1st Colossians 1:11-12 “We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, 12 always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light.”
While I have been a believer in Christ for over 36 years, the past 7 years seem to have been filled with many more opportunities for my wife and I to develop patience, and truly understand what it means to wait on God’s timing.
We have certainly not arrived, but through our circumstances and trials, I believe we are better at waiting on God than we were yesterday. We are learning to truly understand that God is faithful, and even though our circumstances may remain the same, we are learning to place our hope fully in Him, give him our own expectations Proverbs 10:28 and wait on His plan for our lives, which is to prosper us and not harm us. Jeremiah 29:11
Even overlooking an offense is part of attaining the wisdom of patience. “A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense” Proverbs 19:11. The Message translates this passage to say, “Smart people know how to hold their tongue; their grandeur is to forgive and forget.” Solomon went on to say, “Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone” Proverbs 25:15. Have you been offended of late and given the opportunity to hold your tongue, be gentle, be patient and wait on God?
Paul certainly understood the need for patience when he pleaded with the people of his day to, “Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.” “Forgive as the Lord forgave you”
Colossians 3:11-13. To actually clothe ourselves with patience is quite a task, and one that can not ever be accomplished very long, in our own strength. No matter how strong willed you are, if you do not engraft into Christ daily, then eventually you will break and become anxious!
He also gave this charge to Timothy and reminded him of God’s faithfulness. “You, however, know all about my teaching, my way of life, my purpose, faith, patience, love, endurance, 11persecutions, sufferings—what kinds of things happened to me in Antioch, Iconium and Lystra, the persecutions I endured. Yet the Lord rescued me from all of them” 2 Timothy 3:9-11.
“Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” 2 Timothy 4:2. Be prepared to share the light of Christ with everyone, even when they are testing you, which can only come through the attainment of Christ’s great patience!
And while testing is used in all of our lives to enhance our character, I believe that we cause a lot of our own problems, by opening the door to many troubles through a lack of prayer covering. We need to pray constantly about everything, (even the little things), as we have an adversary who desires to ruin our character, steal and devour our joy and destroy our testimony, whenever we allow him to. 1 Peter 5:8
And finally James reminded us that we are to be patient as the farmer who must wait on the rains to produce a good crop.
“Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains” James 5:7.
God is teaching us all patience during the dry times in our lives. It is good to be remindful of the fact that God is always more interested in the developing and shaping of our character than He is in our circumstances.
Lord, Thank You for being so patient with us and loving us so much! Help us to stay engrafted in You, so we can have Your patience and wait upon the good plans You have for us. In Jesus name we pray, Amen
Have another powerful and prosperous day of fleshing out God’s patience in the workplace and at home!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Growing Up—Part 2
Yesterday we began a list of ten areas in which Scripture says we should be growing. In today’s devotional, I want to complete that list for you.
1. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 and 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 teach us that we should grow in our love for others. I would hate to think that I have plumbed the depths of love for my wife, for my children, for my friends, or for God.
v 12 And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.
v 9 But we don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.
2. Ephesians 2:21 speaks to us of growing in unity. You and I ought to grow better and better at getting along with other believers, especially those in our church.
v 21 We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.
3. Luke 2:52 speaks of growing in wisdom. God is so anxious to provide you and me with His wisdom, but it is something we need to seek. Are you growing in wisdom?
v 52 Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.
4. Luke 2:52 also speaks of growing in favor. Are you obnoxious and hard to get along with? Do you find it difficult to get along with others? I challenge you, if that is true, to consider the model of Jesus for our lives. He grew in favor with both God and men.
5. 2 Peter 3:18 says that we can grow in grace. I don’t know about you, but I am deeply grateful for God’s grace in my life. And for those who extend me grace when I blow it. Is grace a hallmark of your life?
18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.
According to Scripture, these ten areas—the five from yesterday and the five today—are vital areas in which you and I are to grow. I challenge you to read each Scripture and take each area before the Lord and ask Him to reveal where you need to grow.
You will be amazed at the change for good that will come about in your life!
1. 1 Thessalonians 3:12 and 1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 teach us that we should grow in our love for others. I would hate to think that I have plumbed the depths of love for my wife, for my children, for my friends, or for God.
v 12 And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.
v 9 But we don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God himself has taught you to love one another. 10 Indeed, you already show your love for all the believers throughout Macedonia. Even so, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you to love them even more.
2. Ephesians 2:21 speaks to us of growing in unity. You and I ought to grow better and better at getting along with other believers, especially those in our church.
v 21 We are carefully joined together in him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.
3. Luke 2:52 speaks of growing in wisdom. God is so anxious to provide you and me with His wisdom, but it is something we need to seek. Are you growing in wisdom?
v 52 Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.
4. Luke 2:52 also speaks of growing in favor. Are you obnoxious and hard to get along with? Do you find it difficult to get along with others? I challenge you, if that is true, to consider the model of Jesus for our lives. He grew in favor with both God and men.
5. 2 Peter 3:18 says that we can grow in grace. I don’t know about you, but I am deeply grateful for God’s grace in my life. And for those who extend me grace when I blow it. Is grace a hallmark of your life?
18 Rather, you must grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
All glory to him, both now and forever! Amen.
According to Scripture, these ten areas—the five from yesterday and the five today—are vital areas in which you and I are to grow. I challenge you to read each Scripture and take each area before the Lord and ask Him to reveal where you need to grow.
You will be amazed at the change for good that will come about in your life!
Monday, July 28, 2008
Growing Up
The Scripture says in Ephesians 4:15 that we should grow in all things. In today’s and tomorrow’s devotionals, I want to give you ten areas in which the Bible teaches us we should grow. I hope you will take time to read each passage and answer the question of whether you are growing as you should in each of these areas.
1. In Colossians 1:10 we are told we should increase in the knowledge of God. You ought to know more about God and His Kingdom this week than you did last week.
v10 Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.
2. Psalm 71:21 tells us we are to be growing in our influence. I hope I have not reached the pinnacle in my life when it comes to the influence I have for good in the lives of others. If you call yourself a leader and no one is following you, then you are not influencing them, you are just taking a walk. You and I need to grow in influence.
v21 You will restore me to even greater honor and comfort me once again.
3. In Proverbs 13:11 it says we are to be growing and increasing materially. I don’t know of many who couldn’t grow in this area!
v11 Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.
4. Isaiah 29:19 speaks of increasing in joy. From appearances, some people seem to grow more and more sour as the days go by and have less and less of a sense of humor. Listen, the more you advance in age, the more your capacity to laugh at life’s ups and downs should grow.
19 The humble will be filled with fresh joy from the Lord.
The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.
5. 2 Thessalonians 1:3 teaches us that we should grow in faith. Now faith certainly touches all areas of life; and, hopefully, today you don’t freak out like you used to when you are faced with a trial, because your faith has grown and you have tasted and seen that the Lord is good.
3 Dear brothers and sisters, we can’t help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing.
In tomorrow’s devotion we will complete this list.
1. In Colossians 1:10 we are told we should increase in the knowledge of God. You ought to know more about God and His Kingdom this week than you did last week.
v10 Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.
2. Psalm 71:21 tells us we are to be growing in our influence. I hope I have not reached the pinnacle in my life when it comes to the influence I have for good in the lives of others. If you call yourself a leader and no one is following you, then you are not influencing them, you are just taking a walk. You and I need to grow in influence.
v21 You will restore me to even greater honor and comfort me once again.
3. In Proverbs 13:11 it says we are to be growing and increasing materially. I don’t know of many who couldn’t grow in this area!
v11 Wealth from get-rich-quick schemes quickly disappears; wealth from hard work grows over time.
4. Isaiah 29:19 speaks of increasing in joy. From appearances, some people seem to grow more and more sour as the days go by and have less and less of a sense of humor. Listen, the more you advance in age, the more your capacity to laugh at life’s ups and downs should grow.
19 The humble will be filled with fresh joy from the Lord.
The poor will rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.
5. 2 Thessalonians 1:3 teaches us that we should grow in faith. Now faith certainly touches all areas of life; and, hopefully, today you don’t freak out like you used to when you are faced with a trial, because your faith has grown and you have tasted and seen that the Lord is good.
3 Dear brothers and sisters, we can’t help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing.
In tomorrow’s devotion we will complete this list.
Friday, July 25, 2008
The Cost of Commitment
“So Elisha turned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen and slaughtered them. . . . Then he arose and followed Elijah, and became his servant.” (1 Kings 19:21)
When Elijah threw his mantle, or his outer garment, on Elisha, it was a symbolic gesture that said, “I’m passing on my calling to you.”
From the account we find in 1 Kings 19, we discover a few things about Elisha. First, we know that he was a relatively wealthy man and came from an affluent home.
How do we know that? Because the Bible says that he had 12 yoke of oxen. Back in those days, owning one pair of oxen meant that you were pretty well off. To have 12 would mean that you had a considerable acreage.
For Elisha to follow Elijah was not an easy life.
Elijah’s invitation was not to a leisurely life on easy street. Elijah’s life was a hard one. He had many enemies. He had people who hated him, most notably, Queen Jezebel. For Elisha to follow Elijah would mean that he would have the same enemies. The same people who hated Elijah would now hate him.
Many people are surprised to find that the Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground. The day that you decide to follow Jesus Christ, you begin to face opposition from the devil. He doesn’t want you to grow spiritually. He doesn’t want you to move forward. So he will use every trick up his sleeve to try and pull you back.
We must recognize that to follow Christ means there is a price to pay. We may lose some friends. We may have to give up a few things. It may be difficult at times. But certainly, it is worth it.
Link to the source - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/harvestdaily/11579544/
Copyright © 2008 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
For more relevant and biblical teaching from Pastor Greg Laurie, go to www.harvest.org.
When Elijah threw his mantle, or his outer garment, on Elisha, it was a symbolic gesture that said, “I’m passing on my calling to you.”
From the account we find in 1 Kings 19, we discover a few things about Elisha. First, we know that he was a relatively wealthy man and came from an affluent home.
How do we know that? Because the Bible says that he had 12 yoke of oxen. Back in those days, owning one pair of oxen meant that you were pretty well off. To have 12 would mean that you had a considerable acreage.
For Elisha to follow Elijah was not an easy life.
Elijah’s invitation was not to a leisurely life on easy street. Elijah’s life was a hard one. He had many enemies. He had people who hated him, most notably, Queen Jezebel. For Elisha to follow Elijah would mean that he would have the same enemies. The same people who hated Elijah would now hate him.
Many people are surprised to find that the Christian life is not a playground, but a battleground. The day that you decide to follow Jesus Christ, you begin to face opposition from the devil. He doesn’t want you to grow spiritually. He doesn’t want you to move forward. So he will use every trick up his sleeve to try and pull you back.
We must recognize that to follow Christ means there is a price to pay. We may lose some friends. We may have to give up a few things. It may be difficult at times. But certainly, it is worth it.
Link to the source - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/harvestdaily/11579544/
Copyright © 2008 by Harvest Ministries. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New King James Version, copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.
For more relevant and biblical teaching from Pastor Greg Laurie, go to www.harvest.org.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Wanna Get Away?
This devotional was written by Leslie Snyder
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:23
Have you ever felt like this? Today, I want to scream! Not so much out of anger, but more out of frustration. People are in my way this week. That may sound a bit absurd, but today it feels true. I have a list of tasks to accomplish and people just keep getting in the way. I wish I could say these were divine interruptions, you know, opportunities to help someone, share an encouraging word or something a little more redeemable. But they aren’t. These interruptions are just the normal, end of the week traffic backups, road closures, petty inconveniences, and unexpected bills that just rub you the wrong way, the way a small pebble stuck in your shoe during a day-long hike starts as an inconvenience and ends as a major pain.
I suspect you have experienced a day or two like this as well. I sure don’t “feel” very holy today, very Christ-like or redeemed. I just feel very human. Honestly, it’s days like today that my first thought is to shut down the computer, pack up my stuff and answer the call of one airline’s catch phrase, “Wanna get away?” Yes! Yes! How soon can I go?
But, then, after having a chance to regain some composure and perspective, my thoughts return back home. Yes, people get in the way, but isn’t that the way it’s supposed to be? God created us to live in community, not isolation. We are meant to rub shoulders with each other, to need each other, to work alongside each other, whether we like, or even know, those around us. We are a communal people and like it or not, we share this earth with a few billion other people. And so, we’re bound to have days like these.
And so, today we travel together as a fellow humans, friends along this messy journey of life, of faith, of sin and redemption. And as we travel, may we all remember the truth of Scripture that many of us learned as the Golden Rule from Matthew 7:12, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
Going Deeper:
What types of situations seem to get the best of you? The next time you find yourself in that situation, remember to treat others the way you would want to be treated.
Further Reading: Mark 12:30-31
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:23
Have you ever felt like this? Today, I want to scream! Not so much out of anger, but more out of frustration. People are in my way this week. That may sound a bit absurd, but today it feels true. I have a list of tasks to accomplish and people just keep getting in the way. I wish I could say these were divine interruptions, you know, opportunities to help someone, share an encouraging word or something a little more redeemable. But they aren’t. These interruptions are just the normal, end of the week traffic backups, road closures, petty inconveniences, and unexpected bills that just rub you the wrong way, the way a small pebble stuck in your shoe during a day-long hike starts as an inconvenience and ends as a major pain.
I suspect you have experienced a day or two like this as well. I sure don’t “feel” very holy today, very Christ-like or redeemed. I just feel very human. Honestly, it’s days like today that my first thought is to shut down the computer, pack up my stuff and answer the call of one airline’s catch phrase, “Wanna get away?” Yes! Yes! How soon can I go?
But, then, after having a chance to regain some composure and perspective, my thoughts return back home. Yes, people get in the way, but isn’t that the way it’s supposed to be? God created us to live in community, not isolation. We are meant to rub shoulders with each other, to need each other, to work alongside each other, whether we like, or even know, those around us. We are a communal people and like it or not, we share this earth with a few billion other people. And so, we’re bound to have days like these.
And so, today we travel together as a fellow humans, friends along this messy journey of life, of faith, of sin and redemption. And as we travel, may we all remember the truth of Scripture that many of us learned as the Golden Rule from Matthew 7:12, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”
Going Deeper:
What types of situations seem to get the best of you? The next time you find yourself in that situation, remember to treat others the way you would want to be treated.
Further Reading: Mark 12:30-31
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
PRAISE THE LORD
Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. -- Psalm 22:3
Are you missing out on the most important thing in the Christian life?
According to Scriptures, worship is the most important thing we’re called to do as believers in Christ.
In our devotion today, I’d like to focus on one of the reasons why you should worship the Lord: Because it fortifies your faith.
Psalm 34:4-5 says, “I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.”
When your faith needs a boost, look up! Praise, worship, singing spiritual songs, and expressing adoration to God all strengthen your faith and draw you nearer to Him.
Remember what our Scripture verse today tells us: God is “enthroned on the praises of Israel.” Wherever genuine praise is, so is God!
I am confident that taking your focus off of your troubles… and genuinely thanking God for what He has done in your life… will strengthen your faith and brighten your outlook on life!
TODAY, IN SPITE OF WHAT HAPPENS AT HOME OR WORK, FIND ONE THING FOR WHICH TO PRAISE THE LORD.
Are you missing out on the most important thing in the Christian life?
According to Scriptures, worship is the most important thing we’re called to do as believers in Christ.
In our devotion today, I’d like to focus on one of the reasons why you should worship the Lord: Because it fortifies your faith.
Psalm 34:4-5 says, “I sought the LORD, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears. Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.”
When your faith needs a boost, look up! Praise, worship, singing spiritual songs, and expressing adoration to God all strengthen your faith and draw you nearer to Him.
Remember what our Scripture verse today tells us: God is “enthroned on the praises of Israel.” Wherever genuine praise is, so is God!
I am confident that taking your focus off of your troubles… and genuinely thanking God for what He has done in your life… will strengthen your faith and brighten your outlook on life!
TODAY, IN SPITE OF WHAT HAPPENS AT HOME OR WORK, FIND ONE THING FOR WHICH TO PRAISE THE LORD.
Monday, July 21, 2008
FILL YOUR SPIRIT
Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. -- Ephesians 5:25
Do you know what the primary responsibility of a man in marriage is? According to God’s plan, it’s to love his wife.
Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? Not really!
Our Scripture today says, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” As men, our example of how to love our wives is the Lord Jesus Christ.
And what exactly does that kind of love look like?
First, it initiates. According to 1 John 4:19, Jesus “first loved us.” If we take the first step in initiating an atmosphere of love at home, our wives will respond.
Second, it sacrifices. In the Scripture, we are commanded to love sacrificially just as Christ did when He laid down His life for us. Genuine sacrifice like this in a marriage fuels loyalty, godly submission, and acceptance.
And third, a Christ-like love is humble. It leads with humility. Remember, if you have to tell your wife that you’re in charge… you’re not in charge. Real authority comes from humility.
Christ’s example of love is the biblical blueprint for success in marriage. So, how does a man love a woman? In the footsteps of Christ!
Men, it’s a hard assignment. And we cannot do it alone. We need the Spirit of the living Christ to supernaturally make us more like Him as we assume the responsibility He has ordained for us as husbands.
A marriage of lifelong, satisfying love begins with you!
ASK GOD TODAY TO FILL YOUR SPIRIT AND HEART WITH THE LOVE THAT COMES FROM SACRIFICE, HUMILITY, AND UNDERSTANDING.
Do you know what the primary responsibility of a man in marriage is? According to God’s plan, it’s to love his wife.
Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? Not really!
Our Scripture today says, “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” As men, our example of how to love our wives is the Lord Jesus Christ.
And what exactly does that kind of love look like?
First, it initiates. According to 1 John 4:19, Jesus “first loved us.” If we take the first step in initiating an atmosphere of love at home, our wives will respond.
Second, it sacrifices. In the Scripture, we are commanded to love sacrificially just as Christ did when He laid down His life for us. Genuine sacrifice like this in a marriage fuels loyalty, godly submission, and acceptance.
And third, a Christ-like love is humble. It leads with humility. Remember, if you have to tell your wife that you’re in charge… you’re not in charge. Real authority comes from humility.
Christ’s example of love is the biblical blueprint for success in marriage. So, how does a man love a woman? In the footsteps of Christ!
Men, it’s a hard assignment. And we cannot do it alone. We need the Spirit of the living Christ to supernaturally make us more like Him as we assume the responsibility He has ordained for us as husbands.
A marriage of lifelong, satisfying love begins with you!
ASK GOD TODAY TO FILL YOUR SPIRIT AND HEART WITH THE LOVE THAT COMES FROM SACRIFICE, HUMILITY, AND UNDERSTANDING.
Friday, July 18, 2008
So Good I had to post it again!!!! Lets see some comments!!!
Faith Personified by Charles R. Swindoll - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/daybyday/
I Kings 17:24 - Then the woman told Elijah, “Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the Lord truly speaks through you.”
When the woman saw that her son was alive, she didn't see Elijah. She saw the Lord. "Elijah, I've heard you talk about the God of heaven. I've heard you refer to Him in various ways. But now, when I look at this miracle, I know that you speak the truth."
If you wish to be a man or woman of God, it is essential that you face the impossible situations of life with faith, as Elijah did. If you are a young person who desires to live a godly life that will leave its mark upon this world, you must learn early to stand in the shadow of your Savior, trusting Him to work through the trials you encounter, through the extreme circumstances you cannot handle. The God of Elijah is your God. He is still the God of impossible situations. He still does what no earthly individual can do. Trust Him to do that!
Elijah approached the impossible with calmness and contentment, with gentleness and self-control, with faith and humility. As I've mentioned from the beginning, Elijah was heroic in exploits of faith, but he remained a model of humility.
Examine your own life for these character traits and take them one by one before God. You might say to the Lord, for example, "Lord, today I want to do what You say regarding contentment; I want to have a calm and gentle spirit. I don't simply want to call myself a Christian. I want to be known as a genuine servant of God because my life demonstrates the truth I say I believe. Help me this day to face everything and deal with everyone with a gentle and quiet spirit. Help me to be content, even though things don't go my way.
"Help me today with diligence, Lord. I tend to lose sight of the goal as the day wears on. I'm a good starter, but I don't finish well. Help me to do a quality piece of work and not to give in to the mood of the moment.
"And, Lord, help me, when You begin to bring to pass these qualities in my life, not to call attention to them, but just to let them flow out of my life in glory to You. Help me to become Your servant, Your man, Your woman."
That is how we personify a life of faith.
I Kings 17:24 - Then the woman told Elijah, “Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the Lord truly speaks through you.”
When the woman saw that her son was alive, she didn't see Elijah. She saw the Lord. "Elijah, I've heard you talk about the God of heaven. I've heard you refer to Him in various ways. But now, when I look at this miracle, I know that you speak the truth."
If you wish to be a man or woman of God, it is essential that you face the impossible situations of life with faith, as Elijah did. If you are a young person who desires to live a godly life that will leave its mark upon this world, you must learn early to stand in the shadow of your Savior, trusting Him to work through the trials you encounter, through the extreme circumstances you cannot handle. The God of Elijah is your God. He is still the God of impossible situations. He still does what no earthly individual can do. Trust Him to do that!
Elijah approached the impossible with calmness and contentment, with gentleness and self-control, with faith and humility. As I've mentioned from the beginning, Elijah was heroic in exploits of faith, but he remained a model of humility.
Examine your own life for these character traits and take them one by one before God. You might say to the Lord, for example, "Lord, today I want to do what You say regarding contentment; I want to have a calm and gentle spirit. I don't simply want to call myself a Christian. I want to be known as a genuine servant of God because my life demonstrates the truth I say I believe. Help me this day to face everything and deal with everyone with a gentle and quiet spirit. Help me to be content, even though things don't go my way.
"Help me today with diligence, Lord. I tend to lose sight of the goal as the day wears on. I'm a good starter, but I don't finish well. Help me to do a quality piece of work and not to give in to the mood of the moment.
"And, Lord, help me, when You begin to bring to pass these qualities in my life, not to call attention to them, but just to let them flow out of my life in glory to You. Help me to become Your servant, Your man, Your woman."
That is how we personify a life of faith.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
FAITH PERSONIFIED
by Charles R. Swindoll - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/daybyday/
Kings 17:24 - Then the woman told Elijah, “Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the Lord truly speaks through you.”
When the woman saw that her son was alive, she didn't see Elijah. She saw the Lord. "Elijah, I've heard you talk about the God of heaven. I've heard you refer to Him in various ways. But now, when I look at this miracle, I know that you speak the truth."
If you wish to be a man or woman of God, it is essential that you face the impossible situations of life with faith, as Elijah did. If you are a young person who desires to live a godly life that will leave its mark upon this world, you must learn early to stand in the shadow of your Savior, trusting Him to work through the trials you encounter, through the extreme circumstances you cannot handle. The God of Elijah is your God. He is still the God of impossible situations. He still does what no earthly individual can do. Trust Him to do that!
Elijah approached the impossible with calmness and contentment, with gentleness and self-control, with faith and humility. As I've mentioned from the beginning, Elijah was heroic in exploits of faith, but he remained a model of humility.
Examine your own life for these character traits and take them one by one before God. You might say to the Lord, for example, "Lord, today I want to do what You say regarding contentment; I want to have a calm and gentle spirit. I don't simply want to call myself a Christian. I want to be known as a genuine servant of God because my life demonstrates the truth I say I believe. Help me this day to face everything and deal with everyone with a gentle and quiet spirit. Help me to be content, even though things don't go my way.
"Help me today with diligence, Lord. I tend to lose sight of the goal as the day wears on. I'm a good starter, but I don't finish well. Help me to do a quality piece of work and not to give in to the mood of the moment.
"And, Lord, help me, when You begin to bring to pass these qualities in my life, not to call attention to them, but just to let them flow out of my life in glory to You. Help me to become Your servant, Your man, Your woman."
That is how we personify a life of faith.
Kings 17:24 - Then the woman told Elijah, “Now I know for sure that you are a man of God, and that the Lord truly speaks through you.”
When the woman saw that her son was alive, she didn't see Elijah. She saw the Lord. "Elijah, I've heard you talk about the God of heaven. I've heard you refer to Him in various ways. But now, when I look at this miracle, I know that you speak the truth."
If you wish to be a man or woman of God, it is essential that you face the impossible situations of life with faith, as Elijah did. If you are a young person who desires to live a godly life that will leave its mark upon this world, you must learn early to stand in the shadow of your Savior, trusting Him to work through the trials you encounter, through the extreme circumstances you cannot handle. The God of Elijah is your God. He is still the God of impossible situations. He still does what no earthly individual can do. Trust Him to do that!
Elijah approached the impossible with calmness and contentment, with gentleness and self-control, with faith and humility. As I've mentioned from the beginning, Elijah was heroic in exploits of faith, but he remained a model of humility.
Examine your own life for these character traits and take them one by one before God. You might say to the Lord, for example, "Lord, today I want to do what You say regarding contentment; I want to have a calm and gentle spirit. I don't simply want to call myself a Christian. I want to be known as a genuine servant of God because my life demonstrates the truth I say I believe. Help me this day to face everything and deal with everyone with a gentle and quiet spirit. Help me to be content, even though things don't go my way.
"Help me today with diligence, Lord. I tend to lose sight of the goal as the day wears on. I'm a good starter, but I don't finish well. Help me to do a quality piece of work and not to give in to the mood of the moment.
"And, Lord, help me, when You begin to bring to pass these qualities in my life, not to call attention to them, but just to let them flow out of my life in glory to You. Help me to become Your servant, Your man, Your woman."
That is how we personify a life of faith.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The Benefits of Obedience
Isaiah 48:17 This is what the Lord says-your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: "I am the Lord your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go."
My career has been in marketing and advertising. Early on, I learned to distinguish the difference between features and benefits. Features represent characteristics of a product or service. Benefits are those things that directly profit or benefit me by using the product or service. For instance, my new computer has incredible speed and lots of memory (feature). This allows me to do things more quickly and easily (benefit). People are more concerned about the benefits than the features.
God tells us in the above verse that there are some direct benefits to the features of His nature. He is a God who is committed to teaching His children in the way they should go. What is the real benefit of His teaching? He answers this in the next verse. "If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea" (Is. 48:18).
The Lord tells us that the benefit of allowing God to teach us and lead us in the way is peace and righteousness. Here is a guaranteed promise from God. I often use guarantees in my advertising claims. Here is God's immutable guarantee: You will have peace like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea! What a great promise!
Are you trusting God with the very details of your life so that He can lead you in the way you should go? Are you allowing Him to teach you? Seek the Lord today for what He wants to teach you and allow Him to lead you, and you will ensure peace and righteousness in your life.
My career has been in marketing and advertising. Early on, I learned to distinguish the difference between features and benefits. Features represent characteristics of a product or service. Benefits are those things that directly profit or benefit me by using the product or service. For instance, my new computer has incredible speed and lots of memory (feature). This allows me to do things more quickly and easily (benefit). People are more concerned about the benefits than the features.
God tells us in the above verse that there are some direct benefits to the features of His nature. He is a God who is committed to teaching His children in the way they should go. What is the real benefit of His teaching? He answers this in the next verse. "If only you had paid attention to My commands, your peace would have been like a river, your righteousness like the waves of the sea" (Is. 48:18).
The Lord tells us that the benefit of allowing God to teach us and lead us in the way is peace and righteousness. Here is a guaranteed promise from God. I often use guarantees in my advertising claims. Here is God's immutable guarantee: You will have peace like a river and righteousness like the waves of the sea! What a great promise!
Are you trusting God with the very details of your life so that He can lead you in the way you should go? Are you allowing Him to teach you? Seek the Lord today for what He wants to teach you and allow Him to lead you, and you will ensure peace and righteousness in your life.
Monday, July 14, 2008
The Pit of Pride
The fifth and the final reason your life may be in the pits is pride. We always need to check our hearts for pride.
In Isaiah 14:13-15 we read,
For you have said in your heart: “I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.” Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit.
This passage records God’s rebuke of Satan when he was kicked out of heaven. Satan was talking real big with pride oozing from every word that he said.
But God said, “That’s what you think. I’m going to throw you down to the pit.” And because of the pride in his heart, Satan will indeed be thrown down to a pit for all eternity (read Revelation 20!).
Pride is a dangerous thing. In fact, so dangerous we are told in 1 Timothy 3:6 to not put a novice into a leadership role in the Church, lest being puffed up with pride, he or she falls into the same condemnation as the devil.
Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Pride is a weird thing. It’s like bad breath. Everybody seems to know you have it before you do! But pride will not only get you into a pit, it will destroy you.
I want to challenge you today. If your life is in the pits, check to see if it is because of your pride. If so, humble yourself, otherwise you are not going to get out!
In Isaiah 14:13-15 we read,
For you have said in your heart: “I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God; I will also sit on the mount of the congregation on the farthest sides of the north; I will ascend above the heights of the clouds, I will be like the Most High.” Yet you shall be brought down to Sheol, to the lowest depths of the Pit.
This passage records God’s rebuke of Satan when he was kicked out of heaven. Satan was talking real big with pride oozing from every word that he said.
But God said, “That’s what you think. I’m going to throw you down to the pit.” And because of the pride in his heart, Satan will indeed be thrown down to a pit for all eternity (read Revelation 20!).
Pride is a dangerous thing. In fact, so dangerous we are told in 1 Timothy 3:6 to not put a novice into a leadership role in the Church, lest being puffed up with pride, he or she falls into the same condemnation as the devil.
Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.
Pride is a weird thing. It’s like bad breath. Everybody seems to know you have it before you do! But pride will not only get you into a pit, it will destroy you.
I want to challenge you today. If your life is in the pits, check to see if it is because of your pride. If so, humble yourself, otherwise you are not going to get out!
Friday, July 11, 2008
STUDY GOD’S WORD AND MAKE IT EVERYDAY
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation…. --1 Peter 2:2
I want to remind you today that not only is the Word of God perfect, living, and abiding forever. Not only is the Word of God unchanging and true. Not only does it have a saving purpose.
But the Scripture also has the power to transform your life!
Jesus said in John 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” If you want your life to change, saturate your soul and nourish your heart in the Word of God.
The Bible has power to save and sanctify, and it also has the power to strengthen. In our verse for today—1 Peter 2, verse 2—the Word of God is described as milk to strengthen and grow us in our faith.
Have you tasted the goodness of God from Scriptures? Have you experienced the grace of God found in His Word?
The Bible is not an ancient black book filled with theology about yesterday. It is a book that satisfies the longing of the human heart. The Word of God strengthens us every day and nourishes our spirit. Our very life depends upon this Word and truth!
So, let me leave you with some questions to consider. Do you love God’s Word? Are you obeying God’s Word? If you love it, you will read it. And if you read it, you will pray it… think it… live it… and share it.
TAKE THE TIME TODAY TO STUDY GOD’S WORD AND MAKE IT AN EVERYDAY COMMITMENT!
I want to remind you today that not only is the Word of God perfect, living, and abiding forever. Not only is the Word of God unchanging and true. Not only does it have a saving purpose.
But the Scripture also has the power to transform your life!
Jesus said in John 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” If you want your life to change, saturate your soul and nourish your heart in the Word of God.
The Bible has power to save and sanctify, and it also has the power to strengthen. In our verse for today—1 Peter 2, verse 2—the Word of God is described as milk to strengthen and grow us in our faith.
Have you tasted the goodness of God from Scriptures? Have you experienced the grace of God found in His Word?
The Bible is not an ancient black book filled with theology about yesterday. It is a book that satisfies the longing of the human heart. The Word of God strengthens us every day and nourishes our spirit. Our very life depends upon this Word and truth!
So, let me leave you with some questions to consider. Do you love God’s Word? Are you obeying God’s Word? If you love it, you will read it. And if you read it, you will pray it… think it… live it… and share it.
TAKE THE TIME TODAY TO STUDY GOD’S WORD AND MAKE IT AN EVERYDAY COMMITMENT!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Why Memorize Scripture? by John Piper
First, a few testimonies: I have it third hand, that Dr. Howard Hendricks (of Dallas Seminary) once made the statement (and I paraphrase) that if it were his decision, every student graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary would be required to learn one thousand verses word perfect before they graduated.
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, “Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization” (“Spiritual Formation in Christ for the Whole Life and Whole Person” in Vocatio, Vol. 12, no. 2, Spring, 2001, p. 7).
Chuck Swindoll wrote, “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified” (Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).
One of the reasons Martin Luther came to his great discovery in the Bible of justification by faith alone was that in his early years in the Augustinian monastery he was influenced to love Scripture by Johann Staupitz. Luther devoured the Bible in a day when people earned doctorates in theology without even reading the Bible. Luther said that his fellow professor, Andreas Karlstadt, did not even own a Bible when he earned his doctor of theology degree, nor did he until many years later (www.orlutheran.com/html/luthbibl.html). Luther knew so much of the Bible from memory that when the Lord opened his eyes to see the truth of justification in Romans 1:17, he said, “Thereupon I ran through the Scriptures from memory,” in order to confirm what he had found.
So here are a few reasons why so many have viewed Scripture memorization as so essential to the Christian life.
1. Conformity to Christ
Paul wrote that “we all... beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.” If we would be changed into Christ likeness we must steadily see him. This happens in the word. “The LORD revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the word of the LORD” (1 Samuel 3:21). Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus to be steadier and clearer.
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word... I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:9, 11). Paul said that we must “by the Spirit... put to death the [sinful] deeds of the body” (Romans 8:13). The one piece of armor used to kill is the “sword of the Spirit,” which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness he recited Scripture from memory and put Satan to flight (Matthew 4:1-11).
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
The times when people need you to give them comfort and counsel do not always coincide with the times you have your Bible handy. Not only that, the very word of God spoken spontaneously from your heart has unusual power. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” That is a beautiful way of saying, When the heart full of God’s love can draw on the mind full of God’s word, timely blessings flow from the mouth.
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
Opportunities to share the gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. Actual verses of the Bible have their own penetrating power. And when they come from our heart, as well as from the Book, the witness is given that they are precious enough to learn. We should all be able to sum up the gospel under four main headings (1) God’s holiness/law/glory; 2) man’s sin/rebellion/disobedience; 3) Christ’s death for sinners; 4) the free gift of life by faith. Learn a verse or two relating to each of these, and be ready in season and out of season to share them.
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
The way we commune with (that is, fellowship with) God is by meditating on his attributes and expressing to him our thanks and admiration and love, and seeking his help in living a life that reflects the value of these attributes. Therefore, storing texts in our minds about God helps us relate to him as he really is. For example, imagine being able to call this to mind through the day:
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. (Psalm 103:8-14)
I used the word “enjoyment” intentionally when I said, “communion with God in the enjoyment of his person and ways.” Most of us are emotionally crippled — all of us really. We do not experience God in the fullness of our emotional potential. How will that change? One way is to memorize the emotional expressions of the Bible and speak them to the Lord and to each other until they become part of who we are. For example, in Psalm 103:1, we say, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!” That is not a natural expression for many people. But if we memorize this and other emotional expressions from the Bible, and say them often, asking the Lord to make the emotion real in our hearts, we can actually grow into that emotion and expression. It will become part of who we are. We will be less crippled emotionally and more able to render proper praise and thanks to God.
There are other reasons for memorizing Scripture. I hope you find them in the actual practice.
Still learning with you,
Pastor John
By John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: www.desiringGod.org. Email: mail@desiringGod.org.
Dallas Willard, professor of Philosophy at the University of Southern California, wrote, “Bible memorization is absolutely fundamental to spiritual formation. If I had to choose between all the disciplines of the spiritual life, I would choose Bible memorization, because it is a fundamental way of filling our minds with what it needs. This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth. That’s where you need it! How does it get in your mouth? Memorization” (“Spiritual Formation in Christ for the Whole Life and Whole Person” in Vocatio, Vol. 12, no. 2, Spring, 2001, p. 7).
Chuck Swindoll wrote, “I know of no other single practice in the Christian life more rewarding, practically speaking, than memorizing Scripture... No other single exercise pays greater spiritual dividends! Your prayer life will be strengthened. Your witnessing will be sharper and much more effective. Your attitudes and outlook will begin to change. Your mind will become alert and observant. Your confidence and assurance will be enhanced. Your faith will be solidified” (Growing Strong in the Seasons of Life [Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1994], p. 61).
One of the reasons Martin Luther came to his great discovery in the Bible of justification by faith alone was that in his early years in the Augustinian monastery he was influenced to love Scripture by Johann Staupitz. Luther devoured the Bible in a day when people earned doctorates in theology without even reading the Bible. Luther said that his fellow professor, Andreas Karlstadt, did not even own a Bible when he earned his doctor of theology degree, nor did he until many years later (www.orlutheran.com/html/luthbibl.html). Luther knew so much of the Bible from memory that when the Lord opened his eyes to see the truth of justification in Romans 1:17, he said, “Thereupon I ran through the Scriptures from memory,” in order to confirm what he had found.
So here are a few reasons why so many have viewed Scripture memorization as so essential to the Christian life.
1. Conformity to Christ
Paul wrote that “we all... beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.” If we would be changed into Christ likeness we must steadily see him. This happens in the word. “The LORD revealed himself to Samuel at Shiloh by the word of the LORD” (1 Samuel 3:21). Bible memorization has the effect of making our gaze on Jesus to be steadier and clearer.
2. Daily Triumph over Sin
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word... I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:9, 11). Paul said that we must “by the Spirit... put to death the [sinful] deeds of the body” (Romans 8:13). The one piece of armor used to kill is the “sword of the Spirit,” which is the word of God (Ephesians 6:17). As sin lures the body into sinful action, we call to mind a Christ-revealing word of Scripture and slay the temptation with the superior worth and beauty of Christ over what sin offers.
3. Daily Triumph over Satan
When Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness he recited Scripture from memory and put Satan to flight (Matthew 4:1-11).
4. Comfort and Counsel for People You Love
The times when people need you to give them comfort and counsel do not always coincide with the times you have your Bible handy. Not only that, the very word of God spoken spontaneously from your heart has unusual power. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” That is a beautiful way of saying, When the heart full of God’s love can draw on the mind full of God’s word, timely blessings flow from the mouth.
5. Communicating the Gospel to Unbelievers
Opportunities to share the gospel come when we do not have the Bible in hand. Actual verses of the Bible have their own penetrating power. And when they come from our heart, as well as from the Book, the witness is given that they are precious enough to learn. We should all be able to sum up the gospel under four main headings (1) God’s holiness/law/glory; 2) man’s sin/rebellion/disobedience; 3) Christ’s death for sinners; 4) the free gift of life by faith. Learn a verse or two relating to each of these, and be ready in season and out of season to share them.
6. Communion with God in the Enjoyment of His Person and Ways
The way we commune with (that is, fellowship with) God is by meditating on his attributes and expressing to him our thanks and admiration and love, and seeking his help in living a life that reflects the value of these attributes. Therefore, storing texts in our minds about God helps us relate to him as he really is. For example, imagine being able to call this to mind through the day:
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust. (Psalm 103:8-14)
I used the word “enjoyment” intentionally when I said, “communion with God in the enjoyment of his person and ways.” Most of us are emotionally crippled — all of us really. We do not experience God in the fullness of our emotional potential. How will that change? One way is to memorize the emotional expressions of the Bible and speak them to the Lord and to each other until they become part of who we are. For example, in Psalm 103:1, we say, “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!” That is not a natural expression for many people. But if we memorize this and other emotional expressions from the Bible, and say them often, asking the Lord to make the emotion real in our hearts, we can actually grow into that emotion and expression. It will become part of who we are. We will be less crippled emotionally and more able to render proper praise and thanks to God.
There are other reasons for memorizing Scripture. I hope you find them in the actual practice.
Still learning with you,
Pastor John
By John Piper. © Desiring God. Website: www.desiringGod.org. Email: mail@desiringGod.org.
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
The Subtle Sin of Compromise
“The safest road to hell,” wrote C.S. Lewis, “is the gradual one—the gentle slope, one that is soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts.”
Many Christians do not believe that they can or will ever drift away from God. They see their devotion as being solid. However, compromise and a lack of spiritual discipline quickly open the door to temptation and sin.
Once we accept Christ as our Savior, the enemy knows his work of eternal destruction has been thwarted. However, he is relentless in his effort to work havoc in the lives of God’s people. Therefore, he goes to work in a different way. He knows that he cannot have our souls, but he remains committed to destroying our lives.
One of his greatest weapons against the body of Christ is pride. He seeks to tell us we are complete and worthy apart from the Lord. He wants us to feel good about our talents and abilities—so much so that we begin to make decisions without considering God’s purpose and plan. Before we know it, we have believed a lie and departed from our first love, which is the love of Christ.
There is nothing wrong with knowing God has gifted you and that He is the One who is using your abilities. The story, however, changes when you begin to take life into your own hands without regard to the Savior’s will.
Temptation by itself is not sin, but if left unchecked, it quickly leads to sin and broken fellowship with the Lord. You can say no to the subtle sin of compromise by asking the Lord to keep you close to Himself. Be committed to spending time in prayer with Him each day.
Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I have compromised my love for You.
Many Christians do not believe that they can or will ever drift away from God. They see their devotion as being solid. However, compromise and a lack of spiritual discipline quickly open the door to temptation and sin.
Once we accept Christ as our Savior, the enemy knows his work of eternal destruction has been thwarted. However, he is relentless in his effort to work havoc in the lives of God’s people. Therefore, he goes to work in a different way. He knows that he cannot have our souls, but he remains committed to destroying our lives.
One of his greatest weapons against the body of Christ is pride. He seeks to tell us we are complete and worthy apart from the Lord. He wants us to feel good about our talents and abilities—so much so that we begin to make decisions without considering God’s purpose and plan. Before we know it, we have believed a lie and departed from our first love, which is the love of Christ.
There is nothing wrong with knowing God has gifted you and that He is the One who is using your abilities. The story, however, changes when you begin to take life into your own hands without regard to the Savior’s will.
Temptation by itself is not sin, but if left unchecked, it quickly leads to sin and broken fellowship with the Lord. You can say no to the subtle sin of compromise by asking the Lord to keep you close to Himself. Be committed to spending time in prayer with Him each day.
Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I have compromised my love for You.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Covenant Relationships
Genesis 6:18 But I will establish My covenant with you, and you will enter the ark-you and your sons and your wife and your sons' wives with you.
The Bible is filled with covenants made between God and people. Six of those covenants were made with Old Testament figures: Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David. The seventh was made with His own Son, Jesus Christ. God is always the strongest partner in a covenant relationship.
God made a covenant with Noah in order to preserve the human race. This covenant involved Noah's participation by building an ark. He'd never built an ark before. He'd never had a boat. It was a totally new concept to Noah and the rest of the world. Why would he need a boat in a dry land?
Noah did not have to invent the ark; God gave him the plans-in specific dimensional detail. He did not have to gather the animals-God led them into the ark. God even closed the door when they all came on board. God made it rain to prove why the ark was needed.
The covenant provided all Noah needed to complete his mission in life. When God spoke to Noah to do this thing, he needed only to respond to God's call to do it. Noah could rest in knowing the covenant made with God was going to be fulfilled if he fulfilled his part.
If you have entered into a covenant relationship with God, you too can be assured that God will uphold His part of the covenant relationship. He is committed to fulfilling His covenant with you and to fulfill His purposes in and through your life. It only requires one thing on your part-obedience. He will even provide grace and faith to you to help you fulfill your part of the covenant.
Each of us has a covenant with God. But we also enter covenants with others in our personal and business lives. How are you doing in fulfilling covenants to others? God has given us the example to follow. Ask God if you have any unfulfilled covenants you need to honor. He has called you and me to be covenant keepers.
The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
The Bible is filled with covenants made between God and people. Six of those covenants were made with Old Testament figures: Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and David. The seventh was made with His own Son, Jesus Christ. God is always the strongest partner in a covenant relationship.
God made a covenant with Noah in order to preserve the human race. This covenant involved Noah's participation by building an ark. He'd never built an ark before. He'd never had a boat. It was a totally new concept to Noah and the rest of the world. Why would he need a boat in a dry land?
Noah did not have to invent the ark; God gave him the plans-in specific dimensional detail. He did not have to gather the animals-God led them into the ark. God even closed the door when they all came on board. God made it rain to prove why the ark was needed.
The covenant provided all Noah needed to complete his mission in life. When God spoke to Noah to do this thing, he needed only to respond to God's call to do it. Noah could rest in knowing the covenant made with God was going to be fulfilled if he fulfilled his part.
If you have entered into a covenant relationship with God, you too can be assured that God will uphold His part of the covenant relationship. He is committed to fulfilling His covenant with you and to fulfill His purposes in and through your life. It only requires one thing on your part-obedience. He will even provide grace and faith to you to help you fulfill your part of the covenant.
Each of us has a covenant with God. But we also enter covenants with others in our personal and business lives. How are you doing in fulfilling covenants to others? God has given us the example to follow. Ask God if you have any unfulfilled covenants you need to honor. He has called you and me to be covenant keepers.
The one who calls you is faithful and He will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:24).
Monday, July 07, 2008
When God Seems Distant
“John the Baptist, who was now in prison, heard about all the things the Messiah was doing. So he sent his disciples to ask Jesus, ‘Are you really the Messiah we’ve been waiting for, or should we keep looking for someone else?’ ” (Matthew 11:2–3)
Have you ever had something happen in your life that caused you to say, “Where is God?” No less than the greatest prophet who ever lived, John the Baptist, faced this struggle.
John had put it all on the line for Jesus Christ. He had baptized Him in the Jordan River. He pointed his own disciples to Jesus, whom he believed was the Messiah. John had clearly pledged his complete loyalty to Jesus.
Yet a strange series of events took place after that. One moment, he was out preaching to the multitudes and baptizing people. The next moment, he was in prison.
The great John the Baptist began to entertain some doubt. So he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you really the Messiah we’ve been waiting for, or should we keep looking for someone else?”
Jesus’ disciples and John commonly believed that Jesus would establish His kingdom then and there. But they failed to recognize that before Christ would establish His kingdom, He would first come to suffer and die for the sins of humanity. John misunderstood the prophecies of Scripture, and therefore felt that Jesus was not doing what He was supposed to do.
Sometimes we, too, misunderstand God and His Word when He doesn’t do what we think He should do or when He doesn’t work as quickly as we would like Him to. But even when we cannot understand God’s ways, His methods, or His timing, He still asks us to trust Him. And He is trustworthy.
A link to the source - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/harvestdaily/
Have you ever had something happen in your life that caused you to say, “Where is God?” No less than the greatest prophet who ever lived, John the Baptist, faced this struggle.
John had put it all on the line for Jesus Christ. He had baptized Him in the Jordan River. He pointed his own disciples to Jesus, whom he believed was the Messiah. John had clearly pledged his complete loyalty to Jesus.
Yet a strange series of events took place after that. One moment, he was out preaching to the multitudes and baptizing people. The next moment, he was in prison.
The great John the Baptist began to entertain some doubt. So he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you really the Messiah we’ve been waiting for, or should we keep looking for someone else?”
Jesus’ disciples and John commonly believed that Jesus would establish His kingdom then and there. But they failed to recognize that before Christ would establish His kingdom, He would first come to suffer and die for the sins of humanity. John misunderstood the prophecies of Scripture, and therefore felt that Jesus was not doing what He was supposed to do.
Sometimes we, too, misunderstand God and His Word when He doesn’t do what we think He should do or when He doesn’t work as quickly as we would like Him to. But even when we cannot understand God’s ways, His methods, or His timing, He still asks us to trust Him. And He is trustworthy.
A link to the source - http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/harvestdaily/
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
BLESS SOMEONE ELSE TODAY
Then Naomi her mother-in-law said to her, “My daughter, should I not seek rest for you, that it may be well with you?” -- Ruth 3:1
Maybe you’ve experienced tragic disappointment in your life. Naomi could relate. She was uprooted from her home and lost her husband and her sons. Life’s troubles had darkened her spirit and turned her bitter.
But I’d like to remind you what Naomi did in the midst of her state of depression. In fact, it’s one thing that helped get her out from under the dark cloud of bitterness she was living in:
Naomi stopped thinking about herself and started thinking about someone else.
I don’t know where you may find yourself today, but if you’re down, I have a word for you: If you can get outside of yourself and start serving others, you will find any depression you have will begin to lift.
If you’re discouraged today, I encourage you to get interested in someone else! Get involved in your church. Adopt a family or find a child that you can share a gift with.
And certainly it’s important to share your faith. Nothing will lift your spirits and enliven your heart like sharing the Good News with someone who needs to hear it!
When you’re discouraged or depressed, the best thing you can do is to get your mind on the Lord Jesus Christ… to worship Him, to look to Him, to speak to Him, to open your Bible, and to ask the Spirit of God to mend your broken heart.
And when you will do that, watch God begin to restore and replenish and refresh your despondent spirit. To move your life from bitterness… to blessing.
BLESS SOMEONE ELSE TODAY. WHEN YOU OFFER A SMILE, A CUP OF COFFEE, OR PRAYER OF ENCOURAGEMENT, YOUR SPIRITS WILL BE LIFTED!
Maybe you’ve experienced tragic disappointment in your life. Naomi could relate. She was uprooted from her home and lost her husband and her sons. Life’s troubles had darkened her spirit and turned her bitter.
But I’d like to remind you what Naomi did in the midst of her state of depression. In fact, it’s one thing that helped get her out from under the dark cloud of bitterness she was living in:
Naomi stopped thinking about herself and started thinking about someone else.
I don’t know where you may find yourself today, but if you’re down, I have a word for you: If you can get outside of yourself and start serving others, you will find any depression you have will begin to lift.
If you’re discouraged today, I encourage you to get interested in someone else! Get involved in your church. Adopt a family or find a child that you can share a gift with.
And certainly it’s important to share your faith. Nothing will lift your spirits and enliven your heart like sharing the Good News with someone who needs to hear it!
When you’re discouraged or depressed, the best thing you can do is to get your mind on the Lord Jesus Christ… to worship Him, to look to Him, to speak to Him, to open your Bible, and to ask the Spirit of God to mend your broken heart.
And when you will do that, watch God begin to restore and replenish and refresh your despondent spirit. To move your life from bitterness… to blessing.
BLESS SOMEONE ELSE TODAY. WHEN YOU OFFER A SMILE, A CUP OF COFFEE, OR PRAYER OF ENCOURAGEMENT, YOUR SPIRITS WILL BE LIFTED!
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Abiding and Remaining in Christ
John 15:5 NIV "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing".
Have you ever thought about the relationship between the branch and the vine? We don’t use these kinds of word pictures very much anymore, but think about it--if the branch is not attached to the vine, it withers and dies. The branches’ very life depends on it being attached to the vine. The same thing happens if we try to operate in this life without Jesus. Without Him, we can do nothing. We are cut from our life source. But when you remain in Him, by daily connecting with Him through prayer, worship, and study of the Word, then your life will be fruitful. You’ll walk in joy and blessing. I love that this verse says “much fruit”, which means you will have an abundant harvest in your life.
David asked a very pertinent question to God in the following psalm: “O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill?” Psalm 15:1 Prior to Jesus Christ coming to earth, dwelling amongst us, choosing to deny himself and sacrificially give himself up for the forgiveness of our sins, we had no way of intimately abiding and remaining in Him, unless we walked in perfection under the law…..which no one could or ever can do!
In order for you to abide in God, before the sacrifice of Christ, One had to attempt to, “Depart from evil and do good, So you will abide forever” Psalm 37:27. Not that we are not to still be trying to live sin free lives, but the difference is that when we fail….and we will, we can sincerely humble ourselves and come to God, and ask for His forgiveness through the blood sacrifice of Christ and our sins will immediately be forgiven. And they will never more be remembered by God, as they will disappear and be as far as the east is from the west! Psalm 103:12
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us--for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE"—Galatians 3:12-14 Jesus made it possible for us to dwell with Christ each day. We no longer have to wait for a Holy priest to go into the Holy Tabernacle once a year where God dwelled, before Christ, and ask for the forgiveness of our sins. Hebrews 5:9-11 Christ is now our Lord and Savior and we can dwell in God through Him each day!
Because of what Christ did at the cross we now have these new commands that allow us to be successful if we will only engraft into Christ each day and then abide and remain in Him. "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. 11"These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full” John 15:9-11.
We find God’s fullness and Joy in Christ and can dwell in it each day, if we will only choose to abide and remain in Him……and it is a choice! God doesn’t want you to just barely get by. He wants to overwhelm you with His goodness. Abiding happens through spending time in God’s Word and meditating and praying on it through out each day. When we hide God’s Word in our hearts, the Word begins to permeate our very being and change our hearts, which begins transforming us to more Christ-likeness…..which we all desire.
Lord, please draw us all into a deeper and more intimate walk with You today. Give us the desire to remain and abide in You and let our lives be a living testimony to the wonders of Your love for us. Keep us from evil, as we place your armor on us, and abide in You…the Author and Finisher of our faith! In Jesus Holy name we pray, Amen
Have a powerful and prosperous day of abiding and remaining in Christ in the workplace and a home!
Have you ever thought about the relationship between the branch and the vine? We don’t use these kinds of word pictures very much anymore, but think about it--if the branch is not attached to the vine, it withers and dies. The branches’ very life depends on it being attached to the vine. The same thing happens if we try to operate in this life without Jesus. Without Him, we can do nothing. We are cut from our life source. But when you remain in Him, by daily connecting with Him through prayer, worship, and study of the Word, then your life will be fruitful. You’ll walk in joy and blessing. I love that this verse says “much fruit”, which means you will have an abundant harvest in your life.
David asked a very pertinent question to God in the following psalm: “O LORD, who may abide in Your tent? Who may dwell on Your holy hill?” Psalm 15:1 Prior to Jesus Christ coming to earth, dwelling amongst us, choosing to deny himself and sacrificially give himself up for the forgiveness of our sins, we had no way of intimately abiding and remaining in Him, unless we walked in perfection under the law…..which no one could or ever can do!
In order for you to abide in God, before the sacrifice of Christ, One had to attempt to, “Depart from evil and do good, So you will abide forever” Psalm 37:27. Not that we are not to still be trying to live sin free lives, but the difference is that when we fail….and we will, we can sincerely humble ourselves and come to God, and ask for His forgiveness through the blood sacrifice of Christ and our sins will immediately be forgiven. And they will never more be remembered by God, as they will disappear and be as far as the east is from the west! Psalm 103:12
“Christ redeemed us from the curse of the Law, having become a curse for us--for it is written, "CURSED IS EVERYONE WHO HANGS ON A TREE"—Galatians 3:12-14 Jesus made it possible for us to dwell with Christ each day. We no longer have to wait for a Holy priest to go into the Holy Tabernacle once a year where God dwelled, before Christ, and ask for the forgiveness of our sins. Hebrews 5:9-11 Christ is now our Lord and Savior and we can dwell in God through Him each day!
Because of what Christ did at the cross we now have these new commands that allow us to be successful if we will only engraft into Christ each day and then abide and remain in Him. "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. 11"These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full” John 15:9-11.
We find God’s fullness and Joy in Christ and can dwell in it each day, if we will only choose to abide and remain in Him……and it is a choice! God doesn’t want you to just barely get by. He wants to overwhelm you with His goodness. Abiding happens through spending time in God’s Word and meditating and praying on it through out each day. When we hide God’s Word in our hearts, the Word begins to permeate our very being and change our hearts, which begins transforming us to more Christ-likeness…..which we all desire.
Lord, please draw us all into a deeper and more intimate walk with You today. Give us the desire to remain and abide in You and let our lives be a living testimony to the wonders of Your love for us. Keep us from evil, as we place your armor on us, and abide in You…the Author and Finisher of our faith! In Jesus Holy name we pray, Amen
Have a powerful and prosperous day of abiding and remaining in Christ in the workplace and a home!
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