – Start your day by connecting with God. As Colossians 3:2 reminds us, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Consistent prayer and scripture reading help keep our focus on God’s kingdom rather than our earthly concerns.
2. Surrender in Small Decisions – Practice submitting even the smallest decisions to God. Ask Him to guide your actions throughout the day, whether in how you respond to a difficult situation or the priorities you set.
3. Reflect and Realign – At the end of each day, take a moment to reflect. Were your actions aligned with God’s will? Where might you need to reorder vertically? Invite God to realign your heart if it has drifted.
4. Community Accountability – Surround yourself with others who are also committed to seeking God first. Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Sharing your journey in a YadaFactor triad helps you stay accountable to this commitment. 

The Reward of Vertical Reordering

When we commit to reordering vertically, we experience peace and clarity that only comes from God. Philippians 4:6-7 promises, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

By placing our trust in Him and seeking His will first, we are freed from the burden of carrying our lives on our own shoulders. Reordering vertically is an invitation to live in deeper intimacy with God, experiencing His presence and guidance in every aspect of life. As we realign ourselves with His kingdom, we can trust that all other things will fall into their proper place.

Let’s take the call to reorder vertically seriously and watch how God transforms our lives for His glory.

In the journey of faith, we often find ourselves wrestling with circumstances that challenge our understanding and stretch our faith. It’s in these moments of tension—when life doesn’t go as planned, when decisions weigh heavily, and when the future seems uncertain—that one of YadaFactor’s core values, “Wrestle Truth-Fully,” becomes especially meaningful.

Wrestling with Circumstances

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. Whether it’s a difficult decision, a painful loss, or a season of uncertainty, we all face circumstances that leave us questioning, doubting, and searching for answers. Wrestling is a natural response to these challenges; it’s part of our human nature to grapple with what we don’t understand. But in this wrestling, we’re invited to go deeper—to engage with God’s truth in a way that transforms our hearts and minds.

Surrendering to God’s Truth

“Wrestle Truth-Fully” is not about wrestling in our own strength. It’s about bringing our struggles to God and allowing His truth to guide us. As we wrestle, we are called to surrender—our experiences, feelings, thoughts, and desires. This surrender isn’t about giving up or resigning to fate; rather, it’s a conscious decision to trust God’s perspective over our own. It’s in this surrender that we discover a greater depth of faith, where our wrestling leads to peace, and our questions are met with divine wisdom.

Yielding to His Truth

Yielding to God’s truth is an act of humility. It’s acknowledging that our understanding is limited, and His wisdom is infinite. As we wrestle truth-fully, we learn to let go of our need for control and our desire for answers that fit within our own logic. Instead, we embrace the mystery of faith, trusting that God’s truth will illuminate our path, even when the way forward seems unclear.

Transformation Through Wrestling

Wrestling truth-fully is not a passive experience; it’s active and transformative. It’s in wrestling that we are refined, our faith is deepened, and our relationship with God is strengthened. Each time we surrender our struggles to Him, we are reminded that His truth is a firm foundation—unshakeable and trustworthy. Through this process, we become more aligned with His will, more attuned to His voice, and more equipped to live out our faith in every aspect of our lives.

“Wrestle Truth-Fully” invites us into a deeper journey of faith—one where we don’t shy away from the challenges of life but face them head-on with God’s truth as our guide. As we wrestle and surrender, we find that His truth is not only the answer to our struggles but the very thing that transforms us in the process. Let us embrace this value with open hearts, trusting that as we yield to His truth, we will be led into a fuller, richer understanding of His love and purpose for our lives.

In the journey of faith, we often find ourselves wrestling with circumstances that challenge our understanding and stretch our faith. It’s in these moments of tension—when life doesn’t go as planned, when decisions weigh heavily, and when the future seems uncertain—that one of YadaFactor’s core values, “Wrestle Truth-Fully,” becomes especially meaningful.

We are excited to share YadaFactor’s 2023 Annual Report. 

Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we have reached individuals in 35 states and 12 countries, helping them understand that it is possible to hear God personally through reading, writing, and sharing scripture. We hope this report encourages you to pray and financially support our ministry so that we can offer our online course at no charge. It’s our vision that everyone knows and hears God. We can’t do this without you. Thank you!

Click here to read.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Christine Brevik, Executive Director

christine@yadafactor.com

Donate to YadaFactor 

For just $13 per month or a one-time gift of $149, you can sponsor someone to receive our 7-week course and personal discipleship coaching.

At YadaFactor, one of our core values is “Listening Fiercely.” This is more than just a catchy phrase; it encapsulates our mission to train believers to unlock the depths of knowing God through the key of listening. In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, developing the art of truly listening to God is vital for deepening our relationship with Him.

The Bible is full of passages that emphasize the importance of listening to God. One of the most profound examples comes from the story of young Samuel. In 1 Samuel 3:10, we read, “The Lord came and stood there, calling as at the other times, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ Then Samuel said, ‘Speak, for your servant is listening.'” Samuel’s willingness to listen set the stage for his entire ministry and demonstrated that God still speaks to those who are ready to hear Him.

Jesus Himself emphasized the importance of listening. In John 10:27, He said, “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” This metaphor of sheep recognizing the shepherd’s voice highlights the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers. Listening fiercely to His voice is fundamental to following Him.

But what does it mean to listen fiercely? For us at YadaFactor it means intentionally setting aside time to be still and quiet before God, actively seeking His voice through prayer, reading Scripture, and journaling. It involves being attentive to the nudges and promptings of the Holy Spirit throughout our day. It is a posture of humility and readiness to respond to what we hear.

In a busy and often chaotic world, we can easily become desensitized to God’s voice. Yet, He speaks to us in various ways—through His Word, in the quietness of our hearts, and even through circumstances and other people. Psalm 46:10 encourages us, “Be still, and know that I am God.” This stillness is not merely the absence of noise but a focused and intentional listening that draws us closer to God.

We believe that God still speaks today, and He desires to communicate with each of us personally. By listening fiercely, we unlock the depths of knowing Him in ways we never thought possible. As we listen, we discover His heart, His will, and His plans for our lives. This transforms not only our relationship with God but also how we live out our faith in the world.

The YadaFactor Experience Course is designed to help believers develop this skill of listening fiercely. Participants are guided through practices that help them tune in to God’s voice and discern His guidance for their lives. Through journaling, reflective reading, and sharing insights with others, participants learn to recognize and respond to God’s voice more consistently.

If you’d like to join us for our next YadaFactor Experience course, click here for more information. Registration will open soon for our newly updated fall course with our beautiful new Guidebook. Stay tuned!  

Since its inception in 2018, the YadaFactor Experience Course has reached individuals in 35 states and 12 countries, with Zambia being a recent addition. Years ago, YadaFactor Co-Founder Pegi Richardson had the privilege of meeting a couple from Zambia named Joseph and Alice. Joseph’s dedication to personal growth shone through when he participated in the YFE men’s course in 2019, despite having to wake up in the middle of the night due to the time difference. His commitment remains strong as he continues to practice Yada independently. 

This spring, Alice felt a prompting from the Holy Spirit to enroll in the course, and she was joined by her friends and ministry leaders Sally and Veronica. Inspired by their experience, these women are now eager to introduce YadaFactor into their churches and ministries. Their coach, Sherri Twiggs, was deeply moved by their enthusiasm for hearing God’s voice and now dreams of traveling to Zambia to help them share YadaFactor in their community.  Please keep this initiative in your prayers!

Summer is a season of warmth, relaxation, and a slower pace of life. It’s a time when many of us seek to refresh our minds and spirits. What better way to do this than by diving into the rich, timeless wisdom of the Bible? Whether you’re lounging by the beach, camping in the mountains, or enjoying a staycation at home, summer offers a unique opportunity to deepen your faith and understanding through dedicated Bible reading. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your summer Bible reading journey.

1. Set a Summer Reading Plan

Just as we plan our vacations, setting a Bible reading plan can help us stay on track and ensure a fulfilling spiritual journey. 

Here are a few ideas:

• Thematic Reading: Focus on themes like hope, love, faith, or forgiveness. This can provide fresh perspectives on familiar scriptures and highlight how different books of the Bible address the same theme.
• Chronological Reading: Read the Bible in the order events occurred to gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical context and narrative flow.
• Focus on Psalms and Proverbs: The books of Psalms and Proverbs are particularly enriching for summer reading. Psalms offer prayers and hymns that reflect every aspect of the human experience, providing comfort and inspiration. Proverbs, on the other hand, offer practical wisdom and guidance for everyday living. These books can be read in small, manageable sections, making them perfect for daily reflection.

2. Create a Sacred Space

Finding a quiet, comfortable space for your Bible reading can enhance your experience. Whether it’s a cozy corner of your home, a peaceful spot in your garden, or a scenic view at a local park, having a dedicated space can help you focus and reflect. Consider adding elements that inspire tranquility, like a comfortable chair, a soft blanket, or even a small plant.

3. Incorporate Creative Approaches

Make your Bible reading time more engaging by incorporating creative activities:

• Artistic Expression: If you’re artistically inclined, try Bible journaling with illustrations, calligraphy, or coloring. Many find that visual expression can open new avenues of understanding and worship.
• Music and Meditation: Listen to worship music or instrumental hymns to set a contemplative mood. Pairing your reading with meditation on specific verses can also enhance your spiritual experience.

4. Join us for the YadaFactor Experience 

There are still a few spots open for our summer course. The YadaFactor Experience online course is a unique approach to Bible reading and reflection that helps you hear God’s voice, know His heart, and respond to His leading in your life. The Hebrew word “yada” means “to know” intimately and personally. This 7-week course is designed to help you develop a closer, more personal relationship with God through Bible reading, journaling, and small group discussions.

Click here to enroll for FREE thanks to our generous donors. 

5. Stay Consistent

While summer schedules can be unpredictable, strive to maintain consistency in your Bible reading. Even setting aside just 10-15 minutes a day can make a significant difference in your spiritual growth. Use reminders or alarms if necessary to build a daily habit. You’ll be so glad you did! 

In a world filled with noise and distractions, finding moments of stillness to hear the voice of God can be a challenge. Yet, for centuries, people of faith have turned to one powerful source for guidance, comfort, and revelation—the Word of God. In the pages of Scripture, we encounter the living voice of God speaking directly to our hearts and minds.

The Living Word

The Bible is not merely a collection of ancient texts; it is the living Word of God, relevant and applicable to our lives today. As Hebrews 4:12 reminds us, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Through the Scriptures, God speaks to us, illuminating our understanding, convicting our hearts, and guiding our paths. Each word, verse, and passage is infused with divine wisdom and truth, inviting us into a deeper relationship with our Creator.

Listening with Expectant Hearts

To hear God’s voice through his Word requires a posture of humility, openness, and expectancy. We approach the Bible not as a mere intellectual exercise but as a sacred encounter with the living God. As we open its pages, we do so with the anticipation that God will speak to us personally, addressing our needs, concerns, and questions.

In Psalm 119:18, the psalmist prays, “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” This prayer reflects the attitude of a heart hungry for divine revelation, eager to uncover the hidden treasures within Scripture. When we approach God’s Word with a similar mindset, we position ourselves to hear his voice in fresh and profound ways.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

Central to the process of hearing God’s voice through his word is the work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised his disciples in John 16:13, “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.”

The Holy Spirit, who inspired the writing of Scripture, also illuminates its meaning and application to our lives. As we read, study, and meditate on God’s Word, we rely on the Spirit’s guidance to reveal its deeper truths and insights. Through his gentle prompting, the Spirit speaks to our hearts, convicting us of sin, comforting us in times of trial, and empowering us for service.

Practical Steps for Hearing God’s Voice 

Hearing God’s voice through his word is not reserved for a select few but is available to all who seek him with sincerity and faith. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, we discover a rich tapestry of divine revelation, guiding us in every aspect of our lives.

May we approach the Bible with reverence and expectation, knowing that within its pages, we encounter the voice of our loving Heavenly Father, speaking words of truth, love, and grace into our lives.

Want to go deeper in your understanding of God’s Word?

Check out our online course here.

Blog by Emily Reed, YadaFactor Marketing Assistant

Love is a central theme throughout the Bible, and one of the most profound and transformative forms of love described is agape love. Agape love, often referred to as unconditional love or divine love, is a selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love that seeks the well-being and best interests of others regardless of circumstances or personal gain. This type of love is exemplified throughout the scriptures, providing timeless lessons and guidance for how we can embody and express agape love in our lives today.

The Love of God:

The ultimate example of agape love is demonstrated by God Himself. John 3:16 beautifully captures this essence: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” God’s love for humanity is unconditional and sacrificial, demonstrated through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the redemption of humanity. This divine love serves as the foundation for all expressions of agape love.

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37):

The parable of the Good Samaritan provides a powerful illustration of agape love in action. Despite societal and cultural differences, the Samaritan showed compassion and selflessness towards a wounded stranger, caring for his needs without expecting anything in return. This story challenges us to love our neighbors, regardless of their background or circumstances, and to actively seek opportunities to show kindness and compassion.

Jesus’ Example of Love (John 13:1-17):

In John 13, Jesus exemplifies agape love through his humble act of washing the disciples’ feet. This act of service was not only a demonstration of love but also a powerful lesson in humility and selflessness. Jesus emphasized the importance of serving others and instructed his disciples to follow his example, showing that true greatness lies in serving others with love and humility.

The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32):

The parable of the Prodigal Son highlights the depth and breadth of agape love, both in the father’s unconditional love for his wayward son and the son’s eventual repentance and return. Despite the son’s rebellion and poor choices, the father eagerly welcomes him back with open arms, demonstrating forgiveness, compassion, and unconditional love. This story reminds us of the boundless nature of agape love and the power of reconciliation and forgiveness.

Love Your Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48):

In Matthew 5, Jesus challenges his followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. This radical teaching reflects the transformative power of agape love, which transcends personal feelings and extends even to those who may oppose or mistreat us. By loving our enemies, we emulate the unconditional love of God and demonstrate the transformative power of love in overcoming hostility and division.

The concept of agape love is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Bible, offering timeless wisdom and guidance for how we can embody and express love in its purest form. By studying biblical examples of agape love, we learn valuable lessons about selflessness, compassion, forgiveness, and humility. 

As followers of Christ, may we strive to cultivate agape love in our hearts and lives, seeking to love others unconditionally and reflect the boundless love of God to a world in need.

Written by Emily Reed, YadaFactor Marketing Asst.