Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. (Colossians 4:2 NLT)
During the Korean War I was stationed at Mare Island Naval shipyard in Vallejo, California. I found it sad but interesting to listen to the "old salts", as we called them, telling stories about crisis praying. What do we mean by crisis praying?
Crisis praying takes place when life and limb are in extreme danger. If you've watched the movie, Run Silent, Run Deep, you know the submariners were under heavy depth charge attack by the Japanese Navy. You could see men with heads bowed, lips moving, fingers crossed, and dead silent. They were in a crisis praying mode.
The Apostle Paul reveals his heart for prayer in each of his Epistles. To the Thessalonians he says, "Do not stop praying" (1 Thess. 5:17) The disciples were told by Jesus to "watch and pray that you fall not into temptation." .
Are you watching and praying? Make every day a day of prayer and you will avoid the crisis praying mode.
Thought for the Day: God is a crisis solver, but desires continual communication with you.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
The Awesomeness of God's Creation
Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was excellent in every way. (Genesis 1:31)
We often stand and sing "I Stand in Awe of You" and other hymns of worship.
Recently I spent some time on Mount Titlus near Lucerne, Switzerland; the beauty of the snow covered peaks was breathtaking. I stood in silence and wondered at the scene before me. No words were adequate to describe the awesomeness of the event.
Do you stand in awe of God's creative power? Do you thank him that you are wonderfully complex (Psalm 139:14) and made in his image? As an act of worship, list six evidences of God's creative excellence that you see every day. This should prompt you to say, "What an awesome God!"
Thought for the Day: God's creation is unsurpassed in beauty and excellence.
We often stand and sing "I Stand in Awe of You" and other hymns of worship.
Recently I spent some time on Mount Titlus near Lucerne, Switzerland; the beauty of the snow covered peaks was breathtaking. I stood in silence and wondered at the scene before me. No words were adequate to describe the awesomeness of the event.
Do you stand in awe of God's creative power? Do you thank him that you are wonderfully complex (Psalm 139:14) and made in his image? As an act of worship, list six evidences of God's creative excellence that you see every day. This should prompt you to say, "What an awesome God!"
Thought for the Day: God's creation is unsurpassed in beauty and excellence.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A Time for Everything
There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under heaven. A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance (Ecclesiastes 3:1 and 4 NLT).
Twenty-nine times in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Solomon refers to time. Most of use are enslaved to time. We jump out of bed in the morning to the buzzing of an alarm clock. After a quick breakfast we race to work in order to get there in time to punch the time clock. Once there, we take our break and eat lunch according to the companies' set time. Then we depart when the whistle blows at the designated time. Doesn't it seem like "time" is our master.
God is not regulated by time. He is beyond time -- timeless. Prior to the account in Genesis there was no time. Time is related to man, not God. When we arrive in eternity there will once again be no time. Time will cease to exist once man is off this earth.
Aren't you glad that God is not enslaved by time? I am so glad that He is the master of time and not mastered by time. What a joy it is to serve a timeless Savior!
Thought for the Day: The time will come when there will be not time -- just the Savior.
Twenty-nine times in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 Solomon refers to time. Most of use are enslaved to time. We jump out of bed in the morning to the buzzing of an alarm clock. After a quick breakfast we race to work in order to get there in time to punch the time clock. Once there, we take our break and eat lunch according to the companies' set time. Then we depart when the whistle blows at the designated time. Doesn't it seem like "time" is our master.
God is not regulated by time. He is beyond time -- timeless. Prior to the account in Genesis there was no time. Time is related to man, not God. When we arrive in eternity there will once again be no time. Time will cease to exist once man is off this earth.
Aren't you glad that God is not enslaved by time? I am so glad that He is the master of time and not mastered by time. What a joy it is to serve a timeless Savior!
Thought for the Day: The time will come when there will be not time -- just the Savior.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Life Isn't Fair
It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. (Hebrews 11:17)
When trials and tests come into our lives we are tempted to say, Life just isn't fair! This statement should not come as a surprise because to tell you the truth --- Life isn't fair. You aren't going to find fairness while living in a broken world. The sin of disobedience by our forefathers in the Garden of Eden threw the entire world into a state of unfairness and brokenness.
God told Abraham to get packed and move, but he didn't tell him where -- Abraham moved. Then God made promises to him, but didn't tell him when -- he patiently waited. This was followed by an impossible situation of bearing a son at 99 years of age and God didn't tell him how. Finally, after Isaac is born God told Abraham to sacrifice (kill) him and didn't tell him Why. In every situation Abraham obeyed God without question.
As true believers are we willing to follow God's leadership even when we don't know where, when, how, or why?
When trials and tests come into our lives we are tempted to say, Life just isn't fair! This statement should not come as a surprise because to tell you the truth --- Life isn't fair. You aren't going to find fairness while living in a broken world. The sin of disobedience by our forefathers in the Garden of Eden threw the entire world into a state of unfairness and brokenness.
God told Abraham to get packed and move, but he didn't tell him where -- Abraham moved. Then God made promises to him, but didn't tell him when -- he patiently waited. This was followed by an impossible situation of bearing a son at 99 years of age and God didn't tell him how. Finally, after Isaac is born God told Abraham to sacrifice (kill) him and didn't tell him Why. In every situation Abraham obeyed God without question.
As true believers are we willing to follow God's leadership even when we don't know where, when, how, or why?
Saturday, June 25, 2011
My Favorite Father
The Angel said, Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to go ahead with your marriage to Mary. For the child within her has been conceived by the Holy Spirit. And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. (Matthew 1:20-21 NLT)
There are several reasons why I have to admire Joseph, Mary's fiance. He did not get all bent out of shape when he learned that his young bride-to-be was pregnant. He simply decided to break the engagement quietly. When the Angel appeared to him and explained the situation he graciously accepted the news and went ahead with the marriage. I find it noteworthy the the Angel told Joseph that he was the one to name the newborn baby, Jesus.
I also have to admire the way he trained the boy, Jesus in his carpenter shop. The writer to Hebrews says,
So even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. (Hebrews 5:8)
I have no doubt that Jesus suffered splinters, black and blue fingers, and cuts from the work that he did in his father's shop.
It is through the hardships of life that we learn the true meaning of faith and trust.
There are several reasons why I have to admire Joseph, Mary's fiance. He did not get all bent out of shape when he learned that his young bride-to-be was pregnant. He simply decided to break the engagement quietly. When the Angel appeared to him and explained the situation he graciously accepted the news and went ahead with the marriage. I find it noteworthy the the Angel told Joseph that he was the one to name the newborn baby, Jesus.
I also have to admire the way he trained the boy, Jesus in his carpenter shop. The writer to Hebrews says,
So even though Jesus was God's Son, he learned obedience from the things he suffered. (Hebrews 5:8)
I have no doubt that Jesus suffered splinters, black and blue fingers, and cuts from the work that he did in his father's shop.
It is through the hardships of life that we learn the true meaning of faith and trust.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Cozy by the Fire
The guards lit a fire in the courtyard and sat around it, and Peter joined them there. (Luke 22:55 NLT)
Peter always seemed to say the wrong thing and be at the wrong place. On the mountaintop he wanted to build three tabernacles -- one each for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. God spoke and put a stop to that idea. God said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased, listen to him (Matthew 17:5). In the courtyard by the fire, Peter denied knowing Jesus -- even with a curse.
I can remember times when I reacted much like Peter. Speaking and acting impetuously. Sometimes harsh words flowed from my lips -- hurtful words, bitter accusations, falsehoods, and openly rebellious words.
Jesus modeled the example he wants you and me to follow. He showed love and compassion to a woman caught in the act of adultery. After the Pharisees had left, Jesus straightened up and said, "Woman, where are your accusers? Did no one accuse you?" She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more" (John 8:10-11).
This speaks volumes to me. How I need to allow the love of Christ to control my words and actions
Paul tells us to "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." Don't get too cozy by the fire, danger lurks there! Just ask Peter.
Thought for the Day: We are the only Bible that some people will ever see.
Peter always seemed to say the wrong thing and be at the wrong place. On the mountaintop he wanted to build three tabernacles -- one each for Jesus, Moses, and Elijah. God spoke and put a stop to that idea. God said, "This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased, listen to him (Matthew 17:5). In the courtyard by the fire, Peter denied knowing Jesus -- even with a curse.
I can remember times when I reacted much like Peter. Speaking and acting impetuously. Sometimes harsh words flowed from my lips -- hurtful words, bitter accusations, falsehoods, and openly rebellious words.
Jesus modeled the example he wants you and me to follow. He showed love and compassion to a woman caught in the act of adultery. After the Pharisees had left, Jesus straightened up and said, "Woman, where are your accusers? Did no one accuse you?" She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more" (John 8:10-11).
This speaks volumes to me. How I need to allow the love of Christ to control my words and actions
Paul tells us to "take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ." Don't get too cozy by the fire, danger lurks there! Just ask Peter.
Thought for the Day: We are the only Bible that some people will ever see.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Cost of Discipleship
If you want to be my disciple you must hate everyone else by comparison -- your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters -- yes, even your own life. Otherwise you cannot be my disciple. (Luke 14:26)
Today's Bible reading is emphasizing two distinct principles. The first principle requires each of us to count the cost of discipleship. No man enters into a business partnership without first sitting down, devising a plan, and counting the cost. Such factors as product desirability, market needs, work force and labor costs, salesmanship, etc. In the spiritual life, God wants you and me to first count the cost and see if we are willing to give every area of our lives to him. Are we willing to leave all and follow him? The disciples gave up their lucrative fishing careers. Matthew gave up his tax collecting job, and Paul, his heritage and position as a Pharisee. What are you willing to give up in order to follow Jesus?
The second principle that I believe is embedded in the words of Luke 14:26 is that of being willing. God is looking for willingness on the part of his followers. Sometimes this is called availability. Just be willing. We can't hang onto the world and cling to Jesus at the same time. Something has to go. Are you willing to give up all your personal ambitions, your possessions, your friends and family in order to be Jesus' disciple?
Moses counted the cost and ended up leading an entire nation. Joshua counted the cost and led the Israelites into the promise land. David counted the cost and slew the giant. Elijah counted the cost and defeated the prophets of Baal.
Have you counted the cost of discipleship?
Thought for the Day: The cost of discipleship is no more than was asked of Jesus.
Today's Bible reading is emphasizing two distinct principles. The first principle requires each of us to count the cost of discipleship. No man enters into a business partnership without first sitting down, devising a plan, and counting the cost. Such factors as product desirability, market needs, work force and labor costs, salesmanship, etc. In the spiritual life, God wants you and me to first count the cost and see if we are willing to give every area of our lives to him. Are we willing to leave all and follow him? The disciples gave up their lucrative fishing careers. Matthew gave up his tax collecting job, and Paul, his heritage and position as a Pharisee. What are you willing to give up in order to follow Jesus?
The second principle that I believe is embedded in the words of Luke 14:26 is that of being willing. God is looking for willingness on the part of his followers. Sometimes this is called availability. Just be willing. We can't hang onto the world and cling to Jesus at the same time. Something has to go. Are you willing to give up all your personal ambitions, your possessions, your friends and family in order to be Jesus' disciple?
Moses counted the cost and ended up leading an entire nation. Joshua counted the cost and led the Israelites into the promise land. David counted the cost and slew the giant. Elijah counted the cost and defeated the prophets of Baal.
Have you counted the cost of discipleship?
Thought for the Day: The cost of discipleship is no more than was asked of Jesus.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Cosmetic Makeovers
Your adornment must not be merely external -- braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. (1 Peter 3:3-4 ASV)
The old adage: "beauty is only skin deep" certainly isn't part of the marketing strategy of the cosmetic industry today. Television advertising promotes beauty as the pinnacle of success using gorgeous women with shiny swishing hair, smooth silk like skin, seductive eye shadow and colorful lip patterns.
This reminds me of a problem facing wives during the time of the Apostle Peter. They tried to win their husbands to Christ by using the cosmetic approach. They plaited their hair, wore designer clothes, and obtained fancy makeovers, but apparently husbands were not impressed. Christ was not honored.
Peter said, not so fast ladies, don't be concerned about the outward beauty, instead work on the inside and let the beauty residing in the heart shine forth. Fancy hairstyles won't win your husbands over. Expensive gold jewelry won't turn them to Christ. Nagging? -- forget it. That will only turn them further away from the Lord.
Peter's instructions to them were: "clothe yourselves with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle spirit, which is precious to God. Let the love of Christ flowing through your spirit win them over. Be gentle, kind, obedient, understanding, patient, and loving." These are the qualities that God uses to bring lost souls to himself.
Are you living with an unsaved mate? What are you doing to win him or her to Christ? Are you obedient, gentle, loving, patient, and kind? This is the successful formula for winning lost souls to Christ. Worldly fashions will fail.
Thought for the Day: God's adornments are the result of the Spirit's gentle work within.
The old adage: "beauty is only skin deep" certainly isn't part of the marketing strategy of the cosmetic industry today. Television advertising promotes beauty as the pinnacle of success using gorgeous women with shiny swishing hair, smooth silk like skin, seductive eye shadow and colorful lip patterns.
This reminds me of a problem facing wives during the time of the Apostle Peter. They tried to win their husbands to Christ by using the cosmetic approach. They plaited their hair, wore designer clothes, and obtained fancy makeovers, but apparently husbands were not impressed. Christ was not honored.
Peter said, not so fast ladies, don't be concerned about the outward beauty, instead work on the inside and let the beauty residing in the heart shine forth. Fancy hairstyles won't win your husbands over. Expensive gold jewelry won't turn them to Christ. Nagging? -- forget it. That will only turn them further away from the Lord.
Peter's instructions to them were: "clothe yourselves with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle spirit, which is precious to God. Let the love of Christ flowing through your spirit win them over. Be gentle, kind, obedient, understanding, patient, and loving." These are the qualities that God uses to bring lost souls to himself.
Are you living with an unsaved mate? What are you doing to win him or her to Christ? Are you obedient, gentle, loving, patient, and kind? This is the successful formula for winning lost souls to Christ. Worldly fashions will fail.
Thought for the Day: God's adornments are the result of the Spirit's gentle work within.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Consistency
So we must not grow weary in doing good, for in due time we will reap, if we do not give up. (Galatians 6:9 NET)
One of the believer's greatest struggles in his daily walk is consistency. To be consistent one must set a course and refuse to deviate from it.
Although Jesus modeled consistency, his disciples often failed to show it in their lives. Peter was a prime example of inconsistency. On one occasion he made the statement I will never deny you and then turned around and denied the Lord three times. How do we fare in this area of our lives?
We can learn a lot about inconsistency by studying the lives of Old Testament patriarchs like Abraham, Jacob, David, and Solomon. On the other hand Joseph, Moses, Nehemiah, and Esther lived consistent lives.
One of the best ways to live consistent lives is to make sure you keep the promises that you make.
Thought for the Day: God is consistent in keeping his promises.
One of the believer's greatest struggles in his daily walk is consistency. To be consistent one must set a course and refuse to deviate from it.
Although Jesus modeled consistency, his disciples often failed to show it in their lives. Peter was a prime example of inconsistency. On one occasion he made the statement I will never deny you and then turned around and denied the Lord three times. How do we fare in this area of our lives?
We can learn a lot about inconsistency by studying the lives of Old Testament patriarchs like Abraham, Jacob, David, and Solomon. On the other hand Joseph, Moses, Nehemiah, and Esther lived consistent lives.
One of the best ways to live consistent lives is to make sure you keep the promises that you make.
Thought for the Day: God is consistent in keeping his promises.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Compulsory Offerings
They must then bring a guilt offering to the priest, who will present it before the Lord. This offering must be a ram with no physical defects or the animal's equivalent value in silver. The priest will then make atonement for them before the Lord, and they will be forgiven. (Leviticus 6:6-7 NLT)
My wife makes a savory dish called Sweet and Sour meatballs. It is a combination of meatballs, pineapple chunks, and Sweet and Sour Sauce served over rice.
The Israelites received instructions for sweet-savor offerings and non sweet-savor offerings. The two non-sweet savor offerings were required when sin had broken their fellowship with God. The guilt offering paved the way for restoration from the sins of touching an unclean object, making a foolish vow, cheating or fraud, while the trespass offering caused sins of injury to God and others to be forgiven.
What do a dented fender, cracked windshield, and a white spot in your favorite pair of dark pants have in common? (Hint: they have nothing to do with your spouse!) Give up? All three act as reminders of less than favorable experiences: the yellow pole in Wal-Mart's parking lot that ran into your car, the rock the truck slung at your windshield, and the Clorox that splashed unto your pants.
God has given each of us unpleasant memories to remind us of our sinfulness. None of them are a sweet fragrance to God because sin is never sweet to him. Sin requires repentance, forgiveness, and restitution. In response to confession God says, "He has removed our sin as far from us as the east is from the west." (Psalm 103:12 NASV)
Have you given God a non sweet-savor offering lately? God is always ready to listen to our complaints, forgive us for our sins, and restore the joy of salvation in our souls.
Thought for the Day: Non sweet-savor offerings are a mandatory requirement for sin.
My wife makes a savory dish called Sweet and Sour meatballs. It is a combination of meatballs, pineapple chunks, and Sweet and Sour Sauce served over rice.
The Israelites received instructions for sweet-savor offerings and non sweet-savor offerings. The two non-sweet savor offerings were required when sin had broken their fellowship with God. The guilt offering paved the way for restoration from the sins of touching an unclean object, making a foolish vow, cheating or fraud, while the trespass offering caused sins of injury to God and others to be forgiven.
What do a dented fender, cracked windshield, and a white spot in your favorite pair of dark pants have in common? (Hint: they have nothing to do with your spouse!) Give up? All three act as reminders of less than favorable experiences: the yellow pole in Wal-Mart's parking lot that ran into your car, the rock the truck slung at your windshield, and the Clorox that splashed unto your pants.
God has given each of us unpleasant memories to remind us of our sinfulness. None of them are a sweet fragrance to God because sin is never sweet to him. Sin requires repentance, forgiveness, and restitution. In response to confession God says, "He has removed our sin as far from us as the east is from the west." (Psalm 103:12 NASV)
Have you given God a non sweet-savor offering lately? God is always ready to listen to our complaints, forgive us for our sins, and restore the joy of salvation in our souls.
Thought for the Day: Non sweet-savor offerings are a mandatory requirement for sin.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Compelled to Share Christ
Seeing the people, he felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd. (Matthew 9:36 ASV)
Have you ever struggled to turn a conversation to spiritual things?
Years ago I was engaged in door-to-door evangelism. It was my worst nightmare. I was so afraid of rejection. When someone opened the door and said, "What do you want," I shook in my boots. I told the Lord, "I'm not cut out for this." He replied, "I will be with you."
Do you feel compelled to share Christ? What can you do? Here are a few suggestions: Hold a dinner for six in your home. Invite unsaved neighbors and friends. Let them see Christ in you. Start a Good News club in your neighborhood or school. Find some gospel tracts and put them in each bill paying envelope. When you eat out leave a nice tip inside a gospel tract. Volunteer your time in a local thrift shop for the poor. Help with Meals on Wheels at a local senior citizens center. Visit a nursing home for the aged. A big smile and encouraging words will go a long way to make their day brighter.
Now is the time for compelling boldness. Step out by faith. The key is to be on the lookout for opportunities of service in your local community. It's not so much how much you do -- just do something.
Thought for the Day: God's promise to be with you is still valid for today.
Have you ever struggled to turn a conversation to spiritual things?
Years ago I was engaged in door-to-door evangelism. It was my worst nightmare. I was so afraid of rejection. When someone opened the door and said, "What do you want," I shook in my boots. I told the Lord, "I'm not cut out for this." He replied, "I will be with you."
Do you feel compelled to share Christ? What can you do? Here are a few suggestions: Hold a dinner for six in your home. Invite unsaved neighbors and friends. Let them see Christ in you. Start a Good News club in your neighborhood or school. Find some gospel tracts and put them in each bill paying envelope. When you eat out leave a nice tip inside a gospel tract. Volunteer your time in a local thrift shop for the poor. Help with Meals on Wheels at a local senior citizens center. Visit a nursing home for the aged. A big smile and encouraging words will go a long way to make their day brighter.
Now is the time for compelling boldness. Step out by faith. The key is to be on the lookout for opportunities of service in your local community. It's not so much how much you do -- just do something.
Thought for the Day: God's promise to be with you is still valid for today.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Will it be today, Lord?
Therefore Jesus said, For a little while longer I am with you. Then I go to Him who sent me. (John 7:33)
Are we there yet? How I dreaded hearing those words from my kids as we drove along the highway leading to Niagara Falls. How do you explain time and distance to a child? My normal response was, "It's only a little farther." The normal cliches don't work well with children. They might satisfy for a few minutes, and then I would hear it again, "How much longer? When will we get there?"
I"m sure Jesus had the same problem with his disciples. Near the end of his earthly stay he said, "For a little longer I am with you, then I go to see him who sent me. You will seek me, and will not find me, and where I am, you cannot come." (John 7:33-34 NASV) Jesus said he'd be gone for awhile but would return. What do ;you suppose the disciples were thinking? Wondering? Were they confused, skeptical, doubting, discomfited, or in denial?
How many times in my life have I been in denial? Denying the existence of a given truth doesn't make it less true. Denial only prolongs the agony of facing up to the truth. Jesus said, "I am going away, but I will return." Do I really believe that promise, or am I living in a state of denial? If I truly believe, then I will be living in anticipation of his return. Every day when I wake up the question will be on my lips, "Will it be today, Lord?"
Are you patiently waiting for the Lord? Jesus said, "Occupy till I come." We need to be busy serving him while we are waiting.
Thought for the Day: There has never been a time when God did not fulfill his promises.
Are we there yet? How I dreaded hearing those words from my kids as we drove along the highway leading to Niagara Falls. How do you explain time and distance to a child? My normal response was, "It's only a little farther." The normal cliches don't work well with children. They might satisfy for a few minutes, and then I would hear it again, "How much longer? When will we get there?"
I"m sure Jesus had the same problem with his disciples. Near the end of his earthly stay he said, "For a little longer I am with you, then I go to see him who sent me. You will seek me, and will not find me, and where I am, you cannot come." (John 7:33-34 NASV) Jesus said he'd be gone for awhile but would return. What do ;you suppose the disciples were thinking? Wondering? Were they confused, skeptical, doubting, discomfited, or in denial?
How many times in my life have I been in denial? Denying the existence of a given truth doesn't make it less true. Denial only prolongs the agony of facing up to the truth. Jesus said, "I am going away, but I will return." Do I really believe that promise, or am I living in a state of denial? If I truly believe, then I will be living in anticipation of his return. Every day when I wake up the question will be on my lips, "Will it be today, Lord?"
Are you patiently waiting for the Lord? Jesus said, "Occupy till I come." We need to be busy serving him while we are waiting.
Thought for the Day: There has never been a time when God did not fulfill his promises.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Comforting Others
All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source of every mercy and the God who comforts us. (2 Corinthians 1:3)
The older we get the more comforts we desire. We used to enjoy camping, sleeping in a tent, roughing it in the wilderness, but now we want a motel with elevators, a king size bed, a TV, and a free, hot continental breakfast. Oh. where has the pioneer spirit gone?
In the Scriptures, God presents a different perspective on comfort. He isn't concerned with plush surroundings and creature comforts. His comfort is in the spiritual realm rather than the physical. James 1:23 says, "Count it all joy, my brethren, (when) you encounter various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance."
Human comfort comes with a hug, holding of hands, words of encouragement, and acts of kindness. God never promises to removed all difficulties, pain, and suffering, but he does promise to stand with us in our hours of trial.
As you embrace Him -- He embraces you. What a wonderful mutual promise. Have you felt his loving arms around you? Worship him by thanking him for his divine comfort.
Thought for the Day: Jesus is the God of all comfort and stands beside you in times of trial.
The older we get the more comforts we desire. We used to enjoy camping, sleeping in a tent, roughing it in the wilderness, but now we want a motel with elevators, a king size bed, a TV, and a free, hot continental breakfast. Oh. where has the pioneer spirit gone?
In the Scriptures, God presents a different perspective on comfort. He isn't concerned with plush surroundings and creature comforts. His comfort is in the spiritual realm rather than the physical. James 1:23 says, "Count it all joy, my brethren, (when) you encounter various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance."
Human comfort comes with a hug, holding of hands, words of encouragement, and acts of kindness. God never promises to removed all difficulties, pain, and suffering, but he does promise to stand with us in our hours of trial.
As you embrace Him -- He embraces you. What a wonderful mutual promise. Have you felt his loving arms around you? Worship him by thanking him for his divine comfort.
Thought for the Day: Jesus is the God of all comfort and stands beside you in times of trial.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Come and See
Then John's two disciples turned and followed Jesus. Jesus looked around and saw them following. "What do you want?" he asked them. (John 1:37-38)
When I spend time in devotions, I need to answer the same question Jesus asked Andrew and John, "What are you seeking?"
Am I coming to him seeking material or spiritual blessings? What is my greatest need today? Is it greater knowledge, fellowship, understanding, assurance, or forgiveness?
What did the disciples who followed Jesus want from him? What were they seeking? Jesus obviously wanted to know what was on their hearts. That's why he asked the question, "What do you want?" (John 1:38 NLT)
The disciples asked, "Where are you staying?" A time may come when we'll really need you and want to know how to get in touch with you. Do you have a 911 emergency ;number? Are you available 24/7, or do we need to take a number and wait in line?
Jesus responded by saying, "Come and see." The invitation is given for John and Andrew to become partakers of his life's work. The same invitation comes to you and me today to join his team of harvest workers. Jesus told his disciples, "The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send out more workers for his fields." (Matthew 9:37,38 NLT)
What are you seeking? Is it to be a harvest workers? Are you willing to give up the luxuries of this life to follow the Savior? Will you give Jesus your time, energy, and abilities to meet the needs of the worldwide harvest? Jesus says, "Come and see."
Thought for the Day: Workers are needed to sow the seed and harvest the souls.
When I spend time in devotions, I need to answer the same question Jesus asked Andrew and John, "What are you seeking?"
Am I coming to him seeking material or spiritual blessings? What is my greatest need today? Is it greater knowledge, fellowship, understanding, assurance, or forgiveness?
What did the disciples who followed Jesus want from him? What were they seeking? Jesus obviously wanted to know what was on their hearts. That's why he asked the question, "What do you want?" (John 1:38 NLT)
The disciples asked, "Where are you staying?" A time may come when we'll really need you and want to know how to get in touch with you. Do you have a 911 emergency ;number? Are you available 24/7, or do we need to take a number and wait in line?
Jesus responded by saying, "Come and see." The invitation is given for John and Andrew to become partakers of his life's work. The same invitation comes to you and me today to join his team of harvest workers. Jesus told his disciples, "The harvest is so great, but the workers are so few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send out more workers for his fields." (Matthew 9:37,38 NLT)
What are you seeking? Is it to be a harvest workers? Are you willing to give up the luxuries of this life to follow the Savior? Will you give Jesus your time, energy, and abilities to meet the needs of the worldwide harvest? Jesus says, "Come and see."
Thought for the Day: Workers are needed to sow the seed and harvest the souls.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Colorful Signs
I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my permanent promise to you and all the earth. Genesis 9:13
Children delight in rainbows. The arch of colors filtering through the clouds bring exclamations of joy.
As we approached the town of Frisco on the way home from our vacation in Colorado, the boys in the back seat shouted, "Dad pull over and look at that beautiful rainbow." Sure enough, there was the arch of a colorful rainbow. We could see both ends of the arch, and I recalled what my mother used to tell me as a child. "Bob, there's a pot of gold at one end of the rainbow." I surely would love to have that pot of gold, and there was the end of the rainbow sitting right on top of the Pizza Hut restaurant. To my boys the pot of gold was a Pepperoni and Cheese pizza. "Let's go get that pot of gold," they shouted.
Sometimes we see God's promises reflected in other ways. When I was in Bible school we were down to our last can of baby Lima beans, the only thing in the house to eat. God provided the next meal by putting a five dollar bill in my mailbox. On another occasion I made a stupid subtraction mistake in my checkbook, but found that God had put a $500 dollar check from the government in my account a month early. Recently we were preparing for a mission trip to Cameroon and God supplied the needed funds through various means. One person walked up to me after church and handed me three one hundred dollar bills. Another person offered $500 for a baby sweater that my wife had knitted. God is not restricted in the way he works to supply our needs.
What rainbows do you see? Where do you witness God's faithfulness to you? Look for it in the small needs met just at the right time. List five ways God has provided for you unexpectedly.
Thought for the Day: God uses lots of rainbows to meet the physical and spiritual needs of our lives.
Children delight in rainbows. The arch of colors filtering through the clouds bring exclamations of joy.
As we approached the town of Frisco on the way home from our vacation in Colorado, the boys in the back seat shouted, "Dad pull over and look at that beautiful rainbow." Sure enough, there was the arch of a colorful rainbow. We could see both ends of the arch, and I recalled what my mother used to tell me as a child. "Bob, there's a pot of gold at one end of the rainbow." I surely would love to have that pot of gold, and there was the end of the rainbow sitting right on top of the Pizza Hut restaurant. To my boys the pot of gold was a Pepperoni and Cheese pizza. "Let's go get that pot of gold," they shouted.
Sometimes we see God's promises reflected in other ways. When I was in Bible school we were down to our last can of baby Lima beans, the only thing in the house to eat. God provided the next meal by putting a five dollar bill in my mailbox. On another occasion I made a stupid subtraction mistake in my checkbook, but found that God had put a $500 dollar check from the government in my account a month early. Recently we were preparing for a mission trip to Cameroon and God supplied the needed funds through various means. One person walked up to me after church and handed me three one hundred dollar bills. Another person offered $500 for a baby sweater that my wife had knitted. God is not restricted in the way he works to supply our needs.
What rainbows do you see? Where do you witness God's faithfulness to you? Look for it in the small needs met just at the right time. List five ways God has provided for you unexpectedly.
Thought for the Day: God uses lots of rainbows to meet the physical and spiritual needs of our lives.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Clothed with Beauty
And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. (Matthew 6:28-29 NASV)
As I was taking my morning stroll around the lake, I paused to observe the colorful ducks and lily pads along the shore. I thought to myself, God sure does love to clothe our world in beauty. The contrast between green, brown, grays and the stark white of the lily pad flowers was striking.
My walk took on a new dimension as I began to take a closer look at the creative beauty around me. The stately pines, the colorful Red Maples, and the Orange Sweet Gums all reflected the glory of our creator God. I thought, how can I help others to see this beauty? A still small voice seemed to say plant a flower garden. Immediately plans began to form in my mind. I decided to plant colorful flowers around the house, and put a small sign in front saying, "God created all things beautiful -- enjoy." Neighbors walking by pause to take in the beauty that only God could create. To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen!
You, too, see God's creation every day. Do you relish the glory and beauty of all that you see? Do you praise God for his majesty and creative powers?
Thought for the Day: Let's take time to observe God's beauty all around us.
As I was taking my morning stroll around the lake, I paused to observe the colorful ducks and lily pads along the shore. I thought to myself, God sure does love to clothe our world in beauty. The contrast between green, brown, grays and the stark white of the lily pad flowers was striking.
My walk took on a new dimension as I began to take a closer look at the creative beauty around me. The stately pines, the colorful Red Maples, and the Orange Sweet Gums all reflected the glory of our creator God. I thought, how can I help others to see this beauty? A still small voice seemed to say plant a flower garden. Immediately plans began to form in my mind. I decided to plant colorful flowers around the house, and put a small sign in front saying, "God created all things beautiful -- enjoy." Neighbors walking by pause to take in the beauty that only God could create. To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen!
You, too, see God's creation every day. Do you relish the glory and beauty of all that you see? Do you praise God for his majesty and creative powers?
Thought for the Day: Let's take time to observe God's beauty all around us.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Clinging to Life
Jesus said to her, Stop clinging to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, 'I ascend to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God.' (John 20:17)
The morning sun is peeking over the horizon with a beautiful orange glow. As I look out the dining room window, I see a few leaves still clinging to the trees fluttering gently in the breeze. Most of the fall foliage has fallen, but a few leaves are desperately clinging to life. Soon the trees will be bare as winter lays its claim upon them, and dormancy takes over. Six months will lapse before we see newness of life again. In the meantime, they stand like sentinels to remind us that life remains within.
The women came to the tomb on the first day of the week clinging to hope. Hope that somehow a miracle would take place. When they arrived and found the tomb empty, it seemed that their hope vanished. He was gone! As Mary Magdalene lingered at the empty tomb, two angels appeared and questioned her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." (John 20:13 NIV) Her hope was at a low point until she turned and saw Jesus. She thought maybe he was the gardener, but when he spoke her name, "Mary," she realized that Jesus truly was alive. Immediately she fell at his feet and wrapped her arms around his legs. At that point, she wanted to cling to him forever but Jesus said to her, "Don't cling to me."
As believers, we tend to cling to the word of God as if it is our personal treasure. The Bible was meant to be shared with others. Others need the treasure that lies within its pages. Jesus told Mary to go tell the disciples that he was alive and coming to meet with them. When Mary obeyed and ran to the disciples with the good news, her hope was put into action.
As true believers, we have a living hope that needs to be seen by the rest of the world. Paul says, "How will they call on him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher." (Romans 10:14 ASV) You and I are the preachers that God wants to send with the good news. We need to stop clinging and start preaching.
Thought for the Day: God gave his word for the entire world to hear and read.
The morning sun is peeking over the horizon with a beautiful orange glow. As I look out the dining room window, I see a few leaves still clinging to the trees fluttering gently in the breeze. Most of the fall foliage has fallen, but a few leaves are desperately clinging to life. Soon the trees will be bare as winter lays its claim upon them, and dormancy takes over. Six months will lapse before we see newness of life again. In the meantime, they stand like sentinels to remind us that life remains within.
The women came to the tomb on the first day of the week clinging to hope. Hope that somehow a miracle would take place. When they arrived and found the tomb empty, it seemed that their hope vanished. He was gone! As Mary Magdalene lingered at the empty tomb, two angels appeared and questioned her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." (John 20:13 NIV) Her hope was at a low point until she turned and saw Jesus. She thought maybe he was the gardener, but when he spoke her name, "Mary," she realized that Jesus truly was alive. Immediately she fell at his feet and wrapped her arms around his legs. At that point, she wanted to cling to him forever but Jesus said to her, "Don't cling to me."
As believers, we tend to cling to the word of God as if it is our personal treasure. The Bible was meant to be shared with others. Others need the treasure that lies within its pages. Jesus told Mary to go tell the disciples that he was alive and coming to meet with them. When Mary obeyed and ran to the disciples with the good news, her hope was put into action.
As true believers, we have a living hope that needs to be seen by the rest of the world. Paul says, "How will they call on him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher." (Romans 10:14 ASV) You and I are the preachers that God wants to send with the good news. We need to stop clinging and start preaching.
Thought for the Day: God gave his word for the entire world to hear and read.
Friday, June 10, 2011
I'm Just Sayin
So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience. (Romans 13:5 NLT)
It was almost daybreak, but the people were already up complaining at the tent door of Moses. As he emerged, they closed in upon him crying," We have no water, (God gave them water out of a rock),no food,(He gave them manna) no shade, (He provided a cloud), and we're tired of moving all the time. Day after day all Moses heard was gripping and bellyaching about something. The poor guy was worn to a frazzle.
Does any of the above sound familiar? Are we any different than the children of Israel in the wilderness? We complain about the weather (it's too hot or it's too cold), the government (they aren't working for us -- only looking our for themselves), the taxes, privacy, and freedom (what's left of it).
The Apostle Paul gave us his "two cents worth" about this subject. In Philippians 2:14 -15 Paul says, in everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you... let your lives shine brightly before them.
Moses said, "...yes, your complaints are against the Lord, not against us." (Exodus 16:8b NLT)
Have you complained lately? Sure! We are all guilty at one time or another. Just remember that any complaint you make is really against the LORD. I'M JUST SAYIN!
Thought for the Day: God would have to have an enormous books if all the complaints are recorded in heaven.
It was almost daybreak, but the people were already up complaining at the tent door of Moses. As he emerged, they closed in upon him crying," We have no water, (God gave them water out of a rock),no food,(He gave them manna) no shade, (He provided a cloud), and we're tired of moving all the time. Day after day all Moses heard was gripping and bellyaching about something. The poor guy was worn to a frazzle.
Does any of the above sound familiar? Are we any different than the children of Israel in the wilderness? We complain about the weather (it's too hot or it's too cold), the government (they aren't working for us -- only looking our for themselves), the taxes, privacy, and freedom (what's left of it).
The Apostle Paul gave us his "two cents worth" about this subject. In Philippians 2:14 -15 Paul says, in everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you... let your lives shine brightly before them.
Moses said, "...yes, your complaints are against the Lord, not against us." (Exodus 16:8b NLT)
Have you complained lately? Sure! We are all guilty at one time or another. Just remember that any complaint you make is really against the LORD. I'M JUST SAYIN!
Thought for the Day: God would have to have an enormous books if all the complaints are recorded in heaven.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
A Broken Record
After Ehud's death, the Israelites again did what was evil in the Lord's sight. Judges 4:1
The history of the book of Judges reads like a broken record. God raises up an individual to act as Judge over Israel. Her enemies are subdued and the oppression ceases, but as soon as the Judge dies, Israel returns to her evil ways.
Do you see any difference between the way the Israelites behaved and our present generation? During a crises we make great promises -- only to break them and return to status quo as soon as things turn to normal.
We elect promising candidates to public office with great hopes of changing the political climate in Washington D.C. -- only to find out that everything is business as usual once the election is over. Promises are made -- promises broken. Hopes are dashed. Elected officials ignore the wishes of the people who got them where they are, and instead, they succumb to the wishes of special interest groups. Will things ever change? Is there any hope?
Israel was guilty of living a lifestyle that wanted favor from God without responsibility. That is the way many of us want to live our lives. We want all the blessings that God can give, but aren't willing to make the changes necessary to warrant those blessings.
Blessings come to those who are willing to live in obedience to His will.
Thought for the Day: God's blessings are available to those who walk by faith.
The history of the book of Judges reads like a broken record. God raises up an individual to act as Judge over Israel. Her enemies are subdued and the oppression ceases, but as soon as the Judge dies, Israel returns to her evil ways.
Do you see any difference between the way the Israelites behaved and our present generation? During a crises we make great promises -- only to break them and return to status quo as soon as things turn to normal.
We elect promising candidates to public office with great hopes of changing the political climate in Washington D.C. -- only to find out that everything is business as usual once the election is over. Promises are made -- promises broken. Hopes are dashed. Elected officials ignore the wishes of the people who got them where they are, and instead, they succumb to the wishes of special interest groups. Will things ever change? Is there any hope?
Israel was guilty of living a lifestyle that wanted favor from God without responsibility. That is the way many of us want to live our lives. We want all the blessings that God can give, but aren't willing to make the changes necessary to warrant those blessings.
Blessings come to those who are willing to live in obedience to His will.
Thought for the Day: God's blessings are available to those who walk by faith.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Getting our Attention
And Moses said, I will now turn aside and see the great sight, why the bush is not burnt. (Exo. 3:3)
Amazing! Moses said to himself, Why isn't the bush burning up? I must go over to see this. When the Lord saw that he had caught Moses' attention, He called to him from the bush. (Exodus 3:3-4)
What would it take for the Lord to get your attention? Would an unexplainable event do it? Would it take a miracle? Would something spectacular suffice?
In the case of Moses, it took "all of the above." Moses was sauntering along with his flock of sheep when all of a sudden he saw a bush burst into flame. This wasn't just a small flicker, but a flame reaching upwards like a sword. He stood mesmerized by the sight. As he stared at this amazing sight, the thought came to him, why is the bush burning, yet not being burned up? Where are the ashes, he thought. Why isn't it turning black and disintegrating? Once the surprise and shock wore off he said to himself, I've got to go over and check this out. That was just what God was waiting to hear. He used this miracle to get Moses' attention and it worked.
What has God used to get your attention? It may not be as spectacular as a burning bush, but just as effective. God uses those actions and circumstances that he knows will cause us to stop and listen.
Whatever means God uses to get your attention -- turn aside like Moses and listen for his voice. It may take the stillness of a desert, or the seclusion of a room or closet, but learn to be still and quiet because he speaks in a still small voice.
Thought for the Day: God doesn't always shout -- sometimes it is just a whisper.
Amazing! Moses said to himself, Why isn't the bush burning up? I must go over to see this. When the Lord saw that he had caught Moses' attention, He called to him from the bush. (Exodus 3:3-4)
What would it take for the Lord to get your attention? Would an unexplainable event do it? Would it take a miracle? Would something spectacular suffice?
In the case of Moses, it took "all of the above." Moses was sauntering along with his flock of sheep when all of a sudden he saw a bush burst into flame. This wasn't just a small flicker, but a flame reaching upwards like a sword. He stood mesmerized by the sight. As he stared at this amazing sight, the thought came to him, why is the bush burning, yet not being burned up? Where are the ashes, he thought. Why isn't it turning black and disintegrating? Once the surprise and shock wore off he said to himself, I've got to go over and check this out. That was just what God was waiting to hear. He used this miracle to get Moses' attention and it worked.
What has God used to get your attention? It may not be as spectacular as a burning bush, but just as effective. God uses those actions and circumstances that he knows will cause us to stop and listen.
Whatever means God uses to get your attention -- turn aside like Moses and listen for his voice. It may take the stillness of a desert, or the seclusion of a room or closet, but learn to be still and quiet because he speaks in a still small voice.
Thought for the Day: God doesn't always shout -- sometimes it is just a whisper.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Fear versus Faith
As Pharaoh and his army approached, the people of Israel could see them in the distance, marching toward them. The people began to panic, and they cried out to the LORD for help. (Exo. 14:10)
When my boys were young we loved to go camping at Big Spring State Park in Missouri. In the evening we sat around our campfire watching the flickering flames and listened to the chirping of crickets, the hooting of owls, and the yapping of coyotes. Sounds at night always seem closer than they really are, and noises in the forest are especially scary. Ghostlike shadows make the hair on the back of one's neck rise and often a certain level of fear emerges. Darkness has a way of doing this to a person.
That's what happened to Israel when they left Egypt for the promised land. Pharaoh allowed them to go, but then God changed Pharaoh's mind. God purposely entrapped Israel between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army. Why did God do that? He tells us why in Exodus 14:3-4:
I have planned this so I will receive glory at the expense of Pharaoh and his armies. After this, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD. (Exodus 14:4 NLT)
The purpose of God's glory is to show that God is God. Our trials and tribulations are intended to bring God glory. Each difficulty we face gives us an opportunity to show the watching world that God is greater than any adversity we encounters.
Has God boxed you into a corner? Are trials overwhelming you? Does the future seem uncertain? Are you fearful? Listen to Jesus saying:
"...fear not for I am with you. I will never leave you. I will never forsake you." (Heb. 13:5).
Thought for the Day: Walk with God where no fear can abound.
When my boys were young we loved to go camping at Big Spring State Park in Missouri. In the evening we sat around our campfire watching the flickering flames and listened to the chirping of crickets, the hooting of owls, and the yapping of coyotes. Sounds at night always seem closer than they really are, and noises in the forest are especially scary. Ghostlike shadows make the hair on the back of one's neck rise and often a certain level of fear emerges. Darkness has a way of doing this to a person.
That's what happened to Israel when they left Egypt for the promised land. Pharaoh allowed them to go, but then God changed Pharaoh's mind. God purposely entrapped Israel between the Red Sea and the Egyptian army. Why did God do that? He tells us why in Exodus 14:3-4:
I have planned this so I will receive glory at the expense of Pharaoh and his armies. After this, the Egyptians will know that I am the LORD. (Exodus 14:4 NLT)
The purpose of God's glory is to show that God is God. Our trials and tribulations are intended to bring God glory. Each difficulty we face gives us an opportunity to show the watching world that God is greater than any adversity we encounters.
Has God boxed you into a corner? Are trials overwhelming you? Does the future seem uncertain? Are you fearful? Listen to Jesus saying:
"...fear not for I am with you. I will never leave you. I will never forsake you." (Heb. 13:5).
Thought for the Day: Walk with God where no fear can abound.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Music Stirs the Heart
But you, O heaven, rejoice over her (Babylon) fate. And you also rejoice, O holy people of God and apostles and prophets! For at last God has judged her (Babylon) on your behalf. Never again will the sound of music be heard there -- no more harps, songs, flutes, or trumpets. (Revelation 18:20 & 22)
Music is a powerful medium. A few notes can swell your chest with pride and bring you to your feet. Tunes such as the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America bring me to my feet along with shed tears.
Some musical rhythms cause me to tap my feet and clap my hands to the beat. Other songs bring back nostalgic memories of the good old days and the simple lifestyle of yesteryear.
I have two sons who own and operate a contemporary Christian music business. My oldest son was a "first chair" trumpet player on his high school band, and my other son loves to play the steel guitar. Together they read young people with the lyrics of the gospel in a musical format.
Music played a large part in the lives of Old Testament people groups. They used musical instruments to call people to assembly, to worship, to arms, and for entertainment. The Psalms served as Israel's hymnal and singers gathered to chant and sing songs of praise and adoration.
When David was a young lad he was called upon to play his harp when Kind Saul was tormented by a spirit sent from god. (1 Samuel 16:23) After David killed the giant Goliath and saved Israel's army from defeat, women came out from all the towns and danced for joy using tambourines and cymbals. (1 Samuel 18:6)
Music played a major role in the formation and protection of our country. Who can forget the"fife and drum" of the Revolutionary War,
or the tune Yankee Doodle Dandy and the Battle Hymn of the Republic during the Civil War. Other tunes such as Over There and It's a Long Way to Tipperary were sung during World War I, and the white Cliffs of Dover in World War 2. The Korean war brought to popularity the soundtrack of MASH. Rock and Roll soundtracks became popular during the Vietnam War, and the troops top forty included such songs as Five Hundred Miles and Leaving on a Jet Plane.
Needless to say, music has infiltrated every fabric of American life. It is the engine that drives business, pleasure, and worship.
Thought for the Day: God is an expert musician and can play all instruments with perfection.
Music is a powerful medium. A few notes can swell your chest with pride and bring you to your feet. Tunes such as the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America bring me to my feet along with shed tears.
Some musical rhythms cause me to tap my feet and clap my hands to the beat. Other songs bring back nostalgic memories of the good old days and the simple lifestyle of yesteryear.
I have two sons who own and operate a contemporary Christian music business. My oldest son was a "first chair" trumpet player on his high school band, and my other son loves to play the steel guitar. Together they read young people with the lyrics of the gospel in a musical format.
Music played a large part in the lives of Old Testament people groups. They used musical instruments to call people to assembly, to worship, to arms, and for entertainment. The Psalms served as Israel's hymnal and singers gathered to chant and sing songs of praise and adoration.
When David was a young lad he was called upon to play his harp when Kind Saul was tormented by a spirit sent from god. (1 Samuel 16:23) After David killed the giant Goliath and saved Israel's army from defeat, women came out from all the towns and danced for joy using tambourines and cymbals. (1 Samuel 18:6)
Music played a major role in the formation and protection of our country. Who can forget the"fife and drum" of the Revolutionary War,
Needless to say, music has infiltrated every fabric of American life. It is the engine that drives business, pleasure, and worship.
Thought for the Day: God is an expert musician and can play all instruments with perfection.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Clogged Fuel Line
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. Hebrews 12:1 NLT
I thought to myself, it's time to mow the lawn again. Out came the self-propelled Lawn Boy mower. I checked the gas, oil, and spark plug. All was in readiness. I held the safety lever and pulled the starter cord. NOTHING! I primed it a few more times and pulled again. NOTHING. Again and again I tried until my arm about fell off -- all to no avail. Something had clogged up the carburetor.
This incident reminds me of my spiritual life. Like my lawn mower, my spiritual life gets clogged with dirt from the cares of this world. The little sins that go unconfessed keep me from functioning spiritually. Outwardly I appear calm, but within, a raging fire is burning. The joy of the Lord is blocked and no matter how much effort I put forth, my faith engine shuts down. Nothing is so discouraging as a spiritual engine that won't function.
What will it take for your spiritual engine to run smoothly? Do you need a complete overhaul or just a little tune-up? Rest assured that God is able to meet your needs whatever they may be.
Thought for the Day: God has a special price for a complete overhaul or tune-up. it's called confession.
I thought to myself, it's time to mow the lawn again. Out came the self-propelled Lawn Boy mower. I checked the gas, oil, and spark plug. All was in readiness. I held the safety lever and pulled the starter cord. NOTHING! I primed it a few more times and pulled again. NOTHING. Again and again I tried until my arm about fell off -- all to no avail. Something had clogged up the carburetor.
This incident reminds me of my spiritual life. Like my lawn mower, my spiritual life gets clogged with dirt from the cares of this world. The little sins that go unconfessed keep me from functioning spiritually. Outwardly I appear calm, but within, a raging fire is burning. The joy of the Lord is blocked and no matter how much effort I put forth, my faith engine shuts down. Nothing is so discouraging as a spiritual engine that won't function.
What will it take for your spiritual engine to run smoothly? Do you need a complete overhaul or just a little tune-up? Rest assured that God is able to meet your needs whatever they may be.
Thought for the Day: God has a special price for a complete overhaul or tune-up. it's called confession.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Zero Tolerance Policy
Why then, have you disobeyed my command? Since you have done this, I will no longer drive out the people living in your land. (Judges 2:2-3)
Various schools have adopted a zero tolerance policy toward drugs and guns. This is a policy of punishing any infractions of a rule established by the school, regardless of accidental mistakes, ignorance, or extenuating circumstances. In addition to schools, zero tolerance policies are in force in businesses and sports.
Shootings on college campuses, drive-by shootings in neighborhoods, rampages by disgruntled employees, drug cartels, gangs in major cities, and domestic violence reveal that nothing much has changed since the 1999 Columbine massacre. It seems we are living in the days of the Judges where it says, "...everyone did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 21:25)
Turning to the Scriptures, we find that God operated a zero tolerance policy with the children of Israel. As Sovereign, God establishes the rules by which people are to live. They are recorded in our rule book, the Bible. Israel had access to these rules, yet chose to disobey and God's zero tolerance policy was put into motion.
How does God operate during this present generation? Is his zero tolerance policy still in effect today? Will He punish those who break the rules? Some, who see God only as a God of love say, "No!" Others who believe God is also a God of wrath say, "Yes!" How do we determine who is right and who is wrong?
The Apostle Paul said to the Ephesians: Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey him. (Ephesians 5:6 NLT)
What do you think?
Thought for the Day: God's zero tolerance policy is applied equally to all.
Various schools have adopted a zero tolerance policy toward drugs and guns. This is a policy of punishing any infractions of a rule established by the school, regardless of accidental mistakes, ignorance, or extenuating circumstances. In addition to schools, zero tolerance policies are in force in businesses and sports.
Shootings on college campuses, drive-by shootings in neighborhoods, rampages by disgruntled employees, drug cartels, gangs in major cities, and domestic violence reveal that nothing much has changed since the 1999 Columbine massacre. It seems we are living in the days of the Judges where it says, "...everyone did what was right in his own eyes." (Judges 21:25)
Turning to the Scriptures, we find that God operated a zero tolerance policy with the children of Israel. As Sovereign, God establishes the rules by which people are to live. They are recorded in our rule book, the Bible. Israel had access to these rules, yet chose to disobey and God's zero tolerance policy was put into motion.
How does God operate during this present generation? Is his zero tolerance policy still in effect today? Will He punish those who break the rules? Some, who see God only as a God of love say, "No!" Others who believe God is also a God of wrath say, "Yes!" How do we determine who is right and who is wrong?
The Apostle Paul said to the Ephesians: Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey him. (Ephesians 5:6 NLT)
What do you think?
Thought for the Day: God's zero tolerance policy is applied equally to all.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
All is Forgiven
Oh, what joy for those whose rebellion is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight. Psalm32:1
Ernest Hemingway, a classic author, tells the story of a Spanish father and son who no longer speak to each other. The father decides to reconcile with his son who has run away to Madrid. The remorseful father takes out the following ad in the El Liberal newspaper. "PACO MEET ME AT HOTEL. MONTANA NOON TUESDAY ALL IS FORGIVEN PAPA."
At noon on Tuesday, the father goes to the square where he finds eight hundred young men named Paco waiting for the forgiveness of their fathers. Paco is a very common name in Spain. (Taken from After Thoughts, First Baptist of Orlando, Pastor Uth).
Wow! Eight hundred young men yearning for forgiveness from their fathers? What could have been said to cause such disruption of relationships? I am sure that both parties spoke hurtful words to each other. I can hear the father saying, You never do anything right! You'll never amount to anything! You're so stupid! And I can hear the son responding, You don't understand! Get off my back!. I hate you!. Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words have a tremendous power to hurt.
Have you ever been hurt by words spoken in haste or an unkindly manner? Yes, we all have at some point in time. Countless children and adults are carrying around more hurt than God ever intended. Isn't it time that we all learn how to forgive one another?
No matter what we have done, through Jesus, All is Forgiven.
Thought for the Day: True forgiveness can be found only through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ernest Hemingway, a classic author, tells the story of a Spanish father and son who no longer speak to each other. The father decides to reconcile with his son who has run away to Madrid. The remorseful father takes out the following ad in the El Liberal newspaper. "PACO MEET ME AT HOTEL. MONTANA NOON TUESDAY ALL IS FORGIVEN PAPA."
At noon on Tuesday, the father goes to the square where he finds eight hundred young men named Paco waiting for the forgiveness of their fathers. Paco is a very common name in Spain. (Taken from After Thoughts, First Baptist of Orlando, Pastor Uth).
Wow! Eight hundred young men yearning for forgiveness from their fathers? What could have been said to cause such disruption of relationships? I am sure that both parties spoke hurtful words to each other. I can hear the father saying, You never do anything right! You'll never amount to anything! You're so stupid! And I can hear the son responding, You don't understand! Get off my back!. I hate you!. Sticks and stones may break our bones, but words have a tremendous power to hurt.
Have you ever been hurt by words spoken in haste or an unkindly manner? Yes, we all have at some point in time. Countless children and adults are carrying around more hurt than God ever intended. Isn't it time that we all learn how to forgive one another?
No matter what we have done, through Jesus, All is Forgiven.
Thought for the Day: True forgiveness can be found only through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Good and Bad Choices
But the people answered Joshua, saying, "No, we are determined to serve the LORD!" Joshua 24:21 NLT
From the moment you roll out of bed in the morning, you're face with decisions -- some big, some small. First, you must decide what clothes to wear. Then comes the decision of what to eat. These are small decisions compared to what you will face the rest of the day. Most decisions are short term choices, but occasionally we are faced with long term ones.
Many years ago I came to a crossroads in my life and faced a long term decision. It seemed as if I were looking into a crystal ball and could see my whole life unfolding before me. One road would lead me down a broad road full of twists and turns that ultimately led to a cliff with an abyss below. The other road was straight and narrow and though I could see potholes and obstacles along the way -- a brilliant light shone at the end. My decision to take the straight and narrow road changed my life completely.
Not all decisions I have made turned out to be good ones. Like the time I was confronted by the custom officials at the airport in Lima, Peru. As they examined my luggage they found a projector that I was carrying to use with the missionary children. They accused me of failing to declare it and pay the duty. In their minds they thought I was trying to smuggle it into the country to sell it for a huge profit. I could not convince them otherwise and the projector was confiscated. My failure to declare it was a bad decision.
Joshua, the newly appointed leader of Israel, had choices to make too. He forced the children of Israel to make a decision whether to put their faith in local gods or in the living God.
We make the same choices. Every day we must decide whom we will trust and serve. To follow the Lord Jesus Christ is a good decision, but to follow the urges of the flesh is a bad decision. Bad decisions lead to dismal failure and repercussions that affect both you and your family. Good decisions bring joy to the soul and a feeling of accomplishment. The choice is yours!
Thought for the Day: God will never counsel you to make a bad decision.
From the moment you roll out of bed in the morning, you're face with decisions -- some big, some small. First, you must decide what clothes to wear. Then comes the decision of what to eat. These are small decisions compared to what you will face the rest of the day. Most decisions are short term choices, but occasionally we are faced with long term ones.
Many years ago I came to a crossroads in my life and faced a long term decision. It seemed as if I were looking into a crystal ball and could see my whole life unfolding before me. One road would lead me down a broad road full of twists and turns that ultimately led to a cliff with an abyss below. The other road was straight and narrow and though I could see potholes and obstacles along the way -- a brilliant light shone at the end. My decision to take the straight and narrow road changed my life completely.
Not all decisions I have made turned out to be good ones. Like the time I was confronted by the custom officials at the airport in Lima, Peru. As they examined my luggage they found a projector that I was carrying to use with the missionary children. They accused me of failing to declare it and pay the duty. In their minds they thought I was trying to smuggle it into the country to sell it for a huge profit. I could not convince them otherwise and the projector was confiscated. My failure to declare it was a bad decision.
Joshua, the newly appointed leader of Israel, had choices to make too. He forced the children of Israel to make a decision whether to put their faith in local gods or in the living God.
We make the same choices. Every day we must decide whom we will trust and serve. To follow the Lord Jesus Christ is a good decision, but to follow the urges of the flesh is a bad decision. Bad decisions lead to dismal failure and repercussions that affect both you and your family. Good decisions bring joy to the soul and a feeling of accomplishment. The choice is yours!
Thought for the Day: God will never counsel you to make a bad decision.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Miserable Failures
And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the ordinances, and all the people answered with one voice, and said, "all the words which the LORD hath said will we do.?
(Exodus 24:3 KJV)
The children of Israel had the best of intentions with their promise of obedience. Someone has said, "Hell is paved with good intentions."
We are no different than the people of Israel. We make all kinds of promises beginning on New Year's Eve only to break all of them by February 1st. We went on a diet and joined the local gym. Cigarettes were tossed and vulgar language cast aside, meditations were faithfully kept, and prayers uttered. Man, we were on a roll! Then one by one, they all disappeared. What happened? Why couldn't we sustain the momentum? Why the procrastination? Why did we fail?
The Bible tells us that we fail because we are failures. We fall because we posses a fallen sinful nature. We have good intentions to do what is right, but something always interferes. That something is our sinful flesh. While the heart has been redeemed, the flesh has not. A war is going on within us. The Bible calls it -- the flesh against the spirit. (Galatians 5:16)
That's the bad news. The good news is that God knows our weaknesses. The Bible says, "For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust." (Psalm 103:14)
The worst part of all this is that we are broken and can't begin to fix ourselves. No amount of righteous works can solve our problem. There is no self solution. Self cannot redeem itself. How then are we going to solve our dilemma? How can we make the changes necessary to get on the right side of God?
Are you seeking a change in your life? Are you still struggling through the energy of the flesh to please God and miserably failing? You may as well admit that you can't please God through self-effort. Do you want to know the solution?
Release control of your out-of-control life into the outstretched hands of Jesus on the cross. Give up your self-efforts and resolve to allow Christ to change you permanently from the inside-out
Thought for the Day: God is in the life changing business.
(Exodus 24:3 KJV)
The children of Israel had the best of intentions with their promise of obedience. Someone has said, "Hell is paved with good intentions."
We are no different than the people of Israel. We make all kinds of promises beginning on New Year's Eve only to break all of them by February 1st. We went on a diet and joined the local gym. Cigarettes were tossed and vulgar language cast aside, meditations were faithfully kept, and prayers uttered. Man, we were on a roll! Then one by one, they all disappeared. What happened? Why couldn't we sustain the momentum? Why the procrastination? Why did we fail?
The Bible tells us that we fail because we are failures. We fall because we posses a fallen sinful nature. We have good intentions to do what is right, but something always interferes. That something is our sinful flesh. While the heart has been redeemed, the flesh has not. A war is going on within us. The Bible calls it -- the flesh against the spirit. (Galatians 5:16)
That's the bad news. The good news is that God knows our weaknesses. The Bible says, "For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust." (Psalm 103:14)
The worst part of all this is that we are broken and can't begin to fix ourselves. No amount of righteous works can solve our problem. There is no self solution. Self cannot redeem itself. How then are we going to solve our dilemma? How can we make the changes necessary to get on the right side of God?
Are you seeking a change in your life? Are you still struggling through the energy of the flesh to please God and miserably failing? You may as well admit that you can't please God through self-effort. Do you want to know the solution?
Release control of your out-of-control life into the outstretched hands of Jesus on the cross. Give up your self-efforts and resolve to allow Christ to change you permanently from the inside-out
Thought for the Day: God is in the life changing business.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Clay Jars
But we have this treasure in clay jars, to show that the extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. (2 Corinthians 4:7)
I stood transfixed as the potter took a lump of clay and began fashioning a vessel. His moistened fingers glided up and down as the clay began taking shape. The potter worked and worked, but the object would not conform to his desires. With a quick movement of his hand, he flattened the object and it was again just a lump of clay. An apparent mar had appeared that would render the object unusable for future tasks. Patiently he worked the clay until he was satisfied with its pliability and began again.
In Paul's day cheaply made clay jars leaked, chipped, cracked, and appeared unattractive. Nevertheless their functionality proved their worth. These pots held everything from food to fuel and could be seen in open windows, near cooking fires, and in marketplaces. How amazing that a perfect God would choose to put his treasure -- the message of the gospel -- in fragile, ordinary, unattractive clay jars!
In order for God to fill these clay jars, they must first be emptied of everything pertaining to self and the world. God works through the weak, the imperfect, and the powerless to show that this "extraordinary power belongs to him and does not come from us." My flaws, cracks, and imperfections allow the all-sufficient grace of God to leak out.
I continued to watch as the potter coated the clay jar with glaze and put it into the fiery furnace. Under extreme heat and pressure the ordinary looking clay jar underwent a transformation. When taken from the oven, an object of beauty emerged.
Thought for the Day: An empty clay jar waits to be filled.
I stood transfixed as the potter took a lump of clay and began fashioning a vessel. His moistened fingers glided up and down as the clay began taking shape. The potter worked and worked, but the object would not conform to his desires. With a quick movement of his hand, he flattened the object and it was again just a lump of clay. An apparent mar had appeared that would render the object unusable for future tasks. Patiently he worked the clay until he was satisfied with its pliability and began again.
In Paul's day cheaply made clay jars leaked, chipped, cracked, and appeared unattractive. Nevertheless their functionality proved their worth. These pots held everything from food to fuel and could be seen in open windows, near cooking fires, and in marketplaces. How amazing that a perfect God would choose to put his treasure -- the message of the gospel -- in fragile, ordinary, unattractive clay jars!
In order for God to fill these clay jars, they must first be emptied of everything pertaining to self and the world. God works through the weak, the imperfect, and the powerless to show that this "extraordinary power belongs to him and does not come from us." My flaws, cracks, and imperfections allow the all-sufficient grace of God to leak out.
I continued to watch as the potter coated the clay jar with glaze and put it into the fiery furnace. Under extreme heat and pressure the ordinary looking clay jar underwent a transformation. When taken from the oven, an object of beauty emerged.
Thought for the Day: An empty clay jar waits to be filled.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Life is Full of Choices
If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves today whom you will serves:...but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. (Joshua 24:15)
Life is a series of choices and consequences. Step in front of a car, and you will face the consequences of that choice. If you choose bitterness because of something someone said or did, you will suffer the by-product of bitterness -- a dried up soul.
Consider for a moment some of the could haves of Joseph's life. Joseph could have been bitter for what his brothers did to him -- and with good reason. He could have shaken his fist at God for the injustice of prison. He could have been angry with God for not answering his prayers the way he wanted. But in each case he chose to do something else. He gave god the glory for bringing good out of bad.
Joshua was faced with a choice either to follow God and lead the people into the promised land, or to stand aside and let someone else do it. He was God's chosen leader to take the place of Moses, and he chose to fulfill his commissions.
Life is a matter of choices, not chances. The choices we all face today may be similar to those of Joseph. Bitterness or forgiveness. Self-promotion or seeking God's kingdom. Self-pity over the past or putting the past behind you. Let's practice making faith choices instead of selfish ones. Chances are good you won't find yourself standing before the world's most powerful leader. But then again, you will ultimately stand before God and answer to him.
Thought for the Day: Faith choices should be our daily goal.
Life is a series of choices and consequences. Step in front of a car, and you will face the consequences of that choice. If you choose bitterness because of something someone said or did, you will suffer the by-product of bitterness -- a dried up soul.
Consider for a moment some of the could haves of Joseph's life. Joseph could have been bitter for what his brothers did to him -- and with good reason. He could have shaken his fist at God for the injustice of prison. He could have been angry with God for not answering his prayers the way he wanted. But in each case he chose to do something else. He gave god the glory for bringing good out of bad.
Joshua was faced with a choice either to follow God and lead the people into the promised land, or to stand aside and let someone else do it. He was God's chosen leader to take the place of Moses, and he chose to fulfill his commissions.
Life is a matter of choices, not chances. The choices we all face today may be similar to those of Joseph. Bitterness or forgiveness. Self-promotion or seeking God's kingdom. Self-pity over the past or putting the past behind you. Let's practice making faith choices instead of selfish ones. Chances are good you won't find yourself standing before the world's most powerful leader. But then again, you will ultimately stand before God and answer to him.
Thought for the Day: Faith choices should be our daily goal.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Chew Your Food
O taste and see that the Lord is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in him! Psalm34:8
Have you ever watched the Biggest Loser program on TV? I have to admire the effort and determination the contestants put into losing weight. The latest winner when interviewed on the Today program said that she had to make the decision to change from the "inside out" in order to stay with the program. Taking time to thoroughly chew your food is one of the ways to get the most out of the ingredients.
I find that reading the Bible requires a lot of chewing in order to assimilate the truth contained therein. A casual, hurried glance does not do it for me. I need time to roll the truth around in my mind in order to digest it.. Sometimes I write out particular verses to memorize, or put on the refrigerator for easy reference.
The prophet Jeremiah seemed to agree when he said, Your words were found and I did eat them, and your words became for me the joy and delight of my heart. (Jeremiah 15:16 NASV).
Do you take time to allow God's word to get into your heart? By doing so you are drawn closer to him.
Thought for the Day: Your word have I treasured in my heart, that I may not sing against you.
Have you ever watched the Biggest Loser program on TV? I have to admire the effort and determination the contestants put into losing weight. The latest winner when interviewed on the Today program said that she had to make the decision to change from the "inside out" in order to stay with the program. Taking time to thoroughly chew your food is one of the ways to get the most out of the ingredients.
I find that reading the Bible requires a lot of chewing in order to assimilate the truth contained therein. A casual, hurried glance does not do it for me. I need time to roll the truth around in my mind in order to digest it.. Sometimes I write out particular verses to memorize, or put on the refrigerator for easy reference.
The prophet Jeremiah seemed to agree when he said, Your words were found and I did eat them, and your words became for me the joy and delight of my heart. (Jeremiah 15:16 NASV).
Do you take time to allow God's word to get into your heart? By doing so you are drawn closer to him.
Thought for the Day: Your word have I treasured in my heart, that I may not sing against you.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Making a Mess of Things
So that night they got him (Lot) drunk, and the older daughter went in and sleep with her father. He was unaware of her lying down or getting up again. (Genesis 19:33)
Have you watched the series of movies about Beethoven, the beloved dog of the Newton family? Beethoven, the loveable St. Bernard made a mess of the Newton household. His drooling, disaster prone antics left everyone laughing, except the father, Mr. Newton. Beethoven's disasters were never done intentionally. They just happened.
The messes we make in our lives aren't necessarily deliverate or intentional either. They often happen because of bad decisions and wrong judgments. I am thankful that God understands when I mess up, and willingly forgives me when I confess my wrong to him. I worship a God of second chances who is willing to give me a new beginning. Like beloved Beethoven -- even though he mressed up big time -- he always found a way to save the day.
Thought for the Day: God is in the mess-up cleaning business.
Have you watched the series of movies about Beethoven, the beloved dog of the Newton family? Beethoven, the loveable St. Bernard made a mess of the Newton household. His drooling, disaster prone antics left everyone laughing, except the father, Mr. Newton. Beethoven's disasters were never done intentionally. They just happened.
The messes we make in our lives aren't necessarily deliverate or intentional either. They often happen because of bad decisions and wrong judgments. I am thankful that God understands when I mess up, and willingly forgives me when I confess my wrong to him. I worship a God of second chances who is willing to give me a new beginning. Like beloved Beethoven -- even though he mressed up big time -- he always found a way to save the day.
Thought for the Day: God is in the mess-up cleaning business.
Monday, May 23, 2011
A Couple Hypocrites
There was also a man named Ananias who with his wife, Sapphira, sold some property. He brought part of the money to the apostles, but he claimed it was the full amount. His wife agreed to this deception. (Acts 5:1-2).
God is intimately familiar with who we are as David said, for he himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust. (Psalm 103;14). Why then do we foolishly pretend to be someone we are not? Why do we try so hard to convince others that we are spiritual when we know in our hearts that we miss the mark? The Bible calls it hyprocrisy!
Ananias and Sapphira were guilty of being hypocrites. They saw Barnabas being praised and elevated for his generous gift of money to the church, and saw it as a way for them to gain spiritual status. So they contrived a scheme to sell a piece of land and give all the money to the church, but held back part of the price for themselves. This was their way of crashing the party. Their deceit, however, did not work because the crashers were exposed. Then Peter said, Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back some of the price of the land? No getting around it, their deception has been discovered and they are about to pay the price for their sin. The Bible says, And as he heard these words, Ananias fell down and breathed his last; and great fear came over all who heard of it. (Acts 5:3). The crashers were removed from the assembly and their names stricken from the roll.
How many times have I been guilty of hypocrisy? When I point my finger of judgment at a brother or sister in Christ, am I not being a hypocrite? When I sit in judgment upon our fallen society, but partake of its pleasures, am I not being a hypocrite?
Are you pretending to be someone you are not? Beware of hypocrisy! It is deceptive and insidious. Satan loves pretense -- guard against it. Make every effort to be real.
Thought for the Day: God loves a real person; not a pretender.
God is intimately familiar with who we are as David said, for he himself knows our frame; He is mindful that we are but dust. (Psalm 103;14). Why then do we foolishly pretend to be someone we are not? Why do we try so hard to convince others that we are spiritual when we know in our hearts that we miss the mark? The Bible calls it hyprocrisy!
Ananias and Sapphira were guilty of being hypocrites. They saw Barnabas being praised and elevated for his generous gift of money to the church, and saw it as a way for them to gain spiritual status. So they contrived a scheme to sell a piece of land and give all the money to the church, but held back part of the price for themselves. This was their way of crashing the party. Their deceit, however, did not work because the crashers were exposed. Then Peter said, Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back some of the price of the land? No getting around it, their deception has been discovered and they are about to pay the price for their sin. The Bible says, And as he heard these words, Ananias fell down and breathed his last; and great fear came over all who heard of it. (Acts 5:3). The crashers were removed from the assembly and their names stricken from the roll.
How many times have I been guilty of hypocrisy? When I point my finger of judgment at a brother or sister in Christ, am I not being a hypocrite? When I sit in judgment upon our fallen society, but partake of its pleasures, am I not being a hypocrite?
Are you pretending to be someone you are not? Beware of hypocrisy! It is deceptive and insidious. Satan loves pretense -- guard against it. Make every effort to be real.
Thought for the Day: God loves a real person; not a pretender.
Monday, May 16, 2011
When we just don't get it
We serve a big unfathomable God who simply is. He always has been. He always will be. He operates outside the confines of space and time and everything that helps us keep things in order in our mind. He is beyond our wildest imaginations. He will not fit within the confines of our minds. In Isaiah 55:9, He actually tells us that, "...just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts."
But what if that's not enough? What if we desperately want to gain a deeper understanding of our God and His ways? What if the desire of our heart is simply to know Him more? What does Jeremiah 33:3 say that we should do?
"Ask me and I will tell you some remarkable secrets about what is going to happen here."
Take a moment and talk to our great God. Ask him about thethings you do not understand. His word says that he will be faithful to reveal them to you!
(Devotion taken from the After Thoughts of First Baptist of Orlando).
But what if that's not enough? What if we desperately want to gain a deeper understanding of our God and His ways? What if the desire of our heart is simply to know Him more? What does Jeremiah 33:3 say that we should do?
"Ask me and I will tell you some remarkable secrets about what is going to happen here."
Take a moment and talk to our great God. Ask him about thethings you do not understand. His word says that he will be faithful to reveal them to you!
(Devotion taken from the After Thoughts of First Baptist of Orlando).
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Worry Solves Nothing
So I tell you, don't worry about everyday life -- whether you have enough food, drink, and clothes. Doesn't life consist of more than food and clothing? (Matthew 6:25 NLT).
The definition of worry is: "to feel or cause to feel anxious or troubled about actual or potential problems."
Unless you are a newborn baby we pretty much all have plenty to worry about. Parents worry about their children who are surrounded by the temptations of drink, drugs, and worse. How will they pay for college? Our children worry about their parents, about their failing health and their ability to care for themselves and make ends meet. Younger children and teens worry about school, their grades, friendships, boyfriends and girlfriends.
In additon we carry our past around with all our failures, our mistakes, our guilt, sin and shame, dragging us down to the point of despair. God made us and we all worry, so on that basis He must have wanted us to worry, right? So why does He say "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life"? Is He kidding? Does He not know about or understand our troubles?
Fortunately for us, He does understand and wants us to know He's already taken care of our needs - all of them, so don't even begin to worry. If we will let Him, if we will seek Him and put our trust in Him, He will be there when we need Him; always (Matt. 11:28). We only have to ask.
What area in your life are you worrying about that you need to lean on God for today? Ask Him today to open your heart and help you to trust Him more.
Thought for the day: Take your worries to the Lord and let Him handle all of them.
The definition of worry is: "to feel or cause to feel anxious or troubled about actual or potential problems."
Unless you are a newborn baby we pretty much all have plenty to worry about. Parents worry about their children who are surrounded by the temptations of drink, drugs, and worse. How will they pay for college? Our children worry about their parents, about their failing health and their ability to care for themselves and make ends meet. Younger children and teens worry about school, their grades, friendships, boyfriends and girlfriends.
In additon we carry our past around with all our failures, our mistakes, our guilt, sin and shame, dragging us down to the point of despair. God made us and we all worry, so on that basis He must have wanted us to worry, right? So why does He say "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life"? Is He kidding? Does He not know about or understand our troubles?
Fortunately for us, He does understand and wants us to know He's already taken care of our needs - all of them, so don't even begin to worry. If we will let Him, if we will seek Him and put our trust in Him, He will be there when we need Him; always (Matt. 11:28). We only have to ask.
What area in your life are you worrying about that you need to lean on God for today? Ask Him today to open your heart and help you to trust Him more.
Thought for the day: Take your worries to the Lord and let Him handle all of them.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Canine Loyalty
Then Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. (1 Samuel 18:3)
Loyalty is fast becoming a vanishing virtue. People in Montgomery, Pennsylvania , where I grew up, treated each other with respect and dignity. Neighbors talked to one another over the backyard fence, and when a need arose everyone pitched in to help. Loyalty was once something we could count on, but nowadays it has given way to self-interest. Everywhere you look loyalty seems to be dying. People aren't loyal to their spouses, companies aren't loyal to their employees, and employees aren't loyal to their companies. What are the roots of loyalty? My first lessons about loyalty came from Captain Midnight.
Captain Midnight was the name we gave to our full blooded Cocker Spaniel. He had a beautiful black coat of curly hair, and a family friendly disposition. Our family dog showed his loyalty and devotion to my mom and dad on two separate occasions.
When my mother got sick and had to be confined to her bedroom, Captain Midnight laid down beside her bed and refused to move or be moved. The second occasion took place when my father and I went fishing. We got caught in a thunder storm down by the river. Dad slipped on the muddy bank and reached up to grab a tree limb for support and dislocated his shoulder. We walked several miles, he in great pain before reaching home. When the doctor arrived he found Captain Midnight on guard at my father's side. Both of these incidents instilled within me a desire to show loyalty to friends and family.
Recently a friend came to me and said, "Bob, I want to thank you for sticking with me when I was going through some tough stuff. Your loyalty meant a lot to me." Can you imagine how his statement encouraged me and bolstered my confidence?
Loyalty may be a disappearing virtue, but don't despair, there are still a few of us who are holding on tight to this principle. You too have a loyal friend, one that sticks closer than a brother -- Jesus Christ.
Thought for the Day: Loyalty is virtue worth pursuing.
Loyalty is fast becoming a vanishing virtue. People in Montgomery, Pennsylvania , where I grew up, treated each other with respect and dignity. Neighbors talked to one another over the backyard fence, and when a need arose everyone pitched in to help. Loyalty was once something we could count on, but nowadays it has given way to self-interest. Everywhere you look loyalty seems to be dying. People aren't loyal to their spouses, companies aren't loyal to their employees, and employees aren't loyal to their companies. What are the roots of loyalty? My first lessons about loyalty came from Captain Midnight.
Captain Midnight was the name we gave to our full blooded Cocker Spaniel. He had a beautiful black coat of curly hair, and a family friendly disposition. Our family dog showed his loyalty and devotion to my mom and dad on two separate occasions.
When my mother got sick and had to be confined to her bedroom, Captain Midnight laid down beside her bed and refused to move or be moved. The second occasion took place when my father and I went fishing. We got caught in a thunder storm down by the river. Dad slipped on the muddy bank and reached up to grab a tree limb for support and dislocated his shoulder. We walked several miles, he in great pain before reaching home. When the doctor arrived he found Captain Midnight on guard at my father's side. Both of these incidents instilled within me a desire to show loyalty to friends and family.
Recently a friend came to me and said, "Bob, I want to thank you for sticking with me when I was going through some tough stuff. Your loyalty meant a lot to me." Can you imagine how his statement encouraged me and bolstered my confidence?
Loyalty may be a disappearing virtue, but don't despair, there are still a few of us who are holding on tight to this principle. You too have a loyal friend, one that sticks closer than a brother -- Jesus Christ.
Thought for the Day: Loyalty is virtue worth pursuing.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Bread of Life
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to me will not hunger, and he who believes in me will never thirst." (John 6:35 NASV)
During the Exodus the children of Israel grumbled to Moses, "Would that we had died by the hand of the Lord in Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat, when we ate bread to the full; for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger." (Exodus 16:2-3 NASV).
Moses prayed and God provided bread called manna.
In the gospel of John we find thousands of people following Jesus and listening to his teaching. When it was late in the day, Jesus said to Philip, "Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?" Hearing this, Andrew brought a lad with five barley loeaves and two small fish to Jesus. Jesus prayed and his Heavenly Father multiplied the food to feed them all, plus twelve baskets of leftovers. (John 6:5-13).
These two Scriptural accounts teach me two things: (1) That God is the supplier of all my needs, and (2) that physical bread alone is not enough to sustain my life.
My stomach puts forth hunger pains saying, feed me, but my soul cries out for spiritual nourishment. Where can I go to get the spiritual food needed to sustain me? It can be found only through the Word of God. Unless I daily search the Scriptures, my soul will shrivel and die.
Where do you go for nourishment -- to the refrigerator or the Word of God?
Thought for the Day: God is the manufacturer; we are the distributors.
During the Exodus the children of Israel grumbled to Moses, "Would that we had died by the hand of the Lord in Egypt, when we sat by the pots of meat, when we ate bread to the full; for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger." (Exodus 16:2-3 NASV).
Moses prayed and God provided bread called manna.
In the gospel of John we find thousands of people following Jesus and listening to his teaching. When it was late in the day, Jesus said to Philip, "Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?" Hearing this, Andrew brought a lad with five barley loeaves and two small fish to Jesus. Jesus prayed and his Heavenly Father multiplied the food to feed them all, plus twelve baskets of leftovers. (John 6:5-13).
These two Scriptural accounts teach me two things: (1) That God is the supplier of all my needs, and (2) that physical bread alone is not enough to sustain my life.
My stomach puts forth hunger pains saying, feed me, but my soul cries out for spiritual nourishment. Where can I go to get the spiritual food needed to sustain me? It can be found only through the Word of God. Unless I daily search the Scriptures, my soul will shrivel and die.
Where do you go for nourishment -- to the refrigerator or the Word of God?
Thought for the Day: God is the manufacturer; we are the distributors.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Boyhood Memories
They shall eagerly utter the memory of your abundant goodness and will shout joyfully of your righteousness. (Psalm 148:7 ASV)
As I think of boyhood, I wonder what Jesus did when he was a boy growing up in the small village of Nazareth. Did he play with wood blocks? (His father was a carpenter). Did he write or draw pictures in the sand? (He did at the age of 32 -- John 8:6). Did he walk around the village and play with the children his age? (He walked a lot with his disciples.).
I have to think that Jesus' boyhood wasn't much different than mine. I had chores to do and he had to sweep up the shavings in his father's carpenter shop. On numerous occasions I had to wash the dishes and dry them with a towel, and Jesus took a towel and washed the feet of his disciples. I had to attend school to learn how to read and write, and as a boy Jesus was in the Synagogue talking to the teachers. I got into trouble at times, and the Bible says, "Even though he was God's Son, he learned obedience fromthe things he suffered.." (Hebrews 5:8 NLT).
In his humanity, Jesus was tempted in all points the same as I am, yet without sin (Hebrews 2:18). He is perfect in his divinity, and totally human as far as his humanity is concerned. He possessed a human nature, but not a sinful nature. I don't believe he did anything as a boy that brought and taint upon his relationship with his Heavenly Father. That's why I want to be more like Jesus.
Thought for the Day: It is well-pleasing to God to remember our boyhood days, as I'm sure Jesus did.
As I think of boyhood, I wonder what Jesus did when he was a boy growing up in the small village of Nazareth. Did he play with wood blocks? (His father was a carpenter). Did he write or draw pictures in the sand? (He did at the age of 32 -- John 8:6). Did he walk around the village and play with the children his age? (He walked a lot with his disciples.).
I have to think that Jesus' boyhood wasn't much different than mine. I had chores to do and he had to sweep up the shavings in his father's carpenter shop. On numerous occasions I had to wash the dishes and dry them with a towel, and Jesus took a towel and washed the feet of his disciples. I had to attend school to learn how to read and write, and as a boy Jesus was in the Synagogue talking to the teachers. I got into trouble at times, and the Bible says, "Even though he was God's Son, he learned obedience fromthe things he suffered.." (Hebrews 5:8 NLT).
In his humanity, Jesus was tempted in all points the same as I am, yet without sin (Hebrews 2:18). He is perfect in his divinity, and totally human as far as his humanity is concerned. He possessed a human nature, but not a sinful nature. I don't believe he did anything as a boy that brought and taint upon his relationship with his Heavenly Father. That's why I want to be more like Jesus.
Thought for the Day: It is well-pleasing to God to remember our boyhood days, as I'm sure Jesus did.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
The Blowing Wind
Suddenly, there was a sound from heaven like the roaring of a mighty windstorm, and it filled the house where they were sitting. (Acts 2:2)
I've traveled back and forth across the U.S. and can hardly remember a place where the wind didn't blow. The wind coming off Lake Michigan roars like an angry lion. The winds crossing Kansas threatened to blow me backwards. Along the eastern seaboard mighty winds blow rain and snow like steel pellets. I've been in Florida and have seen the giant ocean waves roll in on the wind. The same is true of the Pacific. And what about the desert winds that blow sand like a solid wall? It seems the whole earth is crisscrossed by the winds.
It was the wind that blew the locusts into Egypt to eat the vegetation during the ten plagues. Wind blew Paul's ship off course, and it crashed on the rocks. Wind brought quail to the children of Israel in the wilderness. And wind brought rain clouds in answer to Elijah's prayer.
When the time came for the promise of the Holy Spirit's coming, the wind was spoken of as the instrument of deliversance. We can't control the wind any more than we can the movement of the Holy Spirit in a person's life. He speaks to us in a still small voice. We listen as he teaches us, guides us, and instructs us in God's word. He is a silent help that comes alongside to show us the way to God.
Paul says, "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kidness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control". (Galatians 5:22 NLT).
Are you willing to allow the Holy Spirit to control your life, your actions, your speech, your conduct? How I need to surrender control of my life to Him each day!
Thought for the Day: God is looking for spirit-filled believers.
I've traveled back and forth across the U.S. and can hardly remember a place where the wind didn't blow. The wind coming off Lake Michigan roars like an angry lion. The winds crossing Kansas threatened to blow me backwards. Along the eastern seaboard mighty winds blow rain and snow like steel pellets. I've been in Florida and have seen the giant ocean waves roll in on the wind. The same is true of the Pacific. And what about the desert winds that blow sand like a solid wall? It seems the whole earth is crisscrossed by the winds.
It was the wind that blew the locusts into Egypt to eat the vegetation during the ten plagues. Wind blew Paul's ship off course, and it crashed on the rocks. Wind brought quail to the children of Israel in the wilderness. And wind brought rain clouds in answer to Elijah's prayer.
When the time came for the promise of the Holy Spirit's coming, the wind was spoken of as the instrument of deliversance. We can't control the wind any more than we can the movement of the Holy Spirit in a person's life. He speaks to us in a still small voice. We listen as he teaches us, guides us, and instructs us in God's word. He is a silent help that comes alongside to show us the way to God.
Paul says, "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kidness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control". (Galatians 5:22 NLT).
Are you willing to allow the Holy Spirit to control your life, your actions, your speech, your conduct? How I need to surrender control of my life to Him each day!
Thought for the Day: God is looking for spirit-filled believers.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
God is Near
For what great nation has a god as near to them as the Lord our God is near to us whenever we call on him? (Daut. 4:7 NLT).
How near is your god? Do you daily sense his presence?
We are instructed in the book of James to draw close to God, and God will draw close to you...(4:8 NLT).
In Deuteronomy, Chapter four, Moses is about to remind the people of Israel why they should never lose sight of God's nearness.
"But watch out!" Moses says, "be very careful never to forget what you have seen the Lord do for you. Do not let these things escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren." (Deut. 4:9 NLT).
Israel was constantly surrounded by visual reminders of God's nearness: the provision of quail and manna during their wilderness travels, his presence in the Holy of Holies, the pillar of cloud and fire, the Ten Commandments written on tablets of stone, and the collapse of the walls of Jericho.
God repeatedly demonstrated his nearness both through anger and grace. He revealed his anger when they worshipped the golden calf and at the same time exercised grace by not destroying the entire camp.
We don't have the external reminders today as Israel did -- but God is near. In fact, we are blessed with a greater nearness than Israel because the Bible says, "don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT).
The disciples learned through personal experience about the "nearness of God." Out on the lake in the midst of a violent storm they cried out, "Lord save us!" Jesus arose and rebuked the wind and the waves -- all were safe.
When cares and trials overwhelm you look inward and call upon the Lord because he is near, even in your heart. You don't have to shout -- a whisper will do. He is listening and waiting for your call. His 911 line is always open, and you won't be put on hold.
Thought for the Day: God has an innumerable number of lines open to take your call.
How near is your god? Do you daily sense his presence?
We are instructed in the book of James to draw close to God, and God will draw close to you...(4:8 NLT).
In Deuteronomy, Chapter four, Moses is about to remind the people of Israel why they should never lose sight of God's nearness.
"But watch out!" Moses says, "be very careful never to forget what you have seen the Lord do for you. Do not let these things escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren." (Deut. 4:9 NLT).
Israel was constantly surrounded by visual reminders of God's nearness: the provision of quail and manna during their wilderness travels, his presence in the Holy of Holies, the pillar of cloud and fire, the Ten Commandments written on tablets of stone, and the collapse of the walls of Jericho.
God repeatedly demonstrated his nearness both through anger and grace. He revealed his anger when they worshipped the golden calf and at the same time exercised grace by not destroying the entire camp.
We don't have the external reminders today as Israel did -- but God is near. In fact, we are blessed with a greater nearness than Israel because the Bible says, "don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body." (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT).
The disciples learned through personal experience about the "nearness of God." Out on the lake in the midst of a violent storm they cried out, "Lord save us!" Jesus arose and rebuked the wind and the waves -- all were safe.
When cares and trials overwhelm you look inward and call upon the Lord because he is near, even in your heart. You don't have to shout -- a whisper will do. He is listening and waiting for your call. His 911 line is always open, and you won't be put on hold.
Thought for the Day: God has an innumerable number of lines open to take your call.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Dad Can Fix It
Then Jesus asked the man, what do you want me to do? Lord, he pleaded, I want to see! And Jesus said, all right you can see! Your faith has healed you. Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus, praising God. And all who saw it praised God, too. (Luke 18:41-42 NLT).
When I was young, I loved to make things: slingshots, pea shooters, bows and arrows, and scooters. One day, my younger brother, Sterling, was playing with my scotter. I found him sitting on the sidewalk with tears running down his cheeks. What's the matter? I asked. I broke your scotter, he replied. I could see that he was scared because I had warned him not to mess with it. After he stopped crying I said, don't worry, dad can fix it! I wasn't worried because I knew that my father could fix anything.
Our heavenly father is an expert at fixing the messes that we make of our lives. There is nothing that is impossible for God. When we believe in God and trust Him to fix it, He will not let us down. God has provided the ultimate fix through his son, Jesus Christ. When we place our faith in Jesus we are adopted into God's family and can forever say, my father can fix it.
Thought for the Day: Our heavenly father is iin the "fix it" business.
When I was young, I loved to make things: slingshots, pea shooters, bows and arrows, and scooters. One day, my younger brother, Sterling, was playing with my scotter. I found him sitting on the sidewalk with tears running down his cheeks. What's the matter? I asked. I broke your scotter, he replied. I could see that he was scared because I had warned him not to mess with it. After he stopped crying I said, don't worry, dad can fix it! I wasn't worried because I knew that my father could fix anything.
Our heavenly father is an expert at fixing the messes that we make of our lives. There is nothing that is impossible for God. When we believe in God and trust Him to fix it, He will not let us down. God has provided the ultimate fix through his son, Jesus Christ. When we place our faith in Jesus we are adopted into God's family and can forever say, my father can fix it.
Thought for the Day: Our heavenly father is iin the "fix it" business.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Identity Crisis
There is a serious problem amongst the Christian community in American and elsewhere. It is called an "identity crisis."
We are not talking here about the stealing of your personal information through credit card theft, although that too is a serious problem. We are referring to the tricks and devices that Satan uses to capture the minds of believers and leave them confused and defeated.
How does this crisis take place, and what are some of Satan's schemes? If you know his plan, then you can build the necessary defenses to thwart his efforts. Have no fear Christian believers, you are secure in Christ. (Romans 8:38-39) Satan's plan is to keep you in spiritual bondage so that you have no effectiveness in your witness for Christ.
Satan messed with Eve's mind in the garden of Eden, and he seeks to do the same with you and me. He loves to work through the subconscious where we tend to push problems that we fail to process properly. He loves self-sufficiency and independency. God never intended for us to be totally independent from Him. Jesus said in John 15, "apart from me you can do nothing." Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
What is our defense against Satan's attacks? Paul gives us the solution in Ephesians 6:11-18. We must daily pray on the offensive and defensive armour of God tools available to us. Have you put on yours today?
Thought for the Day: The victory in the Christian life is through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
We are not talking here about the stealing of your personal information through credit card theft, although that too is a serious problem. We are referring to the tricks and devices that Satan uses to capture the minds of believers and leave them confused and defeated.
How does this crisis take place, and what are some of Satan's schemes? If you know his plan, then you can build the necessary defenses to thwart his efforts. Have no fear Christian believers, you are secure in Christ. (Romans 8:38-39) Satan's plan is to keep you in spiritual bondage so that you have no effectiveness in your witness for Christ.
Satan messed with Eve's mind in the garden of Eden, and he seeks to do the same with you and me. He loves to work through the subconscious where we tend to push problems that we fail to process properly. He loves self-sufficiency and independency. God never intended for us to be totally independent from Him. Jesus said in John 15, "apart from me you can do nothing." Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
What is our defense against Satan's attacks? Paul gives us the solution in Ephesians 6:11-18. We must daily pray on the offensive and defensive armour of God tools available to us. Have you put on yours today?
Thought for the Day: The victory in the Christian life is through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Brokenness
A broken and contrite heart, O God, yiou kwill not despise. Psalm 51:17b
As I pause, here in Yaounde, Cameroon, to write this devotional, the word "brokenness" comes to mind.
The world places little or no value on broken things. They are cast aside by society as useless and worthless, including people. The undesirable unborn are aborted. People of old age are hidden away in poorly run nursing homes and forgotten. The old adage: "out of sight is out of mind" is applied to all kinds of unfavorable situations.
On the other hand, brokenness is revered by God. He takes special notice of people who are broken. Jesus healed many people who were broken physically and spiritually.
What is meant by "brokenness?"
Tony Evans in his book Free at Last says, "brokeness is the work of God by which he strips us of our pride and self-succifiency so that the beauty of the life of Christ will shine through." (p. 170)
Manasseh, the king over Jerusalem, was a rotten, brutal person and provoked God to anger. God sent the Assyrian army again him and he was captured. They put hooks in his nose and bronze shackles on his feet and hauled him away to Babylon. They threw him into the Newgate prison of Babylon where he suffered intense agony for twelve long years. While in distress he called out for favor to the Lord his God, humbled himself and prayed a prayer of repentance. His humility came as a by-product of "brokenness." After twelve years, he was a broken man.
Through God's grace he was forgiven and had his kingdom restored. The first and only time that has ever happened in the history of Israel. The last twenty-three years of his life were spent in worshipping God.
Does God see brokenness in your life?
As I pause, here in Yaounde, Cameroon, to write this devotional, the word "brokenness" comes to mind.
The world places little or no value on broken things. They are cast aside by society as useless and worthless, including people. The undesirable unborn are aborted. People of old age are hidden away in poorly run nursing homes and forgotten. The old adage: "out of sight is out of mind" is applied to all kinds of unfavorable situations.
On the other hand, brokenness is revered by God. He takes special notice of people who are broken. Jesus healed many people who were broken physically and spiritually.
What is meant by "brokenness?"
Tony Evans in his book Free at Last says, "brokeness is the work of God by which he strips us of our pride and self-succifiency so that the beauty of the life of Christ will shine through." (p. 170)
Manasseh, the king over Jerusalem, was a rotten, brutal person and provoked God to anger. God sent the Assyrian army again him and he was captured. They put hooks in his nose and bronze shackles on his feet and hauled him away to Babylon. They threw him into the Newgate prison of Babylon where he suffered intense agony for twelve long years. While in distress he called out for favor to the Lord his God, humbled himself and prayed a prayer of repentance. His humility came as a by-product of "brokenness." After twelve years, he was a broken man.
Through God's grace he was forgiven and had his kingdom restored. The first and only time that has ever happened in the history of Israel. The last twenty-three years of his life were spent in worshipping God.
Does God see brokenness in your life?
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Blood Stained Cross
For the life of the body is in its blood. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the Lord. (Leviticus 17:11 NLT)
Have you ever considered the gruesomeness of some of the old time hymns? Lines like:
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emanuel's veins.
What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Alas! And did my Savior bleede.
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb.
Do those lines seem bloody and gruesome? Why did so many hymn writers emphasize the blood of Christ in worship? Isn't the Psalmist's hymn book full of lament and sorrow over sin, as well as uplifting praises of thanksgiving and gratitude?
The Old Testament worshipers couldn't approach God apart from sacrifices and shedding of blood. Death, the shedding of innocent blood, is the only means of atonement for sin. Jesus paid the ultimate price by shedding his precious blood while giving his life on Calvary.
Present day post-modern religious expression of worship seeks to eliminate the blood entirely. These so-called Evangelical members of Christianity emphasize to the extreme the goodness and love aspects of God's character, while completely ignoring the many Scripurres related to his wrath and punishment for sin. These feel good, prosperity, seeker friendly churches will all have to stand before God someday and answer for their false teaching that has drawn many people away from the blood-stained cross.
What are you relying upon for your slavation? Will good works apart from the shed blood of Jesus get you there? God said, "Without the shedding of blood, there is remission for sin."
Thought for the day: God is still singing, "Nothing but the blood of Jesus."
Have you ever considered the gruesomeness of some of the old time hymns? Lines like:
There is a fountain filled with blood drawn from Emanuel's veins.
What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.
Alas! And did my Savior bleede.
Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb.
Do those lines seem bloody and gruesome? Why did so many hymn writers emphasize the blood of Christ in worship? Isn't the Psalmist's hymn book full of lament and sorrow over sin, as well as uplifting praises of thanksgiving and gratitude?
The Old Testament worshipers couldn't approach God apart from sacrifices and shedding of blood. Death, the shedding of innocent blood, is the only means of atonement for sin. Jesus paid the ultimate price by shedding his precious blood while giving his life on Calvary.
Present day post-modern religious expression of worship seeks to eliminate the blood entirely. These so-called Evangelical members of Christianity emphasize to the extreme the goodness and love aspects of God's character, while completely ignoring the many Scripurres related to his wrath and punishment for sin. These feel good, prosperity, seeker friendly churches will all have to stand before God someday and answer for their false teaching that has drawn many people away from the blood-stained cross.
What are you relying upon for your slavation? Will good works apart from the shed blood of Jesus get you there? God said, "Without the shedding of blood, there is remission for sin."
Thought for the day: God is still singing, "Nothing but the blood of Jesus."
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Blessings from the Book
Blessed is he who reads and those who hear the words of the prophecy, and heed the things which are written in it, for the time is near. (Revelation 1:3 NASV)
Are you tired of seeing other Christians being blessed while you seem to come up empty? I know that empty feeling because it happened to me. A friend of mine came up to me one day overflowing with joy and the blessing of the Lord. To tell you the truth, I felt like choking him. Why did I react that way? Because I was empty and joyless. Nothing exciting was happening in my life. No joy. No spark. No enthusiasm. No time spent in God's word either.
It was then that I came in contact with a friend who invited me to read the Word of God with him. We started reading in the book of Revelation. When we came to verse three I was shocked. The Holy Spirit through the Apostle John said, "Blessed is he who reads and those who hear this prophecy." I asked my friend, "Do you mean I am guaranteed a blessing from God just for reading this book of Revelation."
"That's the promise," he said. Since then, whenever I want a special blessing I read the book.
Have you found the secret of the blessed life? I believe David found that secret through his daily meditations with God. Almost every Psalm of Davie extols God. Over and over David said, "Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my innermost being, praise his Holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. (Psalm 103:1-2 NIV).
You too can experience the blessings of the Lord. As I said before, all you have to do is READ THE BOOK!
Thought for the Day: God's blessings are new and fresh every day.
Are you tired of seeing other Christians being blessed while you seem to come up empty? I know that empty feeling because it happened to me. A friend of mine came up to me one day overflowing with joy and the blessing of the Lord. To tell you the truth, I felt like choking him. Why did I react that way? Because I was empty and joyless. Nothing exciting was happening in my life. No joy. No spark. No enthusiasm. No time spent in God's word either.
It was then that I came in contact with a friend who invited me to read the Word of God with him. We started reading in the book of Revelation. When we came to verse three I was shocked. The Holy Spirit through the Apostle John said, "Blessed is he who reads and those who hear this prophecy." I asked my friend, "Do you mean I am guaranteed a blessing from God just for reading this book of Revelation."
"That's the promise," he said. Since then, whenever I want a special blessing I read the book.
Have you found the secret of the blessed life? I believe David found that secret through his daily meditations with God. Almost every Psalm of Davie extols God. Over and over David said, "Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my innermost being, praise his Holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. (Psalm 103:1-2 NIV).
You too can experience the blessings of the Lord. As I said before, all you have to do is READ THE BOOK!
Thought for the Day: God's blessings are new and fresh every day.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Benefits of Wisdom
Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight and understanding. Search for them as you would for lost money or hidden treasure. (Proverbs 2:2-4)
The writer of Proverbs saw wsidom as a treasure worth seeking. Every day we face decisions, choices, and judgments that require wisdom. How many times have you wondered, What should I do, where should I go, how should I proceed? The way to go looks gray and overcast, and we would prefer it be black and white.
Solomon says, "The Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity." (Proverbs 2:6-7)
How do we receive this promise so aptly stated? James, in his epistle, gives the answer -- we must ask for it. "If you need wisdom -- if you want to know what God wants you to do -- ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind." (James 1:5-6).
Do you need wisdom? Are you facing a crossroads and don't know which way to turn? Pour out to God your lack of understanding, your confusion, your fears and doubts. Admit to him that you don't know what to do or which way to turn. Then, in faith, believing, ask him for wisdom to make the proper faith choices. Claim his promise that "God grants wisdom!"
Write down five needs that require God's wisdom. Take them one by one to him and ask for wisdom. Then thank God for listening to you, and wait expectantly for the answer.
Thought for the Day: God gives wisdom to those who ask him by faith.
The writer of Proverbs saw wsidom as a treasure worth seeking. Every day we face decisions, choices, and judgments that require wisdom. How many times have you wondered, What should I do, where should I go, how should I proceed? The way to go looks gray and overcast, and we would prefer it be black and white.
Solomon says, "The Lord grants wisdom! From his mouth comes knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of good sense to the godly. He is their shield, protecting those who walk with integrity." (Proverbs 2:6-7)
How do we receive this promise so aptly stated? James, in his epistle, gives the answer -- we must ask for it. "If you need wisdom -- if you want to know what God wants you to do -- ask him, and he will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask him, be sure that you really expect him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind." (James 1:5-6).
Do you need wisdom? Are you facing a crossroads and don't know which way to turn? Pour out to God your lack of understanding, your confusion, your fears and doubts. Admit to him that you don't know what to do or which way to turn. Then, in faith, believing, ask him for wisdom to make the proper faith choices. Claim his promise that "God grants wisdom!"
Write down five needs that require God's wisdom. Take them one by one to him and ask for wisdom. Then thank God for listening to you, and wait expectantly for the answer.
Thought for the Day: God gives wisdom to those who ask him by faith.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Benefits of Waiting
Wait for the LORD; be strong and let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD. (Ps. 27:14)
Why is it so hard to wait? We live in a fast paced world. Everyone wants instant gratification. Young and old alike want it -- right now. When we don't get our way, we fuss, fume, and stomp our feet. I remember when my kids were small, temper tantrums would be used as a way to get what they wanted. It almost never worked, but that didn't stop them from trying.
The other day I stood and watched a busy intersection. A car approached as the light turned yellow. Did he slow down and wait? No, he stomped on the gas pedal and roared through even as the light turned red. No regard for others. No concern that someone might be crossing the street. No fear of an oncoming auto. Hurry! Hurry! Hurry! The world is racing to its own destruction.
God isn't in a hurry! He doesn't count time like we do. With God "a single day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a single day." (2 Peter 3:8) He could have created the world in a moment of time; instead he tood six days. God knows that good things take time.
I am well aware that growth and maturity in the Christian life take a lifetime of effort. Nothing comes easily, and nothing comes quickly. The Holy Spirit needs time to adjust our attitudes, correct our missteps, and deepen our faith. I don't find waiting to be easy, the benefits come through waiting.
Waiting develops patience, and I sure do need patience. Waiting gives me time to reflect upon God's goodness. Waiting helps me learn the ways of God. Waiting strengthens my resolve and gets me through trying circumstances. The next time you face a difficult situation, slow down and wait on the Lord. God wants to give you his best.
Are you willing to wait on the Lord? He promises to renew your strength. Turn over all control to him and see how much fuller your life will be.
Thought for the Day: Waiting develops patience and perseverance.
Why is it so hard to wait? We live in a fast paced world. Everyone wants instant gratification. Young and old alike want it -- right now. When we don't get our way, we fuss, fume, and stomp our feet. I remember when my kids were small, temper tantrums would be used as a way to get what they wanted. It almost never worked, but that didn't stop them from trying.
The other day I stood and watched a busy intersection. A car approached as the light turned yellow. Did he slow down and wait? No, he stomped on the gas pedal and roared through even as the light turned red. No regard for others. No concern that someone might be crossing the street. No fear of an oncoming auto. Hurry! Hurry! Hurry! The world is racing to its own destruction.
God isn't in a hurry! He doesn't count time like we do. With God "a single day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like a single day." (2 Peter 3:8) He could have created the world in a moment of time; instead he tood six days. God knows that good things take time.
I am well aware that growth and maturity in the Christian life take a lifetime of effort. Nothing comes easily, and nothing comes quickly. The Holy Spirit needs time to adjust our attitudes, correct our missteps, and deepen our faith. I don't find waiting to be easy, the benefits come through waiting.
Waiting develops patience, and I sure do need patience. Waiting gives me time to reflect upon God's goodness. Waiting helps me learn the ways of God. Waiting strengthens my resolve and gets me through trying circumstances. The next time you face a difficult situation, slow down and wait on the Lord. God wants to give you his best.
Are you willing to wait on the Lord? He promises to renew your strength. Turn over all control to him and see how much fuller your life will be.
Thought for the Day: Waiting develops patience and perseverance.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Being Like Jesus
And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw his glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)
What does it mean "to be like Jesus"???
The Holy Spirit has saved us a lot of time researching and listing all the character traits of Jesus by summing up what it means "to be like Jesus" in the verse quoted above.
If people will look at Jesus, they'll see what God is like. The same holds true for you and me. When people look at us, they should be able to see what Jesus is like. People will form their opinions about Christ by what they see in you and me. If you exhibit both grace and truth, you will be like Jesus.
Although you can find lots of examples of grace in the Old Testament, it is overshadowed by the truth. The Pharisees never taught about grace, only truth. We need to see that grace and truth do not contradict one another; rather they are intertwined. You cannot do justice to one without the other.
Where do you find yourself with regard to grace and truth? Do you have them both in balance, or do you emphasize one to the detriment of the other? If you know a truth about someone that is negative in nature and withold spreading that truth around, you are showing grace. Negative truth pulls people down; whereas grace builds people up. List some ways you can show grace to someone while upholding the truth.
Jesus always exercised grace and truth in perfxect balance. Can we do any less?
Thought for the Day: Being like Jesus requires grace and truth in perfect balance.
What does it mean "to be like Jesus"???
The Holy Spirit has saved us a lot of time researching and listing all the character traits of Jesus by summing up what it means "to be like Jesus" in the verse quoted above.
If people will look at Jesus, they'll see what God is like. The same holds true for you and me. When people look at us, they should be able to see what Jesus is like. People will form their opinions about Christ by what they see in you and me. If you exhibit both grace and truth, you will be like Jesus.
Although you can find lots of examples of grace in the Old Testament, it is overshadowed by the truth. The Pharisees never taught about grace, only truth. We need to see that grace and truth do not contradict one another; rather they are intertwined. You cannot do justice to one without the other.
Where do you find yourself with regard to grace and truth? Do you have them both in balance, or do you emphasize one to the detriment of the other? If you know a truth about someone that is negative in nature and withold spreading that truth around, you are showing grace. Negative truth pulls people down; whereas grace builds people up. List some ways you can show grace to someone while upholding the truth.
Jesus always exercised grace and truth in perfxect balance. Can we do any less?
Thought for the Day: Being like Jesus requires grace and truth in perfect balance.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Beautiful Feet
How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news. (Romans 10:15)
I never thought of feet as beautiful until reading the verse printed above. In fact, I know a man who, through no fault of his own, has ugly looking feet. Jim has rheumatoid arthritis and his toes are twisted on top of each other in a grotesque manner. When I first saw Jim's feet, I wondered how he could possibly walk or wear shoes.
In Jesus' day sandals were the normal footwear. Thye roads were dusty and rough. During the rainy season a person's feet would become caked with mud. Not a very pretty sight. Many nationals in third world countries today don't have sandals making their feet scared and often twisted. In Biblical times, the normal task of the servant was to wash the feet of all guests entering the house.
I know missionaries, servants of God, who travel long distances over rugged terrain to carry the good news of the gospel. Their feet are dirty and mud stained; yet God calls them beautiful. In the highlands of Papua New Guinea national tribes live on the tugged mountain ridges, and the only means of transporation are by foot or in a small airplane.
At one recent dedication of a New Testament that had been translated into the heart language of the people, large boxes of the New Testazment had to be carried on poles over very narrow trails to reach the village. The nationals were barefoot, and their feet showed the wear and tear of the muddy trail. Would you consider their feet ugly and unsuitable for such a divine task? Certainly not in God's sight; he considered them to be beautiful! Why? Because they were the bearers of His "good news."
Are you using your feet to carry the good news of God's love to people groups in your locality? Whether you wear sandals, shoes, or no shoes, God says your feet are beautiful.
Thought for the Day: All feet that carry the good news are beautiful in God's sight.
I never thought of feet as beautiful until reading the verse printed above. In fact, I know a man who, through no fault of his own, has ugly looking feet. Jim has rheumatoid arthritis and his toes are twisted on top of each other in a grotesque manner. When I first saw Jim's feet, I wondered how he could possibly walk or wear shoes.
In Jesus' day sandals were the normal footwear. Thye roads were dusty and rough. During the rainy season a person's feet would become caked with mud. Not a very pretty sight. Many nationals in third world countries today don't have sandals making their feet scared and often twisted. In Biblical times, the normal task of the servant was to wash the feet of all guests entering the house.
I know missionaries, servants of God, who travel long distances over rugged terrain to carry the good news of the gospel. Their feet are dirty and mud stained; yet God calls them beautiful. In the highlands of Papua New Guinea national tribes live on the tugged mountain ridges, and the only means of transporation are by foot or in a small airplane.
At one recent dedication of a New Testament that had been translated into the heart language of the people, large boxes of the New Testazment had to be carried on poles over very narrow trails to reach the village. The nationals were barefoot, and their feet showed the wear and tear of the muddy trail. Would you consider their feet ugly and unsuitable for such a divine task? Certainly not in God's sight; he considered them to be beautiful! Why? Because they were the bearers of His "good news."
Are you using your feet to carry the good news of God's love to people groups in your locality? Whether you wear sandals, shoes, or no shoes, God says your feet are beautiful.
Thought for the Day: All feet that carry the good news are beautiful in God's sight.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Be Prepared
So stay awak and be prepared, because you do not know the day or hour of my return. (Matthew 25:12 NLT).
The first thing I learned after joning the Boy Scouts was their motto -- "Be Prepared." The motto has a twofold meaning: (1) be prepared in mind by disciplining yourself to be obedient to every order and (2) be prepared in body by making yourself strong and active. This same philosophy was drilled into me while serving in the military. I have vivid memories of the physical and mental training supervised by overbearing drill sergeants.
I am reminded of David's flight through the wilderness as King Saul sought his life. He had to be physically strong and mentally alert for the slightest danger. He had at his right hand 600 strong, courageous, loyal men who were willing to lay down their lives for their future king.
Believers are instructed to be prepared for the soon return of the Prince of Peace. This requires vigilance, alterness, and steadfastness in maintaining a living relationship with the Savior.
Preparing ourselves to be physically strong and mentally alert is profitable, but as Paul says to young Timothy, "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." (1 Timothy 4:8 NLT).
Are you are preparing for the soon return of our Lord? Would Jesus receive a warm welcome if he were to knock on your door today? Paul says, "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, ....we will be changed. Let's "Be Prepared."
Thought for the Day: God is preparing hearts for the coming Prince of Peace.
The first thing I learned after joning the Boy Scouts was their motto -- "Be Prepared." The motto has a twofold meaning: (1) be prepared in mind by disciplining yourself to be obedient to every order and (2) be prepared in body by making yourself strong and active. This same philosophy was drilled into me while serving in the military. I have vivid memories of the physical and mental training supervised by overbearing drill sergeants.
I am reminded of David's flight through the wilderness as King Saul sought his life. He had to be physically strong and mentally alert for the slightest danger. He had at his right hand 600 strong, courageous, loyal men who were willing to lay down their lives for their future king.
Believers are instructed to be prepared for the soon return of the Prince of Peace. This requires vigilance, alterness, and steadfastness in maintaining a living relationship with the Savior.
Preparing ourselves to be physically strong and mentally alert is profitable, but as Paul says to young Timothy, "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come." (1 Timothy 4:8 NLT).
Are you are preparing for the soon return of our Lord? Would Jesus receive a warm welcome if he were to knock on your door today? Paul says, "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, ....we will be changed. Let's "Be Prepared."
Thought for the Day: God is preparing hearts for the coming Prince of Peace.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Be Imitators
You also became imitators of us and of the LORD, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 1:6 NASV).
My handicapped grandson looked up at me and patted the floor. I knew what that meant. Come down and play with me. As we sat on the floor together, I noticed Jonathan copying each move I made with the cars and trucks. I lined them up in a row; he did the same. I said to him, "Jonathan you are a copycat."
At that moment I realized what the Apostle Paul meant when he said, "You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia." (1 Thess. 1:6-7 NASV).
Since those around me are watching, I need to duplicate the words and actions of Jesus for them to imitate. There is no better way to demonstrate the message Jesus brought than through my everyday actions. I need to be a living example of the love of God.
Jesus showed compassion. He provided help to the needy. He prayed over the sick. He modeled the kind of Christian life that I should follow. What kind of example do I portray to the grocery clerk, the gas station attendant, the postman, the delivery boy, or the average person on the street?
Jonathan's actions in imitating all the different ways I moved the cars and trucks reveal to me that countless people within the sphere of my existence may be copying my moves as well. Are you living the type of life that God wants other people to imitate? If you are, then praise God for a life well lived. If not, then why not ask God to help you become an imitator of Christ. Make a list of ways you can imitate Christ today!
Thought for the Day: God is looking for imitators of His Son.
My handicapped grandson looked up at me and patted the floor. I knew what that meant. Come down and play with me. As we sat on the floor together, I noticed Jonathan copying each move I made with the cars and trucks. I lined them up in a row; he did the same. I said to him, "Jonathan you are a copycat."
At that moment I realized what the Apostle Paul meant when he said, "You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia." (1 Thess. 1:6-7 NASV).
Since those around me are watching, I need to duplicate the words and actions of Jesus for them to imitate. There is no better way to demonstrate the message Jesus brought than through my everyday actions. I need to be a living example of the love of God.
Jesus showed compassion. He provided help to the needy. He prayed over the sick. He modeled the kind of Christian life that I should follow. What kind of example do I portray to the grocery clerk, the gas station attendant, the postman, the delivery boy, or the average person on the street?
Jonathan's actions in imitating all the different ways I moved the cars and trucks reveal to me that countless people within the sphere of my existence may be copying my moves as well. Are you living the type of life that God wants other people to imitate? If you are, then praise God for a life well lived. If not, then why not ask God to help you become an imitator of Christ. Make a list of ways you can imitate Christ today!
Thought for the Day: God is looking for imitators of His Son.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
B-1 for Someone
This is a trustworthy statement, and concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men. (Titus 3:8).
My wife and I have been married for fifty-nine years. Twenty-five of those years we spend "B-1 for Someone" to our five children. Once the empty-nest syndrome hit our house, we felt rather lost until God directed our lives to B - 1 for Someone else's children. We joined the Kid-Zone children's department at Wycliffe Associates to help take care of missionary children in various foreign fields. We took a VBS program and all the necessary supplies to one of the SIL branch conferences and provided a child care program so the parents could participate fully in the conference activities.
There are many ways to B- 1 for Someone. You can bring a little joy into someone's life just by doing the little things like -- walkin g the dog, helping clean up a neighborhood, doing errands for the physically handicapped, reading to the blind, writing notes for the crippled, and any number of other deeds. I had a friend who went through radiation and chemo treatments for cancer. The radiation almost fried his bones. He had to have two hip replacements and could no longer sit on a riding mower. Mowing his grace was a B - 1 Someone act. What a joy it is to help someone else in need!
As Dr. David Jeremiah says, "We can be God's music in someone's life" (Turning Point devotional -- June 2009). You too can be a B - 1 for Someone who cares, helps, gives, prays, or goes. All it takes is a willing heart. God will do the rest.
Thought for the Day: God is looking for a few willing B - 1's for Someone.
My wife and I have been married for fifty-nine years. Twenty-five of those years we spend "B-1 for Someone" to our five children. Once the empty-nest syndrome hit our house, we felt rather lost until God directed our lives to B - 1 for Someone else's children. We joined the Kid-Zone children's department at Wycliffe Associates to help take care of missionary children in various foreign fields. We took a VBS program and all the necessary supplies to one of the SIL branch conferences and provided a child care program so the parents could participate fully in the conference activities.
There are many ways to B- 1 for Someone. You can bring a little joy into someone's life just by doing the little things like -- walkin g the dog, helping clean up a neighborhood, doing errands for the physically handicapped, reading to the blind, writing notes for the crippled, and any number of other deeds. I had a friend who went through radiation and chemo treatments for cancer. The radiation almost fried his bones. He had to have two hip replacements and could no longer sit on a riding mower. Mowing his grace was a B - 1 Someone act. What a joy it is to help someone else in need!
As Dr. David Jeremiah says, "We can be God's music in someone's life" (Turning Point devotional -- June 2009). You too can be a B - 1 for Someone who cares, helps, gives, prays, or goes. All it takes is a willing heart. God will do the rest.
Thought for the Day: God is looking for a few willing B - 1's for Someone.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Awesome Glory of God
The Israelites at the foot of the mountain saw an awesome sight. The awesome glory of the Lord on the mountaintop looked like a devouring fire. (Exodus 24:17)
What an awesome view! As I stood watching the setting sun over the Canadian Rockies, I was awestruck by its beauty. The deep orange sky turned to lighter shades and intermingled with the cumulous clouds overhead giving it a ghostlike appearance.
What do you suppose the Israelites felt as they stood at the foot of the mountain and saw the glory of God on display? Were they fearful? Did it silence them? Did the glory of God generate a great respect?
To be awesome is to command foth fear and adoration. God chose Mount Sinai to demonstrate his character, including his awesomeness. God torched the mountain. Fire and smoke covered its heights. The people trembled with fear. You would think that such a display of power and glory would guarantee their worship. Sadly, a month later the people were bowing down to a golden calf.
Worship is not something that can be coerced through displays of supernatural power. Experiencing the awesomeness of God is only one step closer to him. We need to look forward and acknowledge the truth about ourselves, confessing our own frality and depending on him for everything. Picture yourself standing before God and let God's spirit give you a yearning for his presence in worship. God desires to impact and work in the lives of those who humble themselves before him.
The next time you see the awesome glory of God in nature, offer him words of praise in worshipful adoration for such a glorious scene. God is always ready to hear our praise.
Thought for the Day: God's glory can be seen all around us if we look long enough.
What an awesome view! As I stood watching the setting sun over the Canadian Rockies, I was awestruck by its beauty. The deep orange sky turned to lighter shades and intermingled with the cumulous clouds overhead giving it a ghostlike appearance.
What do you suppose the Israelites felt as they stood at the foot of the mountain and saw the glory of God on display? Were they fearful? Did it silence them? Did the glory of God generate a great respect?
To be awesome is to command foth fear and adoration. God chose Mount Sinai to demonstrate his character, including his awesomeness. God torched the mountain. Fire and smoke covered its heights. The people trembled with fear. You would think that such a display of power and glory would guarantee their worship. Sadly, a month later the people were bowing down to a golden calf.
Worship is not something that can be coerced through displays of supernatural power. Experiencing the awesomeness of God is only one step closer to him. We need to look forward and acknowledge the truth about ourselves, confessing our own frality and depending on him for everything. Picture yourself standing before God and let God's spirit give you a yearning for his presence in worship. God desires to impact and work in the lives of those who humble themselves before him.
The next time you see the awesome glory of God in nature, offer him words of praise in worshipful adoration for such a glorious scene. God is always ready to hear our praise.
Thought for the Day: God's glory can be seen all around us if we look long enough.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
An Instrument for God
Don't hide your light under a bushel! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. (Matthew 5:15-16 NLT).
Shortly after I received Christ as Savior, my wife and I went with Bob and Frances Lytle to lead worship at the Jesus Saves Rescue mission in San Francisco. Elaine played her accordion, and I gave my testimony. After several months, I was asked to bring the message. My first reactions were, "What could I say that would touch the hearts of the down and outers' that ventured into the mission?" How simple do I need to make the gospel message? Will they understand the words I use? Will they be sober enough to grasp the truth? All these questions flooded my mind as I hesitantly rose to speak. My voice quavered and my knees shook, but God enabled me to present the simple gospel truth. When the invitation was given a middle aged lady came forward weeping profusely. She knelt at the altar. I knelt beside her to counsel and pray with her. The alochol smell on her breath was enough to knock a horse out, but we wept together, and she prayed for God's forgiveness. In spite of all my doubts and fears God used his word to pierce her heart.
When Jesus sent out his twelve disciples, he warned them to be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. They were to expect opposition, ridicule, and lack of interest, but they had the assurance of two truths: (1) the Holy Spirit would speak through them, and (2) God's word would not return to him void.
As you go forth, remember, God goes before you paving the way. He gives you the message. He provides the supplies and abilities you'll need, and he will bring about the results. Go in faith believing that God can do the impossible, and he will bless you.
Thought for the Day: God is the potter, and we are his instruments of clay.
Shortly after I received Christ as Savior, my wife and I went with Bob and Frances Lytle to lead worship at the Jesus Saves Rescue mission in San Francisco. Elaine played her accordion, and I gave my testimony. After several months, I was asked to bring the message. My first reactions were, "What could I say that would touch the hearts of the down and outers' that ventured into the mission?" How simple do I need to make the gospel message? Will they understand the words I use? Will they be sober enough to grasp the truth? All these questions flooded my mind as I hesitantly rose to speak. My voice quavered and my knees shook, but God enabled me to present the simple gospel truth. When the invitation was given a middle aged lady came forward weeping profusely. She knelt at the altar. I knelt beside her to counsel and pray with her. The alochol smell on her breath was enough to knock a horse out, but we wept together, and she prayed for God's forgiveness. In spite of all my doubts and fears God used his word to pierce her heart.
When Jesus sent out his twelve disciples, he warned them to be as shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves. They were to expect opposition, ridicule, and lack of interest, but they had the assurance of two truths: (1) the Holy Spirit would speak through them, and (2) God's word would not return to him void.
As you go forth, remember, God goes before you paving the way. He gives you the message. He provides the supplies and abilities you'll need, and he will bring about the results. Go in faith believing that God can do the impossible, and he will bless you.
Thought for the Day: God is the potter, and we are his instruments of clay.
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