December 24, 2025 WEST

Dec 24, 2025    Gregory Gilbert

What does it truly profit us to gain the whole world if we lack peace in our hearts? This profound exploration begins with Ecclesiastes 6, reminding us that wealth, possessions, and even honor mean nothing if we cannot enjoy them or if God is not at the center of our lives. We discover that without His presence, we are nothing—we simply cannot survive apart from Him. The journey continues into Isaiah 60 with its powerful call to 'arise and shine,' urging us to intentionally get up from our slumber, depression, and past failures. We're challenged to wash our faces, cleanse ourselves of yesterday's burdens, and let the glory of the Lord shine through us like lighthouses in a dark world. The message crescendos with Daniel 6, where we witness how Daniel's unwavering devotion positioned him for divine protection. His faithfulness wasn't about the lions' den itself—it was about how he handled the situation, refusing to compromise his prayer life despite the king's decree. These chapters weave together a tapestry showing us that true prosperity comes not from what we accumulate, but from remaining connected to the Vine, walking uprightly, and allowing God's light to shine through our obedience even when culture demands we bow.