Today’s Reading: Daniel 1; Daniel 2; Revelation 16
Scripture: Daniel 2:25-28
25 Arioch took Daniel to the king at once and said, "I have found a man among the exiles from Judah who can tell the king what his dream means."
26 The king asked Daniel (also called Belteshazzar), "Are you able to tell me what I saw in my dream and interpret it?"
27 Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you lay on your bed are these..."
Observation: I love Daniel. The book and the man. The above scripture is a perfect example why. First, when King Nebuchadnezzar (one doosey of a name) decides to wipe out all the wise men because none of them can read his mind, Daniel keeps his head (literally). He appeals for more time and he prays. When God reveals King what's-his-name's dream to Daniel and he appears before the King, Daniel has the opportunity to toot his own horn, or put a feather in his cap, or strut his stuff, or any other stupid phrases that refer to self-promotion. But Daniel does no such thing. He actually begins by correcting King N when he assumes (a dangerous thing to do) that Daniel has the power to read minds. Daniel says, "nope, it's not me, it's God." (PMS Paraphrase) I love the fact that Daniel is not only wise, he is very humble. What a great guy.
Application: Be like Daniel.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for including Daniel's life stories in our Bible. It is so great to read about this young man who, though a prisoner in a foreign land, found a way to honor both God and men. Help me to be like Daniel, to keep my head, and always honor You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Title: The Unstoppable Love Of God / Topic: Hope
Today’s Reading: Lamentations 3; Lamentations 4; Lamentations 5; Revelation 15
Scripture: Lamentations 3:19-22
19 I remember my affliction and my wandering,
the bitterness and the gall.
20 I well remember them,
and my soul is downcast within me.
21 Yet this I call to mind
and therefore I have hope:
22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
Observation: Jeremiah is in the midst of deep misery -- even despair. But he catches himself and stops to reflect on the one thing that can bring a glimpse of hope, even amidst the death and destruction around him: the unstoppable love of God!
Application: No matter how deep my difficulties may be -- even with the resultant depression -- there is always a place to go for hope. And that place is into the arms of my loving Heavenly Father, "for his compassions never fail."
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your unfailing love, Your great compassion, and Your never-ending mercy. The fact that You continue to love me and reach out to me is amazing. Thank You. May Your character of love be born in my heart as I demonstrate faith in You to everyone around me. Make me like You, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Lamentations 3:19-22
19 I remember my affliction and my wandering,
the bitterness and the gall.
20 I well remember them,
and my soul is downcast within me.
21 Yet this I call to mind
and therefore I have hope:
22 Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
Observation: Jeremiah is in the midst of deep misery -- even despair. But he catches himself and stops to reflect on the one thing that can bring a glimpse of hope, even amidst the death and destruction around him: the unstoppable love of God!
Application: No matter how deep my difficulties may be -- even with the resultant depression -- there is always a place to go for hope. And that place is into the arms of my loving Heavenly Father, "for his compassions never fail."
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your unfailing love, Your great compassion, and Your never-ending mercy. The fact that You continue to love me and reach out to me is amazing. Thank You. May Your character of love be born in my heart as I demonstrate faith in You to everyone around me. Make me like You, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Title: What Are You Giving God To Work With? / Topic: Consequences
Today’s Reading: Lamentations 1; Lamentations 2; Obadiah 1; Revelation 14
Scripture: Lamentations 1:14
"My sins have been bound into a yoke;
by his hands they were woven together.
They have come upon my neck
and the Lord has sapped my strength.
He has handed me over
to those I cannot withstand.
Observation: Here, Jeremiah, speaking in the third person for the nation of Judah, confesses that they have given the Lord "sins" which He has "bound into a yoke." This is a yoke of oppression and punishment against them. But they themselves provided the raw material of which their future, this "yoke," was created.
Application: The way I live gives the Lord the raw material to create my future. My choices determine what it is that God will use to either harm me or bless me. The truth is that many folks want to sow their wild oats when they are young and then later they pray for crop failure! But the Bible tells us, "Whatever seeds a person plants, that's the kind of crop that will grow. Whether seeds of good and Godly things that will bring a beneficial crop of blessing, or selfish and sinful seeds that will bring a deadly harvest of destruction. Don't be deceived, you can't outfox God." (PMS* Paraphrase)
Bottom line: Don't give God garbage unless you want to spend eternity in the dump. Let Him live His glorious power out through your life and you can spend eternity with Him.
Prayer: Lord, I want to plant good seeds because a want a great harvest. I want a crown of reward, not a yoke of punishment. Empower me to live by faith in Your positive power of blessing and righteous living.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Lamentations 1:14
"My sins have been bound into a yoke;
by his hands they were woven together.
They have come upon my neck
and the Lord has sapped my strength.
He has handed me over
to those I cannot withstand.
Observation: Here, Jeremiah, speaking in the third person for the nation of Judah, confesses that they have given the Lord "sins" which He has "bound into a yoke." This is a yoke of oppression and punishment against them. But they themselves provided the raw material of which their future, this "yoke," was created.
Application: The way I live gives the Lord the raw material to create my future. My choices determine what it is that God will use to either harm me or bless me. The truth is that many folks want to sow their wild oats when they are young and then later they pray for crop failure! But the Bible tells us, "Whatever seeds a person plants, that's the kind of crop that will grow. Whether seeds of good and Godly things that will bring a beneficial crop of blessing, or selfish and sinful seeds that will bring a deadly harvest of destruction. Don't be deceived, you can't outfox God." (PMS* Paraphrase)
Bottom line: Don't give God garbage unless you want to spend eternity in the dump. Let Him live His glorious power out through your life and you can spend eternity with Him.
Prayer: Lord, I want to plant good seeds because a want a great harvest. I want a crown of reward, not a yoke of punishment. Empower me to live by faith in Your positive power of blessing and righteous living.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
*PMS Paraphrase is the Pastor Mike Stipech Paraphrase where I reword a phrase or verse or two from memory. No guarantees are made. A link is always provided so you can read what real scholars translated the passage to say.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Title: Be Careful What You Ask For / Topic: Vows
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 42; Jeremiah 43; Jeremiah 44; Psalm 48; Revelation 13
Scripture: Jeremiah 42:3-6, 19-22
3 Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do."
4 "I have heard you," replied Jeremiah the prophet. "I will certainly pray to the LORD your God as you have requested; I will tell you everything the LORD says and will keep nothing back from you."
5 Then they said to Jeremiah, "May the LORD be a true and faithful witness against us if we do not act in accordance with everything the LORD your God sends you to tell us. 6 Whether it is favorable or unfavorable, we will obey the LORD our God, to whom we are sending you, so that it will go well with us, for we will obey the LORD our God..."
19 "O remnant of Judah, the LORD has told you, 'Do not go to Egypt.' Be sure of this: I warn you today 20 that you made a fatal mistake when you sent me to the LORD your God and said, 'Pray to the LORD our God for us; tell us everything he says and we will do it.' 21 I have told you today, but you still have not obeyed the LORD your God in all he sent me to tell you. 22 So now, be sure of this: You will die by the sword, famine and plague in the place where you want to go to settle."
Observation: These people asked Jeremiah to seek God on their behalf and made a vow to follow whatever answer Jeremiah brought. But when the answer came, and they didn't like it, they just decided not to follow it! They broke their vow because the word didn't fit their predetermined desire.
Application: Be careful what you ask for. If I tell the Lord I will follow Him no matter what, I had better be prepared for an interesting trip. God is not a tame animal. He does not do tricks on command. He commands, we do the tricks. At least that's how it's supposed to work. So don't make rash statements. Count the cost before you commit. And once you commit, keep your word.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You call me to follow You -- to take up my cross daily -- to not turn back. Help me to have the courage, dedication, and strength of character to do just that. I want to keep all my promises to You. May it be so.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Jeremiah 42:3-6, 19-22
3 Pray that the LORD your God will tell us where we should go and what we should do."
4 "I have heard you," replied Jeremiah the prophet. "I will certainly pray to the LORD your God as you have requested; I will tell you everything the LORD says and will keep nothing back from you."
5 Then they said to Jeremiah, "May the LORD be a true and faithful witness against us if we do not act in accordance with everything the LORD your God sends you to tell us. 6 Whether it is favorable or unfavorable, we will obey the LORD our God, to whom we are sending you, so that it will go well with us, for we will obey the LORD our God..."
19 "O remnant of Judah, the LORD has told you, 'Do not go to Egypt.' Be sure of this: I warn you today 20 that you made a fatal mistake when you sent me to the LORD your God and said, 'Pray to the LORD our God for us; tell us everything he says and we will do it.' 21 I have told you today, but you still have not obeyed the LORD your God in all he sent me to tell you. 22 So now, be sure of this: You will die by the sword, famine and plague in the place where you want to go to settle."
Observation: These people asked Jeremiah to seek God on their behalf and made a vow to follow whatever answer Jeremiah brought. But when the answer came, and they didn't like it, they just decided not to follow it! They broke their vow because the word didn't fit their predetermined desire.
Application: Be careful what you ask for. If I tell the Lord I will follow Him no matter what, I had better be prepared for an interesting trip. God is not a tame animal. He does not do tricks on command. He commands, we do the tricks. At least that's how it's supposed to work. So don't make rash statements. Count the cost before you commit. And once you commit, keep your word.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You call me to follow You -- to take up my cross daily -- to not turn back. Help me to have the courage, dedication, and strength of character to do just that. I want to keep all my promises to You. May it be so.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Title: Unstoppable / Topic: Courage
Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 25; 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40; Jeremiah 41; Revelation 12
Scripture: Revelation 12:11
They overcame him
by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony;
they did not love their lives so much
as to shrink from death.
Observation: This powerful description of courageous disciples of Jesus Christ is inspiring. These are overcoming individuals of great personal character and daring. And like their Lord, they suffer, some even to the point of death. And like Jesus, they do not consider death to be the worst thing that could happen to them. They know that worse than death would be to succumb to the pressure and turn away from the Lord. Notice that their overcoming "tools" are "the blood of the Lamb" (which has implications for our salvation, cleansing, and communion with Jesus in His death), and "the word of their testimony" (which communicates a bold, unyielding declaration of who they are because of Jesus). They are unstoppable, and even though some are killed, they overcome the enemy. Death is not losing. It can be a gateway to victory.
Application: Oh to be like these. And in truth, some of us may be called to do just that for this is a prophecy of a time yet to come.
Prayer: Lord, ready me and all Your people to stand strong. This world does not accept the bright light of truth and those who dare to live radically in that kind of light face nearly constant rejection and even confrontation. The days will grow darker and "the love of most will grow cold." Enable me to stand strong, and overcome the enemy of my soul.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 12:11
They overcame him
by the blood of the Lamb
and by the word of their testimony;
they did not love their lives so much
as to shrink from death.
Observation: This powerful description of courageous disciples of Jesus Christ is inspiring. These are overcoming individuals of great personal character and daring. And like their Lord, they suffer, some even to the point of death. And like Jesus, they do not consider death to be the worst thing that could happen to them. They know that worse than death would be to succumb to the pressure and turn away from the Lord. Notice that their overcoming "tools" are "the blood of the Lamb" (which has implications for our salvation, cleansing, and communion with Jesus in His death), and "the word of their testimony" (which communicates a bold, unyielding declaration of who they are because of Jesus). They are unstoppable, and even though some are killed, they overcome the enemy. Death is not losing. It can be a gateway to victory.
Application: Oh to be like these. And in truth, some of us may be called to do just that for this is a prophecy of a time yet to come.
Prayer: Lord, ready me and all Your people to stand strong. This world does not accept the bright light of truth and those who dare to live radically in that kind of light face nearly constant rejection and even confrontation. The days will grow darker and "the love of most will grow cold." Enable me to stand strong, and overcome the enemy of my soul.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Title: Ultimate Justice / Topic: Judgment Day
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 29; Ezekiel 30; Ezekiel 31; Ezekiel 32; Revelation 11
Scripture: Revelation 11:18
The nations were angry; and your wrath has come.
The time has come for judging the dead,
and for rewarding your servants the prophets
and your saints and those who reverence your name,
both small and great—
and for destroying those who destroy the earth."
Observation: Judgment day is coming. This verse chronicles the future day when it all comes down to what God has to say. "The nations were angry..." So what? Be angry all you want, but it makes no difference because it is judgment day. It is the time of rewards and punishments. Rewards for God's servants the prophets, his saints, and those who reverence His name. And a time of punishment, destruction for those whose actions "destroy the earth."
Application: Hang in there. Justice is coming. We live in a world where satan is in operational control (see my blog on the subject), but he will be put in his place, and all those who cooperated with him will suffer.
When I feel the injustice of suffering for doing good, I need to remind myself that ultimate justice is coming. God will reward the faithful and punish the evil doers. So do not become weary in doing what's right, for in due time, we will reap a harvest if we continue and do not give up.
Prayer: Lord, I rejoice that You are the Great Judge and that Your Honor and Goodness and Justice will se the agenda on Judgment Day. Help me to focus on pleasing You no matter the fallout. I look forward to Your coming. Maranatha, come quickly, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 11:18
The nations were angry; and your wrath has come.
The time has come for judging the dead,
and for rewarding your servants the prophets
and your saints and those who reverence your name,
both small and great—
and for destroying those who destroy the earth."
Observation: Judgment day is coming. This verse chronicles the future day when it all comes down to what God has to say. "The nations were angry..." So what? Be angry all you want, but it makes no difference because it is judgment day. It is the time of rewards and punishments. Rewards for God's servants the prophets, his saints, and those who reverence His name. And a time of punishment, destruction for those whose actions "destroy the earth."
Application: Hang in there. Justice is coming. We live in a world where satan is in operational control (see my blog on the subject), but he will be put in his place, and all those who cooperated with him will suffer.
When I feel the injustice of suffering for doing good, I need to remind myself that ultimate justice is coming. God will reward the faithful and punish the evil doers. So do not become weary in doing what's right, for in due time, we will reap a harvest if we continue and do not give up.
Prayer: Lord, I rejoice that You are the Great Judge and that Your Honor and Goodness and Justice will se the agenda on Judgment Day. Help me to focus on pleasing You no matter the fallout. I look forward to Your coming. Maranatha, come quickly, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Title: Mystery / Topic: The Invisible Realm
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 25; Ezekiel 26; Ezekiel 27; Ezekiel 28; Revelation 10
Scripture: Revelation 10:1-4
1 Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2 He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3 and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion. When he shouted, the voices of the seven thunders spoke. 4 And when the seven thunders spoke, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven say, "Seal up what the seven thunders have said and do not write it down."
Observation: What message did the voices of the seven thunders speak? John was about to write it down, but "a voice from heaven" told him not to. Why? I wish I could say, "God explained it to me," but He hasn't so, why lie? The truth is, I don't know. Nobody does.
Application: What this speaks to me is the truth that the invisible spiritual realm is both invisible and spiritual. (Wow, profound, huh?) Seriously, though, because it is invisible, I cannot see it -- because it is spiritual, I cannot figure it out. It is a mystery. Mystery is something we like in novels and motion pictures, but not much in church. But while we have certain things of which we can be sure (the Bible is God's word; God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; Jesus death and resurrection is the only means of gaining a right standing before God), even these have elements of mystery that we cannot fully understand. (And there is plenty of truly weird stuff in the Bible that we can'r really understand.) Paul wrote "now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror." (And the mirrors of Paul's day weren't as good as ours.) So we don't see clearly, and sometimes it seems backwards.
Bottom line: HUMILITY. We have to have humility and say, "I don't understand it all," and even sometimes, "I don't understand at all." But faith sometimes means trusting beyond the headlights. God has chosen to limit how far I can see and yet He says, "trust Me." I do.
Prayer: Lord, I do trust in You and I do trust You. I thank You that You have shrouded truth from us humans -- that You reveal it as You see fit. Help us to trust, obey, and marvel at You. You are the great, mighty, eternal, compassionate, merciful, mysterious, sovereign Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Revelation 10:1-4
1 Then I saw another mighty angel coming down from heaven. He was robed in a cloud, with a rainbow above his head; his face was like the sun, and his legs were like fiery pillars. 2 He was holding a little scroll, which lay open in his hand. He planted his right foot on the sea and his left foot on the land, 3 and he gave a loud shout like the roar of a lion. When he shouted, the voices of the seven thunders spoke. 4 And when the seven thunders spoke, I was about to write; but I heard a voice from heaven say, "Seal up what the seven thunders have said and do not write it down."
Observation: What message did the voices of the seven thunders speak? John was about to write it down, but "a voice from heaven" told him not to. Why? I wish I could say, "God explained it to me," but He hasn't so, why lie? The truth is, I don't know. Nobody does.
Application: What this speaks to me is the truth that the invisible spiritual realm is both invisible and spiritual. (Wow, profound, huh?) Seriously, though, because it is invisible, I cannot see it -- because it is spiritual, I cannot figure it out. It is a mystery. Mystery is something we like in novels and motion pictures, but not much in church. But while we have certain things of which we can be sure (the Bible is God's word; God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; Jesus death and resurrection is the only means of gaining a right standing before God), even these have elements of mystery that we cannot fully understand. (And there is plenty of truly weird stuff in the Bible that we can'r really understand.) Paul wrote "now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror." (And the mirrors of Paul's day weren't as good as ours.) So we don't see clearly, and sometimes it seems backwards.
Bottom line: HUMILITY. We have to have humility and say, "I don't understand it all," and even sometimes, "I don't understand at all." But faith sometimes means trusting beyond the headlights. God has chosen to limit how far I can see and yet He says, "trust Me." I do.
Prayer: Lord, I do trust in You and I do trust You. I thank You that You have shrouded truth from us humans -- that You reveal it as You see fit. Help us to trust, obey, and marvel at You. You are the great, mighty, eternal, compassionate, merciful, mysterious, sovereign Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Title: The Drastic Call / Topic: Sacrifice
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 22; Ezekiel 23; Ezekiel 24; Revelation 9
Scripture: Ezekiel 24:15-19
[Ezekiel's Wife Dies]
15 The word of the LORD came to me: 16 "Son of man, with one blow I am about to take away from you the delight of your eyes. Yet do not lament or weep or shed any tears. 17 Groan quietly; do not mourn for the dead. Keep your turban fastened and your sandals on your feet; do not cover the lower part of your face or eat the customary food of mourners ."
18 So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. The next morning I did as I had been commanded.
19 Then the people asked me, "Won't you tell us what these things have to do with us?"
Observation: God's prophet has been trying to get the message to the people. But they haven't been listening. How to get them to pay attention? It has to be something dramatic -- something drastic. And what God decides to do is shocking. He is going to bring about the death of Ezekiel's wife. The Lord first warns Ezekiel, and tells him that he is not to follow the customs of mourning. He is to show no outward grief.
How painful this had to be for Ezekiel. (I believe it was also painful for God as well.) But it works! After he does not mourn his wife's death, he writes, "Then the people asked me, 'Won't you tell us what these things have to do with us?'" This drastic signal got their attention and made them listen.
Application: Ezekiel (and his wife) were called to great sacrifice here, even beyond the immense sacrifice of their life and ministry. The goal was to get the people to listen, to ask, to seek. And it would be tough to do. Ezekiel knew this when he was first called. (Read the early chapters of Ezekiel.)
The application is that those who are called to God are called to give their lives to God. And giving your life to God sometimes means you give your life for God (i.e. you die). If a person is not ready to die, he is not ready to truly serve God. In fact, the call to salvation itself is a call to die. Baptism is a sign but also a foreshadowing. Jesus said "take up your cross daily."
Like Jesus, we must be willing to die that others may live. Ezekiel and his wife were willing to live out this drastic call. I respect and admire them so much. And God has called us who serve Him today to no less dramatic service.
Prayer: Lord, may I be found worthy to live and die for You. May I not shrink back from paying any price that others may live -- that heaven might be full and hell empty. Forgive me for my wimpy ways -- and empower me to take the challenge to step up and give my all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 24:15-19
[Ezekiel's Wife Dies]
15 The word of the LORD came to me: 16 "Son of man, with one blow I am about to take away from you the delight of your eyes. Yet do not lament or weep or shed any tears. 17 Groan quietly; do not mourn for the dead. Keep your turban fastened and your sandals on your feet; do not cover the lower part of your face or eat the customary food of mourners ."
18 So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. The next morning I did as I had been commanded.
19 Then the people asked me, "Won't you tell us what these things have to do with us?"
Observation: God's prophet has been trying to get the message to the people. But they haven't been listening. How to get them to pay attention? It has to be something dramatic -- something drastic. And what God decides to do is shocking. He is going to bring about the death of Ezekiel's wife. The Lord first warns Ezekiel, and tells him that he is not to follow the customs of mourning. He is to show no outward grief.
How painful this had to be for Ezekiel. (I believe it was also painful for God as well.) But it works! After he does not mourn his wife's death, he writes, "Then the people asked me, 'Won't you tell us what these things have to do with us?'" This drastic signal got their attention and made them listen.
Application: Ezekiel (and his wife) were called to great sacrifice here, even beyond the immense sacrifice of their life and ministry. The goal was to get the people to listen, to ask, to seek. And it would be tough to do. Ezekiel knew this when he was first called. (Read the early chapters of Ezekiel.)
The application is that those who are called to God are called to give their lives to God. And giving your life to God sometimes means you give your life for God (i.e. you die). If a person is not ready to die, he is not ready to truly serve God. In fact, the call to salvation itself is a call to die. Baptism is a sign but also a foreshadowing. Jesus said "take up your cross daily."
Like Jesus, we must be willing to die that others may live. Ezekiel and his wife were willing to live out this drastic call. I respect and admire them so much. And God has called us who serve Him today to no less dramatic service.
Prayer: Lord, may I be found worthy to live and die for You. May I not shrink back from paying any price that others may live -- that heaven might be full and hell empty. Forgive me for my wimpy ways -- and empower me to take the challenge to step up and give my all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Title: Good Fear / Topic: Knowing God
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 20; Ezekiel 21; Psalm 111; Revelation 8
Scripture: Psalm 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
To him belongs eternal praise.
Observation: "The fear of the Lord" -- what does this phrase mean? I generally think of fear as a bad thing. I surely don't want to be motivated or dominated by fear. But "the fear of the Lord" must be a good thing. I think it is a holy awe that comes from a deep knowledge of just Who God is.
Application: If I understand God, I will live wisely. If I truly know the dramatic breadth of His influence, power, awareness, justice, etc., it would cause me to tremble in my boots. God sees and knows all. But if I surrender to this awesome God and submit to His power and will, then I am welcomed into His Kingdom and I receive the privilege of receiving His blessings.
Bottom line: To walk in fear of the Lord is not to be afraid that if I step out of line, He will zap me. No, it is to be aware of my own tendency to step out of line which causes me to miss out on the amazing blessings of living in line with His purposes. I don't want to miss out.
Prayer: Lord, help! I want to know You, and to fear You as I should. I am a man fraught with failings that lead me to things other than You. Help me not to settle for good things, but to get the best: You. Change my nature by the amazing power of Your love.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all who follow his precepts have good understanding.
To him belongs eternal praise.
Observation: "The fear of the Lord" -- what does this phrase mean? I generally think of fear as a bad thing. I surely don't want to be motivated or dominated by fear. But "the fear of the Lord" must be a good thing. I think it is a holy awe that comes from a deep knowledge of just Who God is.
Application: If I understand God, I will live wisely. If I truly know the dramatic breadth of His influence, power, awareness, justice, etc., it would cause me to tremble in my boots. God sees and knows all. But if I surrender to this awesome God and submit to His power and will, then I am welcomed into His Kingdom and I receive the privilege of receiving His blessings.
Bottom line: To walk in fear of the Lord is not to be afraid that if I step out of line, He will zap me. No, it is to be aware of my own tendency to step out of line which causes me to miss out on the amazing blessings of living in line with His purposes. I don't want to miss out.
Prayer: Lord, help! I want to know You, and to fear You as I should. I am a man fraught with failings that lead me to things other than You. Help me not to settle for good things, but to get the best: You. Change my nature by the amazing power of Your love.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Title: Repent-Ready / Topic: Spiritual Life
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 17; Ezekiel 18; Ezekiel 19; Revelation 7
Scripture: Ezekiel 18:32 ...Repent and live!
Observation: God appeals to His people to change their lives. The above phrase from verse 32 is the climax to that appeal. The phrase is one of the basic rules of spiritual life: "Repent and live." That is, true spiritual life is only possible as we repent. Repent means to change positively toward God's will.
Application: I must be repent-ready: always prepared to bend, shift, redirect, or reorient my life based on the promptings of God. I need to recognize my propensity toward missing the mark (sin) and brokenness (the results of sin). This keeps me humble and seeking and available to God's direction.
Bottom line: Constant repentance is the only truly spiritual lifestyle. It must be cultivated and maintained. Repentance is not a one-time event. Repentance is a long-term way of life.
Prayer: Lord, I want to repent and live. I purpose to be constantly "on the stretch" for You. I desire to attune my ears, head, and heart to Your voice, and keep myself pliable to Your will. Help me to do so more and more.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 18:32 ...Repent and live!
Observation: God appeals to His people to change their lives. The above phrase from verse 32 is the climax to that appeal. The phrase is one of the basic rules of spiritual life: "Repent and live." That is, true spiritual life is only possible as we repent. Repent means to change positively toward God's will.
Application: I must be repent-ready: always prepared to bend, shift, redirect, or reorient my life based on the promptings of God. I need to recognize my propensity toward missing the mark (sin) and brokenness (the results of sin). This keeps me humble and seeking and available to God's direction.
Bottom line: Constant repentance is the only truly spiritual lifestyle. It must be cultivated and maintained. Repentance is not a one-time event. Repentance is a long-term way of life.
Prayer: Lord, I want to repent and live. I purpose to be constantly "on the stretch" for You. I desire to attune my ears, head, and heart to Your voice, and keep myself pliable to Your will. Help me to do so more and more.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Title: The Moment Of Truth / Topic: Judgment
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 15; Ezekiel 16; Psalm 70; Revelation 6
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: Kings, princes, general, the rich, the powerful -- at this one moment they are just like everyone else. Facing the wrath of God and the judgment of God has the effect of stripping away all of our human inventions of pride, prestige, and power. The earmarks of fame, fortune, power. and pleasure fall away as every person is confronted with God's great day of wrath.
Application: This is just another reminder that there are things that bring comfort here on this earth that are ultimately worthless. If a person has not made the decision to surrender and submit to God, then a rude awakening awaits.
Bottom line: Seek first God and the things of God, and let the other things come as God gives the opportunity and the blessing. This is not a one-time decision -- it is a daily decision.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that I and everything I have belongs to You. I thank You, Father, that Jesus took my punishment upon Himself and died for my sins so that I will not have to face Your wrath. Help me to live mindful of Your blessings and focused on You as my first priority. Thank You for the many blessings You have poured on me. May I never be distracted by the gifts but may I always find my delight in You, the Giver.
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: Kings, princes, general, the rich, the powerful -- at this one moment they are just like everyone else. Facing the wrath of God and the judgment of God has the effect of stripping away all of our human inventions of pride, prestige, and power. The earmarks of fame, fortune, power. and pleasure fall away as every person is confronted with God's great day of wrath.
Application: This is just another reminder that there are things that bring comfort here on this earth that are ultimately worthless. If a person has not made the decision to surrender and submit to God, then a rude awakening awaits.
Bottom line: Seek first God and the things of God, and let the other things come as God gives the opportunity and the blessing. This is not a one-time decision -- it is a daily decision.
Prayer: Lord, I thank You that I and everything I have belongs to You. I thank You, Father, that Jesus took my punishment upon Himself and died for my sins so that I will not have to face Your wrath. Help me to live mindful of Your blessings and focused on You as my first priority. Thank You for the many blessings You have poured on me. May I never be distracted by the gifts but may I always find my delight in You, the Giver.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Title: The Whitewash / Topic: Truth
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 12; Ezekiel 13; Ezekiel 14; Revelation 5
Scripture: Ezekiel 13:10-12
10 Because they lead my people astray, saying, "Peace," when there is no peace, and because, when a flimsy wall is built, they cover it with whitewash, 11 therefore tell those who cover it with whitewash that it is going to fall. Rain will come in torrents, and I will send hailstones hurtling down, and violent winds will burst forth. 12 When the wall collapses, will people not ask you, "Where is the whitewash you covered it with?"
Observation: Lies are flimsy walls, in spite of the fact that they can be dressed up to look nice. But even the best coat of whitewash does not provide any substance and structure. Only that can be provided by truth. There is no substitute for truth.
Application: Lies and falsehoods may work for awhile. But there will come a time when all lies will be shown for what they are. They will not be able to hold up under the strain of life. And they will collapse.
Bottom line: Live and speak the truth. It may seem easier to act and speak to please others, saying and doing what people want to hear and see, but that is only true in the short term. Ultimately, all falsehood will fail. Live and speak the truth.
Prayer: Lord, I don't want to live a whitewashed life. And I don't want to whitewash Your truth, no matter how socially unacceptable it seems sometimes. Give me the voice of truth and an earnest and sincere heart. And may everything I say be seasoned with Your grace.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 13:10-12
10 Because they lead my people astray, saying, "Peace," when there is no peace, and because, when a flimsy wall is built, they cover it with whitewash, 11 therefore tell those who cover it with whitewash that it is going to fall. Rain will come in torrents, and I will send hailstones hurtling down, and violent winds will burst forth. 12 When the wall collapses, will people not ask you, "Where is the whitewash you covered it with?"
Observation: Lies are flimsy walls, in spite of the fact that they can be dressed up to look nice. But even the best coat of whitewash does not provide any substance and structure. Only that can be provided by truth. There is no substitute for truth.
Application: Lies and falsehoods may work for awhile. But there will come a time when all lies will be shown for what they are. They will not be able to hold up under the strain of life. And they will collapse.
Bottom line: Live and speak the truth. It may seem easier to act and speak to please others, saying and doing what people want to hear and see, but that is only true in the short term. Ultimately, all falsehood will fail. Live and speak the truth.
Prayer: Lord, I don't want to live a whitewashed life. And I don't want to whitewash Your truth, no matter how socially unacceptable it seems sometimes. Give me the voice of truth and an earnest and sincere heart. And may everything I say be seasoned with Your grace.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Title: He Sees / Topic: God's View
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 8; Ezekiel 9; Ezekiel 10; Ezekiel 11; Revelation 4
Scripture: Ezekiel 8:12 He said to me, "Son of man, have you seen what the elders of the house of Israel are doing in the darkness, each at the shrine of his own idol? They say, 'The LORD does not see us; the LORD has forsaken the land.'"
Observation: In a vision, Ezekiel is shown the leaders of Israel worshipping idols. Each is doing it in in his own home -- they think that no one can see. (God even tells Ezekiel, "They say, 'The LORD does not see us...") The problem with their thinking is that they are wrong, God does see -- and He also shows what they are doing to Ezekiel.
Application: In reality, it is not a problem that God sees. It is actually a safeguard. I am glad that God has His eye on me -- that He is watching me -- that He is looking out for me. This provides many benefits to my life: safety, security, accountability, motivation. It also advances the truth that God loves me because one of the earmarks of love is attention. But because "God is watching," I need to be mindful to do right (that's the motivation I mentioned earlier). But since I love God and want to please Him and do His will, this only reinforces the good, spiritual motivation that I want to have in my life anyway.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I know You have Your eyes on me -- You have been observing me -- You know me. And the amazing thing about that is that You love me anyway. I know that You use what You observe in me to direct help and good things and people I need into my life. Assist and empower me to live in a way that makes You proud of me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 8:12 He said to me, "Son of man, have you seen what the elders of the house of Israel are doing in the darkness, each at the shrine of his own idol? They say, 'The LORD does not see us; the LORD has forsaken the land.'"
Observation: In a vision, Ezekiel is shown the leaders of Israel worshipping idols. Each is doing it in in his own home -- they think that no one can see. (God even tells Ezekiel, "They say, 'The LORD does not see us...") The problem with their thinking is that they are wrong, God does see -- and He also shows what they are doing to Ezekiel.
Application: In reality, it is not a problem that God sees. It is actually a safeguard. I am glad that God has His eye on me -- that He is watching me -- that He is looking out for me. This provides many benefits to my life: safety, security, accountability, motivation. It also advances the truth that God loves me because one of the earmarks of love is attention. But because "God is watching," I need to be mindful to do right (that's the motivation I mentioned earlier). But since I love God and want to please Him and do His will, this only reinforces the good, spiritual motivation that I want to have in my life anyway.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I know You have Your eyes on me -- You have been observing me -- You know me. And the amazing thing about that is that You love me anyway. I know that You use what You observe in me to direct help and good things and people I need into my life. Assist and empower me to live in a way that makes You proud of me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Title: The Extreme Call / Topic: Sacrifice
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 4; Ezekiel 5; Ezekiel 6; Ezekiel 7; Revelation 3
Scripture: Ezekiel 4:4-6
4 "Then lie on your left side and put the sin of the house of Israel upon yourself. You are to bear their sin for the number of days you lie on your side. 5 I have assigned you the same number of days as the years of their sin. So for 390 days you will bear the sin of the house of Israel.
6 "After you have finished this, lie down again, this time on your right side, and bear the sin of the house of Judah. I have assigned you 40 days, a day for each year."
Observation: Poor Ezekiel! Every time I read through this passage, I feel so sorry for Ezekiel. 430 day laying on his side! Ouch. (And he didn't have a Sleep Number Bed.) Plus, he had to camp out and build his camp fire with cow manure. Yum! What fun!
Application: This is such an extreme call. It makes me glad for the call that I have. I can sometimes complain to God about my "hardships." I think God must smile at my complaints. When I look at Ezekiel's call, I realize that I have it easy.
Ezekiel's call was something that God knew he could do. And my call is something that God knows I can do. And every person's call is something that God know he or she can do. Of course, regardless of one's specific call, none of us can do it on our own. I must have God's empowerment. I need to humbly seek Him that I may be able answer His call to the utmost of the opportunity that God has given.
Prayer: Lord, I want to answer Your call with excellence. I want You to be pleased with what You see and hear in me. And thank You, Lord, for the high privilege of being called to Your service. Empower me to do it well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 4:4-6
4 "Then lie on your left side and put the sin of the house of Israel upon yourself. You are to bear their sin for the number of days you lie on your side. 5 I have assigned you the same number of days as the years of their sin. So for 390 days you will bear the sin of the house of Israel.
6 "After you have finished this, lie down again, this time on your right side, and bear the sin of the house of Judah. I have assigned you 40 days, a day for each year."
Observation: Poor Ezekiel! Every time I read through this passage, I feel so sorry for Ezekiel. 430 day laying on his side! Ouch. (And he didn't have a Sleep Number Bed.) Plus, he had to camp out and build his camp fire with cow manure. Yum! What fun!
Application: This is such an extreme call. It makes me glad for the call that I have. I can sometimes complain to God about my "hardships." I think God must smile at my complaints. When I look at Ezekiel's call, I realize that I have it easy.
Ezekiel's call was something that God knew he could do. And my call is something that God knows I can do. And every person's call is something that God know he or she can do. Of course, regardless of one's specific call, none of us can do it on our own. I must have God's empowerment. I need to humbly seek Him that I may be able answer His call to the utmost of the opportunity that God has given.
Prayer: Lord, I want to answer Your call with excellence. I want You to be pleased with what You see and hear in me. And thank You, Lord, for the high privilege of being called to Your service. Empower me to do it well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Title: The God Of The Second Chance / Topic: Grace
Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 1; Ezekiel 2; Ezekiel 3; Revelation 2
Scripture: Ezekiel 1:1-3
1 In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month on the fifth day, while I was among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God.
2 On the fifth of the month—it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin- 3 the word of the LORD came to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the Kebar River in the land of the Babylonians. There the hand of the LORD was upon him.
Observation: I love the fact that God speaks to Ezekiel and gives him visions even though he and the rest of God's people have been exiled to Babylon because of their pathological rebellion. God's great graciousness is so evident! He does not abandon or forget His people. He reached out to them even as they are in the midst of the justly deserved consequences that He Himself has brought upon them.
Application: God does not stop loving me no matter what. And the range of His reach is unlimited. It transcends church, or other settings of seeking Him. He can and does find me even in the middle of the messes I make for myself. And He lovingly calls to me.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your gracious faithful ways. You continue to seek me and find me when I am the one who wanders away. You continually draw me back and woo me with reminders of the sweet and precious times we have had. This amazes me. Thank You for being the God of the second chance. Help me to respond to Your call and to stay close to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ezekiel 1:1-3
1 In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month on the fifth day, while I was among the exiles by the Kebar River, the heavens were opened and I saw visions of God.
2 On the fifth of the month—it was the fifth year of the exile of King Jehoiachin- 3 the word of the LORD came to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, by the Kebar River in the land of the Babylonians. There the hand of the LORD was upon him.
Observation: I love the fact that God speaks to Ezekiel and gives him visions even though he and the rest of God's people have been exiled to Babylon because of their pathological rebellion. God's great graciousness is so evident! He does not abandon or forget His people. He reached out to them even as they are in the midst of the justly deserved consequences that He Himself has brought upon them.
Application: God does not stop loving me no matter what. And the range of His reach is unlimited. It transcends church, or other settings of seeking Him. He can and does find me even in the middle of the messes I make for myself. And He lovingly calls to me.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for Your gracious faithful ways. You continue to seek me and find me when I am the one who wanders away. You continually draw me back and woo me with reminders of the sweet and precious times we have had. This amazes me. Thank You for being the God of the second chance. Help me to respond to Your call and to stay close to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Title: Sharing The Struggle / Topic: Endurance
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 52; Revelation 1; Psalm 143; Psalm 144
Scripture: Revelation 1:9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.
Observation: I love the way John wrote this, our "brother and companion in" ...what? In "the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus." WOW! We share these things with John and with every other believer on the planet throughout the ages.
Application:
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Update: My lovely bride, Cynthia, also happened to select the same passage for her devotional blog on this date. Please take the time to read it by clicking here.
Scripture: Revelation 1:9 I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus.
Observation: I love the way John wrote this, our "brother and companion in" ...what? In "the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus." WOW! We share these things with John and with every other believer on the planet throughout the ages.
Application:
- the suffering -- the way of Christ is the Calvary Road. "If any man would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." The apostle Paul said this: "I die daily," and this: "dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything." We are companions in suffering.
- the kingdom -- ironically, we also share a kingdom -- an eternal, powerful, amazing kingdom, ruled by our Redeemer and Friend, who Himself shared in our suffering by bearing our sin and shame on the cross. We have a kingdom and a King!
- the patient endurance -- this is what we need to get through the suffering into the kingdom! We must hang onto Jesus and to each other and we will be rewarded in that final day. But for now we share patient endurance.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Update: My lovely bride, Cynthia, also happened to select the same passage for her devotional blog on this date. Please take the time to read it by clicking here.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Title: Memorable Words / Topic: Legacy
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 50; Jeremiah 51; 3 John 1
Scripture: Jeremiah 51:64 ...The words of Jeremiah end here.
Observation: Jeremiah was a great man -- a servant of God -- a prophet -- a man of courage -- a great man. He was a man who spoke words of truth that were largely not well received. He was hated, threatened, imprisoned, feared. Jeremiah was thrown into a muddy hole and had to be rescued with ropes pulled up by thirty men. He gave private audiences to kings. His words were largely misunderstood and ignored. And the scripture above is the place in the Bible where the words of Jeremiah come to an end.
Application: This will happen to all of us. There is a moment in time when our words will come to an end. There will be an instant when I will have spoken my last word.
Yet Jeremiah's words live on. They live on in the Bible. They live on in history because some of his words have yet to be fulfilled.
What about my words? Will they live on beyond my final breath? I pray that my words live on in the lives of the people who heard them: my wife, my children and grandchildren; my colaborers in the work of the gospel; the people I have had the privilege of pastoring over the years; and friends, neighbors, acquaintances, strangers.
For me the bottom line is this: Make my words count. Fill everything that I say with meaning, emotion, passion, and intention.
Prayer: May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, my God and my redeemer.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Jeremiah 51:64 ...The words of Jeremiah end here.
Observation: Jeremiah was a great man -- a servant of God -- a prophet -- a man of courage -- a great man. He was a man who spoke words of truth that were largely not well received. He was hated, threatened, imprisoned, feared. Jeremiah was thrown into a muddy hole and had to be rescued with ropes pulled up by thirty men. He gave private audiences to kings. His words were largely misunderstood and ignored. And the scripture above is the place in the Bible where the words of Jeremiah come to an end.
Application: This will happen to all of us. There is a moment in time when our words will come to an end. There will be an instant when I will have spoken my last word.
Yet Jeremiah's words live on. They live on in the Bible. They live on in history because some of his words have yet to be fulfilled.
What about my words? Will they live on beyond my final breath? I pray that my words live on in the lives of the people who heard them: my wife, my children and grandchildren; my colaborers in the work of the gospel; the people I have had the privilege of pastoring over the years; and friends, neighbors, acquaintances, strangers.
For me the bottom line is this: Make my words count. Fill everything that I say with meaning, emotion, passion, and intention.
Prayer: May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, my God and my redeemer.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Title: The Un-Recommendation / Topic: Testimony
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 37; Jeremiah 38; Jeremiah 39; Psalm 79; 2 John 1
Scripture: Psalm 79:9-10
9 Help us, O God our Savior,
for the glory of your name;
deliver us and forgive our sins
for your name's sake.
10 Why should the nations say,
"Where is their God?"
Observation: "Where is their God?" That is a question that should not be asked by anyone observing God's people. Unfortunately, many of God's people's lives do not do much to recommend God. Doubt, disobedience, lack of discipline, poor character, bad attitudes -- these are a few of the characteristics that the observer might see in the lives of "Christians" today. And when the people of God do not honor God with their lives, they make themselves an un-recommendation or an un-advertisement.
Application: Why should anyone say, "Where is his God?" when observing me? Sadly, sometimes I could give cause for such a question. Why? How? By failing to lay hold of the great and precious promises of God and by living a life on a merely human plane due to a lack of faith.
God has called me to be supernatural -- to live on a higher plane.
Prayer: Lord help me to live where You live. To lift up my eyes to You, my Helper, my Savior, my Redeemer. May I submit and surrender to Your awesome power and not be dragged down by my own pride, greed, lust, or sloth. May I not be afraid to give up my stuff (which is not much) to gain Your stuff (which is awesome), so that others may clearly see You active and powerful through my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 79:9-10
9 Help us, O God our Savior,
for the glory of your name;
deliver us and forgive our sins
for your name's sake.
10 Why should the nations say,
"Where is their God?"
Observation: "Where is their God?" That is a question that should not be asked by anyone observing God's people. Unfortunately, many of God's people's lives do not do much to recommend God. Doubt, disobedience, lack of discipline, poor character, bad attitudes -- these are a few of the characteristics that the observer might see in the lives of "Christians" today. And when the people of God do not honor God with their lives, they make themselves an un-recommendation or an un-advertisement.
Application: Why should anyone say, "Where is his God?" when observing me? Sadly, sometimes I could give cause for such a question. Why? How? By failing to lay hold of the great and precious promises of God and by living a life on a merely human plane due to a lack of faith.
God has called me to be supernatural -- to live on a higher plane.
Prayer: Lord help me to live where You live. To lift up my eyes to You, my Helper, my Savior, my Redeemer. May I submit and surrender to Your awesome power and not be dragged down by my own pride, greed, lust, or sloth. May I not be afraid to give up my stuff (which is not much) to gain Your stuff (which is awesome), so that others may clearly see You active and powerful through my life.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Title: Ultimately But Not Immediately / Topic: God's Sovereignty
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 33; Jeremiah 34; Psalm 74; 1 John 5
Scripture: 1 John 5:19 We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.
Observation: "God is in control." This is a popular phrase among Christians, especially when things go wrong or if something happens that is difficult to understand. There is even a popular Christian song by that title. The phrase is often repeated when we are faced with the fact that events in this world seem quite out of control and trends are moving in the wrong direction.
But here, John tells us that God is not in control! -- "the whole world is under the control of the evil one." That is something that I do not like to hear. But it is true. God is sovereign. That is, there is nothing that happens that is beyond His ability to do something about it. But apparently, though God has ultimate sovereignty, the immediate situation is that the control of this planet is in satan's hands. Note that John points out that "we are children of God." This phrase stands to contrast the condition of the world: We are under God's control but the world is under satan's control. That means we live in a hostile environment. What to do?
Application: Well, if I believe the whole chapter, John made this point clear: I have the upper hand: "for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." (vss. 4-5)
I have a choice here. I can either sink in fear and depression, holding on until Jesus comes back to save me out of this mess, or I can lay hold of overcoming faith in Jesus, and rise above the negative world in which I live. I can have "the victory that has overcome the world" through faith. This is a challenge but there is a faith that is transformative. (Read Hebrews chapter 11.)
Prayer: Lord, I want to lay hold of this victorious lifestyle and attitude. Give us faith that rises above the turmoil and dismay that can so easily swamp us in the mire of doubt, depression, and despair. Thank You for Your victory. Help us to find power to live in our victory through faith in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 John 5:19 We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one.
Observation: "God is in control." This is a popular phrase among Christians, especially when things go wrong or if something happens that is difficult to understand. There is even a popular Christian song by that title. The phrase is often repeated when we are faced with the fact that events in this world seem quite out of control and trends are moving in the wrong direction.
- Terrorists attack -- "God is in control."
- Hollywood puts out an anti-Christian film -- "God is in control."
- The ACLU attacks Christianity and wins -- "God is in control."
But here, John tells us that God is not in control! -- "the whole world is under the control of the evil one." That is something that I do not like to hear. But it is true. God is sovereign. That is, there is nothing that happens that is beyond His ability to do something about it. But apparently, though God has ultimate sovereignty, the immediate situation is that the control of this planet is in satan's hands. Note that John points out that "we are children of God." This phrase stands to contrast the condition of the world: We are under God's control but the world is under satan's control. That means we live in a hostile environment. What to do?
Application: Well, if I believe the whole chapter, John made this point clear: I have the upper hand: "for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." (vss. 4-5)
I have a choice here. I can either sink in fear and depression, holding on until Jesus comes back to save me out of this mess, or I can lay hold of overcoming faith in Jesus, and rise above the negative world in which I live. I can have "the victory that has overcome the world" through faith. This is a challenge but there is a faith that is transformative. (Read Hebrews chapter 11.)
Prayer: Lord, I want to lay hold of this victorious lifestyle and attitude. Give us faith that rises above the turmoil and dismay that can so easily swamp us in the mire of doubt, depression, and despair. Thank You for Your victory. Help us to find power to live in our victory through faith in You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Title: This Is A Test / Topic: Love
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 31; Jeremiah 32; 1 John 4
Scripture: 1 John 4:19-21
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Observation: If I claim to be a follower of Christ, I am claiming to be a person who has received Christ's nature. This verse says that the reason I can love is that I received love from God first. God not only loved me, He gave His love to me -- to be my own. If I belong to God, His nature and therefore His love are within me. The natural result of God's nature within is to love as He loves. If I don't, there is a problem -- I must not have God's nature within.
Application: This is a test. It is a test of what is within me -- within each of us. It is easy to say, "I'm a Christian." But it's not always easy to love. Sometimes it's downright impossible without God's nature within. But if my claim to love the invisible God is true, I have to show it by loving the visible people around me.
Bottom line: Just like it says, "Whoever loves God must also love his brother."
Prayer: Lord, You make it so practical -- which is why it challenges me so often! Help me to love not only in intentions and words but also in motivation and in action. Help Your people to really love one another so that our testimony to the world will draw people to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 John 4:19-21
19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, "I love God," yet hates his brother, he is a liar. For anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen. 21 And he has given us this command: Whoever loves God must also love his brother.
Observation: If I claim to be a follower of Christ, I am claiming to be a person who has received Christ's nature. This verse says that the reason I can love is that I received love from God first. God not only loved me, He gave His love to me -- to be my own. If I belong to God, His nature and therefore His love are within me. The natural result of God's nature within is to love as He loves. If I don't, there is a problem -- I must not have God's nature within.
Application: This is a test. It is a test of what is within me -- within each of us. It is easy to say, "I'm a Christian." But it's not always easy to love. Sometimes it's downright impossible without God's nature within. But if my claim to love the invisible God is true, I have to show it by loving the visible people around me.
Bottom line: Just like it says, "Whoever loves God must also love his brother."
Prayer: Lord, You make it so practical -- which is why it challenges me so often! Help me to love not only in intentions and words but also in motivation and in action. Help Your people to really love one another so that our testimony to the world will draw people to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Title: Devoted To Closeness / Topic: Intimacy
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 28; Jeremiah 29; Jeremiah 30; 1 John 3
Scripture: Jeremiah 30:21
'...who is he who will devote himself
to be close to me?'
declares the LORD.
Observation: This scripture so speaks to me! This is the deepest cry of my heart -- to be intimate with God. This requires being devoted to the purpose of closeness to God. It is my desire to live in continuous deep intimacy with my Lord.
Application: How to do it? That is another thing. My greatest obstacle to this is my own tendency toward busy-ness. I have an amazing propensity to get focused on dozens of details on scores of project in a variety of areas in my life. Even my lists have lists!
The bottom line for me is this: I have to consciously wind down my existing projects without taking on new ones, and in this process I must give increased time to the disciplines of prayer, worship, silence, solitude, study, reading, and thinking. This verse speaks of a person devoting himself to "being close" to God. Lord help me to be devoted to that.
Prayer: Yes, Lord, help me. I want to be a man of the deepest and closest connection to You. I want to know You, to hear Your voice, to experience Your passions and Your power. Help me to find the secret and quiet place to be close to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Jeremiah 30:21
'...who is he who will devote himself
to be close to me?'
declares the LORD.
Observation: This scripture so speaks to me! This is the deepest cry of my heart -- to be intimate with God. This requires being devoted to the purpose of closeness to God. It is my desire to live in continuous deep intimacy with my Lord.
Application: How to do it? That is another thing. My greatest obstacle to this is my own tendency toward busy-ness. I have an amazing propensity to get focused on dozens of details on scores of project in a variety of areas in my life. Even my lists have lists!
The bottom line for me is this: I have to consciously wind down my existing projects without taking on new ones, and in this process I must give increased time to the disciplines of prayer, worship, silence, solitude, study, reading, and thinking. This verse speaks of a person devoting himself to "being close" to God. Lord help me to be devoted to that.
Prayer: Yes, Lord, help me. I want to be a man of the deepest and closest connection to You. I want to know You, to hear Your voice, to experience Your passions and Your power. Help me to find the secret and quiet place to be close to You.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, August 21, 2006
Title: Keep It Simple / Topic: Truth
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 21; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 27; Psalm 118; 1 John 2
Scripture: 1 John 2:24 See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father.
Observation: God deposited truth into each believer as a part of that person coming to know Him. The deposit of truth was necessary so the person could respond to God and repent of sin. According to this verse, the basic truths that each believer receives when he is first saved are something that he is to work to preserve within him. This keeps the person firmly connected to Jesus and the Father.
Application: There are many "new revelations" that people receive. Sometimes, these new ideas cause them to leave the foundational truths that brought them to God in the first place. I must guard my heart to preserve the deposit of truth that God has placed there and not let any new trend or fad push out the basic truth that saved me in the first place.
Bottom line: Remember the basic truth that saves: Jesus Christ is the only One by which we may be saved. I am saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, help me to always keep Jesus and love for Him as the focal point of my spiritual life. I want to walk in simple faith in Him and avoid the complicated philosophies and nuanced imaginations of those who would effect confusion and lead people astray. Thank You that as I keep my eyes on Jesus, my heart on You, and my mind in the Word, I am safe and secure.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 John 2:24 See that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father.
Observation: God deposited truth into each believer as a part of that person coming to know Him. The deposit of truth was necessary so the person could respond to God and repent of sin. According to this verse, the basic truths that each believer receives when he is first saved are something that he is to work to preserve within him. This keeps the person firmly connected to Jesus and the Father.
Application: There are many "new revelations" that people receive. Sometimes, these new ideas cause them to leave the foundational truths that brought them to God in the first place. I must guard my heart to preserve the deposit of truth that God has placed there and not let any new trend or fad push out the basic truth that saved me in the first place.
Bottom line: Remember the basic truth that saves: Jesus Christ is the only One by which we may be saved. I am saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Prayer: Lord, help me to always keep Jesus and love for Him as the focal point of my spiritual life. I want to walk in simple faith in Him and avoid the complicated philosophies and nuanced imaginations of those who would effect confusion and lead people astray. Thank You that as I keep my eyes on Jesus, my heart on You, and my mind in the Word, I am safe and secure.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Title: Using People In A Good Way / Topic: Fellowship
Today's Reading: Jeremiah 48; Jeremiah 49; Psalm 67; 1 John 1
Scripture: 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
Observation: Walking with Jesus automatically means we are walking with others who are also walking with Jesus. (At least it should mean that.) The benefit of this is increased effectiveness in the process of purification in our lives as a result of the interaction with those others.
Application: Embrace relationship as a part of growing in the image of Christ. I will have the sin purified out of my life faster and more completely the more I do so. Conflicts, though not pleasant, are a part of this process. It is working out these conflicts that helps raise the bad stuff within to a level of visibility that enables it to be seen, identified, and dealt with. Accountability is another key factor in this growth.
Prayer: Lord, thanks for the brothers and sisters that are so instrumental in helping me get the crud out of my heart and mind. Thank You Lord to the simple joys of relationship that not only give us encouragement and comfort, but also help us to grow in purity and maturity. May we embrace it and use it as we should.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen
Scripture: 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.
Observation: Walking with Jesus automatically means we are walking with others who are also walking with Jesus. (At least it should mean that.) The benefit of this is increased effectiveness in the process of purification in our lives as a result of the interaction with those others.
Application: Embrace relationship as a part of growing in the image of Christ. I will have the sin purified out of my life faster and more completely the more I do so. Conflicts, though not pleasant, are a part of this process. It is working out these conflicts that helps raise the bad stuff within to a level of visibility that enables it to be seen, identified, and dealt with. Accountability is another key factor in this growth.
Prayer: Lord, thanks for the brothers and sisters that are so instrumental in helping me get the crud out of my heart and mind. Thank You Lord to the simple joys of relationship that not only give us encouragement and comfort, but also help us to grow in purity and maturity. May we embrace it and use it as we should.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Title: Catch Anything? / Topic: Human Effort
Today's Reading: Jeremiah 45; Jeremiah 46; Jeremiah 47; Psalm 105; John 21
Scripture: John 21:2-3
2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
Observation: The disciples have seen the Lord alive after they watched Him die on the cross. And Jesus told them to wait until He gave them instructions. But they grow tired of waiting for something to happen and Peter (who else?!) finds a few others quite ready to join him in a fishing expedition. But their best efforts at something they were supposed to be experts in proved fruitless.
Application: It may be frustrating waiting on God for results to show up (don't I know that!), but my own human efforts at diversion or human attempts to produce some level of personal success, will end up in frustration. (It is pretty fantastic that Jesus shows up and teaches them that even in the fishing business, it is better to consult a Jewish Carpenter than to rely solely on one's own abilities and skills.)
Bottom line: Wait on the Lord. Work that He does in a short time will bring in far greater results than my lifetime of independent human effort.
Prayer: Lord, help me to learn to wait patiently on You and then to work faithfully with You, giving everything I've got to accomplish everything You have for me to do.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen
Scripture: John 21:2-3
2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together. 3 "I'm going out to fish," Simon Peter told them, and they said, "We'll go with you." So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing.
Observation: The disciples have seen the Lord alive after they watched Him die on the cross. And Jesus told them to wait until He gave them instructions. But they grow tired of waiting for something to happen and Peter (who else?!) finds a few others quite ready to join him in a fishing expedition. But their best efforts at something they were supposed to be experts in proved fruitless.
Application: It may be frustrating waiting on God for results to show up (don't I know that!), but my own human efforts at diversion or human attempts to produce some level of personal success, will end up in frustration. (It is pretty fantastic that Jesus shows up and teaches them that even in the fishing business, it is better to consult a Jewish Carpenter than to rely solely on one's own abilities and skills.)
Bottom line: Wait on the Lord. Work that He does in a short time will bring in far greater results than my lifetime of independent human effort.
Prayer: Lord, help me to learn to wait patiently on You and then to work faithfully with You, giving everything I've got to accomplish everything You have for me to do.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen
Friday, August 18, 2006
Title: The Second Chance / Topic: Grace
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 26; Jeremiah 35; Jeremiah 36; John 20
Scripture: John 20:24-27
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."
26 A 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."
Observation: Why Thomas was not there when the others saw the Lord is something we are not told. But it caused him to have to rely on the other disciples account of what they saw. It wasn't enough for Thomas. "I have to see and touch it for myself," was his statement. In fact, Thomas willfully refused to believe if his conditions weren't met.
And amazingly, Jesus met Thomas, even in his stubborn unbelief. Jesus shows up just for Thomas. And he rebukes him for his doubt.
Application: I love the fact that Jesus came back for Thomas. I have a little Thomas in me. It comforts me to know that my Lord gives a second chance to the doubter. In His grace, there is another opportunity to get with it and lay hold of faith.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord. Your faithfulness, mercy, and grace are amazing. It is a great comfort to know that You will reach out to us in our need and gives us the opportunity to respond. Help me not to take too long.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 20:24-27
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."
26 A 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."
Observation: Why Thomas was not there when the others saw the Lord is something we are not told. But it caused him to have to rely on the other disciples account of what they saw. It wasn't enough for Thomas. "I have to see and touch it for myself," was his statement. In fact, Thomas willfully refused to believe if his conditions weren't met.
And amazingly, Jesus met Thomas, even in his stubborn unbelief. Jesus shows up just for Thomas. And he rebukes him for his doubt.
Application: I love the fact that Jesus came back for Thomas. I have a little Thomas in me. It comforts me to know that my Lord gives a second chance to the doubter. In His grace, there is another opportunity to get with it and lay hold of faith.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord. Your faithfulness, mercy, and grace are amazing. It is a great comfort to know that You will reach out to us in our need and gives us the opportunity to respond. Help me not to take too long.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Title: The Secret Disciple / Topic: Fear
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 23; Jeremiah 24; Jeremiah 25; John 19
Scripture: John 19:38-40
38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate's permission, he came and took the body away. 39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. 40 Taking Jesus' body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.
Observation: Joseph of Arimathea was a secret disciple -- he believed in Jesus, but he was emotionally dependent upon the respect of the Jewish community that opposed Jesus, so he hid it. Apparently Nicodemus was about the same. What I find sad is that these two men missed out on having a great relationship with Jesus. Having to hide and pretend that they didn't approve of Him must have been hard, and humiliating. But it was more important to be accepted by their friends, so they kept it secret. What a pity.
Application: I can sometimes act like a secret disciple, especially around those who are hostile toward Jesus. What I want to be is living out that great relationship with Jesus in an open an vibrant and visible way.
Prayer: Help me Lord, to be motivated more by love for You than by fear of men. May I be bold and courageous to gladly claim You as my Lord no matter what.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 19:38-40
38 Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate's permission, he came and took the body away. 39 He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. 40 Taking Jesus' body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.
Observation: Joseph of Arimathea was a secret disciple -- he believed in Jesus, but he was emotionally dependent upon the respect of the Jewish community that opposed Jesus, so he hid it. Apparently Nicodemus was about the same. What I find sad is that these two men missed out on having a great relationship with Jesus. Having to hide and pretend that they didn't approve of Him must have been hard, and humiliating. But it was more important to be accepted by their friends, so they kept it secret. What a pity.
Application: I can sometimes act like a secret disciple, especially around those who are hostile toward Jesus. What I want to be is living out that great relationship with Jesus in an open an vibrant and visible way.
Prayer: Help me Lord, to be motivated more by love for You than by fear of men. May I be bold and courageous to gladly claim You as my Lord no matter what.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Title: In The End / Topic: Judgment
Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 24; Jeremiah 22; Psalm 112; John 18
Scripture: 2 Kings 24:20 It was because of the LORD's anger that all this happened to Jerusalem and Judah, and in the end he thrust them from his presence. [emphasis added]
Observation: God gave so many chances to His people -- both to Israel and Judah -- to repent and come back to Him. But again and again they went back to their sinful ways, rejecting God and rebelling against Him. But there is an end to opportunities to repent. There is a time when the chance that was just missed is the last chance of all!
Application: It is a frightening thought to have just missed the last opportunity to turn to God. But that will happen. There will be those who, rejecting God, will not have another chance to get back to Him and receive forgiveness and the opportunity for salvation.
Bottom line: Don't wait. If there is something that you know you need to get right with God, do it now! The time is coming when your time will be up and it will be too late.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your mercy that delays judgment so that as many people as possible can come into Your kingdom. Lord, please send a wave of revival across our land. We so need it. Too many people are lost and we need the tide to turn. Send revival I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Kings 24:20 It was because of the LORD's anger that all this happened to Jerusalem and Judah, and in the end he thrust them from his presence. [emphasis added]
Observation: God gave so many chances to His people -- both to Israel and Judah -- to repent and come back to Him. But again and again they went back to their sinful ways, rejecting God and rebelling against Him. But there is an end to opportunities to repent. There is a time when the chance that was just missed is the last chance of all!
Application: It is a frightening thought to have just missed the last opportunity to turn to God. But that will happen. There will be those who, rejecting God, will not have another chance to get back to Him and receive forgiveness and the opportunity for salvation.
Bottom line: Don't wait. If there is something that you know you need to get right with God, do it now! The time is coming when your time will be up and it will be too late.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your mercy that delays judgment so that as many people as possible can come into Your kingdom. Lord, please send a wave of revival across our land. We so need it. Too many people are lost and we need the tide to turn. Send revival I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Title: Immovable / Topic: God's Steadfastness
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 18; Jeremiah 19; Jeremiah 20; Psalm 93; John 17
Scripture: Psalm 93
1 The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty;
the LORD is robed in majesty
and is armed with strength.
The world is firmly established;
it cannot be moved.
2 Your throne was established long ago;
you are from all eternity.
3 The seas have lifted up, O LORD,
the seas have lifted up their voice;
the seas have lifted up their pounding waves.
4 Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,
mightier than the breakers of the sea—
the LORD on high is mighty.
5 Your statutes stand firm;
holiness adorns your house
for endless days, O LORD.
Observation: What a beautiful Psalm! I am so aware of my need to be reminded of the steadfastness of God -- that He shall not be moved. Our world is in turmoil with nasty political conflict at home, and ominously threatening terrorist enemies abroad. So often, the allies of hell seem to be winning! It's alarming.
That's the picture of the "thunder of the great waters" -- the sea of humanity in great turmoil. Thundering with waves of violence, hatred, death, and destruction. But God is more mighty than any ocean. His throne is firmly established, His "statutes stand firm" -- His rule and rules will prevail, no matter what.
Application: I must fix my eyes on Him and not let the turmoil of the waves get me down. I tend to be a news-aholic and listening to the doom and gloom of what's going on in the world can be upsetting. I need to limit the amount of time I give to that stuff and spend more time getting lifted up with God. And I also need to pray for our world. It needs intercession right now in the worst way.
Prayer: Lord, help me to not be a spectator to the destruction derby that is this world. Help me to be a warrior to seek Your face and pray in the Divine Deliverance and Heavenly Helpers we so desperately need. Lord, help me to stand on You and not be swayed by the news of the day. May I use what I hear and know to be Your agent amidst the ocean waves.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 93
1 The LORD reigns, he is robed in majesty;
the LORD is robed in majesty
and is armed with strength.
The world is firmly established;
it cannot be moved.
2 Your throne was established long ago;
you are from all eternity.
3 The seas have lifted up, O LORD,
the seas have lifted up their voice;
the seas have lifted up their pounding waves.
4 Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,
mightier than the breakers of the sea—
the LORD on high is mighty.
5 Your statutes stand firm;
holiness adorns your house
for endless days, O LORD.
Observation: What a beautiful Psalm! I am so aware of my need to be reminded of the steadfastness of God -- that He shall not be moved. Our world is in turmoil with nasty political conflict at home, and ominously threatening terrorist enemies abroad. So often, the allies of hell seem to be winning! It's alarming.
That's the picture of the "thunder of the great waters" -- the sea of humanity in great turmoil. Thundering with waves of violence, hatred, death, and destruction. But God is more mighty than any ocean. His throne is firmly established, His "statutes stand firm" -- His rule and rules will prevail, no matter what.
Application: I must fix my eyes on Him and not let the turmoil of the waves get me down. I tend to be a news-aholic and listening to the doom and gloom of what's going on in the world can be upsetting. I need to limit the amount of time I give to that stuff and spend more time getting lifted up with God. And I also need to pray for our world. It needs intercession right now in the worst way.
Prayer: Lord, help me to not be a spectator to the destruction derby that is this world. Help me to be a warrior to seek Your face and pray in the Divine Deliverance and Heavenly Helpers we so desperately need. Lord, help me to stand on You and not be swayed by the news of the day. May I use what I hear and know to be Your agent amidst the ocean waves.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, August 14, 2006
Title: Peace? / Topic: Peace
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 16; Jeremiah 17; Psalm 96; John 16
Scripture: John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Observation: It is obvious to me that all the things we think will bring us peace will not. Today, a cease-fire agreement, a truce, went into effect in Lebanon. "Peace, peace," that's what all the commentators are saying. hmmm... we will see...
I think also of the material possessions or accomplishments or relationships that people seek to bring them peace and security. All these things are a mirage of peace. From a distance, peace looks attainable -- it looks real. When you get close, it disappears in a shimmer of light.
Jesus is the only true and lasting source of peace.
Application: Cling to Jesus. Make Him your source and foundation. Everything else will crumble or burn.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Help me to keep my eyes on You and to hold on.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Observation: It is obvious to me that all the things we think will bring us peace will not. Today, a cease-fire agreement, a truce, went into effect in Lebanon. "Peace, peace," that's what all the commentators are saying. hmmm... we will see...
I think also of the material possessions or accomplishments or relationships that people seek to bring them peace and security. All these things are a mirage of peace. From a distance, peace looks attainable -- it looks real. When you get close, it disappears in a shimmer of light.
Jesus is the only true and lasting source of peace.
Application: Cling to Jesus. Make Him your source and foundation. Everything else will crumble or burn.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, that You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Help me to keep my eyes on You and to hold on.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Title: Not Mr. Popularity / Topic: Rejection
Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 13; Jeremiah 14; Jeremiah 15; John 15
Scripture: John 15:18-20
18 "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also..."
Observation: Jesus makes it clear that I am not here to win some sort of popularity contest. That's a relief because "the world" sure is not beating a path to my door! Sometimes it gets discouraging to see the direction the world is headed. But Jesus warned us that the life we are called to live is in sharp contrast to the world. We are supposed to be swimming upstream, against the flow of our culture.
Application: It's simple. I shouldn't be surprised that non-christian people don't love what I stand for. But I must stand for truth and right and justice anyway, even in the face of scorn or persecution. (Actually, I have never faced real persecution -- just a little disapproval.)
Prayer: Lord, help me to worry about one thing: pleasing You. Make me a doer of what is right regardless of the environment I'm in. May I follow You and You alone, taking up my own cross every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: John 15:18-20
18 "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember the words I spoke to you: 'No servant is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also..."
Observation: Jesus makes it clear that I am not here to win some sort of popularity contest. That's a relief because "the world" sure is not beating a path to my door! Sometimes it gets discouraging to see the direction the world is headed. But Jesus warned us that the life we are called to live is in sharp contrast to the world. We are supposed to be swimming upstream, against the flow of our culture.
Application: It's simple. I shouldn't be surprised that non-christian people don't love what I stand for. But I must stand for truth and right and justice anyway, even in the face of scorn or persecution. (Actually, I have never faced real persecution -- just a little disapproval.)
Prayer: Lord, help me to worry about one thing: pleasing You. Make me a doer of what is right regardless of the environment I'm in. May I follow You and You alone, taking up my own cross every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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