Today’s Reading: Exodus 35; Exodus 36; Acts 10
Scripture: Acts 10:44-46
44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. 46 For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.
Observation: All the original disciples were Jewish, as was Jesus, of course. And the first church was 100 percent Jewish. Here, Peter is following the instructions given to him by God to preach to some non-Jewish type people. I love the fact that the Lord interrupts to drive the point home. While Peter is giving his message, the Gentiles who were listening receive the infilling of the Holy Spirit and break out in supernatural tongues. What is funny to me is that all the Jewish believers are so surprised that the "Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles!" Their base level prejudice was something that they accepted as OK and did not see any problem with it. But God lets them know, "I came for the Gentiles just as much as I came for you."
Application: It is just good news that God regards all people as worthy of being saved. "God so loved the world..." -- not just one part of it. So God loves you and me and wants everyone to have the chance to know Him. Also, it gives me hope that God used the obviously imperfect original church to change the world. I think He can use us too. Let's change the world.
Prayer: Lord, thanks for reaching out to all people of every color, language, and place on earth. And thanks for showing that even flawed people can be used to do Your good here. Help me to lead many people in doing Your good.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Friday, February 02, 2007
Title: The Advocate / Topic: Believing In People
Today’s Reading: Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9
Scripture: Acts 9:26-28
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.
Observation: I love Barnabas. He is a guy that looks for the good in people. Here he hears about Saul, a recent Christian killer, but now a Christian himself, and goes to him and befriends him. He gives Saul a chance where others wrote him off as too dangerous. Because Barnabas vouches for Saul and advocates for him, Saul is accepted by the other Christians and can function within the church. Prior to this, Saul had been shunned by the Christians in Jerusalem.
Application: I think Barnabas is a great model. We sometimes write people off because of their background, their appearance, their social standing (too high or too low), or some other characteristic. It can be based on fear or some prejudice or other consideration. But God doesn't write off anyone. And I want to be like Barnabas -- giving people a chance to tell their story -- and to be a part of what God is doing.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be a Barnabas. May I always look for the good in people and believe for the best. Help me to be a collector of people that others might overlook or reject. May I be open all who are open to You, and may I present a welcoming and accepting atmosphere to all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 9:26-28
26 When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. 27 But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.
Observation: I love Barnabas. He is a guy that looks for the good in people. Here he hears about Saul, a recent Christian killer, but now a Christian himself, and goes to him and befriends him. He gives Saul a chance where others wrote him off as too dangerous. Because Barnabas vouches for Saul and advocates for him, Saul is accepted by the other Christians and can function within the church. Prior to this, Saul had been shunned by the Christians in Jerusalem.
Application: I think Barnabas is a great model. We sometimes write people off because of their background, their appearance, their social standing (too high or too low), or some other characteristic. It can be based on fear or some prejudice or other consideration. But God doesn't write off anyone. And I want to be like Barnabas -- giving people a chance to tell their story -- and to be a part of what God is doing.
Prayer: Lord, help me to be a Barnabas. May I always look for the good in people and believe for the best. Help me to be a collector of people that others might overlook or reject. May I be open all who are open to You, and may I present a welcoming and accepting atmosphere to all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Title: Supernatural Handyman / Topic: Spiritual Gifts
Today’s Reading: Exodus 30; Exodus 31; Exodus 32; Acts 8
Scripture: Exodus 31:1-5
1 Then the LORD said to Moses, 2 "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3 and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts- 4 to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 5 to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship."
Observation: God points out a craftsman who is empowered and enabled by the Sprit of God with "skill, ability and knowledge to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze..."
Application: I tend to think of spiritual giftings having to do with spiritual matters like preaching, teaching, faith, etc. But God doesn't just give that kind of spiritual gifts. Here Bezalel is a craftsman -- and his expert skills are a spiritual gift -- enabled by the Spirit of God.'
Bottom line: Look for God's giftings for everything you do. Ask God to help you do whatever you do with excellence and by His strength and for His glory.
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize Your touch on me and through me. May I not separate the spiritual from the non-spiritual, but help me see the spiritual aspect of everything I do. And may I be open to Your enabling hand upon all aspects of my life and work.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Exodus 31:1-5
1 Then the LORD said to Moses, 2 "See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, 3 and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts- 4 to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 5 to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship."
Observation: God points out a craftsman who is empowered and enabled by the Sprit of God with "skill, ability and knowledge to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze..."
Application: I tend to think of spiritual giftings having to do with spiritual matters like preaching, teaching, faith, etc. But God doesn't just give that kind of spiritual gifts. Here Bezalel is a craftsman -- and his expert skills are a spiritual gift -- enabled by the Spirit of God.'
Bottom line: Look for God's giftings for everything you do. Ask God to help you do whatever you do with excellence and by His strength and for His glory.
Prayer: Lord, help me to recognize Your touch on me and through me. May I not separate the spiritual from the non-spiritual, but help me see the spiritual aspect of everything I do. And may I be open to Your enabling hand upon all aspects of my life and work.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Title: Dignity? / Topic: God's Values
Today’s Reading: Exodus 28; Exodus 29; Acts 7
Scripture: Exodus 28:2 Make sacred garments for your brother Aaron, to give him dignity and honor."
Observation: Garments that give dignity and honor -- that is a concept quite foreign to me. In fact, dignity is connected with pride in my mind. But apparently, God values dignity in His servants. He specifically instructs garments that bring a sense of dignity to Aaron and his sons.
Application: I need to rethink my approach to ministry. I have held a high value in casualness and a relaxed approach. Being very authentic and reachable and open have been aspects that I have advanced. But perhaps my neglect of the value of dignity has been misguided. I will think about this and pray about it. What do you think?
Prayer: Lord, I want to bring You honor in the way I conduct my ministry and life. Help me to reflect the qualities that You value. Show me how I can better represent You in all I do and say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Exodus 28:2 Make sacred garments for your brother Aaron, to give him dignity and honor."
Observation: Garments that give dignity and honor -- that is a concept quite foreign to me. In fact, dignity is connected with pride in my mind. But apparently, God values dignity in His servants. He specifically instructs garments that bring a sense of dignity to Aaron and his sons.
Application: I need to rethink my approach to ministry. I have held a high value in casualness and a relaxed approach. Being very authentic and reachable and open have been aspects that I have advanced. But perhaps my neglect of the value of dignity has been misguided. I will think about this and pray about it. What do you think?
Prayer: Lord, I want to bring You honor in the way I conduct my ministry and life. Help me to reflect the qualities that You value. Show me how I can better represent You in all I do and say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Title: Keep The Flame Burning / Topic: Maintenance
Today’s Reading: Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6
Scripture: Exodus 27:20-21
20 "Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil of pressed olives for the light so that the lamps may be kept burning. 21 In the Tent of Meeting, outside the curtain that is in front of the Testimony, Aaron and his sons are to keep the lamps burning before the LORD from evening till morning. This is to be a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for the generations to come."
Observation: Perpetual flame -- that is what is called for -- at least during the dark of night "from evening to morning." As I read this, I thought of the work required to make this happen. Notice the responsibility is shared. The leaders are to "command the Israelites" to bring the oil. Obviously, there is the responsibility of the priests and Levites to light the lamp, fill it with the oil, and monitor it to make sure it has adequate wicking, etc. This is an ongoing responsibility that was clearly visible to all. And this was just one of many tasks that were required to maintain the worship of God in the tabernacle of Moses.
Application: The responsibility for maintaining worship is a shared responsibility. I tried to think of a corresponding task to the lamp lighting referenced above. I couldn't really think of one that had the same visibility, and therefore, accountability, and the same need for participation from leaders, servants, and the people. Can you? (I think this is especially true of a mobile church.) However, the ongoing worship of God is the joint responsibility of all who are a part of any body of believers. No one group can make it happen. And any group that falls down on the job can prevent it from happening successfully.
Prayer: Lord, help our fellowship to fully function in all the areas that are necessary to keep the flame of passion for You burning. Give us an understanding of our various roles and responsibilities and the will to fulfill them well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Exodus 27:20-21
20 "Command the Israelites to bring you clear oil of pressed olives for the light so that the lamps may be kept burning. 21 In the Tent of Meeting, outside the curtain that is in front of the Testimony, Aaron and his sons are to keep the lamps burning before the LORD from evening till morning. This is to be a lasting ordinance among the Israelites for the generations to come."
Observation: Perpetual flame -- that is what is called for -- at least during the dark of night "from evening to morning." As I read this, I thought of the work required to make this happen. Notice the responsibility is shared. The leaders are to "command the Israelites" to bring the oil. Obviously, there is the responsibility of the priests and Levites to light the lamp, fill it with the oil, and monitor it to make sure it has adequate wicking, etc. This is an ongoing responsibility that was clearly visible to all. And this was just one of many tasks that were required to maintain the worship of God in the tabernacle of Moses.
Application: The responsibility for maintaining worship is a shared responsibility. I tried to think of a corresponding task to the lamp lighting referenced above. I couldn't really think of one that had the same visibility, and therefore, accountability, and the same need for participation from leaders, servants, and the people. Can you? (I think this is especially true of a mobile church.) However, the ongoing worship of God is the joint responsibility of all who are a part of any body of believers. No one group can make it happen. And any group that falls down on the job can prevent it from happening successfully.
Prayer: Lord, help our fellowship to fully function in all the areas that are necessary to keep the flame of passion for You burning. Give us an understanding of our various roles and responsibilities and the will to fulfill them well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, January 29, 2007
Title: Blessed People / Topic: God's Law
Today’s Reading: Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5
Scripture: Exodus 23:4-5
4 "If you come across your enemy's ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to take it back to him. 5 If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help him with it.
Observation: These words instruct the people of God to show practical care for others. I love the fact that God, in most of these chapters gives laws and regulations that are so good to and for the people themselves. So often we tend to think that God gives laws to restrict His people. But the truth is, His laws, if followed, bring great blessing, protection, and goodness into the lives of those who follow them.
Application: Live in God's light. It is such a great life of blessing. Love God for His goodness and love.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your goodness. You are so loving to Your people. Help us to appreciate the good things that You give to us and the true blessing of Your laws.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Exodus 23:4-5
4 "If you come across your enemy's ox or donkey wandering off, be sure to take it back to him. 5 If you see the donkey of someone who hates you fallen down under its load, do not leave it there; be sure you help him with it.
Observation: These words instruct the people of God to show practical care for others. I love the fact that God, in most of these chapters gives laws and regulations that are so good to and for the people themselves. So often we tend to think that God gives laws to restrict His people. But the truth is, His laws, if followed, bring great blessing, protection, and goodness into the lives of those who follow them.
Application: Live in God's light. It is such a great life of blessing. Love God for His goodness and love.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your goodness. You are so loving to Your people. Help us to appreciate the good things that You give to us and the true blessing of Your laws.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Title: One Son Of... ...Encouragement / Topic: Goodness
Today’s Reading: Exodus 21; Exodus 22; Psalm 12; Acts 4
Scripture: Acts 4:36-37
36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.
Observation: Barnabas, what a guy! I love this guy. He appears later in Acts as an advocate for a certain outcast, a man by the name of Saul. Before Barnabas, Saul was held in great suspicion as the cruelest persecutor of the Church who with the help of Barnabas became the greatest proponent of the Church. Here, he sells some property he owns and donates the money to the church.
Application: Goodness in good people always surfaces and finds a way to express itself. Those kind of folks always seem to let their goodness shine. (By the way, this is true for the badness in bad people too -- unfortunately.) And notice Barnabas had a nickname, "Son of Encouragement!" What a great nickname, and apparently, he lived up to it. This is the kind of man I want to be, a man whose goodness always comes through and who others find to be a source of encouragement.
Prayer: Lord, help me be like Barnabas.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Acts 4:36-37
36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.
Observation: Barnabas, what a guy! I love this guy. He appears later in Acts as an advocate for a certain outcast, a man by the name of Saul. Before Barnabas, Saul was held in great suspicion as the cruelest persecutor of the Church who with the help of Barnabas became the greatest proponent of the Church. Here, he sells some property he owns and donates the money to the church.
Application: Goodness in good people always surfaces and finds a way to express itself. Those kind of folks always seem to let their goodness shine. (By the way, this is true for the badness in bad people too -- unfortunately.) And notice Barnabas had a nickname, "Son of Encouragement!" What a great nickname, and apparently, he lived up to it. This is the kind of man I want to be, a man whose goodness always comes through and who others find to be a source of encouragement.
Prayer: Lord, help me be like Barnabas.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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