Title: Pay Me Now or Pay Me Later / Topic: God's Justice

Today’s Reading: Leviticus 26; Leviticus 27; Acts 23

Scripture: Leviticus 26:40-43

40 "But if they will confess their sins and the sins of their fathers—their treachery against me and their hostility toward me, 41 which made me hostile toward them so that I sent them into the land of their enemies—then when their uncircumcised hearts are humbled and they pay for their sin, 42 I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land. 43 For the land will be deserted by them and will enjoy its sabbaths while it lies desolate without them. They will pay for their sins because they rejected my laws and abhorred my decrees."

Observation: Moses is concluding his instructions to Israel and here the Lord is speaking to the people through him. God is urging the people to follow Him and listing the blessings of obedience. But also,

God warns the people against disobedience and lists the severe consequences of rejecting Him. This passage, near the end of Moses' comments, is a part of the summary and in it God gives a way back to Him even after a season of rebellion. What I notice here is that God tells the people that even if they don't observe the sabbaths that God has proscribed, they will be observed through judgment. God will see to it.

Application: So I can obey and do what God is requiring, or I can disobey and not do it, but either way, it will get done. For if I don't do it, God will get it done another way, usually to my pain and loss. God says, "You can pay me now, or pay me later, but either way, I will get paid!"

Prayer: Lord, I choose to pay You now. Help me to remember this choice always, especially in times of temptation and doubt. I choose You as my Lord and not myself.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: When Can Kindness Be Cruel? / Topic: God's Perspective

Today’s Reading: Leviticus 23; Leviticus 24; Psalm 24; Acts 21

Scripture: Leviticus 24:10-23

10 Now the son of an Israelite mother and an Egyptian father went out among the Israelites, and a fight broke out in the camp between him and an Israelite. 11 The son of the Israelite woman blasphemed the Name with a curse; so they brought him to Moses... 12 They put him in custody until the will of the LORD should be made clear to them.

13 Then the LORD said to Moses: 14 "Take the blasphemer outside the camp. All those who heard him are to lay their hands on his head, and the entire assembly is to stone him. 15 Say to the Israelites: 'If anyone curses his God, he will be held responsible; 16 anyone who blasphemes the name of the LORD must be put to death. The entire assembly must stone him. Whether an alien or native-born, when he blasphemes the Name, he must be put to death...

23 Then Moses spoke to the Israelites, and they took the blasphemer outside the camp and stoned him. The Israelites did as the LORD commanded Moses.

Observation: What a tough passage! My bride and I listened to today's reading, including this passage, with my mother-in-law, who we are visiting this weekend. She is a fairly new Christian and I felt a bit awkward as we listened with her to the story of the stoning of the blasphemer. If these are difficult passages for mature Christians, how much more are they for newbies? So my wife and I made a few comments about the fact that this is a difficult story but that God's plan was for His people to be holy and that meant ridding themselves of polluting influences. But even that was not thoroughly satisfying.

I am reminded of a phrase from Proverbs: "the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel." (Proverbs 12:10) A good example of this is those who have sympathy for terrorists and want them accorded the rights of American criminals. By trying to be so kind to these evil killers, they risk the lives of many innocents. Rather than being willing to give any discomfort to the terrorists (I am not talking about torture -- burning with hot irons or pulling out fingernails or shocking sensitive areas), they become willing to allow innocent men, women, and children suffer the cruelest kinds of pain as the result of terrorist acts that might have been prevented. Good-headed people understand the difference between unallowable torture and the wise, limited methods of maximizing the potential of getting the terrorist to divulge information that could save lives. One has to keep this difference in mind and maintain a long-range view.

Application: And that is what God, our Heavenly Father, has -- a long-range view. He saw that if this blasphemer was spared, significant damage to His people would be unavoidable. The message would be loud and clear that God could be blasphemed without consequence. The fear of the Lord, a vital factor to be maintained, would be effectively neutralized. (And remember, that this was a day where Moses had been communicating the instructions about "solemn assemblies unto the Lord.") God's kindness and mercy for "the innocents" required this man's death. Do I like it? No -- and neither did God, I believe. But it was right, and necessary, and ultimately the kindest thing God could have done for everybody.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for who You are -- that You have great wisdom that transcends ours and that You allow us to grapple with these things by including the difficult stuff in Your word. I am grateful that You have such great love for Your people that You are willing to make the tough calls. Help us to embrace Your wisdom and to humbly accept the limitations on our understanding and the subsequent "not fully knowing" that results. Keep me close to You, Lord.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: One Helpless Man / Topic: The Power of a Praying Church

Today’s Reading: Exodus 39,40; Psalms 15; Acts 12

Scripture: Acts 12:1-5
1 It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2 He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3 When he saw that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 4 After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.
5 So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.

Observation: I love verse five! This verse hints to what is really going on. The maniacal King Herod and the compromised Jewish leaders collaborated to destroy the Church. And after slaughtering James, their thirst for blood and power drove them to deal their death blow by killing Peter, the leader of the Church, as well. All the power of the Roman Empire was lined up against this one helpless man. "...but the church was earnestly praying to God for him." (vs. 5) Unbeknownst to Herod and his cohorts was the fact of an unstoppable Unseen Power behind this one helpless man. And the praying church was in the process of unleashing this Unseen Power against the Empire of Man. The situation was bleak as far as the church was concerned. But it did not stop them from "earnestly praying to God for him."

Application: 1) It is better to be one helpless man relying on the power of heaven than a mighty king with all the resources of earth. 2) The praying church may look helpless, but it unleashes a force against which nothing can prevail, so 3) Pray and keep praying.

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you are not restricted by what we see. Thank you that you are not restricted by anything but your own will and purpose. And thank you that ultimate justice will be done in the final analysis. I am one helpless man who trusts in you. Thank you for receiving me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Two Talented Guys / Topic: Skill Requirements

Today’s Reading: Exodus 35, 36; Acts 10

Scripture: Exodus 35:30-35
³⁰ Then Moses said to the Israelites, "See, the LORD has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, ³¹ and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts- ³² to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, ³³ to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic craftsmanship. ³⁴ And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. ³⁵ He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them master craftsmen and designers.

Observation: Moses and the Israelites are preparing to fabricate the Tabernacle. Now the Tabernacle is the very first officially-designated place where God will meet regularly with human beings! (Maybe it's the second one, with the garden of Eden being the first.) And Moses has invited the people to bring all kinds of raw and finished materials that will be needed to put this Tabernacle and all its furnishings together. And now it is time for the work to begin. Here Moses discusses the people that will be in charge of doing this one-of-a-kind task. What gets my attention is that these guys, Bezalel and Oholiab, are highly skilled craftsmen. In fact, that seems to be their only qualification! (Oh, and they could teach others too.)

Application: Sometimes in the church, we don't put enough emphasis on the skill of those doing the work. That is, we select people because they are willing, and because they say they have "a call from God." But sometimes, the work done by "willing" and "called" volunteers is not up to par. Now I'm not advocating that we select people for tasks in the church based only on their skill -- character and spirituality are vital considerations as well. But I think that if we want excellence in the results of any ministry, then high skill should be one of the primary requirements for those leading and carrying the bulk of the load.

Prayer: Lord, send highly skilled people to the church to do the tasks in a way that creates results that are in keeping with Your excellence. Let us not excuse slipshop performance by claiming that the "anointing" makes up for the poor quality. May we always be excellent in result, as well as in character and in spirituality.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Give Me All Of God / Topic: Wise, Godly Leadership

Today’s Reading: Exodus 33; Exodus 34; Psalm 16; Acts 9

Scripture: Exodus 33:13-18 (excerpts below)
¹³ "If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people..."
¹⁵ Then Moses said to him, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here..."
¹⁸ Then Moses said, "Now show me your glory."

Observation: Moses and the Lord are having quite a conversation here. God is telling Moses that the people have serious problems and that leading them is going to be challenging. What I love here is how Moses responds to the Lord. He just keeps asking for more and more of God.

Application: What this reveals about Moses is the key. Moses knew he needed God -- all of God -- to succeed. There was no option -- Moses would do it no other way. He asks for God to teach him His ways (vs. 13), give him His Presence (vs. 15), and show him His glory (vs. 18). I'm sure Moses was a gifted leader. But gifting is not enough for Kingdom leadership -- a Kingdom leader needs the King -- his ways, his presence, and his glory.

Bottom Line: If you want to lead in the Kingdom with wise, godly leadership, talent, training, and skill are not enough. You need ALL OF GOD. So make the pursuit of God Himself your primary pursuit and let that be the foundation upon which the skill, talent, and techniques that you acquire as a leader.

Prayer: Lord, help me to know you and have your ways, your ongoing presence, and your glory as the obvious foundation of all you have called me to do, and the leadership responsibilities you have given me. May I exercise them faithfully, in a way that pleases you and blesses those you have called me to serve.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: God In A Box / Topic: Mystery

Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 1, 2, 3; Revelation 2

Scripture: Revelation 2:17
...To him who overcomes, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give him a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to him who receives it.

Observation: Today's reading in Ezekiel and Revelation is full of strange visions -- some really weird stuff -- like "hidden manna" and "a white stone with a new name written on it." What's that all about?

Application: Every time I read these passages, I am reminded that God cannot be put in any box. Whenever I think that I have God figured out, and that I can put him into some sort of system, God moves out of my box and my system as if to simply remind me that he is God and is beyond my ability to fully know all about him. Now that should never stop me or you from doing all we can to learn about God, nor should it cause us to doubt what he has already revealed to us about himself, but it should keep us humble and seeking to learn more about him and his ways.

Bottom Line: "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." 1 Cor. 13:12

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you that you are a big God and beyond our ability to contain all that you are. Thank you for your mercy in reaching out to us and enabling us to know you, however imperfectly. Enlarge my understanding of you and keep me from ever presuming to know all about you. Thank you for being such a good, loving, and powerful Lord.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: They Love To Be First / Topic: False Believers

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 50, 51; 3 John

Scripture: 3 John:9-10
9 I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will have nothing to do with us. 10 So if I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, gossiping maliciously about us. Not satisfied with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.

Observation/Application: There are have been and there always will be false believers in the church. And, like Diotrephes, they sometimes end up in leadership positions. This is just a part of dealing with fallen people in a fallen world.

Bottom Line: Keep your eyes on Jesus, your feet on the ground, and your beliefs grounded on the Word. And watch out for those who present themselves as an authority disconnected from your established structure. Jesus is always right on -- other, not so much.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for being a rock upon which we can always stand. Help me to live in submission to you and to your word and to those in authority over me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: "I Will Give The Order" / Topic: God's Power

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 33, 34; Psalms 74; 1 John 5

Scripture: Jeremiah 34:21, 22
21 "I will hand Zedekiah king of Judah and his officials over to their enemies who seek their lives, to the army of the king of Babylon, which has withdrawn from you. 22 I am going to give the order, declares the LORD, and I will bring them back to this city. They will fight against it, take it and burn it down. And I will lay waste the towns of Judah so no one can live there."

Observation: The king of Babylon has been attacking Israel. They recently withdrew from Jerusalem and the people are breathing a sigh of relief. But God tells them that the attack will resume and Jerusalem will fall. What blows my mind are the words of God recorded in verse 22: "'I am going to give the order,' declares the LORD, 'and I will bring them back to this city. They will fight against it, take it and burn it down. And I will lay waste the towns of Judah so no one can live there.'" God himself will give the order to the enemy armies to return to Jerusalem and defeat the forces of Israel and destroy the city!

Application: God has the power to use whomever he pleases to do what he wants done. Sometimes we think that the evil people are beyond God's control and that we are defenseless against them. But God has ultimate control over every power and even uses the power of evil to bring about His righteous ends.

Bottom Line: Submit to God. Trust in Him. It can bring great confidence and peace if we rest in the truth that He holds the upper hand in all things. Therefore...

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Prayer: Lord, You are Lord of all. And I am thankful that You called me to Yourself that I might belong to You. You are my Lord. Help me always to keep in mind that You have me in Your hand and that You have ultimate command over everything that I encounter. May I always live in Your blessing, Lord.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Keepin' It Real / Topic: Walk With God

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 48, 49; Psalms 67; 1 John 1

Scripture: 1 John 1:6-10
6 If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

Observation: Walk the talk if you're gonna talk the talk. That's the message John gives here. "If we claim" John says -- it's easy to make claims, but the proof is in how you live. If your life doesn't demonstrate the character of God, then your claims are false! Johns says it plain: "we lie and do not live by the truth." Walking with God means that we walk with others in open and confessory relationship: confession our sin, admitting our sin, not claiming that we are without sin or above sin.

Application: To have a real walk with God means that you have to be real in our walk with others. That means, we have to maintain an authentic accountability and openness that allows and even invites others to truly see what is going on in our lives and hearts and help us stay on the narrow path that leads to life.

Prayer: Lord, keep me firmly planted in the real walk with others that I may truly walk authentically with you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Do You Truly Love Me? / Topic: Passion & Motivation

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 45, 46, 47; Psalms 105; John 21

Scripture: John:21:15 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?"...

Observation: Confrontation! The risen Jesus challenges Peter.

You will remember that Peter had decided to go fishing. (I think that they were supposed to wait where they were, but Peter, once again, got tired of waiting.) Peter apparently loved fishing -- or at least he loved the comfort of doing something that he was good at. Now Jesus appears to them on the shore after Peter and the others came up empty after a night of fruitless fishing. He tells them to throw their nets on the right side of the boat (notice that he didn't say the "port side" or "starboard," terms a fisherman or sailor would use -- he said "right side," a term a carpenter would use). When they do it, they make a huge haul of fish. Now, back on the shore, Jesus has just fed them a tasty breakfast of fresh fish and toast.

And it is at this moment that he challenges Peter: "I know you truly love fishing. Do you truly love me more than these fish?" Peter gives him a weak response: "Lord, you know that I like you a lot." But Jesus doesn't let up and challenges him again...

Application: I want to focus on the very basic challenge to Peter which is the most foundational challenge to every believer: "Do you truly love me more than these?" And "these" refers to the things that we are truly captivated by: our stuff, our pursuits, our loves, our pleasures, our image, etc. "Do you truly love me more than these things?" Jesus asks you and me. I think that, if we are honest we, like Peter, should say, "Lord, I'm very fond of you." But my inner desire is to be able to say unequivocally, "Yes, Lord, I love You more than these things!"

Bottom Line: To truly follow the Lord, we must Love Him more than anything that this world and our lives in it would offer.

Prayer: Lord, I want to love You more than anything and to have my obedience and dedication to You motivated by that love. Assist me and empower me Lord to have and maintain a love for You that eclipses any other passion.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Faithful Examples / Topic: Faithfulness

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 26, 35, 36; John 20

Scripture: Jeremiah 35:8-10
8 We have obeyed everything our forefather Jonadab son of Recab commanded us. Neither we nor our wives nor our sons and daughters have ever drunk wine 9 or built houses to live in or had vineyards, fields or crops. 10 We have lived in tents and have fully obeyed everything our forefather Jonadab commanded us.

Observation: Jeremiah's attention is drawn to the clan of Recab by the Lord. And, though Jeremiah prepares and offers them wine, they refuse on the basis that their forefather, Recab, forbade them to drink wine. And the Recabites share their commitment to follow all of Recab's instructions to them.

Application: These Recabites were highly commended by the Lord for their faithfulness. But most of the people around them thought they were just plain weird. They lived in tents, they had no property, no fields, no crops -- they were nomads. What I get from this is that God can find high value in things that we would dismiss out of hand. That means we should be careful not to be hasty in judgment concerning the way that other believers are led to follow the Lord. As Paul warned against concerning "passing judgment on disputable matters": ^"Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind," and "stop passing judgment on one another.. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way."

Bottom Line: God has people around us who are good examples of following him. Not only should we look for such examples, we should strive to be those examples.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be as faithful to You are the Recabites were to the words of their forefather. Make me into the kind of example that You can use to show others the pathway to you.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: A Real Good Shepherd / Topic: Character

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 23, 24, 25; John 19

Scripture: Jeremiah 23:1-4
¹ "Woe to the shepherds who are destroying and scattering the sheep of my pasture!" declares the LORD. ² Therefore this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says to the shepherds who tend my people: "Because you have scattered my flock and driven them away and have not bestowed care on them, I will bestow punishment on you for the evil you have done," declares the LORD. ³ "I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number. ⁴ I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing," declares the LORD.

Observation: There are people who call themselves shepherds and like to be looked upon as spiritual and superior. But, as the scripture above clearly shows, not all who are "shepherds" have a true heart for the good of the people. Many are in it for themselves. And God truly detests these so-called shepherds. God wants and will anoint true and good shepherds who will love the sheep and take care of them.

Application: My father-in-law, Ed Stoddard, passed away this weekend. Ed was actually my wife's step-father, having married my wife's mom 26 years ago. And Ed has truly been a wonderful dad to my wife and her brother and sister, and a fantastic "Grandpa Ed" to his grandkids and great grandchildren. But Ed was not a religious, churchy kind of guy. He was a man's man who taught my sons to shoot a gun and my daughter to drive a stick shift. And though he wasn't a churchy guy, he knew the Lord and he prayed in the name of the Savior, Jesus Christ. And more than that, he was kind to everyone, patient, tolerant, generous, and always hospitable. He was truly a good shepherd to everyone who had the good fortune to be related to him in any way. For example, he was always more than willing to bring my mom along with him and Barbara on trips to see us. And he often asked me how she was doing. He was a true friend to me and I'm sure that God enjoyed his company too! I've met a lot of pastors who could not hold a candle to the quality and quantity of kindness and compassion and care that Ed doled out every day just being the down-to-earth, quality gentleman that he was. I will miss him. Earth is a little poorer and heaven a little richer since Ed Stoddard passed through the veil to the other side. "I always loved you Ed. We miss you. Thanks for being a good, kind, and loving man to Barbara and to all of us."

Prayer: Lord, thank you for good people that you bring into our lives. May those of us who claim to represent you have the kind of good influence on others that Ed had. Bring comfort to those who are in bereavement, Lord.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Certainties / Topic: Problems & Provisions

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 16, 17; Psalms 96; John 16

Scripture: John 16:33 "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Observation: Jesus looks into the future and sees a certainty of trouble -- trouble for his followers. But, even though there will be trouble, Jesus also sees a certainty of provision -- the provision of peace and overcoming.

Application: Jesus is our example in overcoming. And he encourages us to "take heart" -- that is to find courage in our hearts because we have given our hearts to the Overcoming One who is also the Soon Coming One. Praise God!

Prayer: Lord, thank you that you have overcome the world and that you offer me a provision of overcoming power and peace in the midst of whatever difficulty the world will throw at me. I rejoice in your salvation and in your staying power.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Where Is The Power? / Topic: Christian Walk

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 10, 11, 12; John 14

Scripture: John 14:12-14
¹²I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. ¹³And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. ¹⁴You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.

Observation: Amazing words! Jesus says, "you may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." He says, that "anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing... even greater things!" Amazing!

Application: There is a gap between these words and the experience of Christians today (including me). Now there may be groups of believers here or there that are truly walking in this truth as an ongoing reality but I have never really seen this truth consistently lived out. I believe what Jesus said. I just want my experience to more closely align with what Jesus said.

Prayer: Lord, give me keys to the release of miracle power. I want to move in the realm of Jesus' words and the fulfillment of his promises that we read here. I don't want to just read about these things, and study them and teach them -- I want to see them and experience them in the life of your church all around me.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Living A Lie / Topic: False Faith

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 7, 8, 9; John 13

Scripture: Jeremiah 7:4-8
4 Do not trust in deceptive words and say, "This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD! 5 If you really change your ways and your actions and deal with each other justly, 6 if you do not oppress the alien, the fatherless or the widow and do not shed innocent blood in this place, and if you do not follow other gods to your own harm, 7 then I will let you live in this place, in the land I gave your forefathers for ever and ever. 8 But look, you are trusting in deceptive words that are worthless.

Observation: "Trusting in deceptive words" -- that's what the Lord says to the people. How does he define these words? He gives an example: "This is the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD, the temple of the LORD!" This reminds me of the chorus of a worship song. Saying (or singing) spiritual-sounding words or participating in a spiritual activity is not what God is looking for. He wants lives that reflect His character. He tells the people (that's us) that they must "change your ways and your actions" and that this will be demonstrated by honesty, and kindness, and holiness. If they will do these things, they will reflect his character and gain a standing before God. As He says in chapter 9, verse 24: "but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight."

Application: Knowing and pleasing the Lord will result in a changed life. God doesn't want only words or songs -- he wants my ways and actions to reflect His character: kindness, justice, and righteousness. If I fail to conform my life to these characteristics, then I am living a lie and trusting in "deceptive words." If I change my ways and my actions to these Godly characteristics, then God is pleased with me as He says, "for in these I delight."

Bottom Line: Live for God. If my faith doesn't translate into treating others with Godly kindness, justice, and righteousness, then my faith isn't real, as far as God is concerned.

Prayer: Lord, help me to keep it real. Show me where I am failing, or where I need work. I want to please You always.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Deadly Partnership / Topic: Spiritual Deception

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 5, 6; John 12

Scripture: Jeremiah 5:30-31
30 "A horrible and shocking thing
has happened in the land:
31 The prophets prophesy lies,
the priests rule by their own authority,
and my people love it this way.
But what will you do in the end?"

Observation: "Horrible!" "Shocking!" Strong language, even from the ever-expressive Jeremiah. He looks at what is happening in his nation, Israel, God's chosen people, and he is alarmed. Not only have the people turned from God but the spiritual leaders are in on it! The rejection of God's authority is top to bottom. The spiritual leaders speak, not out of God's heart, but from their own minds. And, as a result, what they offer is lies. Are the people unaware of this? No, they know what is going on. And not only are they aware, "the people love it this way!" That is, they prefer lies to the truth. This is the most disturbing of all.

Application: Itching ears. People will find teachers who say what they want to hear. Paul warned Timothy that, "the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. (2 Timothy 4:3). So people and the spiritual leaders who serve them can enter into a hellish pact to deceive and be deceived, and to encourage one another in a kind of deadly game. Which brings us to the final phase in today's passage. "But what will you do in the end." Jeremiah warns that, while the game may work for a time, in the end, it will be shown for what it is: lies and deceit and rebellion. And the end of that kind of path is death: Proverbs 14:12 "There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death."

Prayer: Lord, keep my feet planted firmly in you and in your truth. Send to me spiritual leaders who will speak the truth, even when it hurts. And help me to listen, even when my self nature would want to reject it. I want your ways and not my own.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Give God Something To Get Excited About / Topic: Praise In Challenging Times

Today’s Reading: Zephaniah 1, 2, 3; John 9

Scripture: Zephaniah 3:16-17
16 On that day they will say to Jerusalem,
"Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands hang limp.
17 The LORD your God is with you,
he is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
he will quiet you with his love,
he will rejoice over you with singing."

Observation: This is a message of encouragement in the midst of despair. Jerusalem is in great distress. Destruction is everywhere -- there is danger and threat from every side. The people are defeated and scattered. But the Lord says, "Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands hang limp." How hard it is in the midst of such great struggle to find the strength to lift our hands. Yet God tells us to do it.

Application: This has a direct application to worshiping God in the midst of trials. I see many people who allow their negative emotions (which are typically based on difficult circumstances) to determine their worship response. If things are bad, then worship is subdued -- their hands hang limp, their faces downcast, their worship is muted. If things are good, then they can worship with enthusiasm. God says, worship even when times are bad. And the result is that God shows up and joins us in worship: "He will rejoice over you with singing."

Bottom Line: If we will keep in mind that the Lord is with us, and that he is strong and mighty to save, and if we can rejoice because of our confidence in him regardless of the circumstances, we will walk with him in many more times of joyful victory. The joy of the Lord is my strength.

Prayer: Lord, You are my strength in every situation. Help me to keep my eyes on you and my hands uplifted and to give You something in my life that You can get excited about with me. Thank you, Lord, that You are looking for ways to rejoice with me and over me.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: The Company You Keep / Topic: Solomon's Folly

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 23; 2 Chronicles 35; John 7

Scripture: 2 Kings 23:13 The king also desecrated the high places that were east of Jerusalem on the south of the Hill of Corruption—the ones Solomon king of Israel had built for Ashtoreth the vile goddess of the Sidonians, for Chemosh the vile god of Moab, and for Molech the detestable god of the people of Ammon.

Observation: Josiah is leading the people back to God. And he is performing a clean sweep of the nation, getting rid of all the remnants of the idol worship that had led the people astray. What struck me here is that the idol worship actually had started with Solomon! Now, I know that Solomon had all those wives and concubines, and that he built palaces for many of them, but the fact that Solomon had actually built "high places," that is temples or shrines for idol worship for Ashtoreth, Chemosh, and Molech is shocking. Solomon had an encounter with God in a dream early in his life where God spoke to him. And God had granted Solomon extraordinary wisdom to lead his people. So to see the depths to which Solomon sank is quite striking.

Application: Don't be deceived, God cannot be mocked. Whatever a man sows, that will he also reap. Solomon had aligned himself with pagans. He had indulged his sexual lust and his political nature to take him in directions that were quite damaging to him and to the people of God that he was leading. Solomon may have had wisdom to lead, but he lacked the wisdom for his own life -- to restrain himself and to embrace discipline which could have kept him from a life of dissipation. I'm sure Solomon did not lack any of the pleasure he could imagine but the result of his life included so many negative aspect that adversely impacted his family and nation for generations to come.

Bottom Line: Guard yourself and your alliances. Make sure the people to whom you join yourself have the same values and priorities that you want to be true of your life. Make no mistake, bad company corrupts good character. (1 Cor. 15:33)

Prayer: Lord, keep me protected in good and supportive relationships where I am held accountable for the things that You want to bring about in my life. Help me to be in the world but not of the world.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Lost In The Shuffle / Topic: God's Word

Today’s Reading: 2 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 34; John 6

Scripture:2 Chronicles 34:14 While they were bringing out the money that had been taken into the temple of the LORD, Hilkiah the priest found the Book of the Law of the LORD that had been given through Moses.

Observation: Hey, let's clean out the temple. Boy, there sure is a lot of junk in here. What's this? Looks like a scroll. Should we throw it out? I don't know... I think it might me important..

It is astounding to me that the book of the Law had been lost. It just got forgotten and was in the jumbled up mess that was in the temple. Now keep in mind that there were still priests and Levites. They had time to learn to play musical instruments (vs.12). But nobody wanted the job of cleaning out the temple. And the simple fact was this: it had been such a long time since anybody saw the Book of the Law, it had been forgotten. Nobody was looking for it because nobody was even missing it.

Application: It is possible, through disobedience and neglect, to move so far away from the path that the path itself is forgotten. The word of God, which is the guide to life, and especially the guide to life for the nation of Israel, had been long neglected and shunned and, eventually, forgotten. I wonder what it was that the priests actually did and what they based their work on. If you don't have the book of the Law, which gives your job description, how do you do your job? I don't know.

Bottom Line: The point is that the word must be kept central and must be valued and a love for it must be nurtured or it is possible to move so far from its principles that the word itself can be lost in the shuffle.

Prayer: Lord, help me keep your word in clear focus and in the center of all I think and say and do and desire. And help me to live it out so others can read your word through my life.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Missing The Point / Topic: Spiritual Blindness

Today’s Reading: Nahum 1, 2, 3; John 5

Scripture: John 5:45
"But do not think I will accuse you before the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set..."

Observation: Jesus is speaking to "the Jews," the term John uses to describe those Jewish leaders who consistently opposed him. Whether Pharisees, scribes, teachers of the Law, elders, or priests, they interact with Jesus throughout the gospel of John in an antagonistic way. Here, Jesus has healed a man who has been an invalid for 38 years and who has been waiting for years at the Pool of Bethesda where healings had apparently been experienced by whoever entered the pool after the stirring of the waters. Jesus, after hearing the man's story, says to him, ^"'Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.' At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked." (vss. 8-9) But "the Jews" objected because it was the Sabbath day and to them, the man was violating the Sabbath by carrying his mat! Jesus launches a tirade against them near the end of which is verse 45 (above). These leaders claimed Moses as their authority and source. And they attacked the man and Jesus on that basis. But Jesus tells them that they are completely missing Moses' point. And that there will be a day when Moses himself will stand and judge them for it.

Application: Talk about missing the point! These leaders think that they are more holy and righteous than Jesus because they closely observe the Sabbath. But in truth, they are missing the real point of the Sabbath which was given by God as a blessing to man, a day of rest. And here is a man who can finally enter rest because of a healing given to him by God. But instead of celebrating God's gift to him, they attack him because of a rather technical violation. They rob this man of his celebration and they don't even hint that they are aware that God showed up and did something wonderful. How sad to be so hung up on something that you think is important to God and miss God himself as a result.

Bottom Line: The degree of spiritual blindness is directly proportional to an inordinate concern over trivial matters.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to not miss you because of something that is unimportant. Assist me to discern what truly matters and what does not so that I don't miss you. Open the eyes of my heart, Lord, I want to see you.

This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Parents In Pain / Topic: Finding Comfort

Today’s Reading: Leviticus 10; Leviticus 11; Leviticus 12; Acts 16

Scripture: Leviticus 10:1-2
1 Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu took their censers, put fire in them and added incense; and they offered unauthorized fire before the LORD, contrary to his command. 2 So fire came out from the presence of the LORD and consumed them, and they died before the LORD.

Observation: This is such a shocking story and what a tragedy for Aaron and the brothers of the two who died.

Application: But I thought that while this is sad there are even worse outcomes. And Moses' family comes to mind. He has a wife and children, some sons, I think. But at this point, we never hear anything of them. Apparently, they are completely out of Moses' life. So this strikes me as a very tragic situation. Moses has the call of God on his life, but his family is completely uninvolved. This would give me the sense of being unsupported and even abandoned. So, even though Aaron lost two sons, they died in the service of the Lord and in full participation with their father's call.

Bottom line: Just about everybody has family troubles of some kind. And if your a parent with children over 13, you typically have some struggles and heartache. And if your children are adults, there can be some deep pain and hurt. But I think that there is almost always something to be thankful for in every situation. I'm not saying it makes the pain disappear, but I think it is important to not allow the pain to consume you.

Prayer: Lord, I lift up parents in pain: those I know and those I do not. Father, I thank you for the gift of children, although there are times when this gift feels more like a curse. Help us who are parents to stay close to you so that we can always know your heart for us and our children. And help us to be good models of your love and character, so that we may assist our children in following you also.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Sacred Garments? / Topic: God's Values

Today’s Reading: Exodus 28; Exodus 29; Acts 7

Scripture: Exodus 28:1-4, 39-41
1 "Have Aaron your brother brought to you from among the Israelites, along with his sons Nadab and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, so they may serve me as priests. 2 Make sacred garments for your brother Aaron, to give him dignity and honor. 3 Tell all the skilled men to whom I have given wisdom in such matters that they are to make garments for Aaron, for his consecration, so he may serve me as priest. 4 These are the garments they are to make: a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, a woven tunic, a turban and a sash. They are to make these sacred garments for your brother Aaron and his sons, so they may serve me as priests. 5 Have them use gold, and blue, purple and scarlet yarn, and fine linen.
39 "Weave the tunic of fine linen and make the turban of fine linen. The sash is to be the work of an embroiderer. 40 Make tunics, sashes and headbands for Aaron's sons, to give them dignity and honor. 41 After you put these clothes on your brother Aaron and his sons, anoint and ordain them. Consecrate them so they may serve me as priests.

Observation: Sacred garments. This is a foreign idea to me (and, I think, to most Protestant Christians today). I tend to view the idea as a type of "throw back" to dead traditions that we need not pay much attention to. But is there something to these "sacred garments" that is important? God tells Moses to have these garments made for the purpose of giving "dignity and honor" to those who would serve as priests. Apparently, to God it is important that his representatives be held in high regard, with dignity and honor. That is what God thinks. Are "dignity and honor" high on our list or do we have other ideas?

Application: "Friendly and approachable" are characteristics that I have thought are vital to the man of God. But this does not seem to line up with God's values. Perhaps my idea is just wrong. My generation has spent much energy in rejecting tradition and substituting our own values for the "old ways." I must think about this more.

Prayer: Lord, help me get to the truth and live it.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Stick To The Pattern / Topic: Humble Worship

Today’s Reading: Exodus 25; Exodus 26; Exodus 27; Acts 6

Scripture: Exodus 25:9, 40; 26:30; 27:8
25:9 "Make this tabernacle and all its furnishings exactly like the pattern I will show you."
25:40 "See that you make them according to the pattern shown you on the mountain."
26:30 "Set up the tabernacle according to the plan shown you on the mountain."
27:8 "...It is to be made just as you were shown on the mountain."

Observation: God gives intricately detailed plans to Moses for the construction of the tabernacle and its furnishings. There are specifications for materials, dimensions, colors and finishes, attachments and supports, and architectural detail. And in the verses above, God is explicit that these directions are to be followed to the "T", as he says "exactly like the pattern I will show you."

Application: Nowadays, we think that if we have what we believe to be a good motive, that we can approach God in any way we please. We think that God is not concerned about the details of how we approach him -- as long as we approach him. But I do not think that this idea is right. God is God and he has given us, in his word, many instructions regarding how we are to approach him. Methods of prayer, worship, intercession, repentance, inquiry, and so forth. Humility is one of the hallmarks of all of these methods. And a "whatever" attitude that "God will accept 'whatever' I offer to him" demonstrates no humility whatsoever.

Bottom line: It is the job of every believer to approach God "in holy and reverent fear" (1 Peter 1:17) by seeking to know how God has instructed his children to seek him. It will be a rude awakening for those presumptuous individuals who insist that God must receive them, no matter how the approach him, because they have good motives.

Prayer: Lord, keep me from presumption that I may approach you in a way that pleases you and demonstrates love and reverence for you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: How To Be A Fool / Topic: Wise Living

Today’s Reading: Exodus 23; Exodus 24; Psalm 14; Acts 5

Scripture: Psalm 14:1 The fool says in his heart,
"There is no God."

Observation: There is so much in today's reading that is excellent. This particular little verse spoke to me. It is a simple principle that a foolish person (and the term "foolish" refers to someone who is morally deficient, not just simple or uneducated) has the idea in his heart that God does not exist. And his life reflects that idea -- the decisions, priorities, pursuits and activities of his life are focused on the wants of self: power, pleasure, fame, and fortune.

Application: Whenever I act in such a way that does not reflect God, I am a fool. That may seem harsh, but that is the simple truth. And even though I believe in God, it is possible for my actions to not reflect this belief. And if I, through intent or neglect, allow this to happen, I truly fit the definition of a fool. Only a fool could look at this world in which we live and conclude that God does not exist.

Prayer: Lord, help me to always acknowledge you in everything I do, say, and think. I want to live my life as if you are walking right beside me because, in fact, you are. I love you, Lord. May I always live for you.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Hot Headed! / Topic: Unrepentant Fools

Today’s Reading: Revelation 15; Revelation 16; Revelation 17; Revelation 18

Scripture: Revelation 16:8-9
8 The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was given power to scorch people with fire. 9 They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him.

Observation: These verses always make me shake my head, no matter how many times I read them. Here are people who are experiencing the judgment of God and they know it! And yet "they refuse to repent and glorify him." These stubborn people would rather face the painful consequences of resisting God than to humble themselves and turn to him.

Application: How sad this is. But it is true that there are many people who do not want to give in to God in any way and they will resist him to their grave. I don't understand this thinking but I believe it is a demonstration of sowing and reaping. People who sow to their pride and self and thus strengthen pride and self to the point that it would rather face destruction rather than give up. The message is: turn to God now!

Prayer: Lord, you are calling all people to yourself. I want to bow to you now and every day. Thank you for your mercy which you have given to me. Help me to lead others to bow to your name.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: A Time For Reverent Fear / Topic: Coming Judgment

Today’s Reading: Revelation 10; Revelation 11; Revelation 12; Revelation 13; Revelation 14

Scripture: Revelation 14:6-7
6 Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7 He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come..."

Observation: This angel, flying over the earth, has "the eternal gospel to proclaim." Since gospel means "good news" I would expect that he would be sharing something encouraging and hopeful. But what he says doesn't seem too encouraging: "Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come..."

Application: When the time that this prophecy actually has arrived, this message will be good news. The situation on the earth will have become so dire that the phrase "the hour of his judgment has come" will bring hope for God's deliverance and the restoration of justice on the earth. And as God's intervention approaches, the only response that makes sense is to "fear God and give him glory." Mankind will become increasingly wicked and cruel and those who love the Lord will increasingly suffer persecution and death, so turning to God is the only logical thing to do. As he coming draws nearer, those who love him will gladly worship him in reverent fear while those who hate him will rage against him and those who honor him. This is no time for ambivalence -- it is an hour of decision. I choose to fear the Lord and give him glory.

Prayer: Lord, you are Almighty God, maker of heaven and earth and all that is in them. You are the Sovereign Lord and I honor you as my Lord and God. Keep me and those I love within the covering of your love and protection. Help your people to walk in holiness and dedication to you, shunning to indulge in any of this world's deceptive pleasures. Keep us on the narrow path that leads to life everlasting. Even so, come quickly Lord Jesus.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: A Compelling Passion/Topic: Love and Obedience

Today’s Reading: John 12; John 13; John 14

Scripture: John 14:15-24
15 "If you love me, you will obey what I command... 21 Whoever has my commands and obeys them, he is the one who loves me. He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show myself to him."... 23 Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24 He who does not love me will not obey my teaching.

Observation: Love and obedience. Jesus tells his disciples that obedience is the result of love. "If you love me, you will obey..."

Application: It seems to me that many who consider themselves Christians don't thoroughly obey Jesus -- that is, many are sloppy, undisciplined, and inattentive to full and careful obedience of his word. And, thinking about Jesus words in this passage, it is likely that this lack of obedience of Jesus is the result of a lack of love for Jesus. Love for Jesus should produce a passionate fervor that I see lacking in so many of my brothers and sisters -- and one that I myself need to fan into flame.

Prayer: Lord, help me to love you passionately so that I will obey you passionately as well. Stir your people to greater depths of love -- so many of us have forsaken our first love. Breathe a new freshness of your Spirit that we may be stirred with desire for you once again.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: What Chains? / Topic: Life Purpose

Today’s Reading: Job 18; Psalm 114; Acts 27; Acts 28

Scripture: Acts 28:30-31
30 For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. 31 Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.

Observation: I love the closing verse of the book of Acts. "Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ." Describing Paul's activities in Rome we read the words "boldly and without hindrance". Incredible! Why? Because we are told in previous verses (16 and 20) that during this time Paul was held as a prisoner of Rome, chained and continuously guarded by a Roman soldier! But to Paul, these things were mere inconveniences -- not limitations or hindrances -- and he continued to fulfill the call on his life, preaching and teaching the Gospel of Christ (Romans 15:20, 1 Corinthians 1:17, 23).

Application: I would ask him, "How do you do it, Paul? I mean, with those chains and all?" "What chains?" Paul would declare -- and that is how he saw it. His life mission compelled him to keep on doing what he was built to do -- through arrest and trial, through beating and shipwreck, and through chaining and imprisonment. Paul was the Energizer Bunny -- he kept going and going... Because he knew the real secret: his Source was true unlimited power.

Prayer: Lord, help me not to be a wimp but to be like Paul who didn't stop until his dying breath. He kept his eyes on you and no matter what came his way, he stayed the course. I want to finish well like Paul did, never allowing the obstacles to block or limit anything of your life purpose for me.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: They Never Stopped / Topic: Persistent Faithfulness

Today’s Reading: Malachi 3; Malachi 4; Psalm 148; Acts 5

Scripture: Acts 5:40-42
40 ...They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.
41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42 Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.

Observation: The apostles had been jailed, beaten, and threatened. And what is their response? To go on doing what got them into trouble in the first place: they kept on preaching. What were they thinking? Peter summed it up: "We must obey God rather than men!" They knew they had a Higher Authority that they must follow, and they were willing to accept whatever consequences would come as a result.

Application: What great courage and faith these men showed. How would I respond?

Prayer: Lord help me to be like Peter and the apostles who stood with resolve and faith to declare your Gospel in the face of persecution. Make me the best witness I can be.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Title: Get Rid Of Thorns / Topic: Cultivation & Repentance

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 3; Jeremiah 4; John 11

Scripture: Jeremiah 4:3-4
3 This is what the LORD says...
"Break up your unplowed ground
and do not sow among thorns.
4 Circumcise yourselves to the LORD,
circumcise your hearts...

Observation: God is speaking to Judah, his people that had been so unfaithful to him. He is telling them how they can be restored to relationship with him. The message is one of repentance and positive transformation. What I notice is that it takes work and determination. Breaking up hard earth that has not been plowed is really tough work. It's backbreaking. But the Lord tells them that they have to prepare the soil (their hearts) to receive the seed so that it may grow and produce a good result. "Do not sow among thorns," the Lord tells them. And he shifts the illustration to circumcision. We really must get rid of the thorns in our lives if we want to grow in God. And circumcision, the cutting away of the flesh, is the means that is required. There must be a cutting away of that which is not of God -- a removal of anything that is distracting or that draws us away from him.

Application: I must set myself to pay attention to anything in my life that is a thorn or snare and I must let the Lord cut it away. I must work hard to cultivate the soil of my life so that I am not taking what the Lord gives me and mixing in among unproductive and hurtful elements. It takes intentionality and vigilance and determination.

Prayer: Lord, help me to remove the thorns from my life that I may take your seed and put it in fertile soil. I want to be one in which you can sow good seed and produce an abundance.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.