If you study the history of my church you will find that there have been great conflicts over doctrinal matters. Some of these still exist, but what do you find that separates the many different churches you see today? Isn’t it more a matter of preferences in style and administration than basic beliefs? So most differences come down to taste in such things as music and degree of exuberance in worship. Everyone has their own preferences, but you should recognize that yours are just that. You are welcome to find one that is a good fit for you, and accept everyone else who makes their own choice.

Do you celebrate Christmas? Most Christians do, although some abstain because of the pagan origins of some traditions. My word says that one esteems one day above another and others esteem every day the same. Both are acceptable to me, and each should be persuaded by his own conscience, and not judge the other. Yet many believers and even unbelievers celebrate Christmas with extravagant excess. Let your celebrations be times of joy rather than burdens. You have learned to look for my redemptive purpose in everything you do. Follow this same principle in the way you celebrate Christmas. 

Have you ever heard of blessings in disguise? Do you understand that I am with you always, and that means that you are surrounded by grace? This may be obvious when you come to my house of worship, when you pray and read the scriptures. Yet there will come times when this isn’t obvious, in the mundane routines of life, and times when you doubt it, in your trials and afflictions. My presence and grace surround just as much at these times, even if they are deeply hidden. They are easier to see in hindsight. Haven’t you looked back to see how I sustained you during difficulties even though you were not aware of it at the time? I want you to learn to be aware of the consolation of my Spirit when you receive it. 

My word refers to women as weaker vessels. Does this bother you? Note that the purpose and context of the passage is to give honor to women and it is not a statement of value. A string of pearls is weaker than an iron chain, but is not of lesser value. Note also that this occurs in the economy of grace, which is different from the usual striving for equality, or more often, domination. The Kingdom principles of laying down your life, esteeming others better than yourself, and in honor preferring one another apply universally to all at all times. If you can follow these then the question of who is the weaker vessel shouldn’t be an issue.