Today’s Reading: Revelation 19; Revelation 20; Revelation 21; Revelation 22
Scripture: Revelation 22:12 "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done...
Observation: Jesus is coming soon. What I notice about this verse is the phrase, "My reward is with me..." Jesus comes as Conquering King and Judge. There is much that will happen at this time. Many will be overjoyed to see the Lord. Others will be terrified.
Application: It's a simple message to end the year. Jesus is coming soon and He's bringing goodies. Live right.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Yourself and the rewards that come from serving You. What a privilege it is to know You, Lord. Thank You for loving and choosing me. Help me to live for You and look forward to Your coming.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Title: Horrible Greatness / Topic: God's Nature
Today’s Reading: Revelation 15; Revelation 16; Revelation 17; Revelation 18
Scripture: Revelation 15:1, 3
1 I saw in heaven another great and marvelous sign: seven angels with the seven last plagues -- last, because with them God's wrath is completed... 3 [they] sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb:
"Great and marvelous are your deeds,
Lord God Almighty.
Just and true are your ways,
King of the ages..."
Observation:
These things don't seem to go together and yet they do. The Lord, whose deeds are "great and marvelous" and whose ways are "just and true" will unleash terrible plagues which express His wrath against evil humanity.
Application: I tend to emphasize the love and grace aspects of God's nature so these ideas of plagues and wrath seem strange to me. But the truth is that without wrath and punishment for the wicked, there can be no love and grace. Without a true hatred for evil, good has no chance to flourish. I was speaking with a young friend yesterday and discussing how much easier it is to do bad things than good things. (We were talking about personal responsibility and taking care of ourselves and others.) If there were no consequences for bad behavior, our sin nature would naturally gravitate in that direction. And the results for our world would be devastating.
On the global scale, if there were no punishment for sins, then the wicked would flourish and right and good would suffer. One of the ways God shows His mercy to those who love Him and do right is to show no mercy to their enemies.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You for justice which flows from Your righteous nature. Help Your people to love truth and justice and to work for it always. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 15:1, 3
1 I saw in heaven another great and marvelous sign: seven angels with the seven last plagues -- last, because with them God's wrath is completed... 3 [they] sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb:
"Great and marvelous are your deeds,
Lord God Almighty.
Just and true are your ways,
King of the ages..."
Observation:
Plagues and wrath.
Great and marvelous.
Just and true.
Great and marvelous.
Just and true.
These things don't seem to go together and yet they do. The Lord, whose deeds are "great and marvelous" and whose ways are "just and true" will unleash terrible plagues which express His wrath against evil humanity.
Application: I tend to emphasize the love and grace aspects of God's nature so these ideas of plagues and wrath seem strange to me. But the truth is that without wrath and punishment for the wicked, there can be no love and grace. Without a true hatred for evil, good has no chance to flourish. I was speaking with a young friend yesterday and discussing how much easier it is to do bad things than good things. (We were talking about personal responsibility and taking care of ourselves and others.) If there were no consequences for bad behavior, our sin nature would naturally gravitate in that direction. And the results for our world would be devastating.
On the global scale, if there were no punishment for sins, then the wicked would flourish and right and good would suffer. One of the ways God shows His mercy to those who love Him and do right is to show no mercy to their enemies.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You for justice which flows from Your righteous nature. Help Your people to love truth and justice and to work for it always. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, December 29, 2006
Title: Ultimate Harvest / Topic: Last Days
Today’s Reading: Revelation 10; Revelation 11; Revelation 12; Revelation 13; Revelation 14
Scripture: Revelation 14:14-20
14 I looked, and there before me was a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was one "like a son of man" with a crown of gold on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. 15 Then another angel came out of the temple and called in a loud voice to him who was sitting on the cloud, "Take your sickle and reap, because the time to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is ripe." 16 So he who was seated on the cloud swung his sickle over the earth, and the earth was harvested.
17 Another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. 18 Still another angel, who had charge of the fire, came from the altar and called in a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, "Take your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of grapes from the earth's vine, because its grapes are ripe." 19 The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God's wrath. 20 They were trampled in the winepress outside the city, and blood flowed out of the press, rising as high as the horses' bridles for a distance of 1,600 stadia [That is, about 180 miles].
Observation: The images detailed in Revelation 10-14 speak of frightening events which are yet to come. Probably soon. They center around Jerusalem and are the culmination of the ages-old conflict between good and evil. As I understand the reading, good is represented by angels, the two witnesses, the woman and her child, and the Lamb, while evil is represented by the dragon, the fallen stars, and the two beasts. To me it is clear that these events involve the nation of Israel and attacks against them. It seems the whole world is arrayed in opposition to them. The scripture above spoke to me that there is coming a day of ultimate harvest -- a day when all things will be made right -- a day of final justice, when "what goes around comes around" is fully realized. And it is a bloody and fearful day: 180 miles of blood. God takes His holy vengeance upon His enemies, those who resisted and fought against Him and used their power to hurt others. Also included are all those who simply went along with them.
Application: The message to me is that I must take a stand with God always. It will not be easy and ultimate will probably cost me my life. But to not do so will result in becoming God's enemy and the object of His wrath. I want to be an object of His grace and mercy.
Prayer: Lord, have mercy upon me a sinner. Strengthen me so that I may always stand with You and for You, even in the face of mighty opposition. Lord, bring many people to You -- use me in making this happen.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 14:14-20
14 I looked, and there before me was a white cloud, and seated on the cloud was one "like a son of man" with a crown of gold on his head and a sharp sickle in his hand. 15 Then another angel came out of the temple and called in a loud voice to him who was sitting on the cloud, "Take your sickle and reap, because the time to reap has come, for the harvest of the earth is ripe." 16 So he who was seated on the cloud swung his sickle over the earth, and the earth was harvested.
17 Another angel came out of the temple in heaven, and he too had a sharp sickle. 18 Still another angel, who had charge of the fire, came from the altar and called in a loud voice to him who had the sharp sickle, "Take your sharp sickle and gather the clusters of grapes from the earth's vine, because its grapes are ripe." 19 The angel swung his sickle on the earth, gathered its grapes and threw them into the great winepress of God's wrath. 20 They were trampled in the winepress outside the city, and blood flowed out of the press, rising as high as the horses' bridles for a distance of 1,600 stadia [That is, about 180 miles].
Observation: The images detailed in Revelation 10-14 speak of frightening events which are yet to come. Probably soon. They center around Jerusalem and are the culmination of the ages-old conflict between good and evil. As I understand the reading, good is represented by angels, the two witnesses, the woman and her child, and the Lamb, while evil is represented by the dragon, the fallen stars, and the two beasts. To me it is clear that these events involve the nation of Israel and attacks against them. It seems the whole world is arrayed in opposition to them. The scripture above spoke to me that there is coming a day of ultimate harvest -- a day when all things will be made right -- a day of final justice, when "what goes around comes around" is fully realized. And it is a bloody and fearful day: 180 miles of blood. God takes His holy vengeance upon His enemies, those who resisted and fought against Him and used their power to hurt others. Also included are all those who simply went along with them.
Application: The message to me is that I must take a stand with God always. It will not be easy and ultimate will probably cost me my life. But to not do so will result in becoming God's enemy and the object of His wrath. I want to be an object of His grace and mercy.
Prayer: Lord, have mercy upon me a sinner. Strengthen me so that I may always stand with You and for You, even in the face of mighty opposition. Lord, bring many people to You -- use me in making this happen.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Title: Powerful Fear / Topic: God's Judgment
Today’s Reading: Revelation 5; Revelation 6; Revelation 7; Revelation 8; Revelation 9
Scripture: Revelation 6:15-17
15 Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and every free man hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. 16 They called to the mountains and the rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! 17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?"
Observation: This follows an intense, catastrophic earthquake that displaces islands and results in a blocking of sun and stars. The reaction of the powerful people of the world is to cower in fear. Prior to this, they had wielded great political power and influence, but when the judgment of God falls, their power amounts to nothing and they can do nothing but hide in fear. They even acknowledge that it is God who is afflicting them.
Application: There is coming a day when the power of God will supplant all the power of man. It is in that day that those who have trusted in the Lord will be vindicated and rewarded. Today, it may seem that those who put God first are fools are are missing out on the benefits that this world has to offer. But the reality is that in the end, putting God first is the only thing that will result in true and lasting benefits.
Bottom line: Keep putting God first. Keep your eyes on the ultimate and not on the immediate.
Prayer: I ask You, Father, to help Your people get and maintain an eternal perspective. It is so easy to fall prey to the here and now and to miss the reality of eternity. Lord, help us to pay the price of serving You today so that we may receive our reward with You in eternity. I thank You that You are smarter than the smartest human and that Your plans and strategies will stand and will prevail. May I be a part of it.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 6:15-17
15 Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and every slave and every free man hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. 16 They called to the mountains and the rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! 17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can stand?"
Observation: This follows an intense, catastrophic earthquake that displaces islands and results in a blocking of sun and stars. The reaction of the powerful people of the world is to cower in fear. Prior to this, they had wielded great political power and influence, but when the judgment of God falls, their power amounts to nothing and they can do nothing but hide in fear. They even acknowledge that it is God who is afflicting them.
Application: There is coming a day when the power of God will supplant all the power of man. It is in that day that those who have trusted in the Lord will be vindicated and rewarded. Today, it may seem that those who put God first are fools are are missing out on the benefits that this world has to offer. But the reality is that in the end, putting God first is the only thing that will result in true and lasting benefits.
Bottom line: Keep putting God first. Keep your eyes on the ultimate and not on the immediate.
Prayer: I ask You, Father, to help Your people get and maintain an eternal perspective. It is so easy to fall prey to the here and now and to miss the reality of eternity. Lord, help us to pay the price of serving You today so that we may receive our reward with You in eternity. I thank You that You are smarter than the smartest human and that Your plans and strategies will stand and will prevail. May I be a part of it.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Title: The Blessings / Topic: Revelation
Today’s Reading: Revelation 1; Revelation 2; Revelation 3; Revelation 4
Scripture: Revelation 1:3 Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
Observation: Two blessings are pronounced here in verse three. First a blessing for the simple act of reading "this prophecy," that is, the book of Revelation. The second blessing is for "those who hear it and take [it] to heart." And there is a final word that is both a motivation and a warning: "the time is near."
Application: Well, if the time was near in John's day, it is much nearer now. So the message is to get the blessings by reading Revelation, hearing it (I take this to mean letting the message penetrate my heart and mind), and taking it to heart (which means applying the message by heeding the warnings and following the instructions given).
Bottom line: Read it, hear it, do it!
Prayer: Lord, I am thankful for this message. I ask that You give me a greater desire to abide in the word and a greater ability to focus without distraction upon it. Help me to get the message into my mind and heart and life in such a way that I receive the full benefits that come from Your word. I look forward to Your appearing.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 1:3 Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.
Observation: Two blessings are pronounced here in verse three. First a blessing for the simple act of reading "this prophecy," that is, the book of Revelation. The second blessing is for "those who hear it and take [it] to heart." And there is a final word that is both a motivation and a warning: "the time is near."
Application: Well, if the time was near in John's day, it is much nearer now. So the message is to get the blessings by reading Revelation, hearing it (I take this to mean letting the message penetrate my heart and mind), and taking it to heart (which means applying the message by heeding the warnings and following the instructions given).
Bottom line: Read it, hear it, do it!
Prayer: Lord, I am thankful for this message. I ask that You give me a greater desire to abide in the word and a greater ability to focus without distraction upon it. Help me to get the message into my mind and heart and life in such a way that I receive the full benefits that come from Your word. I look forward to Your appearing.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Title: Faithful God / Topic: God's Character
Today’s Reading: Psalm 117
Scripture: Psalm 117:1-2
1 Praise the LORD, all you nations;
extol him, all you peoples.
2 For great is his love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.
Praise the LORD.
Observation: The urging to praise and extol the Lord are to all nations and all peoples. And there is a reason given: His love is great toward us and His character of everlasting faithfulness.
Application: While in our day it may seem that few nations hold God in high regard, there is coming a day when all nations shall answer the call to worship Him. That day is coming soon, I believe. And those of us who know Him have so much to be thankful for including His faithfulness. Let's stay faithful to Him.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that You are bringing all things together for a culmination of history as we know it. Help us to have faith in You and remain in that place of seeking and working for purity and growth and passion for You. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 117:1-2
1 Praise the LORD, all you nations;
extol him, all you peoples.
2 For great is his love toward us,
and the faithfulness of the LORD endures forever.
Praise the LORD.
Observation: The urging to praise and extol the Lord are to all nations and all peoples. And there is a reason given: His love is great toward us and His character of everlasting faithfulness.
Application: While in our day it may seem that few nations hold God in high regard, there is coming a day when all nations shall answer the call to worship Him. That day is coming soon, I believe. And those of us who know Him have so much to be thankful for including His faithfulness. Let's stay faithful to Him.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that You are bringing all things together for a culmination of history as we know it. Help us to have faith in You and remain in that place of seeking and working for purity and growth and passion for You. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Title: The Great Defender / Topic: Intercession
Merry Christmas To All!
Today’s Reading: 1 John 1; 1 John 2; 1 John 3; 1 John 4; 1 John 5
Scripture: 1 John 2:1-2
1 My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have one who speaks to the Father in our defense—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. 2 He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world.
Observation: John is spiritual and practical. "I write this to you so that you will not sin." That's spiritual. The good spiritual leader desires to lead his people in pure sin-free living. "But if anybody does sin..." That's practical. No matter how hard we may strive for perfection, we will never be totally free of sin. So John gives us the good news about our heavenly Defender, "Jesus Christ, the Righteous One" who is speaking "to the father in our defense."
Application: Hallelujah! This is truly good news. Our Savior is at the right hand of God and He is speaking on our behalf, in our defense. What great comfort for me and for all those who trust in the Lord for our salvation and our very future.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the powerful defense you provide on my behalf. I do pray that You would strengthen me and all of Your people to lead lives of purity and holiness. But I am thankful that Jesus is there interceding for me. May I walk worthy of this great Redeemer.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Title: Thank You, Lord / Topic: Grace
Today’s Reading: John 19; John 20; John 21
#1 Scripture: John 19:1-3
1 Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. 2 The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe 3 and went up to him again and again, saying, "Hail, king of the Jews!" And they struck him in the face.
#1 Observation/Application/Prayer
It is Christmas eve as I write this. We just got done with six of my grandkids opening a few presents around the tree. Against this backdrop, it was a shock to read the opening verses to chapter 19 with Jesus being beaten. I just am so thankful that Jesus endured so we could have hope and salvation and joy. "Thank You, Lord."
#2 Scripture: John 20:24-31
24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!"
But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
26A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." 28 Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
30 Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
Observation: I love the fact that Jesus came a second time specifically for Thomas, the doubter. Thomas was a particularly negative guy, and it seems to me that it would be easy to kind of ignore his habitual negativity. (I'm sure the rest of the disciples did this from time to time.) But Jesus makes a special trip just for Thomas.
Application: This gives me hope. I feel that I have let the Lord down so many times that He might just give up on me. But when I read about how He did this for Thomas, I am comforted and encouraged.
Prayer: Thank You , Lord that You are so loving so as to reach out to us even when we don't deserve it. (Of course we never actually deserve Your mercy.) Thank You for Your gentleness and kindness that draws us to You. May I always be a recipient of Your grace.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
btw: Merry Christmas, everybody!
#1 Scripture: John 19:1-3
1 Then Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged. 2 The soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on his head. They clothed him in a purple robe 3 and went up to him again and again, saying, "Hail, king of the Jews!" And they struck him in the face.
#1 Observation/Application/Prayer
It is Christmas eve as I write this. We just got done with six of my grandkids opening a few presents around the tree. Against this backdrop, it was a shock to read the opening verses to chapter 19 with Jesus being beaten. I just am so thankful that Jesus endured so we could have hope and salvation and joy. "Thank You, Lord."
#2 Scripture: John 20:24-31
24 Now Thomas (called Didymus), one of the Twelve, was not with the disciples when Jesus came. 25 So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord!"
But he said to them, "Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe it."
26A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 27 Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." 28 Thomas said to him, "My Lord and my God!" 29 Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."
30 Jesus did many other miraculous signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. 31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.
Observation: I love the fact that Jesus came a second time specifically for Thomas, the doubter. Thomas was a particularly negative guy, and it seems to me that it would be easy to kind of ignore his habitual negativity. (I'm sure the rest of the disciples did this from time to time.) But Jesus makes a special trip just for Thomas.
Application: This gives me hope. I feel that I have let the Lord down so many times that He might just give up on me. But when I read about how He did this for Thomas, I am comforted and encouraged.
Prayer: Thank You , Lord that You are so loving so as to reach out to us even when we don't deserve it. (Of course we never actually deserve Your mercy.) Thank You for Your gentleness and kindness that draws us to You. May I always be a recipient of Your grace.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
btw: Merry Christmas, everybody!
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Title: Stand By For Cutting / Topic: God's Activity
Today’s Reading: John 15; John 16; John 17; John 18
Scripture: John 15:1-4
1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."
Observation: Jesus is using the metaphor of the vine and the branches. He is the vine, we are the branches, the Father is the gardener. There are two kinds of branches, fruitful and unfruitful. And each kind gets its own kind of cutting.
Application: If you bear no fruit, you get cut off. If you bear fruit, you get pruned. So stand by for cutting. The objective is fruit. The fruit is the result of God's activity in our lives. So it is our job to stay plugged in to the vine, that is, Jesus. Let God have His way in us and let His life flow through us and fruit will be the result.
Prayer: Lord, I want fruit in my life. Help me to stay in the life flow of Your kingdom. Help me to let Jesus flow through my life. And may I be the kind of branch that gets pruned because I bear fruit.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 15:1-4
1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me."
Observation: Jesus is using the metaphor of the vine and the branches. He is the vine, we are the branches, the Father is the gardener. There are two kinds of branches, fruitful and unfruitful. And each kind gets its own kind of cutting.
Application: If you bear no fruit, you get cut off. If you bear fruit, you get pruned. So stand by for cutting. The objective is fruit. The fruit is the result of God's activity in our lives. So it is our job to stay plugged in to the vine, that is, Jesus. Let God have His way in us and let His life flow through us and fruit will be the result.
Prayer: Lord, I want fruit in my life. Help me to stay in the life flow of Your kingdom. Help me to let Jesus flow through my life. And may I be the kind of branch that gets pruned because I bear fruit.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Title: Follow The Leader / Topic: Serving
Today’s Reading: John 12; John 13; John 14
Scripture: John 13:12-17
12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13 "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
Observation: I just love this story. Jesus gives the moral of the story here.
Application: It's all about serving. Jesus set the example by serving in a very basic and practical way. This example is something that we are to follow. Jesus said we would be blessed if we "do them." Let's do these things.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be like Jesus. He lived a life of love and showed us how to live. Help me to follow well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 13:12-17
12 When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. 13 "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.
Observation: I just love this story. Jesus gives the moral of the story here.
Application: It's all about serving. Jesus set the example by serving in a very basic and practical way. This example is something that we are to follow. Jesus said we would be blessed if we "do them." Let's do these things.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be like Jesus. He lived a life of love and showed us how to live. Help me to follow well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Title: The Life That Displays God / Topic: Dependence On God
Today’s Reading: John 9; John 10; John 11
Scripture: John 9:1-3
1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
3 "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life..."
Observation: First, this always strikes me as one of the most stupid questions in the Bible: "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" How could the disciples think that the man's blindness could have been caused by his own sin, since he was born blind. That means he would have had to have sinned in the womb! I'm surprised that Jesus didn't crack up when he heard it.
Instead Jesus answers their question. What I noticed for the first time is that I have always made an assumption that may not be correct. I have understood Jesus' words, "this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life," to mean that the man was born blind to give an opportunity for a great healing. But could it mean something else? I think so. It seems that a blind person (or any handicapped person) has more limitations that require a certain dependency on others, and that because of that, the blind person could have a greater faith and reliance on God which would necessarily mean that God would demonstrate His faithfulness and grace to a greater degree in this blind person's life.
This makes much more sense to me because I have always felt that it was kind of cruel to the blind man that he had to suffer for so many years just to be a prop in one of Jesus' public relations events. That may be overstating it but the essence is true. (By the way, with my interpretation, the eventual miracle was serendipitous.)
Application: Dependence on God, whether caused of a person's disability or caused of a person's will and decision, magnifies the reality of God's work in a person's life. The more I rely on God, and the less I rely on myself, the greater God's works can be manifested through my life. This is where great competence or resource can, ironically, be a handicap. (Remember that Jesus said it would be near impossible for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.)
Bottom line: I must humble myself and strive to depend on God, not on my own abilities and resources.
Prayer: Father, thank You that You desire to show Your amazing works through the most ordinary of people. Thank You that Your strength is made perfect in weakness. Help me to see and seize opportunities to let You do Your will and work through me. May I be growing in this every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 9:1-3
1 As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"
3 "Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life..."
Observation: First, this always strikes me as one of the most stupid questions in the Bible: "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" How could the disciples think that the man's blindness could have been caused by his own sin, since he was born blind. That means he would have had to have sinned in the womb! I'm surprised that Jesus didn't crack up when he heard it.
Instead Jesus answers their question. What I noticed for the first time is that I have always made an assumption that may not be correct. I have understood Jesus' words, "this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life," to mean that the man was born blind to give an opportunity for a great healing. But could it mean something else? I think so. It seems that a blind person (or any handicapped person) has more limitations that require a certain dependency on others, and that because of that, the blind person could have a greater faith and reliance on God which would necessarily mean that God would demonstrate His faithfulness and grace to a greater degree in this blind person's life.
This makes much more sense to me because I have always felt that it was kind of cruel to the blind man that he had to suffer for so many years just to be a prop in one of Jesus' public relations events. That may be overstating it but the essence is true. (By the way, with my interpretation, the eventual miracle was serendipitous.)
Application: Dependence on God, whether caused of a person's disability or caused of a person's will and decision, magnifies the reality of God's work in a person's life. The more I rely on God, and the less I rely on myself, the greater God's works can be manifested through my life. This is where great competence or resource can, ironically, be a handicap. (Remember that Jesus said it would be near impossible for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.)
Bottom line: I must humble myself and strive to depend on God, not on my own abilities and resources.
Prayer: Father, thank You that You desire to show Your amazing works through the most ordinary of people. Thank You that Your strength is made perfect in weakness. Help me to see and seize opportunities to let You do Your will and work through me. May I be growing in this every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Title: Shortcuts & Substitutes / Topic: Spiritual Intimacy With God
Today’s Reading: John 7; John 8
Scripture: John 7:14-15
14 Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15 The Jews were amazed and asked, "How did this man get such learning without having studied?"
Observation: The people's response to hearing Jesus teach is telling. "How did this man get such learning without having studied?" In other words, they believed that the only source of learning was their teaching. And because Jesus had not gone through their course of study, they couldn't figure out how He could have the knowledge base or wisdom to teach as He did. Even though they were religious, they were humanistic. They thought that apart from their own system, there was nothing. They, in their study of God, forgot about God.
Application: It is possible to be very committed to God and to the things of God and to miss God. It is possible to be very involved in the pursuit of God and to miss God. How is this possible? I think it is because the authentic pursuit of God is hard work. It is not at all easy. So, we create shortcuts and substitutes for connecting with God. We make rules and lists and such.
For example, daily communing with God is the desired goal, but it is hard to measure and even harder to do, so we substitute reading the Bible and a designated number of minutes for praying. Then, if we read the required Bible passages, and give the necessary minutes on our knees, we check it off our list and our "time with God" is done. Never mind if we might have been distracted by stray thoughts or too sleepy to really connect with God -- we did the time! So we are OK. Meanwhile, God wanted to just have us quiet our hearts before Him and listen to His still small voice. We have totally missed God but we are OK with it because we fulfilled the substitute ritual that we created.
Bottom line: For me it's this: I must strive to stay fresh and honest with God. I must vary my spiritual practice. I must worship. I must be silent. I must kneel. I must lay prostrate. I must stand and lift my hands. I must work to bread any routine and habit that would substitute itself in my life for real living relationship with God. And I must be honest with my heart and ask if indeed, I connected with God. And I must clear more time to wait until the connection is real and clear.
Prayer: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. I fall so short of this that I am journaling about today. I do desire, in my heart of hearts, to know you intimately and passionately. But I struggle with busy-ness and distractions that I inflict upon myself. Help me to follow the path of simplifying my life and clearing time and space for You. I say that You are the most important Person in my life. Help me to live that out every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 7:14-15
14 Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. 15 The Jews were amazed and asked, "How did this man get such learning without having studied?"
Observation: The people's response to hearing Jesus teach is telling. "How did this man get such learning without having studied?" In other words, they believed that the only source of learning was their teaching. And because Jesus had not gone through their course of study, they couldn't figure out how He could have the knowledge base or wisdom to teach as He did. Even though they were religious, they were humanistic. They thought that apart from their own system, there was nothing. They, in their study of God, forgot about God.
Application: It is possible to be very committed to God and to the things of God and to miss God. It is possible to be very involved in the pursuit of God and to miss God. How is this possible? I think it is because the authentic pursuit of God is hard work. It is not at all easy. So, we create shortcuts and substitutes for connecting with God. We make rules and lists and such.
For example, daily communing with God is the desired goal, but it is hard to measure and even harder to do, so we substitute reading the Bible and a designated number of minutes for praying. Then, if we read the required Bible passages, and give the necessary minutes on our knees, we check it off our list and our "time with God" is done. Never mind if we might have been distracted by stray thoughts or too sleepy to really connect with God -- we did the time! So we are OK. Meanwhile, God wanted to just have us quiet our hearts before Him and listen to His still small voice. We have totally missed God but we are OK with it because we fulfilled the substitute ritual that we created.
Bottom line: For me it's this: I must strive to stay fresh and honest with God. I must vary my spiritual practice. I must worship. I must be silent. I must kneel. I must lay prostrate. I must stand and lift my hands. I must work to bread any routine and habit that would substitute itself in my life for real living relationship with God. And I must be honest with my heart and ask if indeed, I connected with God. And I must clear more time to wait until the connection is real and clear.
Prayer: Lord, have mercy on me, a sinner. I fall so short of this that I am journaling about today. I do desire, in my heart of hearts, to know you intimately and passionately. But I struggle with busy-ness and distractions that I inflict upon myself. Help me to follow the path of simplifying my life and clearing time and space for You. I say that You are the most important Person in my life. Help me to live that out every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Title: The Swamp Of Religiosity / Topic: Legalism
Today’s Reading: John 5; John 6
Scripture: John 5:5, 8-10
5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years...
8 Then Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. The day on which this took place was a Sabbath, 10 and so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, "It is the Sabbath; the law forbids you to carry your mat."
Observation: A paralyzed man has just been healed and is walking for the first time in thirty-eight years! Imagine the excitement those around him must have felt. Wouldn't you think that everyone would hug him and celebrate with him? But that is not what happens. The first thing that "The Religious" people do is to rebuke him! This is so typical of "The Religious" -- they never have found a celebration they couldn't spoil. And this is no exception. Instead of rejoicing over a great miracle (obviously God was involved here), they pick on a very minor infraction (which is not truly an infraction at all) of their interpretation of the sabbath rules.
Application: "The Religious" are people with a kind of self-assigned legalism that masquerades as spirituality but is not anything of the kind. These people do not know God or His ways. All they know is a list of rules that they delight in imposing on others to validate their own worth. What is the point of all this?
The point: Whenever you find yourself getting picky about some religious or legalistic trivialities, watch out. You might be getting stuck in the kind of religious swamp that sucks the true joy and love of God right out of a person. If you have no joy in Jesus, ask God to show you why. The Bible tells us "the joy of the Lord is our strength."
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that Jesus was not religious. He was filled with joy and love and purpose which drove the religious people crazy. Help Your people to be infected with the same kind of positive stuff. Keep us out of religiosity.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 5:5, 8-10
5 One who was there had been an invalid for thirty-eight years...
8 Then Jesus said to him, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. The day on which this took place was a Sabbath, 10 and so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, "It is the Sabbath; the law forbids you to carry your mat."
Observation: A paralyzed man has just been healed and is walking for the first time in thirty-eight years! Imagine the excitement those around him must have felt. Wouldn't you think that everyone would hug him and celebrate with him? But that is not what happens. The first thing that "The Religious" people do is to rebuke him! This is so typical of "The Religious" -- they never have found a celebration they couldn't spoil. And this is no exception. Instead of rejoicing over a great miracle (obviously God was involved here), they pick on a very minor infraction (which is not truly an infraction at all) of their interpretation of the sabbath rules.
Application: "The Religious" are people with a kind of self-assigned legalism that masquerades as spirituality but is not anything of the kind. These people do not know God or His ways. All they know is a list of rules that they delight in imposing on others to validate their own worth. What is the point of all this?
The point: Whenever you find yourself getting picky about some religious or legalistic trivialities, watch out. You might be getting stuck in the kind of religious swamp that sucks the true joy and love of God right out of a person. If you have no joy in Jesus, ask God to show you why. The Bible tells us "the joy of the Lord is our strength."
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that Jesus was not religious. He was filled with joy and love and purpose which drove the religious people crazy. Help Your people to be infected with the same kind of positive stuff. Keep us out of religiosity.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Title: Miracle Wine / Topic: God's Priorities
Today’s Reading: John 2; John 3; John 4
Scripture: John 2:7-11
7 Jesus said to the servants, "Fill the jars with water"; so they filled them to the brim.
8 Then he told them, "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet."
They did so, 9 and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside 10 and said, "Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now."
11 This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.
Observation: I love the fact that Jesus' first miracle was to change water into wine! And not just any wine -- I mean to change water even into cheap wine would be amazing -- but Jesus made great wine! The maitre'd judged it the best.
Application: What this says about God is that He is all about blessing people and their lives and relationships. In Jesus' day, weddings were a big deal and wine was a part of every social occasion. (This is still the case in many communities in our world today.) Jesus made the water into wine to bless those who were there to celebrate the joyous occasion of this wedding and all it represented for that community.
Bottom line: We serve a loving and positive God who love people and loves to bless them. We should reflect God's love for people by being a great blessing to them whenever we are around people. God wanted people to be happy.
Prayer: I thank You that You are a positive God. Thank You for Your great love for people and Your desire to bless us. Help Your people to portray Your sweetness and compassion in the way we relate to others. May we be kind and positive and draw others to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 2:7-11
7 Jesus said to the servants, "Fill the jars with water"; so they filled them to the brim.
8 Then he told them, "Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet."
They did so, 9 and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside 10 and said, "Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now."
11 This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.
Observation: I love the fact that Jesus' first miracle was to change water into wine! And not just any wine -- I mean to change water even into cheap wine would be amazing -- but Jesus made great wine! The maitre'd judged it the best.
Application: What this says about God is that He is all about blessing people and their lives and relationships. In Jesus' day, weddings were a big deal and wine was a part of every social occasion. (This is still the case in many communities in our world today.) Jesus made the water into wine to bless those who were there to celebrate the joyous occasion of this wedding and all it represented for that community.
Bottom line: We serve a loving and positive God who love people and loves to bless them. We should reflect God's love for people by being a great blessing to them whenever we are around people. God wanted people to be happy.
Prayer: I thank You that You are a positive God. Thank You for Your great love for people and Your desire to bless us. Help Your people to portray Your sweetness and compassion in the way we relate to others. May we be kind and positive and draw others to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Title: Great Gifts / Topic: God's Grace
Today’s Reading: 2 Peter 1; 2 Peter 2; 2 Peter 3; John 1
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-4
3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
Observation: What a wonderful God we serve! Here, Peter tells us that we have been given great gifts. Gifts that we were given freely and which guarantee that we have "everything we need for life and godliness." Included are "very great and precious promises" to enable us to "participate in [God's] divine nature and escape the corruption in the world..."
Application: It is so important to keep these things in mind. I have a tendency to sometimes get focused on what I don't have and I can forget the fantastic blessings that I do have. I can actually forget that I have been given everything I need for life and Godliness and I can forget the "great and precious promises." That's one reason I need to stay in the word -- to remind myself of God's great blessings to me.
Bottom line: We've been given so much. Remember the gifts of God and live a life of thanksgiving and joy -- a life worthy of the great God we have the privilege of serving.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord for Your great gifts. Help me to walk in full awareness of what You have given me. And help me make full proof of the gifts that You have placed in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3-4
3 His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
Observation: What a wonderful God we serve! Here, Peter tells us that we have been given great gifts. Gifts that we were given freely and which guarantee that we have "everything we need for life and godliness." Included are "very great and precious promises" to enable us to "participate in [God's] divine nature and escape the corruption in the world..."
Application: It is so important to keep these things in mind. I have a tendency to sometimes get focused on what I don't have and I can forget the fantastic blessings that I do have. I can actually forget that I have been given everything I need for life and Godliness and I can forget the "great and precious promises." That's one reason I need to stay in the word -- to remind myself of God's great blessings to me.
Bottom line: We've been given so much. Remember the gifts of God and live a life of thanksgiving and joy -- a life worthy of the great God we have the privilege of serving.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord for Your great gifts. Help me to walk in full awareness of what You have given me. And help me make full proof of the gifts that You have placed in my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Title: Focus / Topic: Spiritual Disciplines
Today’s Reading: 1 Peter 1; 1 Peter 2; 1 Peter 3; 1 Peter 4; 1 Peter 5
Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.
Observation/Application: Prayer is a discipline that requires focus. Even the reading and study of the Bible requires a similar focus. This encouragement by Peter reminds me of the practical aspects of keeping a clear mind: regular sleep, eating, exercise and other basic health habits help keep our minds sharp so we can give ourselves without distraction to spiritual disciplines like reading and prayer.
Prayer: Lord, help me to do even better in those areas that will assist me in a meaningful prayer and study life. I want to grow in prayer and in the devotion to Your word.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Peter 4:7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.
Observation/Application: Prayer is a discipline that requires focus. Even the reading and study of the Bible requires a similar focus. This encouragement by Peter reminds me of the practical aspects of keeping a clear mind: regular sleep, eating, exercise and other basic health habits help keep our minds sharp so we can give ourselves without distraction to spiritual disciplines like reading and prayer.
Prayer: Lord, help me to do even better in those areas that will assist me in a meaningful prayer and study life. I want to grow in prayer and in the devotion to Your word.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Title: The Inner Battle / Topic: Temptation
Today’s Reading: James 1; James 2; James 3; James 4; James 5
Scripture: James 1:13-15
13 When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Observation: It's not God's fault. The primary source of my temptations is not hard to find. It's me. Even though I have known and followed the Lord consistently since I was six years old, I still have to deal with the problem that James describes here. "...By his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed." What follows is a progression from evil desire to sin and to eventual, inevitable death.
Application: Whenever I read scriptures like this, it reconfirms my life message: Real accountable relationships are essential to stay on track with God. This is a must for every person who wants to walk the narrow road of righteousness and holiness.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You honestly tell me through Your word what is going on. Keep me in touch with the reality of my own need for You and for the continual application of Your grace and truth to transform me into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ. I thank You for those who help me to stay on track with You. May I help them as they help me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: James 1:13-15
13 When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Observation: It's not God's fault. The primary source of my temptations is not hard to find. It's me. Even though I have known and followed the Lord consistently since I was six years old, I still have to deal with the problem that James describes here. "...By his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed." What follows is a progression from evil desire to sin and to eventual, inevitable death.
Application: Whenever I read scriptures like this, it reconfirms my life message: Real accountable relationships are essential to stay on track with God. This is a must for every person who wants to walk the narrow road of righteousness and holiness.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You honestly tell me through Your word what is going on. Keep me in touch with the reality of my own need for You and for the continual application of Your grace and truth to transform me into the image and likeness of Jesus Christ. I thank You for those who help me to stay on track with You. May I help them as they help me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Title: Three Short Thoughts / Topic: Holy Living
Today’s Reading: Hebrews 12; Hebrews 13; Jude 1
I selected three verses from Hebrews chapter 12. These three caught my eye and I couldn't make up my mind which I wanted to journal on, so I decided to write on all three briefly
#1 Scripture: Hebrews 12:11
11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
#1 Observation/Application: The thing that caught my eye here was the phrase "harvest of righteousness and peace." We all know that discipline can produce righteousness in a person. But the idea that it produces peace is interesting to me. As I think about it, it seems that true righteousness brings peace along with it as a kind of bi-product. That is, if I am truly righteous, I will be at peace with whatever is going on around me. The other thing that comes to mind is that whenever we find ourselves or another person lacking peace, there is a need for some discipline to produce that peace along with the attendant righteousness.
#2 Scripture: Hebrews 12:14
14 Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
#2 Observation/Application: Holiness is a word that is out of fashion today. For me, it strikes images of women with tight hairdos and no makeup wearing plain clothing. It reminds me of legalism and the efforts to get rid of sin by restricting any indulgence. But I think that misses the point of holiness. Holiness is a dedication of myself to a specific cause, in this case, to serving the Lord. Hence, I must dedicate myself to God and His purposes for my life or I will not "see the Lord."
#3 Scripture: Hebrews 12:15
15 See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
#3 Observation/Application: God gives grace when I am offended or wounded. I can receive God's grace and use it to process my hurt and pain to produce healing and more grace. Or, I can reject the grace of God and process (or bury) my hurt and pain on my own which has the inevitable result of producing a bitter root in my life. Unfortunately, a bitter root will grow up and produce bitter fruit. And even more unfortunate still is the truth expressed in this verse that bitter fruit does not affect only me. No, here is the broader effect of bitter root and bitter fruit: "cause trouble and defile many." The damage that bitterness can do it widespread and very detrimental. The lesson here is accept God's grace and never process hurt without it.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the great lessons we find in Your word. Help me and my readers to remember them and to implement them in our lives.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
I selected three verses from Hebrews chapter 12. These three caught my eye and I couldn't make up my mind which I wanted to journal on, so I decided to write on all three briefly
#1 Scripture: Hebrews 12:11
11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
#1 Observation/Application: The thing that caught my eye here was the phrase "harvest of righteousness and peace." We all know that discipline can produce righteousness in a person. But the idea that it produces peace is interesting to me. As I think about it, it seems that true righteousness brings peace along with it as a kind of bi-product. That is, if I am truly righteous, I will be at peace with whatever is going on around me. The other thing that comes to mind is that whenever we find ourselves or another person lacking peace, there is a need for some discipline to produce that peace along with the attendant righteousness.
#2 Scripture: Hebrews 12:14
14 Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.
#2 Observation/Application: Holiness is a word that is out of fashion today. For me, it strikes images of women with tight hairdos and no makeup wearing plain clothing. It reminds me of legalism and the efforts to get rid of sin by restricting any indulgence. But I think that misses the point of holiness. Holiness is a dedication of myself to a specific cause, in this case, to serving the Lord. Hence, I must dedicate myself to God and His purposes for my life or I will not "see the Lord."
#3 Scripture: Hebrews 12:15
15 See to it that no one misses the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.
#3 Observation/Application: God gives grace when I am offended or wounded. I can receive God's grace and use it to process my hurt and pain to produce healing and more grace. Or, I can reject the grace of God and process (or bury) my hurt and pain on my own which has the inevitable result of producing a bitter root in my life. Unfortunately, a bitter root will grow up and produce bitter fruit. And even more unfortunate still is the truth expressed in this verse that bitter fruit does not affect only me. No, here is the broader effect of bitter root and bitter fruit: "cause trouble and defile many." The damage that bitterness can do it widespread and very detrimental. The lesson here is accept God's grace and never process hurt without it.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the great lessons we find in Your word. Help me and my readers to remember them and to implement them in our lives.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Title: Believe The Invisible / Topic: Faith
Today’s Reading: Hebrews 9; Hebrews 10; Hebrews 11
Scripture: Hebrews 11:1-3, 6
1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible...
6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Observation: By faith -- this is how the believer lives. "Being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Unsaved people will often mock this. "How can you be sure of what you can't see?", they ask. Of course the answer makes no sense to them: "By faith." They call it blind faith. But it is not blind. It is belief with a vision. A vision of hope and trust in a God that we choose to believe in. And when I believe in God, He rewards that belief with a greater awareness of His reality. As I earnestly seek Him, He sees that and reaches back to me with more blessings. I also like the statement in verse 3 "what is seen was not made out of what was visible." This scripture was written long before science discovered the basic building blocks of matter: molecules, atoms, protons, neutrons, electrons and the like. These invisible particles that make up every physical substance are what this verse is referencing. "...what is seen was not made out of what is visible..." or, to reword it, "what is seen was made out of what is invisible." Interesting.
Application: Faith is necessary to please God. (The world claims to shun faith, but that is not true. The unbelieving world has great faith to believe in all sorts of unproven and unprovable things. The most outstanding example of this is Darwinian evolution, that is the belief that all living organisms evolved by chance over time from one original single cell organism. That takes great faith to believe.)
Bottom line: Keep on believing. Keep the faith. God's reward will come.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that You reward faith. Thank You for the gift of faith and the measure of faith that You give to every person. Help me to grow in faith and in boldness to believe and act in a manner consistent with faith. Help more people to believe. Help me to lead others to believe in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Hebrews 11:1-3, 6
1 Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for.
3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible...
6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Observation: By faith -- this is how the believer lives. "Being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Unsaved people will often mock this. "How can you be sure of what you can't see?", they ask. Of course the answer makes no sense to them: "By faith." They call it blind faith. But it is not blind. It is belief with a vision. A vision of hope and trust in a God that we choose to believe in. And when I believe in God, He rewards that belief with a greater awareness of His reality. As I earnestly seek Him, He sees that and reaches back to me with more blessings. I also like the statement in verse 3 "what is seen was not made out of what was visible." This scripture was written long before science discovered the basic building blocks of matter: molecules, atoms, protons, neutrons, electrons and the like. These invisible particles that make up every physical substance are what this verse is referencing. "...what is seen was not made out of what is visible..." or, to reword it, "what is seen was made out of what is invisible." Interesting.
Application: Faith is necessary to please God. (The world claims to shun faith, but that is not true. The unbelieving world has great faith to believe in all sorts of unproven and unprovable things. The most outstanding example of this is Darwinian evolution, that is the belief that all living organisms evolved by chance over time from one original single cell organism. That takes great faith to believe.)
Bottom line: Keep on believing. Keep the faith. God's reward will come.
Prayer: Thank you, Lord, that You reward faith. Thank You for the gift of faith and the measure of faith that You give to every person. Help me to grow in faith and in boldness to believe and act in a manner consistent with faith. Help more people to believe. Help me to lead others to believe in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Title: The Loud Pray-er / Topic: Passion
Today’s Reading: Hebrews 5; Hebrews 6; Hebrews 7; Hebrews 8
Scripture: Hebrews 5:7 During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
Observation: What an interesting scripture! According to this verse, Jesus was one of those "loud pray-ers" -- He didn't pray silently or even quietly. He was also quite emotional about it -- crying with tears and all that kind of thing.
Application: Lots of people don't like loudness and emotion when it is connected to spirituality or religion. (It's OK at sporting events or at political protests, but for most it is apparently NOT OK at church.) Maybe this is one additional reason that the religious people of Jesus' time didn't like Him. He wasn't dignified and reserved in His practice of religion. His method of prayer makes Him seem like a fanatic. And fanatics always make the establishment uncomfortable.
Bottom line: If Jesus prayed with loud cries and tears, then that is a good way to pray. I need to practice because I am not very adept at praying this way.
Prayer: Lord help me to engage my emotions in prayer like Jesus did. Help me to get over my cultural preference for quiet, calm, and order and get into some serious prayers and petitions with all of my being. I need Your help in this, Lord. Teach me to really pray with a passion.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Hebrews 5:7 During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.
Observation: What an interesting scripture! According to this verse, Jesus was one of those "loud pray-ers" -- He didn't pray silently or even quietly. He was also quite emotional about it -- crying with tears and all that kind of thing.
Application: Lots of people don't like loudness and emotion when it is connected to spirituality or religion. (It's OK at sporting events or at political protests, but for most it is apparently NOT OK at church.) Maybe this is one additional reason that the religious people of Jesus' time didn't like Him. He wasn't dignified and reserved in His practice of religion. His method of prayer makes Him seem like a fanatic. And fanatics always make the establishment uncomfortable.
Bottom line: If Jesus prayed with loud cries and tears, then that is a good way to pray. I need to practice because I am not very adept at praying this way.
Prayer: Lord help me to engage my emotions in prayer like Jesus did. Help me to get over my cultural preference for quiet, calm, and order and get into some serious prayers and petitions with all of my being. I need Your help in this, Lord. Teach me to really pray with a passion.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Title: A Key To Growth / Topic: Spiritual Walk
Today’s Reading: Philemon 1; Hebrews 1; Hebrews 2; Hebrews 3; Hebrews 4
Scripture: Philemon 1:6 I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.
Observation: Paul shares a key in personal spiritual growth. If you want to grow in understanding of spiritual matters, share your faith.
Application: Many people seem to be stuck in their spiritual maturity level. They have reached a certain place and they have plateaued at that level for a long period of time. They may attend church regularly but many are frustrated that they don't seem to be growing. Here is a key: share your faith. In sharing my faith, I am stretched to know more and I involve the Holy Spirit in my life by being a part of the flow of God's truth to someone else. I not only benefit them, but also myself. Notice that it says "be active." That means we need to not only do it, but keep doing it.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be more and more active in habitually sharing my faith with others. I want to be a vehicle of your saving grace to many people. Give me words and ways to share that will get results for Your kingdom.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Philemon 1:6 I pray that you may be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.
Observation: Paul shares a key in personal spiritual growth. If you want to grow in understanding of spiritual matters, share your faith.
Application: Many people seem to be stuck in their spiritual maturity level. They have reached a certain place and they have plateaued at that level for a long period of time. They may attend church regularly but many are frustrated that they don't seem to be growing. Here is a key: share your faith. In sharing my faith, I am stretched to know more and I involve the Holy Spirit in my life by being a part of the flow of God's truth to someone else. I not only benefit them, but also myself. Notice that it says "be active." That means we need to not only do it, but keep doing it.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be more and more active in habitually sharing my faith with others. I want to be a vehicle of your saving grace to many people. Give me words and ways to share that will get results for Your kingdom.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Title: The Guard / Topic: Spiritual Walk
Today’s Reading: 2 Timothy 1; 2 Timothy 2; 2 Timothy 3; 2 Timothy 4
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:14 Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
Observation: These words from Paul to young Timothy are interesting. Here we find the idea of a "deposit", that is, like a down payment. God has made a down payment and Timothy has to guard it. But not all by himself, the Holy Spirit is there to help.
Application: I want my Lord to finish the transaction on me. While I am glad that He's put down a deposit, I want to make sure He makes all the payments. And I have my co-pay to take care of too. To insure that this all happens, I must be a guard. That means I must be vigilant to guard against any threat from without or within. There are a range of activities and strategies that are required. These include everything from staying alert, to listening to the Spirit, to enlisting the help of others to watch my blind spots. They must all be done. God wants His deposit to be wisely placed and to bring a sure eventual return.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be the guard You want me to be. May I be ever vigilant and relentless in my pursuit of Your best for me. Keep me from danger and surround me with great helpers.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:14 Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.
Observation: These words from Paul to young Timothy are interesting. Here we find the idea of a "deposit", that is, like a down payment. God has made a down payment and Timothy has to guard it. But not all by himself, the Holy Spirit is there to help.
Application: I want my Lord to finish the transaction on me. While I am glad that He's put down a deposit, I want to make sure He makes all the payments. And I have my co-pay to take care of too. To insure that this all happens, I must be a guard. That means I must be vigilant to guard against any threat from without or within. There are a range of activities and strategies that are required. These include everything from staying alert, to listening to the Spirit, to enlisting the help of others to watch my blind spots. They must all be done. God wants His deposit to be wisely placed and to bring a sure eventual return.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be the guard You want me to be. May I be ever vigilant and relentless in my pursuit of Your best for me. Keep me from danger and surround me with great helpers.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Title: Don't Give Up / Topic: Good Deeds
Today’s Reading: 1 Timothy 5; 1 Timothy 6; Titus 1; Titus 2; Titus 3
Scripture: 1 Timothy 5:24-25
24 The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. 25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden.
Observation: Paul is instructing Timothy about how to do the work of a pastor. Here, Paul sends a little hidden message to Timothy. While talking about the inevitability of judgment for sin, Paul slips in a little encouragement. "...good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden." In other words, "Timothy, I know that you probably feel that no one notices most of the good things you do. But take heart, people do notice, even if they don't say anything. And even if they don't notice right away, it will all eventually come to light."
Application: So the message is: keep doing good deeds, even if no one notices. God is paying attention. And you would be surprised who else is also watching. So don't give up. Your good deeds are making a difference that will last forever.
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for this encouraging word. I know You are keeping track and I pray that You would help me not to care or notice whether or not others care or notice. I want to please You and You alone.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Timothy 5:24-25
24 The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. 25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden.
Observation: Paul is instructing Timothy about how to do the work of a pastor. Here, Paul sends a little hidden message to Timothy. While talking about the inevitability of judgment for sin, Paul slips in a little encouragement. "...good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not cannot be hidden." In other words, "Timothy, I know that you probably feel that no one notices most of the good things you do. But take heart, people do notice, even if they don't say anything. And even if they don't notice right away, it will all eventually come to light."
Application: So the message is: keep doing good deeds, even if no one notices. God is paying attention. And you would be surprised who else is also watching. So don't give up. Your good deeds are making a difference that will last forever.
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for this encouraging word. I know You are keeping track and I pray that You would help me not to care or notice whether or not others care or notice. I want to please You and You alone.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Title: Keep On Keeping On / Topic: Determination
Today’s Reading: 1 Timothy 1; 1 Timothy 2; 1 Timothy 3; 1 Timothy 4
Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:5-16
15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Observation: I love this letter from Paul to his young protégé, Timothy. The fatherly tone and practical advice is something I find wonderful, partly because I longed for and never really found a relationship with an older pastor as a mentor. These last verses in chapter four really speak to me. The instruction to diligence, total dedication, watchfulness, and perseverance is something that I need to be reminded about. Sometimes it seems that hard work doesn't pay off -- that is really make little difference no matter how hard I work. But Paul reminds Timothy (and me) that he must keep on keeping on. And that the outcome of this kind of total and relentless dedication will be ultimate success in ministry: the salvation of the "hearers" as well as the messenger!
Application: The application is simple: keep on keeping on. I must evaluate my life and where I have slacked off, I must increase my efforts (with God's strength, of course) to get it right. I'm looking for the payoff up there.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for reminders from those who have gone before me. I ask You to give me determination and courage to keep fighting the battle, even when I don't sense success or even the possibility of success. Help me to keep my eyes on You and forget the circumstances. I want to please You and bring all those You have entrusted to my care Home safely.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:5-16
15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.
Observation: I love this letter from Paul to his young protégé, Timothy. The fatherly tone and practical advice is something I find wonderful, partly because I longed for and never really found a relationship with an older pastor as a mentor. These last verses in chapter four really speak to me. The instruction to diligence, total dedication, watchfulness, and perseverance is something that I need to be reminded about. Sometimes it seems that hard work doesn't pay off -- that is really make little difference no matter how hard I work. But Paul reminds Timothy (and me) that he must keep on keeping on. And that the outcome of this kind of total and relentless dedication will be ultimate success in ministry: the salvation of the "hearers" as well as the messenger!
Application: The application is simple: keep on keeping on. I must evaluate my life and where I have slacked off, I must increase my efforts (with God's strength, of course) to get it right. I'm looking for the payoff up there.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for reminders from those who have gone before me. I ask You to give me determination and courage to keep fighting the battle, even when I don't sense success or even the possibility of success. Help me to keep my eyes on You and forget the circumstances. I want to please You and bring all those You have entrusted to my care Home safely.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Title: Whose Energy? / Topic: Ministry
Today’s Reading: Colossians 1; Colossians 2; Colossians 3; Colossians 4
Scripture: Colossians 1:28-29
28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. 29 To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.
Observation: Paul is a hard working Christian messenger. He is tireless and relentless in his efforts to win people to Christ and to grow those who are believers. The "end", that is the goal of his hard work is written in verse 28: "... so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ." That is the vision that Paul has -- standing before the Judgment Seat of Christ and presenting his work, that is the people to whom he ministered, as completed and excellent unto Jesus. It is that vision that motivates, no compels, him to keep on working and fighting, even in the face of obstacles and opposition. He tells us it is hard work, even a struggle. But Paul has been at this long enough that he knows that he himself is not the resource upon which he draws. He says he is "struggling with all his [that is God's] energy."
Application: I so identify with Paul's desires here. But I think that I often get weary and discouraged because I forget that it is God's energy that I must draw on. As I read what Paul wrote about himself, "struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me," I contrast it with my own experience (based on my emotions). Here's my feelings about me: "struggling to do the best I can, as my own strength and desire hold up." That's quite a contrast to Paul. I need to remember this truth: I must tap into God for everything.
Prayer: Dear Father, You know me. You know my heart and my efforts, my shortcomings and my victories. You know my nature to work alone, even, sometimes without You. (Sorry, Lord!) Help me to do nothing unless I do it with You, or even better, You do it through me. Refresh and renew me, Lord. And help me to catch anew the vision You have for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Colossians 1:28-29
28 We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. 29 To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.
Observation: Paul is a hard working Christian messenger. He is tireless and relentless in his efforts to win people to Christ and to grow those who are believers. The "end", that is the goal of his hard work is written in verse 28: "... so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ." That is the vision that Paul has -- standing before the Judgment Seat of Christ and presenting his work, that is the people to whom he ministered, as completed and excellent unto Jesus. It is that vision that motivates, no compels, him to keep on working and fighting, even in the face of obstacles and opposition. He tells us it is hard work, even a struggle. But Paul has been at this long enough that he knows that he himself is not the resource upon which he draws. He says he is "struggling with all his [that is God's] energy."
Application: I so identify with Paul's desires here. But I think that I often get weary and discouraged because I forget that it is God's energy that I must draw on. As I read what Paul wrote about himself, "struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me," I contrast it with my own experience (based on my emotions). Here's my feelings about me: "struggling to do the best I can, as my own strength and desire hold up." That's quite a contrast to Paul. I need to remember this truth: I must tap into God for everything.
Prayer: Dear Father, You know me. You know my heart and my efforts, my shortcomings and my victories. You know my nature to work alone, even, sometimes without You. (Sorry, Lord!) Help me to do nothing unless I do it with You, or even better, You do it through me. Refresh and renew me, Lord. And help me to catch anew the vision You have for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Title: The Secret To Contentment / Topic: Faith
Today’s Reading: Philippians 1; Philippians 2; Philippians 3; Philippians 4
Scripture: Philippians 4:10-13
10 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Observation: Paul is thanking the Philippians for their financial support. As he writes, he can't resist the opportunity to teach. What Paul emphasizes is contentment. He appreciates their concern which is clearly demonstrated by a financial gift. But he didn't need the gift to be content. Paul has mastered contentment -- being happy with what you have, not unhappy about what you don't have. He has learned the secret to contentment. We find it in verse 13. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." The secret to contentment is faith and reliance on God. If I know that God is with me to accomplish all that He wants in my life, then the other resources aren't an issue. God will help me whether I have much or little.
Application: This is a hard idea for those of us in a materialistic culture. We think if we have lots of money or people or stuff, we can get more done. And that may be true on the earthly plain. But it is not true on the spiritual plain. The eternal work does not require earthly resources. It requires spiritual resources. Paul is a great example. Caesar had great wealth, and power, and he indeed accomplished much on the earthly plain. But Paul, who had nothing in comparison to Caesar's earthly resources, had great spiritual resources and accomplished far more in the spiritual, eternal realm than did Caesar. Today, people name their dogs Caesar. But they name their sons Paul.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be rich in spiritual resources. Help me to build up those resources so that I can accomplish much for eternity. And help me to be content as I depend of You and You alone.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Philippians 4:10-13
10 I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
Observation: Paul is thanking the Philippians for their financial support. As he writes, he can't resist the opportunity to teach. What Paul emphasizes is contentment. He appreciates their concern which is clearly demonstrated by a financial gift. But he didn't need the gift to be content. Paul has mastered contentment -- being happy with what you have, not unhappy about what you don't have. He has learned the secret to contentment. We find it in verse 13. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength." The secret to contentment is faith and reliance on God. If I know that God is with me to accomplish all that He wants in my life, then the other resources aren't an issue. God will help me whether I have much or little.
Application: This is a hard idea for those of us in a materialistic culture. We think if we have lots of money or people or stuff, we can get more done. And that may be true on the earthly plain. But it is not true on the spiritual plain. The eternal work does not require earthly resources. It requires spiritual resources. Paul is a great example. Caesar had great wealth, and power, and he indeed accomplished much on the earthly plain. But Paul, who had nothing in comparison to Caesar's earthly resources, had great spiritual resources and accomplished far more in the spiritual, eternal realm than did Caesar. Today, people name their dogs Caesar. But they name their sons Paul.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be rich in spiritual resources. Help me to build up those resources so that I can accomplish much for eternity. And help me to be content as I depend of You and You alone.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Title: The Inconsistent Saint / Topic: Spiritual Life
Today’s Reading: Ephesians 5; Ephesians 6; Psalm 119:1-80
Scripture: Psalm 119:4-6
4 You have laid down precepts
that are to be fully obeyed.
5 Oh, that my ways were steadfast
in obeying your decrees!
6 Then I would not be put to shame
when I consider all your commands.
Observation: Psalm 119 is all about the Word of God -- its priority, place, and power in the life of the God-seeker. Verse 5 caught my eye. In the midst of extolling the Word, he laments his own inconstancy to obedience of it. I love this about the Bible. It is honest. It talks to me where I live. And because it paints a picture of real people who love the Lord and seek the Lord -- but who also struggle and fail in their pursuit of godliness -- because of that, it greatly encourages me.
Application: Be encouraged! Those who went before us struggled just as you and I do. They battled with forces without and within, contending for the reality of authentic relationship with God. Keep fighting the battle. Don't give up. We are still in the hunt and we will be successful if we keep going.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that You have not given up on me. I am a man of true desire but inconsistent implementation of the things I know to do. Help me to lay hold of Your power and divine enablement that I may more adequately walk the narrow road to life. And help me to lead and encourage others on the way.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 119:4-6
4 You have laid down precepts
that are to be fully obeyed.
5 Oh, that my ways were steadfast
in obeying your decrees!
6 Then I would not be put to shame
when I consider all your commands.
Observation: Psalm 119 is all about the Word of God -- its priority, place, and power in the life of the God-seeker. Verse 5 caught my eye. In the midst of extolling the Word, he laments his own inconstancy to obedience of it. I love this about the Bible. It is honest. It talks to me where I live. And because it paints a picture of real people who love the Lord and seek the Lord -- but who also struggle and fail in their pursuit of godliness -- because of that, it greatly encourages me.
Application: Be encouraged! Those who went before us struggled just as you and I do. They battled with forces without and within, contending for the reality of authentic relationship with God. Keep fighting the battle. Don't give up. We are still in the hunt and we will be successful if we keep going.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that You have not given up on me. I am a man of true desire but inconsistent implementation of the things I know to do. Help me to lay hold of Your power and divine enablement that I may more adequately walk the narrow road to life. And help me to lead and encourage others on the way.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Title: Not By, But For / Topic: Good Works
Today’s Reading: Ephesians 1; Ephesians 2; Ephesians 3; Ephesians 4
Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-10
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Observation: Paul explains one of the most misunderstood principles of the Gospel. It has to do with salvation and works.
We are saved by grace through faith. And even this faith of ours which enables us to receive the grace that brings our salvation is a gift from God. Therefore our salvation is "not by works," that is, not by something we did -- it's all Him.
But, (and here is where the misunderstanding comes in) once saved, we are "to do good works." So good works are the product of salvation, not the means. We are saved not by, but for good works. In fact, God has a "to do" list of good works that He prepared in advance for us.
Application: Seek God about what is on His "to do" list for you. Each one of us is a unique creation of God for a unique purpose. "We are God's workmanship" -- in other words, each of us is a one-of-a-kind project that God is ongoingly working on. He has the singular design in mind and He is shaping each of us toward that specific divine design. As I work on His "to do" list for me, I am cooperating with His plan and purpose and am making steps toward "finished product" status in God's eyes. When I am finished, the Lord will say, "well done!"
Prayer: Lord, that is what I want to hear from Your lips, "Well done!" It is my will to cooperate with You in Your purpose for my life. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in me as it is in heaven.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-10
8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Observation: Paul explains one of the most misunderstood principles of the Gospel. It has to do with salvation and works.
We are saved by grace through faith. And even this faith of ours which enables us to receive the grace that brings our salvation is a gift from God. Therefore our salvation is "not by works," that is, not by something we did -- it's all Him.
But, (and here is where the misunderstanding comes in) once saved, we are "to do good works." So good works are the product of salvation, not the means. We are saved not by, but for good works. In fact, God has a "to do" list of good works that He prepared in advance for us.
Application: Seek God about what is on His "to do" list for you. Each one of us is a unique creation of God for a unique purpose. "We are God's workmanship" -- in other words, each of us is a one-of-a-kind project that God is ongoingly working on. He has the singular design in mind and He is shaping each of us toward that specific divine design. As I work on His "to do" list for me, I am cooperating with His plan and purpose and am making steps toward "finished product" status in God's eyes. When I am finished, the Lord will say, "well done!"
Prayer: Lord, that is what I want to hear from Your lips, "Well done!" It is my will to cooperate with You in Your purpose for my life. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in me as it is in heaven.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Title: The Perspective Of Eternity / Topic: Holiness
Today’s Reading: Romans 13; Romans 14; Romans 15; Romans 16
Scripture: Romans 13:11-14
11 And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Observation: Paul speaks simply and directly to believers about an understanding and an approach to nurture personal holiness. The understanding is that "our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." In other words, the moment when this present world will end for me is close. Whether Jesus' return or my death is the means that takes me out of this world, it's close. (Especially in geological terms.) :)
Application: The approach is to exercise the will with determination to "behave decently, as in the daytime" -- we use the term "in broad daylight." So live like everyone is watching. Personal habits of substance abuse, sexual licentiousness are addressed as are attitudes of pride which lead to divisiveness and pettiness. Jesus is to be the cloak that we cover ourselves with and -- I love this final phrase -- "do not even think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." In other words, don't allow indulgent thoughts to have space in your brain. This calls for self control and self monitoring of my thought life.
Prayer: Lord, help me to live today for the forever You have for me. Help me to lay aside any temporary indulgences that hurt me in the eternal sense. Make me a man with the perspective of eternity imprinted in my mind.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 13:11-14
11 And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
Observation: Paul speaks simply and directly to believers about an understanding and an approach to nurture personal holiness. The understanding is that "our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed." In other words, the moment when this present world will end for me is close. Whether Jesus' return or my death is the means that takes me out of this world, it's close. (Especially in geological terms.) :)
Application: The approach is to exercise the will with determination to "behave decently, as in the daytime" -- we use the term "in broad daylight." So live like everyone is watching. Personal habits of substance abuse, sexual licentiousness are addressed as are attitudes of pride which lead to divisiveness and pettiness. Jesus is to be the cloak that we cover ourselves with and -- I love this final phrase -- "do not even think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." In other words, don't allow indulgent thoughts to have space in your brain. This calls for self control and self monitoring of my thought life.
Prayer: Lord, help me to live today for the forever You have for me. Help me to lay aside any temporary indulgences that hurt me in the eternal sense. Make me a man with the perspective of eternity imprinted in my mind.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Title: Even Me / Topic: God's Mercy
Today’s Reading: Romans 9; Romans 10; Romans 11; Romans 12
Scripture: Romans 9:14-16
14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses,
"I will have mercy on whom I have mercy,
and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." 16 It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy.
Observation: Paul is answering objections that people have apparently raised about the rightness of God's judgment. People like to argue, I guess, though I don't understand why. While people will go on debating about whether or not or how God should judge people or condemn people, I see something truly amazing here. And that is the possibility of God actually having mercy or compassion on me. I know me. Why God would want me is a mystery to me. But He does. This blows my mind.
Application: So be thankful and rejoice. Don't argue, debate, or bicker over the finer points of God's judgment. (Remember, He is God. That gives Him the right to set the rules.) Just be glad that He is giving you and me the chance to know Him -- you and I can be the recipient of His grace and mercy. That's amazing. Thank the Lord!
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for your amazing grace that saves a wretch like me. Your love and grace and mercy always gives me pause. Help me and all who read this to walk in humble gratitude and joyful appreciation for Your great gifts.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 9:14-16
14 What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! 15 For he says to Moses,
"I will have mercy on whom I have mercy,
and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion." 16 It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy.
Observation: Paul is answering objections that people have apparently raised about the rightness of God's judgment. People like to argue, I guess, though I don't understand why. While people will go on debating about whether or not or how God should judge people or condemn people, I see something truly amazing here. And that is the possibility of God actually having mercy or compassion on me. I know me. Why God would want me is a mystery to me. But He does. This blows my mind.
Application: So be thankful and rejoice. Don't argue, debate, or bicker over the finer points of God's judgment. (Remember, He is God. That gives Him the right to set the rules.) Just be glad that He is giving you and me the chance to know Him -- you and I can be the recipient of His grace and mercy. That's amazing. Thank the Lord!
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for your amazing grace that saves a wretch like me. Your love and grace and mercy always gives me pause. Help me and all who read this to walk in humble gratitude and joyful appreciation for Your great gifts.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Title: Come On In / Topic: Grace
11:30 a.m. Late update: For some unknown reason, when I pulled up the reading list this morning, I got the list from December 1st (that's yesterday) and mistakenly did my devotional post on that. I am right now doing today's reading (Romans 9-12) and will post on that as well. Consider this post a free bonus! :)
Today’s Reading: Romans 5; Romans 6; Romans 7; Romans 8
Scripture: Romans 5:1-2
1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand...
Observation: I love this! Paul describes the fact that we have been given a gift -- a gift of access to God. It's as if a gate has been opened for us to enter into the presence of God. And this gate is "our Lord Jesus Christ." We have been granted entry into so many blessings because of this gate. Justification, peace, grace, the ability to have a standing before God -- all these are ours because of the gift of this gate, Jesus Christ.
Application: First, I must enter the gate, that is, accept the invitation to "come on in" that Jesus gives to me. I do this "through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ." The gate does no good if I don't walk through it.
Second, I need to recognize and cooperate with God's plan and provision that He accomplished in providing this gate. The things I listed above, "justification, peace, grace, the ability to have a standing before God," do not come automatically. No, they are the result of a partnership of me with God. I must, by faith, let the new take over and the old die. This will be much easier if I start with the understanding that without this opportunity, I would be lost and hopeless and powerless to do anything about it. This understanding will produce a gratefulness in me and help me to never seriously consider turning back.
And third, I need to continue in this thankfulness and cooperation with God's will for me. He's given me the chance to know Him and to grow in Him. But whether or not I truly make something of this opportunity is dependent on my cooperating with Him.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for inviting me to come on in. I am so grateful that You provided the Gate through which I can enter Your presence. Thank You for the gift of life through faith in Jesus Christ my Lord. Help me to walk rightly in You and to bring others along with me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Today’s Reading: Romans 5; Romans 6; Romans 7; Romans 8
Scripture: Romans 5:1-2
1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand...
Observation: I love this! Paul describes the fact that we have been given a gift -- a gift of access to God. It's as if a gate has been opened for us to enter into the presence of God. And this gate is "our Lord Jesus Christ." We have been granted entry into so many blessings because of this gate. Justification, peace, grace, the ability to have a standing before God -- all these are ours because of the gift of this gate, Jesus Christ.
Application: First, I must enter the gate, that is, accept the invitation to "come on in" that Jesus gives to me. I do this "through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ." The gate does no good if I don't walk through it.
Second, I need to recognize and cooperate with God's plan and provision that He accomplished in providing this gate. The things I listed above, "justification, peace, grace, the ability to have a standing before God," do not come automatically. No, they are the result of a partnership of me with God. I must, by faith, let the new take over and the old die. This will be much easier if I start with the understanding that without this opportunity, I would be lost and hopeless and powerless to do anything about it. This understanding will produce a gratefulness in me and help me to never seriously consider turning back.
And third, I need to continue in this thankfulness and cooperation with God's will for me. He's given me the chance to know Him and to grow in Him. But whether or not I truly make something of this opportunity is dependent on my cooperating with Him.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for inviting me to come on in. I am so grateful that You provided the Gate through which I can enter Your presence. Thank You for the gift of life through faith in Jesus Christ my Lord. Help me to walk rightly in You and to bring others along with me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Title: Which Master? / Topic: Victorious Living
Today’s Reading: Romans 5; Romans 6; Romans 7; Romans 8
Scripture: Romans 6:11-14
11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. 14 For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.
Observation: The person who has given his life to God has experienced a transformation. A death has occurred. That person has died to sin and has been made alive to the possibility of a righteous life. But it's not automatic.
Application: We have a choice. We can offer ourselves to one of two masters: God or wickedness. Wickedness is not a kind master for though it offers immediate gratification, it exacts a high toll in the long run. And the intermediate experience is guilt, shame, and brokenness. Becoming a Christian gives a person the potential of a holy life. But each person has to lay hold of God and continually submit to Him. I must offer my body as a living sacrifice in order to live up to the potential that God has for me.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You have put before me the opportunity to live in purity and holiness. Help me to always choose that path and walk in Your holiness. Open my eyes to see the deception that sin always uses to lure us away from Your path. May I see You and Your ways clearly and may I always joyfully walk in them.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 6:11-14
11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness. 14 For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace.
Observation: The person who has given his life to God has experienced a transformation. A death has occurred. That person has died to sin and has been made alive to the possibility of a righteous life. But it's not automatic.
Application: We have a choice. We can offer ourselves to one of two masters: God or wickedness. Wickedness is not a kind master for though it offers immediate gratification, it exacts a high toll in the long run. And the intermediate experience is guilt, shame, and brokenness. Becoming a Christian gives a person the potential of a holy life. But each person has to lay hold of God and continually submit to Him. I must offer my body as a living sacrifice in order to live up to the potential that God has for me.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You have put before me the opportunity to live in purity and holiness. Help me to always choose that path and walk in Your holiness. Open my eyes to see the deception that sin always uses to lure us away from Your path. May I see You and Your ways clearly and may I always joyfully walk in them.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Title: Faith In The Face Of Reality / Topic: Godly Faith
Today’s Reading: Romans 1; Romans 2; Romans 3; Romans 4
Scripture: Romans 4:18-21
18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.
Observation: I love this! Abraham had real godly faith. It was tough and gritty faith. It was faith that could look into the eyes of hopeless reality and still maintain hope. Abraham and his wife, Sarah, were way past the physical age of bearing children. Abraham was 100 and Sarah 90 (just a young chick!). And even when they were in the prime of their child bearing years, they were infertile. Abraham does not retreat into denial about his situation. He knows and accepts the facts. But Abraham also knows that God has given him a promise so he still believes! Now that's faith! How did he do it? He was "fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised."
Application: Do I believe that? Do I really believe that God has the power to do everything He has promised? Intellectually I do. But internally I must not fully because I still have doubts. Abraham was able to slay his doubts with this fantastic faith. That's the kind of faith that I want.
Prayer: Lord, help me to cultivate and grow this faith that can maintain in the face of bad news. I want to stand on Your promises and walk in overcoming faith. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Romans 4:18-21
18 Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, "So shall your offspring be." 19 Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead—since he was about a hundred years old—and that Sarah's womb was also dead. 20 Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, 21 being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.
Observation: I love this! Abraham had real godly faith. It was tough and gritty faith. It was faith that could look into the eyes of hopeless reality and still maintain hope. Abraham and his wife, Sarah, were way past the physical age of bearing children. Abraham was 100 and Sarah 90 (just a young chick!). And even when they were in the prime of their child bearing years, they were infertile. Abraham does not retreat into denial about his situation. He knows and accepts the facts. But Abraham also knows that God has given him a promise so he still believes! Now that's faith! How did he do it? He was "fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised."
Application: Do I believe that? Do I really believe that God has the power to do everything He has promised? Intellectually I do. But internally I must not fully because I still have doubts. Abraham was able to slay his doubts with this fantastic faith. That's the kind of faith that I want.
Prayer: Lord, help me to cultivate and grow this faith that can maintain in the face of bad news. I want to stand on Your promises and walk in overcoming faith. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Title: The Joy-Filled Life / Topic: Living In God's Will
Today’s Reading: 1 Thessalonians 4; 1 Thessalonians 5; 2 Thessalonians 1; 2 Thessalonians 2; 2 Thessalonians 3
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Observation/Application: Apparently, God wants happy people.
1) He tells us to "be joyful always." This is a command to a specific attitude which characterizes us. I think that means that I am supposed to be joyful as a lifestyle.
2) "Pray continually" -- this will help with #1. By staying in contact and connection with the Lord, I will automatically be more joyful. And I will be empowered to actually do it!
3) "Give thanks in all circumstances" -- this is only possible if I understand that God is working good things in my life even through the bad situations that happen. By focusing on the ultimate, rather than the immediate, I can be thankful for God's activity on my behalf.
4) "This is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" -- all these things are a part of God's master plan for my life. By doing them, I am living in alignment with His plan and thus I am much more likely to actually realize the potential that God has for me.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You have a plan for me. I want to fulfill Your will for my life. Help me to maintain that secure ongoing relationship and communication with You so that I can be empowered to live a joy-filled and prayerful life of thanksgiving to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
16 Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
Observation/Application: Apparently, God wants happy people.
1) He tells us to "be joyful always." This is a command to a specific attitude which characterizes us. I think that means that I am supposed to be joyful as a lifestyle.
2) "Pray continually" -- this will help with #1. By staying in contact and connection with the Lord, I will automatically be more joyful. And I will be empowered to actually do it!
3) "Give thanks in all circumstances" -- this is only possible if I understand that God is working good things in my life even through the bad situations that happen. By focusing on the ultimate, rather than the immediate, I can be thankful for God's activity on my behalf.
4) "This is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" -- all these things are a part of God's master plan for my life. By doing them, I am living in alignment with His plan and thus I am much more likely to actually realize the potential that God has for me.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You have a plan for me. I want to fulfill Your will for my life. Help me to maintain that secure ongoing relationship and communication with You so that I can be empowered to live a joy-filled and prayerful life of thanksgiving to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Title: The Pastor's Blessing / Topic: Spiritual Health
Today’s Reading: Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:8 For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.
Observation: Paul had doubts and great concerns about how the Thessalonian Christians were holding up. He was afraid that they would fall away under persecution and hardship. But he has received word that they are doing well and he is greatly relieved. That is the context for the verse above.
Application: I totally relate to Paul. When those I have the privilege to lead are doing well in their faith, it gives me a great feeling. If you want to bless your pastor, give yourself to God and grow. It will make his day!
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the privilege of leading Your people. Help me to lead well and to follow Paul's example of faithfulness in prayer and character. And help Your people to grow strong in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 3:8 For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord.
Observation: Paul had doubts and great concerns about how the Thessalonian Christians were holding up. He was afraid that they would fall away under persecution and hardship. But he has received word that they are doing well and he is greatly relieved. That is the context for the verse above.
Application: I totally relate to Paul. When those I have the privilege to lead are doing well in their faith, it gives me a great feeling. If you want to bless your pastor, give yourself to God and grow. It will make his day!
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the privilege of leading Your people. Help me to lead well and to follow Paul's example of faithfulness in prayer and character. And help Your people to grow strong in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Title: Alone For Me / Topic: Jesus' Sacrifice
Today’s Reading: Psalm 125; Matthew 26; Matthew 27
Scripture: Matthew 27:46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
Observation: Jesus is in agony on the cross. The physical pain had to be excruciating. But He only cries out at this moment. And it is not physical pain that causes Jesus reaction -- it is spiritual aloneness. For this is the first time in all eternity where Jesus is separated from His Father. He is truly alone and He cries out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" "Why?"
Application: The answer is that Jesus was separated from the Father so I could be united with the Father. Jesus had agreed to step aside from His place of perfect union with the Father into my place of sinful separation from God so that I could step into that place of relationship that He had so faithfully occupied. He stepped aside so I could step in. I am amazed at His love.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, it is unfathomable to me what suffering Jesus endured for me. Help me to walk gratefully and faithfully as Your son. Thank You for Jesus' great love and sacrifice that makes it possible for me to know You as my Lord and my God. Thank You, Jesus.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 27:46 About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?"—which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
Observation: Jesus is in agony on the cross. The physical pain had to be excruciating. But He only cries out at this moment. And it is not physical pain that causes Jesus reaction -- it is spiritual aloneness. For this is the first time in all eternity where Jesus is separated from His Father. He is truly alone and He cries out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" "Why?"
Application: The answer is that Jesus was separated from the Father so I could be united with the Father. Jesus had agreed to step aside from His place of perfect union with the Father into my place of sinful separation from God so that I could step into that place of relationship that He had so faithfully occupied. He stepped aside so I could step in. I am amazed at His love.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father,
Lord, it is unfathomable to me what suffering Jesus endured for me. Help me to walk gratefully and faithfully as Your son. Thank You for Jesus' great love and sacrifice that makes it possible for me to know You as my Lord and my God. Thank You, Jesus.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Title: Strong Words / Topic: Righteous Judgment
Today’s Reading: Matthew 23; Matthew 24; Matthew 25
Scripture: Matthew chapters 23 and 25 (excerpts)
Matthew 23:13 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!
15 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are.
16 "Woe to you, blind guides!...
17 "You blind fools!...
19 "You blind men!...
23 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!...
24 "You blind guides!...
25 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!...
26 "Blind Pharisee!...
27 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. 28 "In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
29 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!...
33 "You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?..."
Matthew 25:26 "His master replied, 'You wicked, lazy servant!...
30 ..."And throw that worthless servant outside...
41 ..."Depart from me, you who are cursed..."
Observation: Wow! Jesus has some very strong and harsh words for The Religious who opposed Him. He doesn't mince words. He doesn't hold back. His attacks are pointed and relentless.
Application: In our day of political correctness, Jesus' tough language really stands out. And He makes judgments, another practice that is frowned upon today. But Jesus can do it, because He is speaking at the bequest of the Father. What this tells me is that God isn't shy about speaking harsh truth or making judgments. I'm not necessarily recommending that the average Joe Christian should use Jesus' verbal methods here as an everyday model. But I am thinking that sometimes there are harsh words that are appropriate and judgments that are right to make and deliver. And we should be open to these things. I mean God might want us to deliver this kind of message. Didn't Jesus say that we would do what He did and even greater things? Does it apply here? Something to think about.
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for the Lord Jesus and the way He lived. He walked the authentic walk of faith and He demonstrated how we can live out our human experience of faith at the same time. I am glad that Jesus didn't sugar coat it but He spoke truth and called a spade a spade. I want to be like Jesus. Help me to be Your mouthpiece -- to speak what You would have me speak. And give me wisdom to make wise judgments and to know when and how to share them.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew chapters 23 and 25 (excerpts)
Matthew 23:13 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!
15 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You travel over land and sea to win a single convert, and when he becomes one, you make him twice as much a son of hell as you are.
16 "Woe to you, blind guides!...
17 "You blind fools!...
19 "You blind men!...
23 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!...
24 "You blind guides!...
25 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!...
26 "Blind Pharisee!...
27 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. 28 "In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.
29 "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!...
33 "You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?..."
Matthew 25:26 "His master replied, 'You wicked, lazy servant!...
30 ..."And throw that worthless servant outside...
41 ..."Depart from me, you who are cursed..."
Observation: Wow! Jesus has some very strong and harsh words for The Religious who opposed Him. He doesn't mince words. He doesn't hold back. His attacks are pointed and relentless.
Application: In our day of political correctness, Jesus' tough language really stands out. And He makes judgments, another practice that is frowned upon today. But Jesus can do it, because He is speaking at the bequest of the Father. What this tells me is that God isn't shy about speaking harsh truth or making judgments. I'm not necessarily recommending that the average Joe Christian should use Jesus' verbal methods here as an everyday model. But I am thinking that sometimes there are harsh words that are appropriate and judgments that are right to make and deliver. And we should be open to these things. I mean God might want us to deliver this kind of message. Didn't Jesus say that we would do what He did and even greater things? Does it apply here? Something to think about.
Prayer: Thank You, Father, for the Lord Jesus and the way He lived. He walked the authentic walk of faith and He demonstrated how we can live out our human experience of faith at the same time. I am glad that Jesus didn't sugar coat it but He spoke truth and called a spade a spade. I want to be like Jesus. Help me to be Your mouthpiece -- to speak what You would have me speak. And give me wisdom to make wise judgments and to know when and how to share them.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Title: The Way To Greatness / Topic: Serving
Today’s Reading: Matthew 20; Matthew 21; Matthew 22
Scripture: Matthew 20:25-28
25 Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Observation: Jesus tells His Disciples that they have to change their thinking. They have been in a mindset of selfish competition -- striving to get the most privilege and power. But Jesus turns that upside down. He tells them that to be truly great you don't have to strive, you have to serve. And the greater the service (doing more for others), the greater and higher is the one who serves. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of this. He served His fellow man up to and including the point of giving His own innocent life as a sacrifice for them -- for us -- for me.
Application: Follow Jesus' example and serve. My mom has this written in the inside cover of her Bible: "You don't know what kind of servant you are until someone treats you like one." That's the problem with being a servant. People often treat you like one. And that doesn't feel too good. But it shouldn't matter to us -- it must not. I am called to serve for Jesus' sake -- to please Him. And it can be the disrespect of others that is the best indicator of the approval of God.
Prayer: Lord, help me to follow the example of Jesus and the Calvary road. May I be the kind of servant that pleases You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 20:25-28
25 Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Observation: Jesus tells His Disciples that they have to change their thinking. They have been in a mindset of selfish competition -- striving to get the most privilege and power. But Jesus turns that upside down. He tells them that to be truly great you don't have to strive, you have to serve. And the greater the service (doing more for others), the greater and higher is the one who serves. Jesus Himself is the ultimate example of this. He served His fellow man up to and including the point of giving His own innocent life as a sacrifice for them -- for us -- for me.
Application: Follow Jesus' example and serve. My mom has this written in the inside cover of her Bible: "You don't know what kind of servant you are until someone treats you like one." That's the problem with being a servant. People often treat you like one. And that doesn't feel too good. But it shouldn't matter to us -- it must not. I am called to serve for Jesus' sake -- to please Him. And it can be the disrespect of others that is the best indicator of the approval of God.
Prayer: Lord, help me to follow the example of Jesus and the Calvary road. May I be the kind of servant that pleases You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, November 24, 2006
Title: Forgive To Be Forgiven / Topic: Forgiveness
Today’s Reading: Matthew 17; Matthew 18; Matthew 19
Scripture: Matthew 18:35 "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
Observation: Jesus tells his disciples that if they do not forgive, they will not be forgiven.
Application: We must walk in forgiveness if we want to be forgiven.
Prayer: Lord, help me to walk in forgiveness of others and to seek their forgiveness as well. If I have harbored any unforgiveness in my heart, please reveal it to me so that I may deal with it and be free.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 18:35 "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart."
Observation: Jesus tells his disciples that if they do not forgive, they will not be forgiven.
Application: We must walk in forgiveness if we want to be forgiven.
Prayer: Lord, help me to walk in forgiveness of others and to seek their forgiveness as well. If I have harbored any unforgiveness in my heart, please reveal it to me so that I may deal with it and be free.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Title: Ultimate Justice / Topic: Righteous Suffering
Today’s Reading: Matthew 14; Matthew 15; Matthew 16
Scripture: Matthew 14:10-11
10 [The king] had John beheaded in the prison. 11 His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother.
Observation: John is killed -- cruelly beheaded. This is the man of whom Jesus had said there was none greater. But being great and being recommended by Jesus could not stop him from being murdered. And this great man is killed because of pathetic people: a girl's sensuous dance that caused the king's rash promise that was used for the bitter wife's vengeance. What a waste!
Application: When I read this scripture, I am reminded that my reward, like John's, is not in this world. It is in the next world. And John is remembered as a great man. We don't even know the name of the girl whose dance cause John's death. It seems strange and very sad that such a great man died in such an ignoble way. But I also believe that the great reward that John received on the other side made his earthly suffering fade to a pale memory.
Bottom line: Live for God, accept suffering, do what is right. God will straighten it all out in the end.
Prayer: I thank You, Lord that there is a system of ultimate justice and reward that will bring everything in the universe into perfect balance and order. I trust You with my life and my destiny. Help me to keep my eyes on the ultimate and not on the immediate.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 14:10-11
10 [The king] had John beheaded in the prison. 11 His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother.
Observation: John is killed -- cruelly beheaded. This is the man of whom Jesus had said there was none greater. But being great and being recommended by Jesus could not stop him from being murdered. And this great man is killed because of pathetic people: a girl's sensuous dance that caused the king's rash promise that was used for the bitter wife's vengeance. What a waste!
Application: When I read this scripture, I am reminded that my reward, like John's, is not in this world. It is in the next world. And John is remembered as a great man. We don't even know the name of the girl whose dance cause John's death. It seems strange and very sad that such a great man died in such an ignoble way. But I also believe that the great reward that John received on the other side made his earthly suffering fade to a pale memory.
Bottom line: Live for God, accept suffering, do what is right. God will straighten it all out in the end.
Prayer: I thank You, Lord that there is a system of ultimate justice and reward that will bring everything in the universe into perfect balance and order. I trust You with my life and my destiny. Help me to keep my eyes on the ultimate and not on the immediate.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Title: The Critics / Topic: Pleasing God
Today’s Reading: Matthew 11; Matthew 12; Matthew 13
Scripture: Matthew 11:16 "To what can I compare this generation? They are like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out to others: 17 " 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge and you did not mourn.' 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon.' 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and "sinners." '
Observation: Jesus is commenting on the critics of His day. They didn’t like John the Baptist because he was too stiff. They didn’t like Jesus because He was too loose.
Application: Some people will complain and find fault no matter what. I don’t know why I think it should be different for me, but I do. I think that I should be able to get everybody’s approval, at some level. Of course I am disappointed.
Bottom line: Stop worrying about pleasing people. Jesus couldn’t do it so neither can we. Just make your performance for an audience of one: God. Please Him and it doesn’t matter who you displease.
Prayer: Lord, I do want to please You. Help me to lose the fear of man that sometimes dictates my actions and even causes me to back off some things I should do. May I have the confidence in knowing that You are my judge and my standard.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 11:16 "To what can I compare this generation? They are like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling out to others: 17 " 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge and you did not mourn.' 18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon.' 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, 'Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and "sinners." '
Observation: Jesus is commenting on the critics of His day. They didn’t like John the Baptist because he was too stiff. They didn’t like Jesus because He was too loose.
Application: Some people will complain and find fault no matter what. I don’t know why I think it should be different for me, but I do. I think that I should be able to get everybody’s approval, at some level. Of course I am disappointed.
Bottom line: Stop worrying about pleasing people. Jesus couldn’t do it so neither can we. Just make your performance for an audience of one: God. Please Him and it doesn’t matter who you displease.
Prayer: Lord, I do want to please You. Help me to lose the fear of man that sometimes dictates my actions and even causes me to back off some things I should do. May I have the confidence in knowing that You are my judge and my standard.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Title: True Life / Topic: Destiny
Today’s Reading: Matthew 8; Matthew 9; Matthew 10
Scripture: Matthew 10:39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Observation/Application: True life. It's what we are all looking for. To live a life that is truly living -- truly significant -- true life. We strive for it, work for it, save for it, search for it. And we despair when we are unable to find it. People even take their own lives when they feel powerless to find it. But Jesus says the quest to find life is a losing proposition. Only if we give up our life for His sake will we find the true meaning of life.
Prayer: Lord, this is my desire. To truly lose my life for Your sake. I want to fulfill Your destiny for my life and not my own ideas about what I am to do and be. Help me, Lord, to walk this road of self-denial and death that produces true life. Lord, You know my struggle. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 10:39 Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Observation/Application: True life. It's what we are all looking for. To live a life that is truly living -- truly significant -- true life. We strive for it, work for it, save for it, search for it. And we despair when we are unable to find it. People even take their own lives when they feel powerless to find it. But Jesus says the quest to find life is a losing proposition. Only if we give up our life for His sake will we find the true meaning of life.
Prayer: Lord, this is my desire. To truly lose my life for Your sake. I want to fulfill Your destiny for my life and not my own ideas about what I am to do and be. Help me, Lord, to walk this road of self-denial and death that produces true life. Lord, You know my struggle. Help me, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Title: In Secret / Topic: Motivation
Today’s Reading: Matthew 5; Matthew 6; Matthew 7
Scripture: Matthew 6
1 "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2 "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
Observation: Jesus' teaching in these three chapters in today's reading is amazing. So many wonderful and also challenging principles. Here Jesus is telling them to practice their religion in a private way -- a way so that it does not draw attention from other people.
Application: It seems God wants to be sure that as we do "acts of righteousness," whether it be giving to the poor or praying or whatever, we are doing it for Him, and not for PR. PR is a corrupting factor in people's lives. If I do something for PR, that is so I increase my positive Public Relations, then my motivation is essential selfish, based on pride. Lots of people go to church and act a certain way so that others will think better of them. God doesn't want that kind of religiousity. He wants us to do righteous acts because we love Him and want to please Him -- we are playing to an audience of One: God Almighty. I need to always inspect my motivation and eliminate those things that could possibly taint my spiritual life with pride. (Oh, and notice that Jesus says we are to do this preemptively -- to remove even the possibility of a less-than-pure motivation. Interesting.)
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You want to know me and relate to me. I am amazed that You are interested in me at all. But I am thankful. Help me to live for You and You alone. To do good because of Your nature which You have birthed in me and to cultivate the life of Your Spirit in my life, that I might know You and please You more.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 6
1 "Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.
2 "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6 But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you."
Observation: Jesus' teaching in these three chapters in today's reading is amazing. So many wonderful and also challenging principles. Here Jesus is telling them to practice their religion in a private way -- a way so that it does not draw attention from other people.
Application: It seems God wants to be sure that as we do "acts of righteousness," whether it be giving to the poor or praying or whatever, we are doing it for Him, and not for PR. PR is a corrupting factor in people's lives. If I do something for PR, that is so I increase my positive Public Relations, then my motivation is essential selfish, based on pride. Lots of people go to church and act a certain way so that others will think better of them. God doesn't want that kind of religiousity. He wants us to do righteous acts because we love Him and want to please Him -- we are playing to an audience of One: God Almighty. I need to always inspect my motivation and eliminate those things that could possibly taint my spiritual life with pride. (Oh, and notice that Jesus says we are to do this preemptively -- to remove even the possibility of a less-than-pure motivation. Interesting.)
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You want to know me and relate to me. I am amazed that You are interested in me at all. But I am thankful. Help me to live for You and You alone. To do good because of Your nature which You have birthed in me and to cultivate the life of Your Spirit in my life, that I might know You and please You more.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Title: Change Required / Topic: Heaven
Today’s Reading: Matthew 1; Matthew 2; Matthew 3; Matthew 4
Scripture: Matthew 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
Observation: It's a simple message: "Heaven is close, make your changes now!"
Application: If you want to make it into heaven, change is required. I can self-justify all I want, but that won't alter the reality of my deep imperfection. Only the perfect is allowed into heaven. Any imperfection, no matter how minute, would pollute heaven and it wouldn't be heaven any more. So change is in order. Get ready to let God do some radical heart surgery. Here am I, Lord. Strap me in.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that heaven is a place of perfection with no impurity allowed. And I thank You that You created a means by which imperfect people like me could be changed so we qualify to get in. Do Your wonderful work of change in my life. May I walk in repentance as a way of life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Matthew 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."
Observation: It's a simple message: "Heaven is close, make your changes now!"
Application: If you want to make it into heaven, change is required. I can self-justify all I want, but that won't alter the reality of my deep imperfection. Only the perfect is allowed into heaven. Any imperfection, no matter how minute, would pollute heaven and it wouldn't be heaven any more. So change is in order. Get ready to let God do some radical heart surgery. Here am I, Lord. Strap me in.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that heaven is a place of perfection with no impurity allowed. And I thank You that You created a means by which imperfect people like me could be changed so we qualify to get in. Do Your wonderful work of change in my life. May I walk in repentance as a way of life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Title: The Test / Topic: Self-Examination
Today’s Reading: Psalm 124; 2 Corinthians 11; 2 Corinthians 12; 2 Corinthians 13
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Observation: Paul instructs the Corinthian Christians to "examine" themselves. They are to look at their lives and examine and test themselves to see whether they are in the faith.
Application: These days there is not much encouragement to do this. In fact, there is a general assumption that those who attend church are truly Christians. But are they? Are you? I think it is a good thing for every person to ask, "What is my standing before God?" "Am I living my life with Jesus as Lord or am I self-directing?" If every Christian would be conscientious to ask these questions and repent if the answers cause concern, there would be a purifying effect on the church. Let's examine ourselves, be earnest, and repent.
Prayer: Lord, help us to keep a watchful eye on our lives and not live on autopilot. May we perform regular checkups to insure that we are indeed following You and not simply walking our own way with a "Christian" label on it. Show me areas and ways in which I am out of sync with You and help me line up with Your will and ways.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Observation: Paul instructs the Corinthian Christians to "examine" themselves. They are to look at their lives and examine and test themselves to see whether they are in the faith.
Application: These days there is not much encouragement to do this. In fact, there is a general assumption that those who attend church are truly Christians. But are they? Are you? I think it is a good thing for every person to ask, "What is my standing before God?" "Am I living my life with Jesus as Lord or am I self-directing?" If every Christian would be conscientious to ask these questions and repent if the answers cause concern, there would be a purifying effect on the church. Let's examine ourselves, be earnest, and repent.
Prayer: Lord, help us to keep a watchful eye on our lives and not live on autopilot. May we perform regular checkups to insure that we are indeed following You and not simply walking our own way with a "Christian" label on it. Show me areas and ways in which I am out of sync with You and help me line up with Your will and ways.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Title: Rich In Every Way / Topic: True Riches
Today’s Reading: 2 Corinthians 7; 2 Corinthians 8; 2 Corinthians 9; 2 Corinthians 10
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:10-11
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
Observation: Fantastic! God want to bless us -- in every way. Look at what Paul says: "You will be made rich in every way!" Rich is the word he uses. This is a powerful word. Our culture is schizophrenic about "rich" -- on one hand, everybody wants to be rich; on the other hand, we resent the rich. But Paul says "rich in every way." That means spiritually, physically, relationally, and financially, etc. -- in every way. But notice the purpose: "so that you can be generous." God wants to bless us so that we can bless others.
Application: So I think that God will not entrust His riches to those who are selfish. (Indeed, selfish people do get rich, but it is not God who enriches them, they do it on their own, through hard work, persistence, and even sometimes nefarious means.) But for the believer, we should seek to grow in a heart of giving and in the practice of giving -- at whatever our level of want or surplus. When God sees that heart and the practice of giving, He will "increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness."
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your character of giving and your heart of sharing. I want to reflect Your character with a life of selflessness empowered by You. I pray that You will find me worthy of the entrustment of Your riches so that I may be a conduit of blessing to Your world.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:10-11
10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
Observation: Fantastic! God want to bless us -- in every way. Look at what Paul says: "You will be made rich in every way!" Rich is the word he uses. This is a powerful word. Our culture is schizophrenic about "rich" -- on one hand, everybody wants to be rich; on the other hand, we resent the rich. But Paul says "rich in every way." That means spiritually, physically, relationally, and financially, etc. -- in every way. But notice the purpose: "so that you can be generous." God wants to bless us so that we can bless others.
Application: So I think that God will not entrust His riches to those who are selfish. (Indeed, selfish people do get rich, but it is not God who enriches them, they do it on their own, through hard work, persistence, and even sometimes nefarious means.) But for the believer, we should seek to grow in a heart of giving and in the practice of giving -- at whatever our level of want or surplus. When God sees that heart and the practice of giving, He will "increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness."
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your character of giving and your heart of sharing. I want to reflect Your character with a life of selflessness empowered by You. I pray that You will find me worthy of the entrustment of Your riches so that I may be a conduit of blessing to Your world.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Title: Divine Purpose Of Destiny / Topic: The Struggle
Today’s Reading: 2 Corinthians 3; 2 Corinthians 4; 2 Corinthians 5; 2 Corinthians 6
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Observation: I love this passage. Paul highlights the distinction between what is visible, the outward struggles and difficulties, and what is invisible, the inward growth and blessings. And he makes the point that while we may struggle with "light and momentary afflictions" (as the King James Version puts it), they cannot compare to the true and lasting value of the "eternal glory" that God is instilling in us through the process. And best of all, the outer stuff, the stuff we see and struggle with, is temporary -- while the inner stuff, the unseen stuff, is eternal. It is who we are forever.
Application: Be encouraged! We will not always struggle. And even the struggles we face each day are accomplishing an eternal goal that makes it all worthwhile. Don't give up! Don't give in! Keep working for the payoff in eternity. It is absolutely worth it!
Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father, that You are doing a work in my life, even through the trials and testings and difficult things I face. Help me to always remember that there is a divine purpose of destiny that is being accomplished in my life. And help me to stay faithful and focused through it all. May I please You with the way I live in diligence and perseverance for my strengthening and for Your glory.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Observation: I love this passage. Paul highlights the distinction between what is visible, the outward struggles and difficulties, and what is invisible, the inward growth and blessings. And he makes the point that while we may struggle with "light and momentary afflictions" (as the King James Version puts it), they cannot compare to the true and lasting value of the "eternal glory" that God is instilling in us through the process. And best of all, the outer stuff, the stuff we see and struggle with, is temporary -- while the inner stuff, the unseen stuff, is eternal. It is who we are forever.
Application: Be encouraged! We will not always struggle. And even the struggles we face each day are accomplishing an eternal goal that makes it all worthwhile. Don't give up! Don't give in! Keep working for the payoff in eternity. It is absolutely worth it!
Prayer: Thank You, Heavenly Father, that You are doing a work in my life, even through the trials and testings and difficult things I face. Help me to always remember that there is a divine purpose of destiny that is being accomplished in my life. And help me to stay faithful and focused through it all. May I please You with the way I live in diligence and perseverance for my strengthening and for Your glory.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Title: Keep Your Wits / Topic: Spiritual Warfare
Today’s Reading: Job 41; Job 42; 2 Corinthians 1; 2 Corinthians 2
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 2:11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.
Observation: Interesting! Satan has schemes. Paul says "we are not unaware of his schemes." That may have been true for Paul but is that true for us? I'm not so sure.
Application: Too often I see Christians not only unaware of Satan's schemes but even cooperating with them! Naive Christians are easy prey for Satan. We have to keep our wits -- to be savvy and alert. We must pray. We have an enemy who is clever and powerful. But we have an Advocate who is even more powerful. So we have to be more tuned in to Him and in sync with His will and ways.
Prayer: Lord, enlighten my mind to understand and walk in Your ways. Alert me to the schemes of the enemy and assist me in neutralizing his efforts. May I advance Your Kingdom and keep the enemy on defense as we push forward against the very gates of hell.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 2:11 in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.
Observation: Interesting! Satan has schemes. Paul says "we are not unaware of his schemes." That may have been true for Paul but is that true for us? I'm not so sure.
Application: Too often I see Christians not only unaware of Satan's schemes but even cooperating with them! Naive Christians are easy prey for Satan. We have to keep our wits -- to be savvy and alert. We must pray. We have an enemy who is clever and powerful. But we have an Advocate who is even more powerful. So we have to be more tuned in to Him and in sync with His will and ways.
Prayer: Lord, enlighten my mind to understand and walk in Your ways. Alert me to the schemes of the enemy and assist me in neutralizing his efforts. May I advance Your Kingdom and keep the enemy on defense as we push forward against the very gates of hell.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Title: The Musical, Singing, Dancing Army / Topic: Spiritual Warfare
Today’s Reading: Psalm 149; 1 Corinthians 15; 1 Corinthians 16
Scripture: Psalm 149
1 Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song...
3 Let them praise his name with dancing
and make music to him with tambourine and harp...
5 Let the saints rejoice in this honor
and sing for joy on their beds.
6 May the praise of God be in their mouths
and a double-edged sword in their hands,
7 to inflict vengeance on the nations
and punishment on the peoples,
8 to bind their kings with fetters,
their nobles with shackles of iron,
9 to carry out the sentence written against them.
This is the glory of all his saints.
Praise the LORD.
Observation: What an amazing psalm! It starts out so sweet and nice: singing, praising, dancing, musical instruments, and so forth. It sounds like a nice worship service. Then it shifts a little: "sing for joy on their beds" -- what's that all about? But wait, there's more! It gets really weird in verse 6: "May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands!" This is not so sweet and nice. And it continues to the end of the psalm. What does it mean?
Application: It sounds like a musical, singing, dancing army. And that is exactly what it is. But the music and singing and dancing isn't a distraction from the fighting, it is the fighting! This psalm describes a warfare but it is not the military kind -- it is spiritual warfare. I want to share four main points from this psalm:
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 149
1 Praise the LORD. Sing to the LORD a new song...
3 Let them praise his name with dancing
and make music to him with tambourine and harp...
5 Let the saints rejoice in this honor
and sing for joy on their beds.
6 May the praise of God be in their mouths
and a double-edged sword in their hands,
7 to inflict vengeance on the nations
and punishment on the peoples,
8 to bind their kings with fetters,
their nobles with shackles of iron,
9 to carry out the sentence written against them.
This is the glory of all his saints.
Praise the LORD.
Observation: What an amazing psalm! It starts out so sweet and nice: singing, praising, dancing, musical instruments, and so forth. It sounds like a nice worship service. Then it shifts a little: "sing for joy on their beds" -- what's that all about? But wait, there's more! It gets really weird in verse 6: "May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands!" This is not so sweet and nice. And it continues to the end of the psalm. What does it mean?
Application: It sounds like a musical, singing, dancing army. And that is exactly what it is. But the music and singing and dancing isn't a distraction from the fighting, it is the fighting! This psalm describes a warfare but it is not the military kind -- it is spiritual warfare. I want to share four main points from this psalm:
- Spiritual warfare is fought in both the spiritual and physical realm. "May the praise of God be in their mouths and a double-edged sword in their hands" The spiritual warrior does one thing in the physical realm and there is a corresponding yet different thing that occurs in the spiritual realm.
- There is a level of bondage and oppression that is ongoing and that we cannot detect with the five senses but that is real nonetheless. If we ignore it, we and others suffer. But if we will act in obedience, we can actually bind the enemy, preventing them from carrying out their evil designs. "...bind their kings with fetters, their nobles with shackles of iron."
- Our enemies have already been judged and condemned and there has been a "sentence written against them." It is in spiritual warfare that this sentence is carried out.
- This spiritual warfare is not something limited to an exclusive group. The last phrase makes that clear: "This is the glory of all his saints." For all of us who are believers and belong to God, this is for all of us!
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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