Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 1; 1 Samuel 2; Psalm 66; 2 Corinthians 7
Scripture: 1 Samuel 2:29-30
29 Why do you scorn my sacrifice and offering that I prescribed for my dwelling? Why do you honor your sons more than me by fattening yourselves on the choice parts of every offering made by my people Israel?'
30 "Therefore the LORD, the God of Israel, declares: 'I promised that your house and your father's house would minister before me forever.' But now the LORD declares: 'Far be it from me! Those who honor me I will honor, but those who despise me will be disdained.
Observation: God rebukes Eli for his sons' misdeeds. Their abuse of the priesthood has caused God to retract the covenant that He made with Levi. Because Eli does not deal with his sons decisively, God tells him that He is scorning the sacrifice and honoring his sons more than God. (True, Eli rebuked them for their actions, but he himself took no action against them. They continued to flaunt their evil while Eli did nothing.) Notice that in verse 30 God says that He is going back on the promise He made because of their failure to honor God. The phrase, "far be it from me," indicates that it is not at all God's nature to make unconditional promises. When He makes a promise, it is dependant upon the obedience of the one receiving the promise.
Application: We can break God's covenant and lose His promised blessing, including our salvation. "Far be it from me," God says, to keep a promise with anyone who is abusing people in the name of God or living a lie that brings dishonor to God. Those who intentionally and habitually dishonor God have no reason to think that they will get anything but judgment from the Lord.
Bottom line: Stay close to God, seeking Him with humility. Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling for it is God who works in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
Prayer: Lord, I want to be a keeper of Your covenant. Empower me by Your Spirit to walk in humble obedience to You always.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Friday, April 06, 2007
Title: A Life Of Contrasts / Topic: Discipleship
Today’s Reading: Ruth 3; Ruth 4; Psalm 64; Psalm 65; 2 Corinthians 6
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
Observation: The contrasts of life for the disciple of Jesus are amazing. Here Paul lists some.
1. There is sorrow mixed with rejoicing. Sorrow for those who are hurting, lost, suffering because of bad choices, etc. There is sorrow and pain because of those who hurl attacks against the disciple. But there is rejoicing in the Lord as He sustains the disciple and the joy of sharing in the sufferings of Jesus.
2. Poor and rich at the same time. Poor because the disciple does not focus on the amassing of wealth. Poor because the disciple considers everything he has to belong to God and not to him. Poor because the disciple gives away much to help others. Yet rich because of the blessings of God and because of the truth that all of what belongs to God also belongs to the disciple as a joint heir with Jesus. Also rich because of the multiple blessings of God poured out on the life of the disciple.
Application: The life of the disciple is full of contradictions and contrasts. If I am to live this life, I must be content to live in the middle of this tension. It is a good tension because it reminds me that though I am richly blessed of God, I have not yet realized the fullness of the blessing. And this tension keeps me focused on Jesus and looking forward to the day of fulfillment, the blessed coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ when all things will be made complete.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You lead us forward even in this life of contrasts and contradictions. I know that You have given me everything I need, even though I sometimes don't see it. Help me to live by faith and not by sight.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
Observation: The contrasts of life for the disciple of Jesus are amazing. Here Paul lists some.
1. There is sorrow mixed with rejoicing. Sorrow for those who are hurting, lost, suffering because of bad choices, etc. There is sorrow and pain because of those who hurl attacks against the disciple. But there is rejoicing in the Lord as He sustains the disciple and the joy of sharing in the sufferings of Jesus.
2. Poor and rich at the same time. Poor because the disciple does not focus on the amassing of wealth. Poor because the disciple considers everything he has to belong to God and not to him. Poor because the disciple gives away much to help others. Yet rich because of the blessings of God and because of the truth that all of what belongs to God also belongs to the disciple as a joint heir with Jesus. Also rich because of the multiple blessings of God poured out on the life of the disciple.
Application: The life of the disciple is full of contradictions and contrasts. If I am to live this life, I must be content to live in the middle of this tension. It is a good tension because it reminds me that though I am richly blessed of God, I have not yet realized the fullness of the blessing. And this tension keeps me focused on Jesus and looking forward to the day of fulfillment, the blessed coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ when all things will be made complete.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You lead us forward even in this life of contrasts and contradictions. I know that You have given me everything I need, even though I sometimes don't see it. Help me to live by faith and not by sight.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Title: God's Kindness Revealed / Topic: Godly Character
Today’s Reading: Ruth 1; Ruth 2; Psalm 53
Scripture: Ruth 2:10-12
10 At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She exclaimed, "Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?"
11 Boaz replied, "I've been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. 12 May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge."
Observation: This is a touching exchange between Ruth and Boaz. The respect that each expresses for the other is wonderful. Boaz was an honorable and kind man and though Ruth was an alien to Israel, he treats her with dignity and gentleness. And I love what he says in verse 12: "May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge." It is the Lord that we come to for refuge, but it is often good people that the Lord uses to bring us the blessings of the trust we put in God.
Application: I want to be a person whom the Lord uses to bless others. I want to be an extension of God and His blessing as Boaz was to Ruth. She learned about the goodness of God by seeing the goodness of Boaz. He put flesh and blood to the goodness of the invisible God. That's what I want my life to be all about.
Prayer: Lord, You are so good. I want to reflect Your goodness to others and to live boldly proclaiming Your name, Your will, and Your ways to anyone who is paying attention. Give me boldness and effectiveness in this pursuit, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Ruth 2:10-12
10 At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She exclaimed, "Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me—a foreigner?"
11 Boaz replied, "I've been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband—how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. 12 May the LORD repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge."
Observation: This is a touching exchange between Ruth and Boaz. The respect that each expresses for the other is wonderful. Boaz was an honorable and kind man and though Ruth was an alien to Israel, he treats her with dignity and gentleness. And I love what he says in verse 12: "May you be richly rewarded by the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge." It is the Lord that we come to for refuge, but it is often good people that the Lord uses to bring us the blessings of the trust we put in God.
Application: I want to be a person whom the Lord uses to bless others. I want to be an extension of God and His blessing as Boaz was to Ruth. She learned about the goodness of God by seeing the goodness of Boaz. He put flesh and blood to the goodness of the invisible God. That's what I want my life to be all about.
Prayer: Lord, You are so good. I want to reflect Your goodness to others and to live boldly proclaiming Your name, Your will, and Your ways to anyone who is paying attention. Give me boldness and effectiveness in this pursuit, Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Title: Death And Life / Topic: Resurrection Power
Today’s Reading: Judges 19; Judges 20; Judges 21; 2 Corinthians 4
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:10-11, 16-18
10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11 For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body...
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Observation: I love these verses! This is the week we remember Jesus' death and celebrate His resurrection. And here, Paul explains that we undergo this death and resurrection experience in an ongoing way. We experience death through trials and struggles -- sometimes almost ready to give up. The frustration of our own weakness and inconsistency causes us great consternation, but also drives us to God and the throne of grace where we are lifted up through His divine power and His life is revealed where all we saw was death. The contrast between the death and renewal of life keeps reminding us that we are following in the footsteps of Jesus. We live because He lived. We die because He died. We are raised again because He was raised again. And I especially love verse 17 which describes our travail as "light and momentary troubles" but explains the wonderful truth that these troubles have the purpose of "achieving for us an eternal glory." Because of this, we have every reason to hang on to hope and look for the eternal payoff. We will ultimately be raised even from death to the perfection of God. Hallelujah!
Application: Keep on keeping on!
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You are producing something beautiful in my life. I am so bless to be the recipient of Your grace and glory. May I walk in resurrection power every day as I love and long for Your appearing.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 4:10-11, 16-18
10 We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11 For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body...
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Observation: I love these verses! This is the week we remember Jesus' death and celebrate His resurrection. And here, Paul explains that we undergo this death and resurrection experience in an ongoing way. We experience death through trials and struggles -- sometimes almost ready to give up. The frustration of our own weakness and inconsistency causes us great consternation, but also drives us to God and the throne of grace where we are lifted up through His divine power and His life is revealed where all we saw was death. The contrast between the death and renewal of life keeps reminding us that we are following in the footsteps of Jesus. We live because He lived. We die because He died. We are raised again because He was raised again. And I especially love verse 17 which describes our travail as "light and momentary troubles" but explains the wonderful truth that these troubles have the purpose of "achieving for us an eternal glory." Because of this, we have every reason to hang on to hope and look for the eternal payoff. We will ultimately be raised even from death to the perfection of God. Hallelujah!
Application: Keep on keeping on!
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You are producing something beautiful in my life. I am so bless to be the recipient of Your grace and glory. May I walk in resurrection power every day as I love and long for Your appearing.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Title: Celebrating Garbage / Topic: Depraved Culture
Today’s Reading: Judges 17; Judges 18; Psalm 89; 2 Corinthians 3
Scripture: Judges 17:1-2
1 Now a man named Micah from the hill country of Ephraim 2 said to his mother, "The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you and about which I heard you utter a curse—I have that silver with me; I took it."
Then his mother said, "The LORD bless you, my son!"
Observation: This is the beginning of a very bizarre story. What I notice is that this mother is proud of her son for coming clean about stealing her money. There is no thought about the fact that he has bad character, being a thief who steals from his own mother, only that he admitted to stealing.
Application: I think it is a mark of a depraved culture where people take things that are shameful, or should be shameful, and elevate them as if they are good. And by that measure, we live in a depraved culture. Today, the lifestyles that are celebrated, the sins that are paraded, the bizarre that is normalized is remarkable. Just consider all the focus and frenzy about the recent death of a former centerfold model and the glamorizing of her sad and abused life as something worthy of celebration. Or the parades in various cities in which homosexuals demonstrate their pride in themselves and their practices in grotesque and unrestrained revelry. The mocking of purity, modesty, and virtue is another indication of the fallen society in which we live.
The bottom line is that we must not identify with this culture of sensuality and permissiveness. It is our duty to portray a distinctive holiness and purity that stands in sharp contrast to the popular culture.
Prayer: Lord help us to be beacons of purity in this dark world. May Your people portray your nobility through the way we live.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Judges 17:1-2
1 Now a man named Micah from the hill country of Ephraim 2 said to his mother, "The eleven hundred shekels of silver that were taken from you and about which I heard you utter a curse—I have that silver with me; I took it."
Then his mother said, "The LORD bless you, my son!"
Observation: This is the beginning of a very bizarre story. What I notice is that this mother is proud of her son for coming clean about stealing her money. There is no thought about the fact that he has bad character, being a thief who steals from his own mother, only that he admitted to stealing.
Application: I think it is a mark of a depraved culture where people take things that are shameful, or should be shameful, and elevate them as if they are good. And by that measure, we live in a depraved culture. Today, the lifestyles that are celebrated, the sins that are paraded, the bizarre that is normalized is remarkable. Just consider all the focus and frenzy about the recent death of a former centerfold model and the glamorizing of her sad and abused life as something worthy of celebration. Or the parades in various cities in which homosexuals demonstrate their pride in themselves and their practices in grotesque and unrestrained revelry. The mocking of purity, modesty, and virtue is another indication of the fallen society in which we live.
The bottom line is that we must not identify with this culture of sensuality and permissiveness. It is our duty to portray a distinctive holiness and purity that stands in sharp contrast to the popular culture.
Prayer: Lord help us to be beacons of purity in this dark world. May Your people portray your nobility through the way we live.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Title: He Believed Her / Topic: Trust
Today’s Reading: Judges 13; Judges 14; Judges 15; Judges 16; 2 Corinthians 2
Scripture: Judges 13:6 Then the woman went to her husband and told him, "A man of God came to me. He looked like an angel of God, very awesome. I didn't ask him where he came from, and he didn't tell me his name... 8 Then Manoah prayed to the LORD : "O LORD, I beg you, let the man of God you sent to us come again to teach us how to bring up the boy who is to be born."
Observation: I love the fact that Manoah did not doubt his wife's words, even though the story she told would have been hard to believe. Throughout this story we see that Manoah's wife is a spiritual, but levelheaded woman. She had earned Manoah's trust by being trustworthy. Because he believed her, he prayed for another visitation for further instruction in raising the child of promise and he got it.
Application: This has everything to do with trustworthiness and trust. I must conduct myself in such a way as to give others reasons to believe in what I say. And I should be willing to believe others who have likewise proven themselves as well. God does speak to people. Let's listen to what others share about His communications to them. And let us tune our ears to the Lord to hear Him and share it with others.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You speak to people. Help me to hear you. And help me to earn the trust of others with honorable and honest living and words.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Judges 13:6 Then the woman went to her husband and told him, "A man of God came to me. He looked like an angel of God, very awesome. I didn't ask him where he came from, and he didn't tell me his name... 8 Then Manoah prayed to the LORD : "O LORD, I beg you, let the man of God you sent to us come again to teach us how to bring up the boy who is to be born."
Observation: I love the fact that Manoah did not doubt his wife's words, even though the story she told would have been hard to believe. Throughout this story we see that Manoah's wife is a spiritual, but levelheaded woman. She had earned Manoah's trust by being trustworthy. Because he believed her, he prayed for another visitation for further instruction in raising the child of promise and he got it.
Application: This has everything to do with trustworthiness and trust. I must conduct myself in such a way as to give others reasons to believe in what I say. And I should be willing to believe others who have likewise proven themselves as well. God does speak to people. Let's listen to what others share about His communications to them. And let us tune our ears to the Lord to hear Him and share it with others.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You speak to people. Help me to hear you. And help me to earn the trust of others with honorable and honest living and words.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Title: What A Deal! / Topic: Rewards
Today’s Reading: Judges 11; Judges 12; Psalm 50; 2 Corinthians 1
Scripture: Psalm 50:23 "He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me,
and he prepares the way
so that I may show him the salvation of God."
Observation: Talk about your good investment! Invest in God by bringing thank offerings and honoring God and that "prepares the way" for God's intervention and salvation. What a great deal!
Application: This is such a no brainer! Serve God, love God, worship God, honor God. And God works on your behalf. It's that simple.
Prayer: Lord, I do desire to honor You with my whole being. I ask for Your help and blessing on my life and my loved ones and my work. Pour out a blessing upon me and multiply my effectiveness and my fruitfulness.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 50:23 "He who sacrifices thank offerings honors me,
and he prepares the way
so that I may show him the salvation of God."
Observation: Talk about your good investment! Invest in God by bringing thank offerings and honoring God and that "prepares the way" for God's intervention and salvation. What a great deal!
Application: This is such a no brainer! Serve God, love God, worship God, honor God. And God works on your behalf. It's that simple.
Prayer: Lord, I do desire to honor You with my whole being. I ask for Your help and blessing on my life and my loved ones and my work. Pour out a blessing upon me and multiply my effectiveness and my fruitfulness.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Title: Men Of Courage / Topic: Living Strong
Today’s Reading: Judges 9; Judges 10; Psalm 49; 1 Corinthians 16
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
Observation: This phrase, "be men of courage," grabbed my eye. I think how few people truly act out of courage. There is a lot of cowering that goes on as people, even good people, don't want to draw attention to themselves or don't want to raise a stir, so we just let things go.
Application: There are three other things in this verse and I think that they are all connected. That is I don't think a person can truly be a man of courage without also, being on guard, standing firm in the faith, and being strong -- all as intentional parts of life. I want to do all this and be a man of courage.
Prayer: Lord, help me to stand firm in the faith, to be on guard, to be strong, and to be a man of courage in all I do and say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.
Observation: This phrase, "be men of courage," grabbed my eye. I think how few people truly act out of courage. There is a lot of cowering that goes on as people, even good people, don't want to draw attention to themselves or don't want to raise a stir, so we just let things go.
Application: There are three other things in this verse and I think that they are all connected. That is I don't think a person can truly be a man of courage without also, being on guard, standing firm in the faith, and being strong -- all as intentional parts of life. I want to do all this and be a man of courage.
Prayer: Lord, help me to stand firm in the faith, to be on guard, to be strong, and to be a man of courage in all I do and say.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Title: All For Naught? / Topic: Results
Today’s Reading: Judges 8; Psalm 42; 1 Corinthians 15
Scripture: Judges 8:33-35
33 No sooner had Gideon died than the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals. They set up Baal-Berith as their god and 34 did not remember the LORD their God, who had rescued them from the hands of all their enemies on every side. 35 They also failed to show kindness to the family of Jerub-Baal (that is, Gideon) for all the good things he had done for them.
Observation: Gideon won a great victory for his people. And he put up with a lot of grief for them and from them. This entire chapter is filled with Gideon's troubles. But the verses above show that the people did not appreciate what Gideon had done. They went back to their sinful ways as soon as he died. Their lack of gratitude for what he had done for them while he was alive just rolled right into full on rebellion after he died.
Application: You just have to do the right thing and not worry about the results. Gideon did what he did to help his people, whether or not they appreciated it. I want to be a man who loves people whether or not they appreciate it.
Prayer: Lord, I am grateful for the call You have placed on my life. I want to be like You, reaching out in love and truth to everyone I can. Help me to be a faithful communicator of Your message.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Judges 8:33-35
33 No sooner had Gideon died than the Israelites again prostituted themselves to the Baals. They set up Baal-Berith as their god and 34 did not remember the LORD their God, who had rescued them from the hands of all their enemies on every side. 35 They also failed to show kindness to the family of Jerub-Baal (that is, Gideon) for all the good things he had done for them.
Observation: Gideon won a great victory for his people. And he put up with a lot of grief for them and from them. This entire chapter is filled with Gideon's troubles. But the verses above show that the people did not appreciate what Gideon had done. They went back to their sinful ways as soon as he died. Their lack of gratitude for what he had done for them while he was alive just rolled right into full on rebellion after he died.
Application: You just have to do the right thing and not worry about the results. Gideon did what he did to help his people, whether or not they appreciated it. I want to be a man who loves people whether or not they appreciate it.
Prayer: Lord, I am grateful for the call You have placed on my life. I want to be like You, reaching out in love and truth to everyone I can. Help me to be a faithful communicator of Your message.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Title: Not A Time For Questions / Topic: Obedience
Today’s Reading: Judges 6; Judges 7; Psalm 52; 1 Corinthians 14
Scripture: Judges 6:12-14
12 When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior."
13 "But sir," Gideon replied, "if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, 'Did not the LORD bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the LORD has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian."
14 The LORD turned to him and said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?"
Observation: Gideon is threshing wheat in a winepress at night to conceal the wheat and keep it from being taken by the Midianites. The above conversation happens at that place. The angel affirms Gideon but Gideon has an objection (see the italicized portion above).
Application: This is a question many people ask. If God is with us, or if God is real, or if there is a God, why are these bad things happening to us? (or happening at all).
Of course, Gideon seems to have forgotten that the Israelites have broken faith with God by their idol worship and pagan practices. Sin has many consequences and losing God's blessing is one of them. So many people question God's goodness because of suffering brought on by man's sinful condition. But responsibility for suffering belongs on the shoulders of man, not God. It is God's mercy that we are even alive.
And God is with Gideon and He is there to help Gideon to get a victory and deliverance for God's people, in spite of their sin. Notice that God does not answer Gideon's objection but simply tells him to get going. There is a time when questions are out of place and obedience is the order of the day.
Prayer: Lord, I am grateful that You provide deliverance even when we do not deserve it. Your continuing mercy upon us is amazing to me. Help me to be a man who hears and obeys Your call to action. And deliver us from our enemies that we may reach Your world with the Gospel of salvation.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Judges 6:12-14
12 When the angel of the LORD appeared to Gideon, he said, "The LORD is with you, mighty warrior."
13 "But sir," Gideon replied, "if the LORD is with us, why has all this happened to us? Where are all his wonders that our fathers told us about when they said, 'Did not the LORD bring us up out of Egypt?' But now the LORD has abandoned us and put us into the hand of Midian."
14 The LORD turned to him and said, "Go in the strength you have and save Israel out of Midian's hand. Am I not sending you?"
Observation: Gideon is threshing wheat in a winepress at night to conceal the wheat and keep it from being taken by the Midianites. The above conversation happens at that place. The angel affirms Gideon but Gideon has an objection (see the italicized portion above).
Application: This is a question many people ask. If God is with us, or if God is real, or if there is a God, why are these bad things happening to us? (or happening at all).
Of course, Gideon seems to have forgotten that the Israelites have broken faith with God by their idol worship and pagan practices. Sin has many consequences and losing God's blessing is one of them. So many people question God's goodness because of suffering brought on by man's sinful condition. But responsibility for suffering belongs on the shoulders of man, not God. It is God's mercy that we are even alive.
And God is with Gideon and He is there to help Gideon to get a victory and deliverance for God's people, in spite of their sin. Notice that God does not answer Gideon's objection but simply tells him to get going. There is a time when questions are out of place and obedience is the order of the day.
Prayer: Lord, I am grateful that You provide deliverance even when we do not deserve it. Your continuing mercy upon us is amazing to me. Help me to be a man who hears and obeys Your call to action. And deliver us from our enemies that we may reach Your world with the Gospel of salvation.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Title: The Sin Habit / Topic: Life Patterns
Today’s Reading: Judges 4; Judges 5; Psalm 39; Psalm 41; 1 Corinthians 13
Scripture: Judges 4:1 After Ehud died, the Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD.
Observation: This first verse in chapter 4 gives us the sad recurring story of the book of Judges. After the death of the Judge, Ehud, "the Israelites once again did evil..." It is an unfortunate pattern, to be sadly repeated over and over again. The Israelites have the sin habit. That is, they have the natural inclination to stray from the narrow road of God's design for them.
Application: Now this is something that everyone has, to one degree or another. But not everyone responds to it in the same way. Some just let themselves be jerked around by this sin habit. It is like a leash that pulls them toward sin and they dutifully go there. Others resist this pull -- they rebel against the sin habit instead of rebelling against the Lord. Of course, to resist the sin habit, one first needs to be aware of it. To be sure, a lack of this awareness dooms a person to the control of the sin habit. And awareness in an of itself is not guarantee of victory over it. But with awareness, coupled with a consistent program of strengthening of the inner spiritual being with God's help and the support of others, the effects of the sin habit can be minimized and its pull becomes less and less over time.
Bottom line: Acknowledge your own sin habit. Invest yourself in a program of regular spiritual disciplines designed to strengthen your inner spiritual being with God's help and seek others with similar values to support you and hold you accountable to the standards that God holds.
Prayer: Lord, I am so thankful that You have provided a remedy for the sin habit. It is so great to have a way to get out from under its cruel bondage. The liberty that You provide through the power of Your Spirit and the life of the Son is wonderful. Assist me to keep growing in my inner man that I may walk in consistent victory and lead others in it as well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Judges 4:1 After Ehud died, the Israelites once again did evil in the eyes of the LORD.
Observation: This first verse in chapter 4 gives us the sad recurring story of the book of Judges. After the death of the Judge, Ehud, "the Israelites once again did evil..." It is an unfortunate pattern, to be sadly repeated over and over again. The Israelites have the sin habit. That is, they have the natural inclination to stray from the narrow road of God's design for them.
Application: Now this is something that everyone has, to one degree or another. But not everyone responds to it in the same way. Some just let themselves be jerked around by this sin habit. It is like a leash that pulls them toward sin and they dutifully go there. Others resist this pull -- they rebel against the sin habit instead of rebelling against the Lord. Of course, to resist the sin habit, one first needs to be aware of it. To be sure, a lack of this awareness dooms a person to the control of the sin habit. And awareness in an of itself is not guarantee of victory over it. But with awareness, coupled with a consistent program of strengthening of the inner spiritual being with God's help and the support of others, the effects of the sin habit can be minimized and its pull becomes less and less over time.
Bottom line: Acknowledge your own sin habit. Invest yourself in a program of regular spiritual disciplines designed to strengthen your inner spiritual being with God's help and seek others with similar values to support you and hold you accountable to the standards that God holds.
Prayer: Lord, I am so thankful that You have provided a remedy for the sin habit. It is so great to have a way to get out from under its cruel bondage. The liberty that You provide through the power of Your Spirit and the life of the Son is wonderful. Assist me to keep growing in my inner man that I may walk in consistent victory and lead others in it as well.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Title: The Lost Generation / Topic: Teaching The Children
Today’s Reading: Judges 1; Judges 2; Judges 3; 1 Corinthians 12
Scripture: Judges 2:10 After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.
Observation: The nation of Israel has had strong leadership in Moses and Joshua but now they are dead. And all those who experienced firsthand the miracles of God's deliverance and provision have passed away too. But look at the spiritual condition of the offspring of these generations that walked in miraculous times: they "knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel!" How is this possible? It is obvious that their parents had not raised them as God had proscribed. God had instructed through both Moses and Joshua that the Israelites were to tell and retell the stories of God's great works on their behalf. They were supposed to fill their homes with tokens of remembrance and to observe the festivals that spoke of the great events of the past. They were to obey the law and recite the works of God to their children at several intervals each day. What happened? Obviously, they did not do what God had told them to do, whether by design or neglect. But the result was the same: their kids did not know God. And the result was disaster for them and for the entire nation.
Application: I fear that we are doing the same thing. I see a generation of young people who don't know about God or His miraculous power. For the most part, the Christian church is doing a lousy job of building true faith into our children and youth. We must do better.
Prayer: Lord help us to figure this out. We seem to be fighting a losing battle over our kids. Help us to find effective ways to lead them into Your paths for their lives.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Judges 2:10 After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel.
Observation: The nation of Israel has had strong leadership in Moses and Joshua but now they are dead. And all those who experienced firsthand the miracles of God's deliverance and provision have passed away too. But look at the spiritual condition of the offspring of these generations that walked in miraculous times: they "knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel!" How is this possible? It is obvious that their parents had not raised them as God had proscribed. God had instructed through both Moses and Joshua that the Israelites were to tell and retell the stories of God's great works on their behalf. They were supposed to fill their homes with tokens of remembrance and to observe the festivals that spoke of the great events of the past. They were to obey the law and recite the works of God to their children at several intervals each day. What happened? Obviously, they did not do what God had told them to do, whether by design or neglect. But the result was the same: their kids did not know God. And the result was disaster for them and for the entire nation.
Application: I fear that we are doing the same thing. I see a generation of young people who don't know about God or His miraculous power. For the most part, the Christian church is doing a lousy job of building true faith into our children and youth. We must do better.
Prayer: Lord help us to figure this out. We seem to be fighting a losing battle over our kids. Help us to find effective ways to lead them into Your paths for their lives.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Title: More Harm Than Good? / Topic: Humility
Today’s Reading: Joshua 23; Joshua 24; Psalm 44; 1 Corinthians 11
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:17-18
17 In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it.
Observation: Ouch! Paul lowers the boom! Imagine hearing this: "Your meetings do more harm than good." Time to readjust your church. The point I get here is that it is possible to start with good intentions and end up way off track. It is possible for a church to move in such a way that it ends up doing more harm than good. And one indicator of this is what is mentioned in verse 18: "divisions among you." When any church allows or even encourages divisions (some churches specialize in division) or distinctions between believers, their work is a destructive work on the whole. Yes, they may do some good things, but the overall impact on the kingdom of God is a negative one.
Application: Love God and love people. If in my loving God I should ever stop loving people or accepting people, reevaluation is required. If I see myself or my group as superior, I must repent of my pride and seek to return to humility. That is the only path to doing God's productive work.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the reminders to stay humble. I want to be a part of something that does much more good than harm. In fact, I don't want to do any harm at all. Help me to love people and accept people as You do -- with wisdom, grace, and discretion. And help me to do great good to all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11:17-18
17 In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good. 18 In the first place, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and to some extent I believe it.
Observation: Ouch! Paul lowers the boom! Imagine hearing this: "Your meetings do more harm than good." Time to readjust your church. The point I get here is that it is possible to start with good intentions and end up way off track. It is possible for a church to move in such a way that it ends up doing more harm than good. And one indicator of this is what is mentioned in verse 18: "divisions among you." When any church allows or even encourages divisions (some churches specialize in division) or distinctions between believers, their work is a destructive work on the whole. Yes, they may do some good things, but the overall impact on the kingdom of God is a negative one.
Application: Love God and love people. If in my loving God I should ever stop loving people or accepting people, reevaluation is required. If I see myself or my group as superior, I must repent of my pride and seek to return to humility. That is the only path to doing God's productive work.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for the reminders to stay humble. I want to be a part of something that does much more good than harm. In fact, I don't want to do any harm at all. Help me to love people and accept people as You do -- with wisdom, grace, and discretion. And help me to do great good to all.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Title: Don't Assume (Ass-u-me) / Topic: Jumping To Conclusions
Today’s Reading: Joshua 21; Joshua 22; Psalm 47; 1 Corinthians 10
Scripture: Joshua 22:11-12, 32-33
11 And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, 12 the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them...
32 Then Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest, and the leaders returned to Canaan from their meeting with the Reubenites and Gadites in Gilead and reported to the Israelites. 33 They were glad to hear the report and praised God. And they talked no more about going to war against them to devastate the country where the Reubenites and the Gadites lived.
Observation: Following the conquest of the land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh leave for their homes on the east side of the Jordan. As they leave, they build a monument, an imposing altar. The first two verses above tell the reaction of the Israelites. They immediately decide that it is a capital offense and they prepare for war against their brothers. Talk about jumping to conclusions! Why was there not one sane person to say, "Let's ask them why they did it." It seems that everyone was assuming the worst: "They intend to offer sacrifices on this altar to other gods! Let's git us a posse and kill 'em!" A simple inquiry into the matter would have avoided this whole mess. In the end, they do ask (with the armies ready to attack) and find out that the whole thing was a misunderstanding (vss. 32-33) "Never mind. It's ok. It wasn't what we thought. We don't have to kill them and devastate their land after all. Shows over. Nothin' to see here. Everybody go home."
Application: I don't have to tell you why you should never assume. :) This could have ended very badly. And many situations in churches and our everyday lives are made worse by assuming. And why is it that it is so easy to assume the worst about people? Let's try assuming the best. "Love believes all things." I take that to mean that love believes for the best in people.
Prayer: Lord, may I have Your positive and gracious view of people. And may I get the facts before I spring into action. I want to live wisely and prudently.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Joshua 22:11-12, 32-33
11 And when the Israelites heard that they had built the altar on the border of Canaan at Geliloth near the Jordan on the Israelite side, 12 the whole assembly of Israel gathered at Shiloh to go to war against them...
32 Then Phinehas son of Eleazar, the priest, and the leaders returned to Canaan from their meeting with the Reubenites and Gadites in Gilead and reported to the Israelites. 33 They were glad to hear the report and praised God. And they talked no more about going to war against them to devastate the country where the Reubenites and the Gadites lived.
Observation: Following the conquest of the land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh leave for their homes on the east side of the Jordan. As they leave, they build a monument, an imposing altar. The first two verses above tell the reaction of the Israelites. They immediately decide that it is a capital offense and they prepare for war against their brothers. Talk about jumping to conclusions! Why was there not one sane person to say, "Let's ask them why they did it." It seems that everyone was assuming the worst: "They intend to offer sacrifices on this altar to other gods! Let's git us a posse and kill 'em!" A simple inquiry into the matter would have avoided this whole mess. In the end, they do ask (with the armies ready to attack) and find out that the whole thing was a misunderstanding (vss. 32-33) "Never mind. It's ok. It wasn't what we thought. We don't have to kill them and devastate their land after all. Shows over. Nothin' to see here. Everybody go home."
Application: I don't have to tell you why you should never assume. :) This could have ended very badly. And many situations in churches and our everyday lives are made worse by assuming. And why is it that it is so easy to assume the worst about people? Let's try assuming the best. "Love believes all things." I take that to mean that love believes for the best in people.
Prayer: Lord, may I have Your positive and gracious view of people. And may I get the facts before I spring into action. I want to live wisely and prudently.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Title: Going For The Gold / Topic: Victory
Today’s Reading: Joshua 18; Joshua 19; Joshua 20; 1 Corinthians 9
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
Observation: Paul relates the life of the Christian to an Olympic race. (Of course it's a marathon and not a sprint.) He tells us that we are to run the race to win.
Application: So many Christians aren't in it to win. What I mean is that there is a general apathy and lax attitude about the things that make a Christian strong. Bible reading, teaching, prayer, fellowship, meditation, spiritual disciplines, and the like are seen as optional, or "a good idea if I have the time." The vast majority of us don't run to win. Many don't really even run at all. They stroll.
The Bottom Line is that it is time to get serious about being a follower of Christ. Jesus warned a group about being neither hot nor cold. These lukewarm believers were rejected in the end. It's time to get hot on the trail of the Gold Medal for the Christian Marathon. Let's start training.
Prayer: Lord, I want the prize. I don't want to miss the opportunity to go for the gold. Assist and empower me to put aside the value on comfort and take the narrow road to victory.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
Observation: Paul relates the life of the Christian to an Olympic race. (Of course it's a marathon and not a sprint.) He tells us that we are to run the race to win.
Application: So many Christians aren't in it to win. What I mean is that there is a general apathy and lax attitude about the things that make a Christian strong. Bible reading, teaching, prayer, fellowship, meditation, spiritual disciplines, and the like are seen as optional, or "a good idea if I have the time." The vast majority of us don't run to win. Many don't really even run at all. They stroll.
The Bottom Line is that it is time to get serious about being a follower of Christ. Jesus warned a group about being neither hot nor cold. These lukewarm believers were rejected in the end. It's time to get hot on the trail of the Gold Medal for the Christian Marathon. Let's start training.
Prayer: Lord, I want the prize. I don't want to miss the opportunity to go for the gold. Assist and empower me to put aside the value on comfort and take the narrow road to victory.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Title: Knowledge vs. Love / Topic: God's Values
Today’s Reading: Joshua 15; Joshua 16; Joshua 17; 1 Corinthians 8
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1-2
1 ...We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know.
Observation: Paul contrasts love against knowledge. The Corinthian Christians were living in a cosmopolitan Roman city. The Roman value of knowledge had affected their thinking. And of course, we in the Western World today have inherited this high value on knowledge. Paul points out that knowledge has the tendency to create and foster pride, which is counterproductive to spiritual growth as it puts up a wall between a person and God. Paul goes on to say that if a person believes that he is an expert on any subject, he is fooling himself and does not truly know anything correctly.
Application: This is just a reminder to humility and not putting too much value on knowledge for its own sake. Love is the highest value. Love of God, and love for others.
Prayer: Lord, may I be a man of love through and through. Help us to love and teach others with true humility.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:1-2
1 ...We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. 2 The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know.
Observation: Paul contrasts love against knowledge. The Corinthian Christians were living in a cosmopolitan Roman city. The Roman value of knowledge had affected their thinking. And of course, we in the Western World today have inherited this high value on knowledge. Paul points out that knowledge has the tendency to create and foster pride, which is counterproductive to spiritual growth as it puts up a wall between a person and God. Paul goes on to say that if a person believes that he is an expert on any subject, he is fooling himself and does not truly know anything correctly.
Application: This is just a reminder to humility and not putting too much value on knowledge for its own sake. Love is the highest value. Love of God, and love for others.
Prayer: Lord, may I be a man of love through and through. Help us to love and teach others with true humility.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Title: Going, going... / Topic: Eternity
Today’s Reading: Joshua 12; Joshua 13; Joshua 14; 1 Corinthians 7
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:31 ...For this world in its present form is passing away.
Observation: I don't think Paul was talking about global warming, but this is a truth that is important to remember: The world that we know today is in the process of passing away. That is, things are constantly changing. And as time progresses, change comes more and more quickly and dramatically.
Application: This simply helps us stay focused on eternity and to not get too engrossed in this present world as if it were permanent. Every person in history had their moment in the sun and now they have moved beyond the veil of this world into eternity. Before long, this will happen to me. Even if it is 40-50 years off, that's not a long time. So it is wise to focus today on eternity. This world in its present form is passing away.
Prayer: Lord, I choose to look to You and to focus on eternity. Help me to not get wrapped up in the minutia of details and the stuff of this busy world. I want to invest in You and in eternity.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7:31 ...For this world in its present form is passing away.
Observation: I don't think Paul was talking about global warming, but this is a truth that is important to remember: The world that we know today is in the process of passing away. That is, things are constantly changing. And as time progresses, change comes more and more quickly and dramatically.
Application: This simply helps us stay focused on eternity and to not get too engrossed in this present world as if it were permanent. Every person in history had their moment in the sun and now they have moved beyond the veil of this world into eternity. Before long, this will happen to me. Even if it is 40-50 years off, that's not a long time. So it is wise to focus today on eternity. This world in its present form is passing away.
Prayer: Lord, I choose to look to You and to focus on eternity. Help me to not get wrapped up in the minutia of details and the stuff of this busy world. I want to invest in You and in eternity.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Title: The Purchase And The Gift / Topic: Victorious Living
Today’s Reading: Joshua 9; Joshua 10; Joshua 11; 1 Corinthians 6
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
Observation: I notice that in these verses there is a purchase and a gift.
First the purchase: I was bought at a price -- that is, Jesus gave His life to buy me. But it is not like buying a slave at the auction block. No, He redeemed me from slavery and purchased my freedom at the cost of His own freedom. The price paid is His life. Because that is the price He paid, it tells me that this is the value He placed on me. That's amazing.
The gift is the indwelling Holy Spirit. My body is a "temple of the Holy Spirit." After God purchased me and I, by an act of my will, concurred with His purchase, God gifted me with Himself within me. The gift is as important as the purchase because it is the gift that allows me to live as the property of God, in His character and image and likeness. The gift is the empowerment to realize the potential of the purchase.
Application: We have so much to be thankful for and so much potential of which we are not fully cognizant. Having this awareness can help me to prompt myself with the empowerment that is truly mine. The saddest possibility is that a purchased person would continue living like a slave because they were unaware of the rights and privileges available to them through the gift.
Prayer: Lord, I am choosing to live up to Your potential more and more. Assist me to fully utilize the power and giftedness You have entrusted to me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.
Observation: I notice that in these verses there is a purchase and a gift.
First the purchase: I was bought at a price -- that is, Jesus gave His life to buy me. But it is not like buying a slave at the auction block. No, He redeemed me from slavery and purchased my freedom at the cost of His own freedom. The price paid is His life. Because that is the price He paid, it tells me that this is the value He placed on me. That's amazing.
The gift is the indwelling Holy Spirit. My body is a "temple of the Holy Spirit." After God purchased me and I, by an act of my will, concurred with His purchase, God gifted me with Himself within me. The gift is as important as the purchase because it is the gift that allows me to live as the property of God, in His character and image and likeness. The gift is the empowerment to realize the potential of the purchase.
Application: We have so much to be thankful for and so much potential of which we are not fully cognizant. Having this awareness can help me to prompt myself with the empowerment that is truly mine. The saddest possibility is that a purchased person would continue living like a slave because they were unaware of the rights and privileges available to them through the gift.
Prayer: Lord, I am choosing to live up to Your potential more and more. Assist me to fully utilize the power and giftedness You have entrusted to me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Title: A Time For Action / Topic: Leadership
Today’s Reading: Joshua 7; Joshua 8; Psalm 69; 1 Corinthians 5
Scripture: Joshua 7:6, 10-11
6 Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the LORD, remaining there till evening....
10 The LORD said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? 11 Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep..."
Observation: Israel has been defeated at Ai. After the great victory at Jericho, Ai was considered small and easy and only a few thousand men were sent to do the job. But they were routed. Joshua and the people are discouraged and Joshua lays prostrate before the ark in prayer. When the Lord answers Joshua, he tells him to "Stand up!" and rebukes him. "What are you doing down on your face?" In other words, this is no time for prayer. This is a time for action -- a time for leadership. There was sin to confront, there was work to do to deal with problems among the people.
Application: There is a time for every purpose under heaven. There is a time for prayer, and surely I don't do enough of it. But there is a time when prayer is wholly inappropriate and action is required. The message here for me is this: there is no "one size fits all" approach to leadership and problem solving. Prayer is important, certainly. This cannot be stressed enough. But there is a time when action is what God wants and expects. And if we fail to act at those times, no amount of prayer will make up for it.
Prayer: Lord, help me be in tune with You to know exactly what to do at every moment. I want to pray when it's time to pray and I want to act decisively when that is what You are calling for. Give me ears to hear, a heart to obey, and courage to do whatever is necessary.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Joshua 7:6, 10-11
6 Then Joshua tore his clothes and fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the LORD, remaining there till evening....
10 The LORD said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? 11 Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep..."
Observation: Israel has been defeated at Ai. After the great victory at Jericho, Ai was considered small and easy and only a few thousand men were sent to do the job. But they were routed. Joshua and the people are discouraged and Joshua lays prostrate before the ark in prayer. When the Lord answers Joshua, he tells him to "Stand up!" and rebukes him. "What are you doing down on your face?" In other words, this is no time for prayer. This is a time for action -- a time for leadership. There was sin to confront, there was work to do to deal with problems among the people.
Application: There is a time for every purpose under heaven. There is a time for prayer, and surely I don't do enough of it. But there is a time when prayer is wholly inappropriate and action is required. The message here for me is this: there is no "one size fits all" approach to leadership and problem solving. Prayer is important, certainly. This cannot be stressed enough. But there is a time when action is what God wants and expects. And if we fail to act at those times, no amount of prayer will make up for it.
Prayer: Lord, help me be in tune with You to know exactly what to do at every moment. I want to pray when it's time to pray and I want to act decisively when that is what You are calling for. Give me ears to hear, a heart to obey, and courage to do whatever is necessary.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Title: The Prison Of The Past / Topic: Hope
Today’s Reading: Joshua 3; Joshua 4; Joshua 5; Joshua 6; 1 Corinthians 4
Scripture: Joshua 5:4-6
4 Now this is why he did so: All those who came out of Egypt — all the men of military age — died in the desert on the way after leaving Egypt. 5 All the people that came out had been circumcised, but all the people born in the desert during the journey from Egypt had not. 6 The Israelites had moved about in the desert forty years until all the men who were of military age when they left Egypt had died, since they had not obeyed the LORD.
Observation: All the Israelites who wandered and died in the wilderness had resigned themselves to a life apart from God's will for them. They were part of a rebellious generation and they all took the identity of those who had failed. They saw themselves as failures. What is interesting is that they had the same attitude for their kids. That's why they didn't bother to circumcise them. Circumcision is a sign of surrender to God. They had surrendered only to failure. They saw no reason to circumcise the kids.
Application: Don't let a sense of failure cause you to project negatively on your children. It is possible to give up on yourself and your future because of some past struggle. I say, forget the past. Start today with a new attitude and let God circumcise your heart again. There is always hope for a new life.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You want to always give us a fresh start. Help us not to be imprisoned by our past. Circumcise my heart anew.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Joshua 5:4-6
4 Now this is why he did so: All those who came out of Egypt — all the men of military age — died in the desert on the way after leaving Egypt. 5 All the people that came out had been circumcised, but all the people born in the desert during the journey from Egypt had not. 6 The Israelites had moved about in the desert forty years until all the men who were of military age when they left Egypt had died, since they had not obeyed the LORD.
Observation: All the Israelites who wandered and died in the wilderness had resigned themselves to a life apart from God's will for them. They were part of a rebellious generation and they all took the identity of those who had failed. They saw themselves as failures. What is interesting is that they had the same attitude for their kids. That's why they didn't bother to circumcise them. Circumcision is a sign of surrender to God. They had surrendered only to failure. They saw no reason to circumcise the kids.
Application: Don't let a sense of failure cause you to project negatively on your children. It is possible to give up on yourself and your future because of some past struggle. I say, forget the past. Start today with a new attitude and let God circumcise your heart again. There is always hope for a new life.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that You want to always give us a fresh start. Help us not to be imprisoned by our past. Circumcise my heart anew.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Title: Delight In Imperfection / Topic: Spiritual Walk
Today’s Reading: Joshua 1; Joshua 2; Psalm 37; 1 Corinthians 3
Scripture: Psalm 37:23-24
23 If the LORD delights in a man's way,
he makes his steps firm;
24 though he stumble, he will not fall,
for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
Observation: This is a beautiful promise. I especially like the fact that it includes this phrase: "though he stumble..." Sometimes we think God expects us to be perfect, but that is not the case. Even this man, in whose way the Lord delights, has an occasional stumble. That is encouraging to me.
Application: Don't stop in your efforts to please the Lord. He understands that we will stumble and He is there to support us, not tear us down. He keeps us from having the stumbles developing into full-blown falls.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord for Your loving and encouraging nature. May I walk in Your way that You may delight in me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 37:23-24
23 If the LORD delights in a man's way,
he makes his steps firm;
24 though he stumble, he will not fall,
for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
Observation: This is a beautiful promise. I especially like the fact that it includes this phrase: "though he stumble..." Sometimes we think God expects us to be perfect, but that is not the case. Even this man, in whose way the Lord delights, has an occasional stumble. That is encouraging to me.
Application: Don't stop in your efforts to please the Lord. He understands that we will stumble and He is there to support us, not tear us down. He keeps us from having the stumbles developing into full-blown falls.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord for Your loving and encouraging nature. May I walk in Your way that You may delight in me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Title: The Beautiful Place / Topic: Intimacy
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 32; Deuteronomy 33; Deuteronomy 34; 1 Corinthians 2 (New International Version)
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33:12 About Benjamin he said:
"Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him,
for he shields him all day long,
and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders."
Observation: I love this blessing from Moses for the tribe of Benjamin. The truth of intimacy with the Lord which produces a security and restfulness and protection. I particularly am drawn to the last phrase: "the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders." This reminds me of holding a little child in my arms as he lays his head on my chest. This is a beautiful picture of safety and contentment which we can find in a childlike dependence on our dear heavenly Father.
Application: Rest in the Lord. Find places of solitude to enjoy such times with God.
Prayer: Lord, it is my stated desire to find times of close intimacy with You. However, I have filled my life with so much stuff that I rarely fulfill or even endeavor to fulfill this desire. Help me to clear space and stuff away to get to this beautiful place.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 33:12 About Benjamin he said:
"Let the beloved of the LORD rest secure in him,
for he shields him all day long,
and the one the LORD loves rests between his shoulders."
Observation: I love this blessing from Moses for the tribe of Benjamin. The truth of intimacy with the Lord which produces a security and restfulness and protection. I particularly am drawn to the last phrase: "the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders." This reminds me of holding a little child in my arms as he lays his head on my chest. This is a beautiful picture of safety and contentment which we can find in a childlike dependence on our dear heavenly Father.
Application: Rest in the Lord. Find places of solitude to enjoy such times with God.
Prayer: Lord, it is my stated desire to find times of close intimacy with You. However, I have filled my life with so much stuff that I rarely fulfill or even endeavor to fulfill this desire. Help me to clear space and stuff away to get to this beautiful place.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Title: Don't Add Water / Topic: The Cross
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 30; Deuteronomy 31; Psalm 40; 1 Corinthians 1
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel — not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
Observation: The cross of Christ has power. It is the place where our salvation was bought and paid for. It is the place where all must come to be saved. And Paul insists that the cross is enough, in and of itself, without embellishment of human design.
Application: Keep it simple. There is nothing we need to (or indeed can) add that will make the cross more power or effective. In fact, our attempts to add our "words of human wisdom" don't strengthen the cross, they can actually empty if of its power. This should keep all of us on the straight and narrow to preach the cross of Christ and not our own stuff.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that real, true power is found in You and in the cross of Christ. May I always function in the real power and not be diverted into any human invention. I want to see Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven and I know that can only happen through Your power. May I always walk in it.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel — not with words of human wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
Observation: The cross of Christ has power. It is the place where our salvation was bought and paid for. It is the place where all must come to be saved. And Paul insists that the cross is enough, in and of itself, without embellishment of human design.
Application: Keep it simple. There is nothing we need to (or indeed can) add that will make the cross more power or effective. In fact, our attempts to add our "words of human wisdom" don't strengthen the cross, they can actually empty if of its power. This should keep all of us on the straight and narrow to preach the cross of Christ and not our own stuff.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that real, true power is found in You and in the cross of Christ. May I always function in the real power and not be diverted into any human invention. I want to see Your kingdom come and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven and I know that can only happen through Your power. May I always walk in it.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Title: Fully Obey / Topic: Life Struggles
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 28; Deuteronomy 29; Galatians 6
Scripture: Deuteronomy 28:1-2
1 If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. 2 All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God...
Observation: I notice these phrases "fully obey" and "carefully follow." The Lord promises wonderful blessings for those who will takes these two phrases and make them real.
Application: But it is hard to fully obey. I tend to mostly obey. I don't mean to be disobedient in any way. I believe that I intend to fully obey, but though the spirit is willing, the flesh is weak. What this scripture tells me is that if a person could dedicate himself to fully obey and carefully follow, there would be great benefits and blessings to that person.
Prayer: Lord, I do want to grow into a man that fully obeys and carefully follows You and Your ways. Help me to get rid of the remnants of my sin nature that keep me from doing this. Lord I want to get all that You have for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 28:1-2
1 If you fully obey the LORD your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations on earth. 2 All these blessings will come upon you and accompany you if you obey the LORD your God...
Observation: I notice these phrases "fully obey" and "carefully follow." The Lord promises wonderful blessings for those who will takes these two phrases and make them real.
Application: But it is hard to fully obey. I tend to mostly obey. I don't mean to be disobedient in any way. I believe that I intend to fully obey, but though the spirit is willing, the flesh is weak. What this scripture tells me is that if a person could dedicate himself to fully obey and carefully follow, there would be great benefits and blessings to that person.
Prayer: Lord, I do want to grow into a man that fully obeys and carefully follows You and Your ways. Help me to get rid of the remnants of my sin nature that keep me from doing this. Lord I want to get all that You have for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Title: The Rarest Thing / Topic: Freedom
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 25; Deuteronomy 26; Deuteronomy 27; Galatians 5
Scripture: Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Observation: Freedom is a rare thing. Jesus had to give up His life for us to have the possibility of freedom. Without Jesus, there would be no freedom, only varying degrees of bondage and slavery. And freedom has enemies. Freedom is threatening. Freedom always faces opposition. The enemies of freedom can look secular or spiritual. They can have suits and ties or jihadi masks. The enemies of freedom are within us and surrounding us. The are in the world and in the church.
Application: It requires vigilance to sustain freedom. The pressures of bondage will constantly seek to encroach in on the borders of freedom. I must be intentional and make a stand to stay free. To maintain freedom is not easy or automatic.
Prayer: Lord, help me to live and lead in Your glorious freedom. I want to be free in You to live the righteous life that You envision for me in the Holy Spirit. Free me from the bondages of self and sin and the expectations of others. Free me to hear Your voice and to walk in Your power every moment of every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Galatians 5:1 It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
Observation: Freedom is a rare thing. Jesus had to give up His life for us to have the possibility of freedom. Without Jesus, there would be no freedom, only varying degrees of bondage and slavery. And freedom has enemies. Freedom is threatening. Freedom always faces opposition. The enemies of freedom can look secular or spiritual. They can have suits and ties or jihadi masks. The enemies of freedom are within us and surrounding us. The are in the world and in the church.
Application: It requires vigilance to sustain freedom. The pressures of bondage will constantly seek to encroach in on the borders of freedom. I must be intentional and make a stand to stay free. To maintain freedom is not easy or automatic.
Prayer: Lord, help me to live and lead in Your glorious freedom. I want to be free in You to live the righteous life that You envision for me in the Holy Spirit. Free me from the bondages of self and sin and the expectations of others. Free me to hear Your voice and to walk in Your power every moment of every day.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Title: Three Thoughts / Topic: Christian Living
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 22; Deuteronomy 23; Deuteronomy 24; Galatians 4
Scripture: Galatians 4:15-17
15 What has happened to all your joy?...
16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?
17 Those people are zealous to win you over, but for no good. What they want is to alienate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them.
Observations/Applications: I have three separate observations and applications -- one for each verse.
Verse 15 spoke to me about the fact that so many Christians don't seem to exhibit a lot of joy. Sometimes I get too serious about everything and forget to dwell in joy. Paul's question to the Galatians is something we all need to think about.
Verse 16 reminded me about all the people who have heard a true and caring word I spoke to them and taken it in the wrong way. They turned it around and became offended and considered me their enemy. I can so relate to Paul in this. (Don't be easily offended but be thankful for true friends who speak the truth in love to you.)
Verse 17 makes me sad. It reminds me of young Christians who have been picked off by predatory zealots. These zealots come across as sincere believers but their tactics of sheep stealing are anything but Christian. Unfortunately, many of these zealots offer simplistic but powerful formulas that sound good to the immature and undiscerning ear. And the end result is that their targets get led astray and joined to an unhealthy group. (Listen to your pastor. Don't get wowed by some phony baloney self-appointed prophet.)
Prayer: Lord, the same kind of stuff has been happening to Your people as long as You have had people. Help us to be wiser and to stay humble and teachable. We belong to You. Have mercy upon us.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Galatians 4:15-17
15 What has happened to all your joy?...
16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?
17 Those people are zealous to win you over, but for no good. What they want is to alienate you from us, so that you may be zealous for them.
Observations/Applications: I have three separate observations and applications -- one for each verse.
Verse 15 spoke to me about the fact that so many Christians don't seem to exhibit a lot of joy. Sometimes I get too serious about everything and forget to dwell in joy. Paul's question to the Galatians is something we all need to think about.
Verse 16 reminded me about all the people who have heard a true and caring word I spoke to them and taken it in the wrong way. They turned it around and became offended and considered me their enemy. I can so relate to Paul in this. (Don't be easily offended but be thankful for true friends who speak the truth in love to you.)
Verse 17 makes me sad. It reminds me of young Christians who have been picked off by predatory zealots. These zealots come across as sincere believers but their tactics of sheep stealing are anything but Christian. Unfortunately, many of these zealots offer simplistic but powerful formulas that sound good to the immature and undiscerning ear. And the end result is that their targets get led astray and joined to an unhealthy group. (Listen to your pastor. Don't get wowed by some phony baloney self-appointed prophet.)
Prayer: Lord, the same kind of stuff has been happening to Your people as long as You have had people. Help us to be wiser and to stay humble and teachable. We belong to You. Have mercy upon us.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Title: The Underdog / Topic: God's Help
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 19; Deuteronomy 20; Deuteronomy 21; Galatians 3
Scripture: Deuteronomy 20:1-4
1 When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. 2 When you are about to go into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army. 3 He shall say: "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. 4 For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory."
Observation/Application: Just a basic faith principle: if you are up against difficult odds, don't panic. Just trust in God. He delights in coming through for the underdog. In fact, He specializes in underdogs. He casts in with David against Goliath, Hebrew slaves against the Egyptian army, Daniel against the Lions, three Hebrew children against the King and his furnace. He never once voted for the strong. He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. I am in a great position to get God's help!
Prayer: Lord, help!
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 20:1-4
1 When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, because the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, will be with you. 2 When you are about to go into battle, the priest shall come forward and address the army. 3 He shall say: "Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be terrified or give way to panic before them. 4 For the LORD your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory."
Observation/Application: Just a basic faith principle: if you are up against difficult odds, don't panic. Just trust in God. He delights in coming through for the underdog. In fact, He specializes in underdogs. He casts in with David against Goliath, Hebrew slaves against the Egyptian army, Daniel against the Lions, three Hebrew children against the King and his furnace. He never once voted for the strong. He resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. I am in a great position to get God's help!
Prayer: Lord, help!
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Title: The Flawed Man / Topic: God's Help
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 16; Deuteronomy 17; Deuteronomy 18; Psalm 38; Galatians 2
Scripture: Psalm 38:16-22
16 For I said, "Do not let them gloat
or exalt themselves over me when my foot slips."
17 For I am about to fall,
and my pain is ever with me.
18 I confess my iniquity;
I am troubled by my sin.
19 Many are those who are my vigorous enemies;
those who hate me without reason are numerous.
20 Those who repay my good with evil
slander me when I pursue what is good.
21 O LORD, do not forsake me;
be not far from me, O my God.
22 Come quickly to help me,
O Lord my Savior.
Observation: David is going down. He foresees tough times ahead. And he knows he has enemies who would love to see him fail. He has his own personal struggles: "I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin." David is under no illusion of perfection -- he is a flawed man and he knows it. I like that about David. I can relate to that. And best of all, David knows that God is his hope. In verses 21 and 22 he calls upon the Lord for help.
Application: The message to me is so simple and direct. Like David I have enemies, I will fail, I have undeniable flaws, and I must rely on God to help me to survive and (hopefully) to thrive.
Prayer: Lord, You know me through and through. And, miracle that it is to me, You still love me so much. Thank You, Lord. You are my help and my survival. Come to my aid in my times of need.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 38:16-22
16 For I said, "Do not let them gloat
or exalt themselves over me when my foot slips."
17 For I am about to fall,
and my pain is ever with me.
18 I confess my iniquity;
I am troubled by my sin.
19 Many are those who are my vigorous enemies;
those who hate me without reason are numerous.
20 Those who repay my good with evil
slander me when I pursue what is good.
21 O LORD, do not forsake me;
be not far from me, O my God.
22 Come quickly to help me,
O Lord my Savior.
Observation: David is going down. He foresees tough times ahead. And he knows he has enemies who would love to see him fail. He has his own personal struggles: "I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin." David is under no illusion of perfection -- he is a flawed man and he knows it. I like that about David. I can relate to that. And best of all, David knows that God is his hope. In verses 21 and 22 he calls upon the Lord for help.
Application: The message to me is so simple and direct. Like David I have enemies, I will fail, I have undeniable flaws, and I must rely on God to help me to survive and (hopefully) to thrive.
Prayer: Lord, You know me through and through. And, miracle that it is to me, You still love me so much. Thank You, Lord. You are my help and my survival. Come to my aid in my times of need.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Title: True Lies / Topic: Miracles
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 13; Deuteronomy 14; Deuteronomy 15; Galatians 1
Scripture: Deuteronomy 13:1-3
1 If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or wonder, 2 and if the sign or wonder of which he has spoken takes place, and he says, "Let us follow other gods" (gods you have not known) "and let us worship them," 3 you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul.
Observation: Liars can do miracles. Just because someone can pull off a miraculous sign or wonder is not guarantee that they speak the truth. Now I like and long for miracles as much as the next guy -- I mean I really want to see miracles! But miracles, in and of themselves, can be a tool used by Satan against God's kingdom. I just find it interesting that God, through Moses, acknowledges that miracle power resides in the evil part of the spiritual realm. Miracles are great, but they must be coupled with truth.
Application: This requires a grounding in the scriptures, the historical church, accountable relationships, and being under authority. What I mean is that knowledge of the word is essential, because the written revelation through the Bible gives us the foundation of understanding of God's nature. But that alone is inadequate -- most cult leaders had great biblical knowledge. One has also to add the other three factors. An understanding of and appreciation for the historical church helps to keep me from thinking more highly of myself than I ought. I love what my spiritual predecessors experienced and accomplished as they went before me. We stand on their shoulders. To reject what went before with a "we need to start fresh" notion is pure folly. We know now what we know because of the trial and error of the historical church. I cannot function independently of it for without it the opportunity to function progressively would not exist. Second, accountable relationships are essential. I must have people who truly know and love me, but who don't worship me. These are true friends who aren't afraid to ask the tough questions, or challenge me, or call me on the carpet. They will help keep me level-headed and true to my convictions. Third, I require a structure of authority over me. Lone ranger, independent types face a kind of danger that will almost always manifest itself in some kind of significant unhealth or imbalance. There are loads of people out there preaching the kingdom who are a law unto themselves. It is not hard for these to begin building their own kingdom instead of God's in these circumstances.
Bottom line: True miracles can be performed by false ministers and can confuse and lead people astray. Stay centered in God with the word, relationships, and submission to authority as your partners.
Prayer: Lord, I ask for miracles and truth. Help us to find and excel in both.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 13:1-3
1 If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or wonder, 2 and if the sign or wonder of which he has spoken takes place, and he says, "Let us follow other gods" (gods you have not known) "and let us worship them," 3 you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The LORD your God is testing you to find out whether you love him with all your heart and with all your soul.
Observation: Liars can do miracles. Just because someone can pull off a miraculous sign or wonder is not guarantee that they speak the truth. Now I like and long for miracles as much as the next guy -- I mean I really want to see miracles! But miracles, in and of themselves, can be a tool used by Satan against God's kingdom. I just find it interesting that God, through Moses, acknowledges that miracle power resides in the evil part of the spiritual realm. Miracles are great, but they must be coupled with truth.
Application: This requires a grounding in the scriptures, the historical church, accountable relationships, and being under authority. What I mean is that knowledge of the word is essential, because the written revelation through the Bible gives us the foundation of understanding of God's nature. But that alone is inadequate -- most cult leaders had great biblical knowledge. One has also to add the other three factors. An understanding of and appreciation for the historical church helps to keep me from thinking more highly of myself than I ought. I love what my spiritual predecessors experienced and accomplished as they went before me. We stand on their shoulders. To reject what went before with a "we need to start fresh" notion is pure folly. We know now what we know because of the trial and error of the historical church. I cannot function independently of it for without it the opportunity to function progressively would not exist. Second, accountable relationships are essential. I must have people who truly know and love me, but who don't worship me. These are true friends who aren't afraid to ask the tough questions, or challenge me, or call me on the carpet. They will help keep me level-headed and true to my convictions. Third, I require a structure of authority over me. Lone ranger, independent types face a kind of danger that will almost always manifest itself in some kind of significant unhealth or imbalance. There are loads of people out there preaching the kingdom who are a law unto themselves. It is not hard for these to begin building their own kingdom instead of God's in these circumstances.
Bottom line: True miracles can be performed by false ministers and can confuse and lead people astray. Stay centered in God with the word, relationships, and submission to authority as your partners.
Prayer: Lord, I ask for miracles and truth. Help us to find and excel in both.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Title: Precision Prescription / Topic: Worship
Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 10; Deuteronomy 11; Deuteronomy 12; Mark 16
Scripture: Deuteronomy 12:8, 13-14, 17-18
8 You are not to do as we do here today, everyone as he sees fit...
13 Be careful not to sacrifice your burnt offerings anywhere you please. 14 Offer them only at the place the LORD will choose in one of your tribes, and there observe everything I command you...
17 You must not eat in your own towns the tithe of your grain and new wine and oil, or the firstborn of your herds and flocks, or whatever you have vowed to give, or your freewill offerings or special gifts. 18 Instead, you are to eat them in the presence of the LORD your God at the place the LORD your God will choose...
Observation: Worship is prescribed carefully by Moses. What to do, when to do it, how to do it, who is to do it, and where to do it are all laid out with precise detail. Worship of God was not to be a "do your own thing" proposition. The idea that a person could "get creative" with his own style of worshipping God is not in the cards. In fact, the one time that a couple of priests "got creative" got them killed. Moses says, speaking for God, do it exactly this way. Period.
Application: We tend to be a little too casual in our approach to God, I think. We can learn something from these scriptures about obedience, and seriousness and intensity in worship. I don't think this takes the joy out of worship. I think it makes worship stronger and more impactful. It's about Him. It's not about us. Let's press in to know and worship the Lord better.
Prayer: Lord, that's my prayer: to know You and worship You better. Show me what to do to make it happen.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Scripture: Deuteronomy 12:8, 13-14, 17-18
8 You are not to do as we do here today, everyone as he sees fit...
13 Be careful not to sacrifice your burnt offerings anywhere you please. 14 Offer them only at the place the LORD will choose in one of your tribes, and there observe everything I command you...
17 You must not eat in your own towns the tithe of your grain and new wine and oil, or the firstborn of your herds and flocks, or whatever you have vowed to give, or your freewill offerings or special gifts. 18 Instead, you are to eat them in the presence of the LORD your God at the place the LORD your God will choose...
Observation: Worship is prescribed carefully by Moses. What to do, when to do it, how to do it, who is to do it, and where to do it are all laid out with precise detail. Worship of God was not to be a "do your own thing" proposition. The idea that a person could "get creative" with his own style of worshipping God is not in the cards. In fact, the one time that a couple of priests "got creative" got them killed. Moses says, speaking for God, do it exactly this way. Period.
Application: We tend to be a little too casual in our approach to God, I think. We can learn something from these scriptures about obedience, and seriousness and intensity in worship. I don't think this takes the joy out of worship. I think it makes worship stronger and more impactful. It's about Him. It's not about us. Let's press in to know and worship the Lord better.
Prayer: Lord, that's my prayer: to know You and worship You better. Show me what to do to make it happen.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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