Author Archives: David Nuottila

Behold

Posted on January 10, 2018 by David Nuottila

John 1:29-34 John’s account of Jesus’ baptism is much different than that of the synoptic gospels. Each of those writers records Jesus coming to the Jordan to be baptized. They tell of the Holy Spirit’s descent in the form of … Continue reading →

Posted in Evangelism | Comments Off on Behold

Temptation

Posted on January 9, 2018 by David Nuottila

Mark 1:9-15 Immediately following his baptism, Jesus was driven by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to face temptation, however, Mark doesn’t provide details. In Mark, we don’t read how Satan suggested Jesus bring forth bread from stone. There is … Continue reading →

Posted in Forgiveness | Comments Off on Temptation

Living Water

Posted on January 8, 2018 by David Nuottila

Exodus 17:1-7; Colossians 1:15-23; John 7:37-52 While on a mission trip to the city of Boma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I was made acutely aware of the importance of having plenty of fresh drinking water. The air is … Continue reading →

Posted in Faith | Comments Off on Living Water

Beloved

Posted on January 7, 2018 by David Nuottila

Mark 1:1-11 “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” How many children long to hear such words from their father? These words of love and acceptance are words each child craves, yet many never hear them. … Continue reading →

Posted in Baptism | Comments Off on Beloved

Arise, Shine

Posted on January 6, 2018 by David Nuottila

Isaiah 60:1-9, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 It wasn’t through loud trumpet blasts, nor were messengers dispatched from far off lands. The magi received the good news through simple means; by the light of a star. They followed the light in … Continue reading →

Posted in Discipleship, Evangelism | Comments Off on Arise, Shine

Listening for God

Posted on January 3, 2018 by David Nuottila

1 Kings 19:9-18; Ephesians 4:17-32; John 6:15-27 When seeking God’s presence and provision, a recurring trend for many Christians is to read books penned by spiritual experts. Others hang on every word of slick looking prosperity preachers on television. Perhaps … Continue reading →

Posted in Devotions | Comments Off on Listening for God

Faithfulness

Posted on January 1, 2018 by David Nuottila

Isaiah 62:1-5, 10-12; Revelation 19:11-16; Matthew 1:18-25 Happy new year! Today is a day the world looks forward with optimism, perhaps with rose-colored glasses, imagining a better year ahead. Have you made a resolution? Some will resolve to lose weight, … Continue reading →

Posted in Faith | Comments Off on Faithfulness

Rely on God

Posted on December 3, 2016 by David Nuottila

Genesis 45:1-28 It goes without saying, Joseph is a model of faithfulness for anyone who faces trouble in their life. His brothers became jealous and angry that their youngest brother was their father Jacob’s favorite. So intense was there jealousy, … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent | Comments Off on Rely on God

I Am With You

Posted on December 2, 2016 by David Nuottila

Genesis 28:10-22 Jacob, having tricked his father Isaac into blessing him over and above his brother Esau, is now on the run. He is in fear for his life as his brother has vowed to kill him for what he … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent | Comments Off on I Am With You

To Be Blessed and Blessing

Posted on November 30, 2016 by David Nuottila

Genesis 12:1-4 It is true that, because of modern marvels in technology and transportation, our world is becoming a smaller place. People often pick up and go here and there, move from one place to another and sometimes settle in … Continue reading →

Posted in Advent | Comments Off on To Be Blessed and Blessing