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Unfaithfulness is a "Dangerous Danger "
 
   A young man went to his father one day to tell him that he wanted to get married. His father was happy for him. He asked his son who the girl was, and the he told him that it was Samantha a girl from the neighborhood. With a sad face the old man said to his son, "I'm sorry to say this son but cannot marry her. The girl you want to marry is your sister, but please don't tell your mother." The young man again brought 3 more names to his father but ended up frustrated cause the response was still the same. So he decides to go to his mother. "Mama I want to get married but all the girls that I love, dad said they are my sisters and I mustn't tell you." His mother smiling said to him," Don't worry my son, you can marry any of those girls. You're not his son! " -- Happy Times!!! Author Unknown 
 
 
 
 
                                                          The Devil and the Duck‏
 
There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given
a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods, but he
could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for
dinner. As he was walking back he saw Grandma's pet duck.

Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the
head, and killed it. He was shocked and grieved.

In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the wood pile, only to see his sister
watching! Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing.

After lunch the next day Grandma said, "Sally, let's wash the dishes." But
Sally said, "Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen." Then
she whispered to him, "Remember the duck?" So Johnny did the dishes.

Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing
and
Grandma said, "I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper." Sally just
smiled and said," Well that's all right because Johnny told me he wanted to
help." She whispered again, "Remember the duck?" So Sally went fishing and
Johnny stayed to help.

After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's ... he
finally couldn't stand it any longer.

He came to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck. Grandma knelt
down, gave him a hug, and said, "Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing
at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave
you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you."

Thought for the day and every day thereafter?

Whatever is in your past, whatever you have done... and the devil keeps
throwing it up in your face (lying, cheating, debt,fear, bad habits, hatred,
anger, bitterness, etc.)... whatever it is...
You need to know that God was standing at the window and He saw the whole thing.  He has seen your whole life.  He wants you to know that He loves you and that you are forgiven. 
He's just wondering how long you will let the devil make a slave of you.

The great thing about God is that when you ask for forgiveness, He not only
forgives you, but He forgets .. It is by God's grace and mercy that we are
saved.

Go ahead and make the difference in someone's life today. Share this with a
friend and always remember: God is at the window.

Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.
 
 Be consistent in your walk with God.......He wants to walk with you....
Author unknown
 
 
                                                                       Pride and self
Greetings to you in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and saviour,
I hope you have great week.Read this Word of God and ponder over it and it will bless you.
Pride and self pity can rob us of our victory in the Lord. Pride destroys
because it takes the glory away from God and places it on you and me
where it doesn't belong. Self pity and depression are almost inevitable
after a great high. Maybe it's because we get our priorities skewed,
forgetting how we got to that high and seeing only the slide downward
toward normality. Keep your priorities straight. Keep your attitude in
tune with God's purposes in your life. Give God credit when He does
something great in your life, being mindful that you can accomplish
nothing without Him. And then, after the high of victory, realize that a
return to normal means coming down, being lower than you were, but
by no means down and out. And, unlike Samson, don't think God owes
you for your efforts. You owe Him. Because without Him you can
accomplish nothing. Even your next breath depends on His
willingness to give it to you. Thank Him and glorify Him in all
things in your life. Make Him your focus, rather than yourself. 
God's blessings in your life and families
Bro El Batsa Accra, Ghana

                                                        River of Water

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that bringeth forth his fruit
in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Psalm 1:3
Therefore my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding
in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
1 Corinthians 15:58
Many times in "the garden of life" we are forced to make decisions that are often not easy. There are times when our convictions are not convenient so to speak for others and sometimes difficult things to conform to ourselves. We have to choose what we are going to become; a tulip or an oak tree. Allow me to explain the analogy.
You see an oak tree can be fully grown and strong, so big that people are forced to walk around it. No one steps on an oak and an oak can withstand any kind of pressure whether storm, wind, snow, etc. But a tulip, although beautiful when in bloom can also be grown up but people can still step on and destroy it easily; a tulip is very vulnerable.
Many times in the midst of a decision that we must make we become one or the other; do we stand strong in our convictions and hold fast to our beliefs or do we allow others around us to trample us like the fragile tulip. But there are also times when we are in that "tulip condition" that God sends us people to be "fences" for us. Sometimes tulips need a fence to be built around them to protect them so that they can continue to grow and it is at those times that God sends people around us to be that fence and help us stay strong in those choices.
We would all like to be like that oak tree 100% of the time but it simply just does not happen. There are times when we are all weakened from the fight and sometimes feel like we cannot go on but that is when we need to meditate on scriptures like those above; when we are striving to be like that oak tree we will be strong and unmovable. All that we put our hands to do will prosper because we are striving to be strong in the Lord. And like the final scripture in 1 Corinthians, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. Sometimes we feel like all we do for the Lord can be in vain because of the choices that others make for themselves. But it is wonderful to know that our laboring down here is not in vain for one day we will know what awaits us.
So the next time you have to make a decision, think to yourself...am I a tulip or an oak tree? "Life's a garden....dig it!"
El Batsa, Accra, Ghana
 
 
                                     Hearing
 
Matthew 16:21-23

The most potent hearing aid known to man is the Holy Bible. It is the
standard of truth against which you can test every message that comes
your way.

Making a decision on an issue important to you can be extremely
difficult. Sometimes it may seem as if you are hearing two or more
voices, all of which make seemingly good points but also tug you in
different directions. It is important that in these times you learn to
discern the voice of God.

There are several principles you can apply to what you're hearing to
gauge whether it is of God, but the most basic is whether the message
conflicts with Scripture. God won't tell you to do something that
counters what He already has recorded for all mankind.

Therefore, the best way to know God's voice is to get to know Him.
Spend time in His Word and soak in His truths. You must know God's Word
before you can differentiate God's instructions from the messages Satan or
your flesh are sending you.

Do you know how investigators are trained to recognize counterfeit
money? They don't spend all of their time trying to keep up with the
latest technological advances in creating false money. Instead, they
first and foremost diligently study the original, the real thing.

Then, held against the standard, the fake stuff stands out.
El Batsa, Accra,Ghana
 
 

REMEMBER THESE WORDS PONDER ABOUT THEM

The will of God will never take you,
 Where the grace of God cannot keep you,
Where the arms of God cannot support you,
Where the riches of God cannot supply your needs,
Where the power of God cannot endow you.
     
        
The will of God will never take you,
Where the Spirit of God cannot work through you,
Where the wisdom of God cannot teach you,
Where the army of God cannot protect you,
Where the hands of God cannot mold you.
     
The will of God will never take you,
Where the love of God cannot enfold you,
Where the mercies of God cannot sustain you,
Where the peace of God cannot calm your fears,
Where the authority of God cannot overrule for you.
     
The will of God will never take you,
Where the comfort of God cannot dry your tears,
Where the Word of God cannot feed you,
Where the miracles of God cannot be done for you,
Where the omnipresence of God cannot find you.
     
"Everything happens for a purpose. We may not see the wisdom of it all now, but trust and believe in the Lord that  everything is for the best."
     
The way to be anxious about nothing is to be prayerful about everything

May the good Lord bless you and keep and make His shine upon you and give His peace
El Batsa, Accra, Ghana
 

                  May This Encourage You Always

Don't spend major time with minor people. If there are people in your life that continually disappoint you,break promises, stomp on your dreams, too judgmental, have different values and don't have your back during difficult times...that is not a friend.

To have a friend, be a friend. Sometimes in life as you grow, your friends will either grow or go. Surround yourself with people who reflect values, goals interests and lifestyle. When I think of any of my successes, I am thankful to GOD from whom all blessings flow, and to my family and friends that enrich my life. Over the years my phone book has changed because I changed for the better.

At first you think you're going to be alone, but after a while new people show up in your life that make your life so much sweeter and easier to endure. 

Remember what your elders used to say, "Birds of a feather flock together. If you're an eagle, don't hang around chickens: Chickens Can't  Fly! 

I love the Lord and thank Him for all that he does in my life, therefore, I'm passing this on. Yes I do love Jesus. He is my source of existence and Savior.

He keeps me functioning each and everyday. Without Him, I will be nothing Without Him, I am nothing but with Him I can do all things. Phil 4:13. Be Positive - Be Progressive –

Take the time to make a positive difference in someone's life. Walk by faith,Not by sight. Receive God's blessings. Author Unknown 
 
                  Nothing Is Impossible 

Suggested Bible Reading

The Lord appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. He looked up and saw three men standing near him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent entrance to meet them, and bowed down to the ground. He said, "My lord, if I find favor with you, do not pass by your servant. Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree. Let me bring a little bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on-since you have come to your servant." So they said, "Do as you have said." And Abraham hastened into the tent to Sarah, and said, "Make ready quickly three measures of choice flour, knead it, and make cakes." Abraham ran to the herd, and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to the servant, who hastened to prepare it. Then he took curds and milk and the calf that he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree while they ate. They said to him, "Where is your wife Sarah?" And he said, "There, in the tent." Then one said, "I will surely return to you in due season, and your wife Sarah shall have a son." And Sarah was listening at the tent entrance behind him. Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in age; it had ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women. So Sarah laughed to herself, saying, "After I have grown old, and my husband is old, shall I have pleasure?" The Lord said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh, and say, "Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?' Is anything too wonderful for the Lord? At the set time I will return to you, in due season, and Sarah shall have a son." But Sarah denied, saying, "I did not laugh"; for she was afraid. He said, "Oh yes, you did laugh."

-Genesis 18:1-15 (NRSV)

Hebrews 11:1 (NIV)-   SARAH and Abraham were well advanced in age by the time they received God's promise of a child. Sarah had already passed the age of having children, so as she heard God's word she laughed in disbelief. But God assured Abraham that with God, nothing is impossible; the promise would be fulfilled. Abraham didn't doubt God's word. Rather, he was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God.

Many times God promises to do great things in our lives to bring joy to us and glory to his name. But too often we question God; we even doubt what God can really do. Because of our pride, impatience, and lack of faith and hope, we end up trying to rely on our own strength to achieve success in life. By doing so we hinder, even ignore, the power of divine intervention in our lives.

Just as for Sarah, God will fulfill the promises to us. Regardless of our circumstances, we can trust God and hold on to the faith we profess. God who promised is faithful. At the appointed time, Sarah received the fulfillment of God's promise, (Gen. 21:1-2) and so can we.     Júlio Romão Chavane (Maputo, Mozambique)
  

     

                     It's Going to Be Okay
by Max Lucado

Bill Tucker was sixteen years old when his dad suffered a health crisis and consequently had to leave his business. Even after Mr. Tucker regained his health, the Tucker family struggled financially, barely getting by.

Mr. Tucker, an entrepreneurial sort, came up with an idea. He won the bid to reupholster the chairs at the local movie theater. This stunned his family. He had never stitched a seat. He didn't even own a sewing apparatus. Still, he found someone to teach him the skill and located an industrial-strength machine. The family scraped together every cent they had to buy it. They drained savings accounts and dug coins out of the sofa. Finally, they had enough.

It was a fine day when Bill road with his dad to pick up the equipment. Bill remembers a jovial, hour-long trip discussing the bright horizons this new opportunity afforded them. They loaded the machine in the back of their truck and secured it right behind the cab. Mr. Tucker then invited his son to drive home. I'll let Bill tell you what happened next:

"As we were driving along, we were excited, and I, like any sixteen-year-old driver, was probably not paying enough attention to my speed. Just as we were turning on the cloverleaf to get on the expressway, I will never ever, ever forget watching that sewing machine, which was already top-heavy, begin to tip. I slammed on the brakes, but it was too late. I saw it go over the side. I jumped out and ran around the back of the truck. As I rounded the corner, I saw our hope and our dream lying on its side in pieces. And then I saw my dad just looking. All of his risk and all of his endeavor and all of his struggling and all of his dream, all of his hope to take care of his family was lying there, shattered.

"You know what comes next don't you? 'Stupid, punk kid driving too fast, not paying attention, ruined the family by taking away our livelihood.' But that's not what he said. He looked right at me. 'Oh, Bill, I am so sorry.' And he walked over, put his arms around me, and said, 'Son, this is going to be okay.'

God is whispering the same to you. Those are his arms you feel. Trust him. That is his voice you hear. Believe him. Allow the only decision maker in the universe to comfort you. Life at times appears to fall to pieces, seem irreparable. But it's going to be okay. How can you know? Because God so loved the world. If God can make a billion galaxies, can't he make good out of our bad and sense out of our faltering lives? Of course he can. He is God.
 
 
                                                        Perfect Love 
 
                                      Suggested Bible Reading

Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God. And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Indeed, rarely will anyone die for a righteous person -- though perhaps for a good person someone might actually dare to die. But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us. Much more surely then, now that we have been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled, will we be saved by his life. But more than that, we even boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

-Romans 5:1-11 (NRSV) -1 Corinthians 13:13 (NIV

SOME time ago, I saw an interview on television with an 83-year-old woman. She was asked about her long and interesting life as a politician and also about her private life. She was intelligent and clear in her answers. Finally, the interviewer asked about her Christian faith. The woman remained silent for a moment. Then she said, "My faith is a living part of my personality. It is my rod and my staff." She continued, "I grew up with a strict father who was an old-fashioned Calvinist and regarded everything as sinful. But this is not how I know the Lord today. God is not a punishing God but full of love and righteousness."

Her words caused me to examine my own faith. I can say that my faith gives me hope. Without faith, there is no hope. My faith also gives me assurance, even if I have doubts from time to time. I have no doubts when it comes to God or the Bible, but I wonder about myself. Am I good enough? Do I deserve the love of God? Then I remember the words from the interview and realize that I do not need to deserve God's love. In the light of God's grace, each one of us is accepted. God's love embraces and welcomes us all.   Laila Geitz (Akershus, Norway)

 
 

                                                        

                                                   Physical Fitness

 

For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works;that I know very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes beheld my unformed substance.In your book were written all the days that were formed for me, when none of them as yet existed. How weighty to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! I try to count them--they are more than the sand; I come to the end--I am still with you.

-Psalm 139:13-18 (NRSV) -1 Corinthians 6:19 (NIV)

EARLY in the morning four times a week, I go to the local gym for exercise. I join people from all walks of life, young and old, who want to care for their bodies by keeping physically fit. Many of us have abused our bodies with unhealthy diets and poor habits. However, many people now are becoming more aware of the benefits of healthy eating and physical fitness.

Paul knew about the vital link between our physical and spiritual needs. "Your body," he wrote, "is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you." I confess there have been times in my own experience that I thought some problem was a spiritual one when actually it was due to physical exhaustion. The spirit has been willing when the flesh has been weak. (See Matt. 26:41.) Paul wrote, "The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual" (1 Cor. 15:46).

Consequently, I need to take care of my body for its own sake as well as for the important effect my physical condition can have on my spiritual well-being. God is concerned about both body and spirit. Regardless of our fitness level, we are indeed "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Ps. 139:14).

Norman Armistead (North Yorkshire, England)

 
 

                 

 
                        UNSEEN BEAUTY


Psalm 104:5-24 (NRSV)

You set the earth on its foundations,
    so that it shall never be shaken.
You cover it with the deep as with a garment;
    the waters stood above the mountains.
At your rebuke they flee;
    at the sound of your thunder they take to flight.
They rose up to the mountains, ran down to the valleys
    to the place that you appointed for them.
You set a boundary that they may not pass,
    so that they might not again cover the earth. 

You make springs gush forth in the valleys;
    they flow between the hills,
giving drink to every wild animal;
    the wild asses quench their thirst.
By the streams the birds of the air have their habitation;
    they sing among the branches.
From your lofty abode you water the mountains;
    the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. 

You cause the grass to grow for the cattle,
    and plants for people to use,
to bring forth food from the earth, 
    and wine to gladden the human heart,
oil to make the face shine,
    and bread to strengthen the human heart.
The trees of the LORD are watered abundantly,
    the cedars of Lebanon that he planted.
In them the birds build their nests;
    the stork has its home in the fir trees.
The high mountains are for the wild goats;
    the rocks are a refuge for the coneys.
You have made the moon to mark the seasons;
    the sun knows its time for setting.
You make darkness, and it is night,
    when all the animals of the forest come creeping out.
The young lions roar for their prey,
    seeking their food from God.
When the sun rises, they withdraw
    and lie down in their dens.
People go out to their work
    and to their labor until the evening. 

O LORD, how manifold are your works!
    In wisdom you have made them all;
    the earth is full of your creatures.

_________________________

Consider the lilies of the field . . . even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.
- Matthew 6:28-29 (NRSV)
_________________________


MY husband is a photographer who specializes in nature photos.  One time, standing on the rim of the Grand Canyon, he saw dark storm clouds coming and knew they could make dramatic pictures.  He had only one shot left on the roll of film in the camera and wanted a fresh roll to use on the coming storm.

Rather than waste that one shot, he looked around for something to use it on.  A reddish-purple thistle was growing a few steps away.  Quickly he adjusted the camera and took the picture and was ready as the storm with its threatening clouds came closer.

Over the years, that thistle photo has been one of his most popular pictures.  It has appeared on a bulletin cover and a calendar.  The storm pictures he was eagerly waiting for have never been shown; they were not the outstanding scenes he had hoped for.

My life can be like that sometimes.  While I am watching for the "big" thing I want to happen, I don't see the beauty of the events or people God continually places all around me.  Like my husband in his passing attention to the thistle, I barely notice them in my eagerness to get on to something more dramatic that I think will make my life beautiful.

Prayer:  Creator God, help us to see the wonders around us that we have been missing.  Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
We honor God by noticing beauty in the places and people around us.

-- Betty Steele Everett (Ohio, U.S.A.)

PRAYER FOCUS: To see the beauty in this day
 
  
 
    LEANING ON THE BELOVED

Psalm 71:1-3, 17-24 (NRSV)

In you, O LORD, I take refuge;
    let me never be put to shame.
In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
    incline your ear to me and save me.
Be to me a rock of refuge,
    a strong fortress, to save me,
    for you are my rock and my fortress. 


O God, from my youth you have taught me,
    and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.
So even to old age and gray hairs,
    O God, do not forsake me,
until I proclaim your might
    to all the generations to come. 
Your power and your righteousness, O God,
    reach the high heavens.

You who have done great things,
    O God, who is like you?
You who have made me see many troubles and calamities
    will revive me again;
from the depths of the earth you will bring me up again.
    You will increase my honor, and comfort me once again.

I will also praise you with the harp
    for your faithfulness, O my God;
I will sing praises to you with the lyre,
    O Holy One of Israel.
My lips will shout for joy
    when I sing praises to you;
    my soul also, which you have rescued.

All day long my tongue will talk of your righteous help,
for those who tried to do me harm
    have been put to shame, and disgraced.

_________________________

Who is that coming up from the wilderness, leaning upon her beloved?
- Song of Solomon 8:5 (NRSV)
_________________________


A number of years ago I proposed marriage to a woman who turned me down.  Afterward, I was depressed, I could not sleep, and I was stuck in a spiritual morass.  I knew that I had to do something.

I asked myself, How can I crawl out of this wilderness? I concluded that true joy comes only from knowing God.  The more I understood God's nature, the more peace I would have.  So I got a notebook and devoted each section to an attribute of God, such as holiness, love, endless power, absolute knowing, forgiveness, and patience.  Then I read through the Bible.  Every time I came to a verse related to one of these attributes I wrote it in my notebook, along with some thoughts about how this particular attribute of God affects my life.

After finishing the entire Bible, I went back to each attribute and put my heartfelt thoughts together into a book.  This study changed my life.  My spiritual foundation was more solid, and my faith was riveted not to circumstances and emotions but to the living God.  When we are in a desert or are feeling defeated and low, we can find our way out of the wilderness by leaning on our beloved -- God.

Prayer:  In the low points, you are there to carry me.  Thank you, God.   Amen.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
The more we understand God's nature, the more we will know God's peace.

-- Robert La Forge (New Jersey, U.S.A.)


                        What goes Round

One day a man saw an old lady, stranded on the side of the road, but even in the dim light of day, he could see she needed help. So he pulled up in front of her Mercedes and got out. His Pontiac was still sputtering when he approached her.

Even with the smile on his face, she was worried. No one had stopped to help for the last hour or so. Was he going to hurt her? He didn't look safe; he looked poor and hungry.

He could see that she was frightened, standing out there in the cold. He knew how she felt. It was that chill which only fear can put in you.

He said, "I'm here to help you, ma'am. Why don't you wait in the car where it's warm? By the way, my name is Bryan Anderson."

Well, all she had was a flat tire, but for an old lady, that was bad enough. Bryan crawled under the car looking for a place to put the jack, skinning his knuckles a time or two. Soon he was able to change the tire. But he had to get dirty and his hands hurt.

As he was tightening up the lug nuts, she rolled down the window and began to talk to him. She told him that she was from St. Louis and was only just passing through. She couldn't thank him enough for coming to her aid.

Bryan just smiled as he closed her trunk. The lady asked how much she owed him. Any amount would have been all right with her. She already imagined all the awful things that could have happened had he not stopped. Bryan never thought twice about being paid. This was not a job to him. This was helping someone in need, and God knows there were plenty, who had given him a hand in the past. He had lived his whole life that way, and it never occurred to him to act any other way.

He told her that if she really wanted to pay him back, the next time she saw someone who needed help, she could give that person the assistance they needed, and Bryan added, "And think of me."

He waited until she started her car and drove off. It had been a cold and depressing day, but he felt good as he headed for home, disappearing into the twilight.

A few miles down the road the lady saw a small cafe. She went in to grab a bite to eat, and take the chill off before she made the last leg of her trip home. It was a dingy looking restaurant. Outside were two old gas pumps. The whole scene was unfamiliar to her. The waitress came over and brought a clean towel to wipe her wet hair. She had a sweet smile, one that even being on her feet for the whole day couldn't erase. The lady noticed the waitress was nearly eight months pregnant, but she never let the strain and aches change her attitude. The old lady wondered how someone who had so little could be so giving to a stranger. Then she remembered Bryan ..

After the lady finished her meal, she paid with a hundred dollar bill. The waitress quickly went to get change for her hundred dollar bill, but the old lady had slipped right out the door. She was gone by the time the waitress came back. The waitress wondered where the lady could be. Then she noticed something written on the napkin.

There were tears in her eyes when she read what the lady wrote: "You don't owe me anything. I have
been there too. Somebody once helped me out, the way I'm helping you. If you really want to pay me back, here is what you do: Do not let this chain of love end with you."

Under the napkin were four more $100 bills.

Well, there were tables to clear, sugar bowls to fill, and people to serve, but the waitress made it through another day. That night when she got home from work and climbed into bed, she was thinking about the
money and what the lady had written. How could the lady have known how much she and her husband needed it? With the baby due next month, it was going to be hard....

She knew how worried her husband was, and as he lay sleeping next to her, she gave him a soft kiss and whispered soft and low, "Everything's going to be all right. I love you, Bryan Anderson."

Good friends are like stars....You don't always see them, but you know they are always there. Author Unknown

 
 
                              St. Patrick
 
An old Prayer from the 4th Century AD.
Foundet and put together by Pastor Joh.W.Matutis.

St. Patrick (Ireland) is supposed to have spoken these words everyday.
 
He said daily....
I am risen with Christ. Through Him I live Today.
I am bound to Him….
 
* there where He is – there I am too.
* that which He is – that I am too
* that which He does – that I do too
* that which He says – that I say too
* that which is subject to Him – is also subject to me
* that which is obedient to Him – is also obedient to me
 
I live by the power of His resurrection...
* I live from His fullness
* I live from all His blessings
* I live from His righteousness
 
That which served Him – that serves me too
* that which followed Him – that follows me too
* that which loved Him – that loves me too
* that which hated Him – that hates me too
* that which took Him in – that takes me in too
* that which He needed, that I need too
* that which He did not need – that I do not need too
* that which comforted Him – that comforts me too
 
* through that which He went – I go too
* the road He walked – that road I walk too
* that which held Him – holds me too
* that which helped Him – helps me too
* that which protected Him – protects me too
* that which led Him – leads me too
* that which gave Him strength – gives me strength too
* that which saved Him – saves me too
* that which kept Him from sin – keeps me from sin too
* that which kept Him healthy – keeps me healthy too
* that which stood by His side – stands by my side too
* that which He did not fear – I do not fear too
* that, through which He drove out demons –through that I drive them out too
* that which made Him strong – makes me strong too
* that which was over Him – is over me too
* that which made Him boundless – makes me boundless too
* that which helped Him accomplish His mission – helps me accomplish mine too
* that which held Him above, always – holds me above, always too
 
Jesus Christ…
* He is before me, and behind me
* He is under me, and over me
* He is with me, and in me
* He is on my right and on my left
* He is with me, when I wake up in the morning
* He is with me, when the day is hard and difficult
* He is with me, when things don’t work out
* He thinks for me
* He speaks to me
* He sees me
 
I live to day by the power of the heavens
by thepower of the Holy Spirit...
  
St. Patrick encouraged his people to pray this prayer constantly.
It can not harm us either, to identify ourselves with Jesus Christ.
 
In this Spirit, I wish you a HAPPY DAY.
 

To the person of St. Patrick
 
St. Patrick was a missionary in Ireland. He was born in Wales. Plundering
Irish carried him off at 16 years of age, and finally brought him (405 AD) as
a slave to Ireland, where he found comfort in Christianity. Despite his
difficult life as a shepherd, he learnt to love the rugged land.
After  about 6 years, an angel supposedly told himto escape. He dared the
escape, and spent the reupon 12 years in a convent in Auxerre (France), where
he became a priest and took the name Patrick.
 
His goal was to return to Ireland, in order to reach out to the heathen
there. One night, he heard voices calling him back to Ireland, voices which
he recognized asthose of Irish people, begging him to return.
 
It is told that he freed the island of all snakes. With that is meant, the
casting out ofall heathen, nature religious beliefs. For example, in those
days, when a druid was dedicated, he was tattooed with a snake
 
He founded convents, schools and churches in Ireland, and carried out his
missionary work 30 full years, until his death. He died in Country Down,
where he supposedly spent 40 days without food and water.
 
 
 
 

                                   Partnering With God 

AND THERE was a famine in the land... Then Isaac sowed seed in that land and received in the same year a hundred times as much as he had planted, and the Lord favored him with blessings. And the man became great and gained more and more until he became very wealthy and distinguished; He owned flocks, herds, and a great supply of servants, and the Philistines envied him." (Genesis 26:1a,12-14)

We said in my
last message that the instructions Isaac received from God contradicted reason. He was to stay in the land despite the difficult conditions. What followed is a beautiful example of what happens when we partner with God to bring His covenant and His influence to bear on our circumstances.

"For we are laborers together with God...." (1 Corinthians 3:9)

Isaac planted at least one crop (maybe more!) when all around him farmers were failing. As he did, God put his "super" on Isaac's "natural," multiplying the results. Notice that Isaac didn't "camp" in the land and do nothing, waiting for God to miraculously provide. Instead, he "occupied" the land and engaged in business. This, my friend, is how to partner with God.

Isn't it fun that after it says he received a multiplication of results, the Scripture then says, "...and God favored him with blessings..."?! Most of us would've been happy with great business results, but God's plan was bigger than that. By making Isaac a person of great influence, God was able to get the attention of the neighbors. Later in the chapter we find out that they came begging for partnership with Isaac because they saw that God was with him.

Friends, in every so-called "downturn" there are those who excel. If you're under pressure today, make God your partner. Allow the pressure to increase your capacity. God wants to bring His influence to bear on your circumstances and on your sphere. It's time for believers to occupy the "mountain" of business. This may very well your season for it!

David G. Johnson
of Epiphany Marketing, LLC

 
 

Better Than I Thought!

 

Suggested Bible Reading

"You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot. "You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.

-Matthew 5:13-16 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth. ... You are the light of the world."

-Matthew 5:13,14 (NRSV)

WHEN our weekly Bible class ends, several of us usually gather for coffee and discussion. Last Wednesday the conversation turned to self-image. To my surprise, several persons in the group admitted to often feeling down on themselves.

I was surprised because I, too, often experience such feelings of inadequacy and inferiority. Too often these assail me at inopportune times, leaving me wrapped in despair. I had not realized, however, that my classmates had similar experiences.

One of our group began to speak. "I often feel real low and despairing," she said, "but then I recall what God thinks of me - 'You are the salt of the earth. ... You are the light of the world.'" What a great outlook! Of course God has a high estimate of us - and tells us so in scripture! God made us, and so God loves us. God listens to our prayers and answers them. We are significant players in God's work in our part of the world.

We do well to remember Jesus' words: "You are the salt of the earth. ... You are the light of the world."

Melvin Lukenbach (Minnesota, USA)

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for loving us, for guiding us through life's pitfalls, and for strengthening us in uncertain times. Amen.

                                       


                                                                      Rekindling the Fire 
 

                                             John 10:10

The Lord created us to live passionately for Him. In that way, we enjoy the blessings of an intimate relationship with our Creator. But there are other benefits as well. Just as the warmth and beauty of flames draw people toward the fireplace, God also uses our passion to draw others to Himself.

So, not just for our own sake but also for the sake of others, we must be careful not to let our fervor toward God fade. Thankfully, the indwelling Holy Spirit nudges believers who start to head in the wrong direction. If you sense this to be the case, you can take several steps to realign yourself with Him.

First, evaluate where you are spiritually--ask God whether your fire has grown cold. Second, acknowledge any distance you have allowed to separate you from your heavenly Father, and repent. Third, refocus your attention on Jesus; meditate on how He teaches His followers to live. Spend quality time in Scripture daily, asking the Lord to speak to you through His Word. Pray, not by using fancy words but by crying out earnestly and seeking God's face. Fourth, rely upon the Holy Spirit to guide you back to an intimate and exciting relationship with the Father. Finally, love and serve God by worshiping Him and reaching out to others.

What occupies your time and attention? Do your thoughts and conversation tend to revolve around worldly topics or the things of God? If your fire for Christ has dwindled, take the necessary steps today to renew your passion. Living closely with Him is well worth the effort and discipline. 

By Dr Charles Stanley

A Perfect Example

Suggested Bible Reading

As God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

-Colossians 3:12-17 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture
Jesus said, "I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you."

-John 13:15 (NRSV)

IT was my nephew's first birthday. As we looked on, his mother placed him into a new sandbox where he felt cool sand between his toes for the first time. As he gazed at toy tools he had never seen before, I placed a little yellow pail in front of him, picked up a bright red shovel, and put a scoop of sand into the pail.

He began to copy my actions. With the jerky movements of one not yet adept at motor skills, he was shoveling sand into the pail just as he had seen me do. At that moment I realized the importance of our actions as Christians. Demonstrating God's work in and through our everyday actions is one of the simplest yet most significant ways each of us - no matter our life situation - can point others to Christ.

God has not left us to undertake this great responsibility alone. God has given us the perfect example to follow in the life of Jesus. God is with us. We can pray for strength and guidance to love and care for those whom we encounter each day. This extends the blessings God has bestowed on us to others so that they too may know God's love.

Paula Scott (New York, USA)

Prayer

Dear God, strengthen and guide us today. May our thoughts, words, and actions testify to our love for you. Amen

                                                        

                                                        Rise Up!

READ: John 20:1-8,19-20

1Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. 2So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don't know where they have put him!"

 3So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. 4Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. 5He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. 6Then Simon Peter, who was behind him, arrived and went into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, 7as well as the burial cloth that had been around Jesus' head. The cloth was folded up by itself, separate from the linen. 8Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed.

19On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" 20After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.


You, being dead in your trespasses, . . . He has made alive together with Him. —Colossians 2:13


On February 6, 1958, a chartered plane carrying most of the members of the English football (soccer) club Manchester United crashed on takeoff from Munich, Germany. With so many of their star players lost, some despaired over prospects for the club’s survival. Yet today it is one of the best-known teams in the world. Fittingly, the man who rebuilt the team, Matt Busby, survived the crash himself.

Nearly 2,000 years ago, Jesus’ arrest and subsequent crucifixion caused many of His followers to despair. The disciples themselves had lost hope. But their despondency evaporated on that first Easter morning when they found that the stone sealing the tomb had been moved aside (John 20:1). Jesus had risen!

Jesus soon appeared to Mary Magdalene (vv.11-16) and then to His disciples, who had gathered behind locked doors (v.19). His visit brought a remarkable change in them. As one version renders it, they were “overjoyed” (v.20 NIV).

Perhaps your world has crashed around you. It may be a deeply personal loss, a tragedy in your family, or some other great trial. Jesus’ resurrection proved that He is greater than the greatest obstacles. He can rebuild your life—as He did with His disciples—starting today.  — C. P. Hia

He rose! And with Him hope arose, and life and light.
Men said, “Not Christ, but death, died yesternight.”
And joy and truth and all things virtuous
Rose when He rose. —Anon.

God can turn any difficulty into an opportunity.

The Food We Need

 

Suggested Bible Reading

When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, "Rabbi, when did you come here?" Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For it is on him that God the Father has set his seal." Then they said to him, "What must we do to perform the works of God?" Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent." So they said to him, "What sign are you going to give us then, so that we may see it and believe you? What work are you performing? Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat.'" Then Jesus said to them, "Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." They said to him, "Sir, give us this bread always."

-John 6:25-34 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.

-John 6:33 (NIV)

WHEN I was young, my mom labeled the birds that came to our feeder as "desirable" or "undesirable." She liked the beautiful little birds and disliked the large plain ones. Yet all the birds found good nutrition at the common bird feeder. When the days were cold, then all the birds, little and big, pretty and plain, would come to get the food they needed.

People of all sorts come to Christ for the food they need to survive. But sometimes people think of themselves as undesirable, as though they somehow don't measure up. Other times people see themselves as desirable, healthy, having friends, blessed. But all people, at all times, can find the sustenance they need in Christ. Christ is here to nourish us.

When we are in need - whether we feel desirable or undesirable - Christ offers us a love that heals, a vision that directs, mercy that renews. When we depend on him and experience the energy of God's Spirit flowing through us, no matter how others see us or how we see ourselves, we can know that we are precious in the eyes of the One who made us.

Jonathan Scott (Connecticut, USA)

Prayer

O God, be with us no matter how we feel about ourselves. Remind us that in Christ we find the love and grace we need to carry on. In Jesus' name. Amen.

                                                       

 

                                                        The Great Storyteller

                                                        READ: Luke 15:11-24

 11Jesus continued: "There was a man who had two sons. 12The younger one said to his father, 'Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them.

 13"Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

 17"When he came to his senses, he said, 'How many of my father's hired men have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired men.' 20So he got up and went to his father.
      "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

 21"The son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.[a]'

 22"But the father said to his servants, 'Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let's have a feast and celebrate. 24For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.' So they began to celebrate.


Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them. —Matthew 13:34


In his book Teacher Man, Pulitzer Prize-winner Frank McCourt reflects on his 30 years as a teacher in New York City high schools. He used a variety of techniques in his English and creative writing classes, but one that seemed to surface again and again was the power of a compelling story to capture attention and encourage learning.

This method of instruction was used by the greatest Teacher of all—the Lord Jesus Christ. The scholarly religious leader Nicodemus said to Jesus, “We know that You are a teacher come from God” (John 3:2). Yet when Jesus addressed the crowds that followed Him, He didn’t recite great truths of the Talmud. Rather, He spoke with the homespun style of a storyteller.

The parables of Jesus endure because they showcase matters of the heart. Through the story of the Pharisee and tax collector (Luke 18), we learn about God’s grace and forgiveness. And the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15) showcases God’s love for repentant sinners.

The inspired parables of Jesus teach us about Him and the life He wants us to lead. We too can use our faith-stories to point others to the ultimate Storyteller and Teacher, whose own life is the greatest story ever told.  — Dennis Fisher

Take control of my words today,
May they tell of Your great love;
And may the story of Your grace
Turn some heart to You above. —Sees

A good way to learn God’s truth is to teach it to others.

February 3, 2009
Brokenness: The Plan
1 Thessalonians 5:21-23 

Humans are born "bent away" from the Lord. Our natural inclination is to please and serve self, which is the opposite of a Godhonoring lifestyle. When we become believers, our Father begins to bend our will and ways back towards Him. But we must cooperate with Him and yield to the process; otherwise, we are of little use to the kingdom. 

The Lord wants to eradicate every thought pattern and activity promoting dependency on anything other than Him. This means that relying on oneself to attain security, salvation, or physical and emotional comfort are outside His will. Actions that advance a person at the expense of others are also ungodly. 

In areas where we resist bending toward the Lord, He may break us by allowing pain into our life. As a result, we are driven to Him in surrender. To break a person may sound harsh, but God does this work in love. He sees beyond the hurt to the outcome--we will be more mature and faithful servants for having walked through trial. And our loving Father takes each hard step with us, offering guidance and comfort. Seeing the benefits He has brought about through my hardships, I can honestly thank Him for every period of brokenness I've experienced (Romans 8:28). 

The truth is that we all have areas of selfishness that need to be bent or broken by God's hand. When we honestly look inward to discover wrong habits and thought patterns, our heavenly Father will bring them to mind. Then, we must surrender to His work so we can become wise and useful servants. By Dr Charles Stanley

A Loving Father

 

Suggested Bible Reading

You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust." For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly pestilence; he will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler. You will not fear the terror of the night, or the arrow that flies by day, or the pestilence that stalks in darkness, or the destruction that wastes at noonday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only look with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD your refuge, the Most High your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent. For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot. Those who love me, I will deliver; I will protect those who know my name. When they call to me, I will answer them; I will be with them in trouble, I will rescue them and honor them. With long life I will satisfy them, and show them my salvation.

-Psalm 91 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

-Ephesians 6:4 (NRSV)

ABOUT a year ago I had a problem with anyone who had authority over me. I refused to listen to my parents, schoolteachers, or principals. I would do and say things just because I knew it offended them. One day my father sat me down and talked to me. He asked me if something had happened to upset me. Then he quoted scriptures to show me the problems with my behavior.

Despite this, I told him that I didn't care and that I wanted him to leave me alone to figure things out for myself. Yet my dad took his job as a parent very seriously. He told me that he loved me and that as my parent he had a responsibility to correct me and show me the right way.

What my dad said to me made me stop and think about what I was doing. I had no reason to be angry; I wasn't accomplishing anything by offending others; and I was only hurting myself. I was destroying my relationships, and I was making myself miserable for no real reason.

Soon I realized that those who correct me actually care for me and want what is best for me. I realized too that God is the same way. God places people like my dad in our lives to help show us the way.

Bradley Gerberich (Pennsylvania, USA)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for those who offer us guidance and protection. Thank you for loving us and wanting what is best for us. Amen.

People of Light

 

Suggested Bible Reading

For once you were darkness, but now in the Lord you are light. Live as children of light-- for the fruit of the light is found in all that is good and right and true. Try to find out what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what such people do secretly; but everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for everything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it says, "Sleeper, awake! Rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise, making the most of the time, because the days are evil. So do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

-Ephesians 5:8-20 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Since you have become the Lord's people, you are in the light. So you must live like people who belong to the light.

-Ephesians 5:8 (TEV)

DRIVING to work, I passed a small roadside pond filled with muddy water. Assorted litter surrounded it. What caught my eye, though, was the sun shining on the gorgeous pair of ducks floating in the middle of the pond. In the midst of garbage but surrounded by sunlight, these two beautiful creatures didn't seem at all perturbed.

If only we could be like those ducks! In a perfect world, there would be no garbage or trash; but sadly, our world is not perfect. Negativity, temptation, and downright ugliness are all around.

How can we reflect God's light in this imperfect world? By making God the center of our lives, we can resist temptations and concentrate on developing a spirit of grace, love, and goodness that radiates to everyone we meet. We will never achieve perfection, but by doing the best we can to live the way of Jesus Christ, we can be a shining example to others in an otherwise tarnished world.

Janet Kerns (Virginia, USA)

Prayer

Light of the faithful, help us to keep you at the center of our lives so we may always be spiritually grounded and model faithful living in our sometimes-dark world. Amen.

Murphy’s Laws

READ: Exodus 20:1-17

 1 And God spoke all these words:

 2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

 3 "You shall have no other gods before [a] me.

 4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. 5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, 6 but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.

 7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

 8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. 11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

 12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.

 13 "You shall not murder.

 14 "You shall not commit adultery.

 15 "You shall not steal.

 16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.

 17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor." 

You shall have no other gods before Me. —Exodus 20:3


Murphy’s Laws are observations about life that seem to have the weight of experience behind them. You’ve probably heard this one: “If anything can go wrong, it will.” Here’s another one: “You can’t do just one thing; everything has its consequences.” 

My own experience seems to confirm many of Murphy’s Laws, but it’s that second one that I would hang on the wall as a motto. Wrong choices have their consequences. For example, if we choose to live for pleasure, that will affect our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren (Ex. 20:4-5). If we walk away from God, we may discover that our children have taken that trip with us. Later, even if we return to Him, they may not. 

But there is also good news. Devotion to the Lord has its consequences too. Men and women who live in faith before God can have a strong influence on their children and their children’s children. If they live a long life, they can witness the effect their faith has had on several generations. What satisfaction it brings to older people to see their posterity living for Christ! 

Murphy and the Bible agree on this point: “Everything has its consequences.”  — Haddon W. Robinson

If you sow seeds of wickedness,
Sin’s harvest you will reap;
But scattered seeds of righteousness
Yield blessings you can keep. —Sper 

People who follow Christ lead others in the right direction

Our Riches in Christ
Romans 8:28-30

Yesterday we began looking at the riches of grace that are ours in Christ. As we did, we began to see how truly wealthy we are. We have been chosen, redeemed, justified, united with God, and made citizens of heaven. But there is even more to include on our list.

Jesus told the disciples that His departure  would actually benefit His followers--then He could send the third member of the Trinity to indwell each believer (John 16:7). Upon salvation, we are given the Holy Spirit, who seals us as God's child, comforts us in our pain, and teaches us how to live righteous lives.

Through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, we are becoming increasingly like Jesus, which is another blessing from the Lord. His Spirit transforms us from the inside out and produces godly fruit in our life (Gal. 5:22-23). He also empowers us to choose righteous living and break unholy habits.

Another amazing blessing for Christians is access to the throne of grace. At any time, we can enter into God's presence through prayer and worship. Resurrection and glorification are two other treasures for the child of God. Just as the Savior's body was resurrected, our bodies will likewise be raised; in heaven, they will be made perfect, and we will be free from sin's presence forever.

Our wealth in Christ far surpasses anything this world offers. Don't let yourself be seduced by earthly thinking which values comfort and pleasure above all else. Instead, treasure who you are in Christ and what you have been given. When you do, peace and contentment will become yours.  By Dr Charles Stanley

Supersize It

READ: Isaiah 6:1-10

1 In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. 3 And they were calling to one another:
       "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty;
       the whole earth is full of his glory."

 4 At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke.

 5 "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty."

 6 Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for."

 8 Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?"
      And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"

 9 He said, "Go and tell this people:
       " 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding;
       be ever seeing, but never perceiving.'

 10 Make the heart of this people calloused;
       make their ears dull
       and close their eyes. [a]
       Otherwise they might see with their eyes,
       hear with their ears,
       understand with their hearts,
       and turn and be healed."


In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. —Isaiah 6:1


After you placed your food order at a popular fast food restaurant, the cashiers used to ask that famous question: “Would you like to supersize that?” In essence, they were asking the customers if they wanted more of what they were already getting. 

In a similar way, when we come into God’s presence, I believe He asks us: “Would you like to enlarge your understanding of Me today?” 

Isaiah had one such experience with God. Through a painful event in his life, Isaiah saw the Lord “high and lifted up” (Isa. 6:1). Through this encounter, God supersized Isaiah’s understanding of His holiness. He saw God’s complete moral excellence that unifies His attributes. 

God also enlarged Isaiah’s realization of his own sin (v.5). This led to an expansion of his understanding of God’s complete forgiveness and cleansing (vv.6-7). Only when Isaiah understood the depth of his sin could he appreciate and accept forgiveness and cleansing from God.  

Finally, his encounter with God led to Isaiah’s declaration of availability and commitment to reach out to others and to help them increase their understanding of God (vv.8-9). 

Let’s ask God to supersize our understanding of His greatness today.  — Marvin Williams 

Oh, I want to know You, blessed Lord,
Better than I’ve ever known before!
In Your Word I read of Your great purpose—
Help me understand it more and more. —Hess
 

Knowing about God is fascinating. Knowing God personally is life-changing.

The God Of Victory

READ: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17

14But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. 15For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. 16To the one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life. And who is equal to such a task? 17Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, like men sent from God.


Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. —Romans 12:21


In Greek mythology, Nike was the goddess of victory. Nike fought on the side of the Olympian gods, gaining a victory over the mighty Titans. As a result, she became a symbol of winning. But Nike’s alleged powers were not just limited to warfare. She also became a favorite goddess of athletes who wanted to win in competitive sports. The Romans adopted her into their worship and gave her the Latin name Victoria.

In the Greco-Roman world where Paul taught, victory was highly valued. So when he expressed Christian truth, he used words his audience could understand. In his letters, he described Christ as the One who leads us in a military procession of triumph (2 Cor. 2:14-17) and compared the Christian life to someone training for the ancient Olympic games (1 Cor. 9:24-27).

Paul also used the word for victory in reference to our struggles with those who intentionally hurt us. “Overcome [be a victor over] evil with good” (Rom. 12:21). This may mean returning kindness for spite or respectfully setting limits on evil behavior. In either case, an attitude of love cannot be generated in our own strength. But in Christ, we have divine power that ancient pagans could only hope for. Jesus Christ is the genuine God of victory.  — Dennis Fisher

Through trials we learn to overcome,
Through Christ our victories are won;
Come lay your burdens at His feet
And find this inner peace so sweet. —Halsey

God will give us the victory when we join Him in the fight.

The Beginning of Wisdom

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be boastful and false to the truth. Such wisdom does not come down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, devilish. For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and wickedness of every kind. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy.

-James 3:13-17 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

-Hebrews 12:28 (KJV)

AS a child, I loved the story of King Solomon's dream (1 Kings 3:4-15). At the beginning of Solomon's reign, the Lord appeared to him and offered him anything he asked for. Rather than wealth, Solomon asked for wisdom. This choice fascinated me. I resolved that if God gave me such a dream, I would surely ask for wisdom rather than riches.

Later, as an adult, when I read the account for myself, I was surprised to discover that Solomon didn't ask for wisdom exactly. He asked for a "discerning heart ... to distinguish between right and wrong" (1 Kings 3:9, NIV). Still, I desired wisdom but was confused about exactly what wisdom is and how we get it.

Proverbs tells us, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (9:10). Only later did I make the connection between this awe and wisdom. I realized then the way reverence for the Lord would lead us to do some things and keep us from doing others. According to James 3:13, the wise lead a "good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom" (NIV). Reverence for the Lord puts us in our place as human beings and guides us to proper action.

Anne Somanas (Bangkok, Thailand)

Prayer

Holy and wise God, teach us humility that comes from revering you, that it may guide our actions. Amen.

No Reason to Fear

 

Suggested Bible Reading

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul. He leads me in right paths for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff--they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD my whole life long.

-Psalm 23 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The psalmist wrote, "Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me."

-Psalm 23:4 (NRSV)

WHEN I was a youngster, walking alone down the gravel road by our house on dark winter evenings was frightening. As I moved past our filbert orchard, my imagination would kick into high gear. I thought about the possibility of some person or animal coming out to attack me. Any unusual sound was a major concern. But I felt absolutely no fear walking that road when my father was with me.

Jesus recognized the potential for fear in the hearts of his followers. Many times the Gospel writers portray Jesus telling his disciples not to be afraid. Sometimes Jesus was referring to a current situation, while other times he was talking about future circumstances. What comfort they must have felt when he reminded his followers, "I am with you always" (Matt. 28:20).

We live in a dangerous world with much that can engender fear. God never promised that we will be delivered from all the hazards and adversities of life. But even though the roads of life may be dark and threatening, God has promised to be with us along them all. What a difference knowing that makes!

Duane Ulleland (Washington, USA)

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for your promise to be with us always. Give us the faith to trust you and to walk courageously with you through all our days. Amen.

On The Wing

READ: Matthew 10:27-31

27What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. 30And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. —Matthew 10:31


In his book On the Wing, Alan Tennant chronicles his efforts to track the migration of the peregrine falcon. Valued for their beauty, swiftness, and power, these amazing birds of prey were favorite hunting companions of emperors and nobility.

Sadly, the wide use of the pesticide DDT in the 1950s interfered with their reproductive cycle and placed them on the endangered species list.

Interested in the recovery of this species, Tennant attached transmitters to a select number of falcons to track their migration patterns. But when he and his pilot flew their Cessna behind the birds, they repeatedly lost signal from the transmitters. Despite their advanced technology, they were not always able to track the birds they wanted to help.

It’s good to know that the God who cares for us never loses track of us. In fact, Jesus said that not even one sparrow “falls to the ground apart from [God’s] will. . . . Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Matt. 10:29-31).

When we face difficult circumstances, fear may cause us to wonder if God is aware of our situation. Jesus’ teaching assures us that God cares deeply and is in control. His tracking of our lives will never fail.  — Dennis Fisher

I would tell the Lord my longings,
Roll on Him my every care;
Cast upon Him all my burdens,
Burdens that I cannot bear. —Weigle

If God cares for birds, will He not care for His children?

Rest

 

Suggested Bible Reading

For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken. On God rests my deliverance and my honor; my mighty rock, my refuge is in God. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us. [Selah]

-Psalm 62:5-8 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

[The LORD] makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.

-Psalm 23:23 (NRSV)

MY dad invited me to spend part of my vacation with the family on one of our country's beautiful beaches. I was busy working on term papers, focusing my time and energy on finishing school projects. On the other hand, time at the beach would be a good opportunity to get away from the stress. As I tried to look forward to vacation, everything that I needed to do when I returned to school was constantly on my mind.

When I arrived at the most beautiful beach I had ever seen - which was empty, as if God had reserved it solely for my family - I remembered that from the beginning of time, God commanded rest for us. God knows that our bodies and souls can be taxed and overwhelmed. Sometimes we refuse to take time for ourselves because we feel the time is wasted. We forget that in times of rest, we find our strength in the Lord.

At the end of the trip, I realized that God has offered us times of rest not only to get away and relax but also to open our hearts, to pray, and to read God's word. In these moments, we can truly experience the presence and the wonders of the God of life.

Lina Fernanda Montoya (Cali, Colombia)

Prayer

Loving God, in the midst of everyday toil and stress, help us to find spiritual rest in your presence. Amen.

Out of Our Abundance

Suggested Bible Reading

The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work. As it is written,"He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures forever." He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, which will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry not only supplies the needs of the saints but also overflows with many thanksgivings to God.

-2 Corinthians 9:6-12 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

-2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV)

RECENTLY my wife's 102-year-old uncle died. At his funeral his family and friends remarked about his simple-yet-happy life. He always had a roof over his head, clothes to wear, and enough to eat and drink. That's all Uncle Ernie wanted. His example made me consider how we are unwilling to acknowledge the difference between what we need and what we want.

Jesus said we should not store up treasure on earth because, if we do, then that is where our hearts will be. (See Matt. 6:19-21.) John wrote that if we do not share our possessions, God is not in us. (See 1 John 3:17-19.) Uncle Ernie did not share a lot of possessions because he did not have many. But he always shared his time by listening to other people's stories and troubles and helping in any way he could.

Many of us spend time pursuing entertainment, recreation, or relaxation. We are not willing to spend time helping those who are lonely, physically or spiritually sick, or in prison. Jesus did not ask us to share the time or possessions we need, only the extras that exist between what we need and what we have. Jesus said that if we love our neighbor, we love God.

Patrick Reardon (Texas, USA)

Prayer

Dear God, we have so much more than we need! Help us to share with others. Amen.

The King

READ: Revelation 17:9-14

 9"This calls for a mind with wisdom. The seven heads are seven hills on which the woman sits. 10They are also seven kings. Five have fallen, one is, the other has not yet come; but when he does come, he must remain for a little while. 11The beast who once was, and now is not, is an eighth king. He belongs to the seven and is going to his destruction.

 12"The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast. 13They have one purpose and will give their power and authority to the beast. 14They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers."

These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings. —Revelation 17:14


It might be surprising how many people around the world know that today is Elvis Presley’s birthday. The enduring popularity of the singer from Mississippi spans generations and cultures. More than 30 years after his death, sales of Presley’s music, memorabilia, and licensing agreements generate millions of dollars in annual income. Once dubbed “The King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis is often called simply, “The King.”

Whether the “kings” of this world are celebrities, athletes, crowned heads, or tycoons, they come and go. Their influence may be immense and their followers fanatically loyal, but it doesn’t last forever.

The Bible, however, refers to Jesus Christ as the eternal King. Revelation 17 speaks prophetically of earthly kings who will fight to establish their authority at the end of the ages. Biblical scholars have debated the identities of these kings, but there is no mistake about the One they cannot overpower: “These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings; and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful” (Rev. 17:14).

Jesus Christ the Lord is King, and He will reign forever.  — David C. McCasland

The King of kings and Lord of lords,
Who reigns today within our heart,
Will one day bring His peace on earth—
A kingdom that will not depart. —Sper

There is no greater privilege than to be a subject of the King of kings

Good Measure

Suggested Bible Reading

If you will only obey the LORD your God, by diligently observing all his commandments that I am commanding you today, the LORD your God will set you high above all the nations of the earth; all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the LORD your God:

Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the field.

Blessed shall be the fruit of your womb, the fruit of your ground, and the fruit of your livestock, both the increase of your cattle and the issue of your flock.

Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl.

Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.

The LORD will cause your enemies who rise against you to be defeated before you; they shall come out against you one way, and flee before you seven ways.

The LORD will command the blessing upon you in your barns, and in all that you undertake; he will bless you in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.

The LORD will establish you as his holy people, as he has sworn to you, if you keep the commandments of the LORD your God and walk in his ways. All the peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you. The LORD will make you abound in prosperity, in the fruit of your womb, in the fruit of your livestock, and in the fruit of your ground in the land that the LORD swore to your ancestors to give you.

The LORD will open for you his rich storehouse, the heavens, to give the rain of your land in its season and to bless all your undertakings. You will lend to many nations, but you will not borrow. The LORD will make you the head, and not the tail; you shall be only at the top, and not at the bottom--if you obey the commandments of the LORD your God, which I am commanding you today, by diligently observing them, and if you do not turn aside from any of the words that I am commanding you today, either to the right or to the left, following other gods to serve them.

-Deuteronomy 28:1-14 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.

-Luke 6:38 (NIV)

GOD admonishes us to give. As a teen, I gave 10 percent of what I earned. But things changed when I married. Money was tight; and though we gave, we didn't tithe. At a church service, the Lord spoke to my husband and me. After admitting that we were not following the Bible's standard, we began to tithe. At first we were scared. What if we couldn't pay our bills? Then we realized that God had stretched our meager funds to cover our expenses.

Later we attended a missions conference and learned that God blesses both those who give out of deep poverty and those who give out of their abundance. We committed to giving by faith. Through the years, the Lord used other people to bless us with garden-fresh produce, homemade breads, flowers, clothing, and money.

Since God loves cheerful givers, we look for those who need a blessing and find joy in sharing with them. God amazes us: God always gives back to us more than we give to others.

Joyce Webster (Tokyo, Japan)

Prayer

O God, thank you for allowing us to give to you and to those in need. Give us hearts as generous as yours. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Monday December 22
Immanuel -- God Is With Us 

Matthew 1:18-25

Names have great significance in the Bible. Jesus was called Messiah in Hebrew, which is translated as Christ in Greek. The terms both pointed to Him as an anointed One who would become King. Immanuel was another important name He was given. It means "God with us" (Matt. 1:23).

To understand the difference it makes to have God with us, consider how this blessing affected three biblical leaders. First of all, the Lord's presence was the reason Moses repeatedly approached Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelite slaves--God's promise enabled him to overcome his fear (Ex. 3:12).

Second, after Moses' death, Joshua was appointed to take Israel into the Promised Land. Imagine what it meant to this new leader to realize that the Father was always near. As commander, Joshua would face many challenges, including travel, combat, and rebellion. He could be a courageous leader because he knew that the Lord would never leave him.

Third, as a young shepherd boy and later as king, David knew the Lord's presence well (1 Sam17:37; 2 Sam. 7:18). In Psalm 23, he wrote that in his darkest times, he would not fear evil because God was with him.

Our Father has pledged to be with all those whom He has redeemed (Isa. 43:1-2). If you have received Jesus as your personal Savior, then His Holy Spirit dwells within you. No matter what happens in your life, God remains with you to strengthen, guide, and comfort. By Dr Charles Stanley

Discovery

READ: 1 Corinthians 2:6-16

6We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. 7No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. 8None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9However, as it is written:
   "No eye has seen,
      no ear has heard,
   no mind has conceived
   what God has prepared for those who love him"— 10but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.
      The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. 11For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. 12We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. 13This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words. 14The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15The spiritual man makes judgments about all things, but he himself is not subject to any man's judgment:
 16"For who has known the mind of the Lord
      that he may instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

God has revealed them to us through His Spirit. —1 Corinthians 2:10


Imagine Christmas morning without wrapping paper! The joy would be short-lived, for much of the excitement is the anticipation of finding out what’s in the package.

Apparently God created us with a “normal” setting that causes us to enjoy the process of discovery, because finding something is often more exciting than having it. That is, after all, why we wrap presents.

Many passages in Scripture allude to this concept. In Proverbs we read of wisdom: “Those who seek me diligently will find me” (8:17). And the prophet Jeremiah wrote of the Lord: “You will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (29:13).

God could have revealed all truth to all people at the very beginning of time, but He chose to reveal Himself gradually (1 Cor. 2:7-8). Perhaps that’s because we value things more when we have to search and wait for them.

God is not playing a cruel game of hide-and-seek. He is allowing us to enjoy the process of discovering who He is and what He is up to in the universe.

So don’t be discouraged over what you don’t know about God. Be excited about unwrapping all there is yet to discover.  — Julie Ackerman Link

More about Jesus let me learn,
More of His holy will discern;
Spirit of God, my teacher be,
Showing the things of Christ to me. —Hewitt


 

God’s gift of Himself to us is a present we will always be unwrapping.

The Task Remains

READ: Psalm 112

 1 Praise the LORD.  
       Blessed is the man who fears the LORD,
       who finds great delight in his commands.

 2 His children will be mighty in the land;
       the generation of the upright will be blessed.

 3 Wealth and riches are in his house,
       and his righteousness endures forever.

 4 Even in darkness light dawns for the upright,
       for the gracious and compassionate and righteous man.

 5 Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely,
       who conducts his affairs with justice.

 6 Surely he will never be shaken;
       a righteous man will be remembered forever.

 7 He will have no fear of bad news;
       his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

 8 His heart is secure, he will have no fear;
       in the end he will look in triumph on his foes.

 9 He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor,
       his righteousness endures forever;
       his horn will be lifted high in honor.

 10 The wicked man will see and be vexed,
       he will gnash his teeth and waste away;
       the longings of the wicked will come to nothing.


He will not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord. —Psalm 112:7

Our life had always been rather simple. When my wife and I were first married, we were not looking for riches or fame—just a way to glorify God with whatever He gave us to do. In all arenas of our life, that purpose stayed clear. As our children grew and I began working at RBC Ministries, our goal continued to center around glorifying God.

But then, in 2002, came bad news of the worst kind. Our third child, 17-year-old Melissa, was unexpectedly ushered into heaven. Suddenly, we were forced to rethink things. Could we, in our new identity as bereaved parents, still find a way to glorify God? Or did this unbearable circumstance alter our perspective and goal?

We’ve spent a lot of time pondering that question. When the One you’ve entrusted with your children allows one of them to be taken, it would be easy to stop trusting, serving, and pointing others to God. But the psalmist’s words showed us the way. He said that the person who fears God “will never be shaken . . . . His heart is steadfast” (Ps. 112:6-7). And so we—and you, no matter what you are facing—can continue to be “steadfast, trusting in the Lord.”

Even in the face of “evil tidings,” the task remains: Glorify God.  — Dave Branon

Griefs bravely borne may serve Him
And richly glorify,
As quiet waters mirror
The beauty of the sky. —Nicholson


 

Trust through sorrow brings triumph over sadness.

Monday December 15
God-Pleasing Generosity 

2 Corinthians 8:1-7

Paul's second letter to the Corinthian church praises the Macedonian believers at Philippi for their generosity. Despite deep poverty and great troubles, they desired to bless others materially. From their example, we know God is pleased when we give . . . 

1. According to divine revelation. The Lord has revealed in Scripture how we are to live. He wants us to base our decisions on biblical principles rather than on our own thinking. Looking solely at a paycheck or bank balance before determining the size of a donation is relying on "self," not trusting God.

2. Out of our need. The Macedonians were poor, but they didn't let that keep them from contributing. They gave out of the little they had. The widow who gave her last two copper coins was praised for her offering to the Lord (Mark 12:42-44). We don't need to have extra money in order to give.

3. To those who spiritually nourish us. The Bible tells us to bring our gifts to the local church, where it can be used to further
God's work. The apostle Paul and others were able to evangelize because of the support provided by the church in Jerusalem. Recognizing that they owed those believers a debt, the Macedonian Christians desired to give something back.

Human reasoning tells us that we cannot part with our funds when debt seems too large or income too small. But the Scriptures tell us to trust the Lord to provide for our needs (Phil. 4:19)--and to give generously. Are you living according to these principles? By Dr Charles Stanley

December 11, 2008
Preaching Like PeterActs 2:14-36

Peter's first sermon takes less than three minutes to recite. Sharing the gospel doesn't need to be complicated or lengthy. In fact, Peter's message contains a formula we can use to outline our own testimonies.

Preparation. The disciple relied heavily on the Scriptures to make his case for Christ. But Peter knew there was another important element--after being miraculously enabled to proclaim the gospel in multiple languages, he must have realized the significance of the Holy Spirit. No matter how persuasive a man's message is, only the Spirit can open the door to unbelieving hearts and minds.

The Savior's Credentials and Purpose. Peter identified Jesus as God's Son. He cited the "miracles and wonders and signs" that validated Him as the promised Messiah (Acts 2:22). Then the disciple made clear Jesus' foreordained mission on earth: to die for mankind's sin. Christ willingly submitted to the task assigned by His Father.

A Personal Invitation. Peter wasn't shy about convicting the hearts of his audience. "This Man . . . you nailed to a cross," he said (v. 23). The new preacher made sure listeners knew their responsibility in the Messiah's death, but then gave the exciting news that Christ was alive. Those who believed were invited to repent and be baptized in Jesus' name. No gospel message is complete without telling people how they, too, can be saved.

Witnessing to others can be intimidating. But if you are prayerful and prepared, sharing your faith will be rewarding, regardless of the outcome. By Dr Charles Stanley

Sin Crouches At The Door

READ: Genesis 4:1-16

4:1

Adam lay with his wife Eve, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Cain. She said, "With the help of the Lord I have brought forth a man."

4:2

Later she gave birth to his brother Abel. Now Abel kept flocks, and Cain worked the soil.

4:3

In the course of time Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord.

4:4

But Abel brought fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering,

4:5

but on Cain and his offering he did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry, and his face was downcast.

4:6

Then the Lord said to Cain, "Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast?

4:7

If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it."

4:8

Now Cain said to his brother Abel, "Let's go out to the field." And while they were in the field, Cain attacked his brother Abel and killed him.

4:9

Then the Lord said to Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" "I don't know," he replied. "Am I my brother's keeper?"

4:10

The Lord said, "What have you done? Listen! Your brother's blood cries out to me from the ground.

4:11

Now you are under a curse and driven from the ground, which opened its mouth to receive your brother's blood from your hand.

4:12

When you work the ground, it will no longer yield its crops for you. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth."

4:13

Cain said to the Lord, "My punishment is more than I can bear.

4:14

Today you are driving me from the land, and I will be hidden from your presence; I will be a restless wanderer on the earth, and whoever finds me will kill me."

4:15

But the Lord said to him, "Not so; if anyone kills Cain, he will suffer vengeance seven times over." Then the Lord put a mark on Cain so that no one who found him would kill him.

4:16

So Cain went out from the Lord's presence and lived in the land of Nod (the land of wandering), east of Eden.


Sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it. —Genesis 4:7

The award-winning author John Steinbeck often used biblical themes in his novels. In his book East of Eden, he describes characters who illustrate the conflict of jealousy and revenge reflected in the story of Cain and Abel. Steinbeck shows how an angry heart burning with revenge doesn’t have to act a certain way. There’s always a choice. 

When Abel’s animal sacrifice received divine favor and Cain’s offering of fruit was rejected, Cain burned with anger (Gen. 4:1-6). But the Lord admonished him, “Sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it” (Gen. 4:7). The original Hebrew words paint the picture of an animal crouching, ready to devour its prey. Cain’s anger and jealousy, if not brought under control, would “eat him up” and spill out in destructive behavior. Tragically, Cain gave in to his evil desires. It resulted in the first homicide and his departure from the presence of the Lord (Gen. 4:8-16). 

Do you have feelings of jealousy or anger toward someone? If so, you have a choice. If you ignore the internal struggle, it will only get worse and control you. But if you bring your anger to the Lord and ask for His help, in His strength you will have victory.  — Dennis Fisher 

When faced with trials from without
Or tempted from within,
Rely upon the Lord for strength
To turn away from sin
. —Sper

Control your anger, or it will control you.

 

 

The Importance of the Bible 
2 Timothy 3:14-17

The importance of Scripture cannot be overstated. It is the source of all truth about God and about ourselves.       

A primary purpose of the Bible is to lead us to salvation. Without the Scriptures, we would never discover that we have a spiritual problem which separates us from the Lord: we are sinners from birth (Rom. 3:23) and have no way to rescue ourselves. The Father wants us to know that Jesus died to save us, and if we accept His sacrifice as payment for our sin-debt, we'll be forgiven. The Word also makes clear that God desires to adopt us into His family so we can live with Him forever. Faith in Christ--not good works--is the one and only means of salvation and eternal life (John 14:6;
Eph. 2:7-8; ). Everyone who believes in the Lord Jesus will be saved (Acts 16:31).

Another purpose of the Bible is to provide instructions on how we are to live. A godly life is characterized by surrender to the Lord's control, submission to His plan, and a daily yielding to the Holy Spirit's guidance (Gal. 2:20). The Scriptures also reveal the Creator's standard for living--namely, what is acceptable behavior and what is not. 

If you earnestly seek to know the Father better and please Him, time spent in His Word will never be wasted. Through it, you will experience both the joy of a personal relationship with God and the power to affect our world for Him. Have you accepted His gift of salvation? If so, how does He manifest His transformational power in your life? By Dr Charles Stanley

Brokenhearted

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Praise the LORD! How good it is to sing praises to our God; for he is gracious, and a song of praise is fitting. The LORD builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the outcasts of Israel. He heals the brokenhearted, and binds up their wounds. He determines the number of the stars; he gives to all of them their names. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure. The LORD lifts up the downtrodden; he casts the wicked to the ground.

Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving; make melody to our God on the lyre. He covers the heavens with clouds, prepares rain for the earth, makes grass grow on the hills. He gives to the animals their food, and to the young ravens when they cry. His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the speed of a runner; but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love.

-Psalm 147:1-11 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

"Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died."

-John 11:21 (NIV)

YEARS ago a malaria epidemic swept the region where I lived. While I was busy treating a little girl who was very sick with malaria, my 22-month old son, Salem, took a few tablets of malaria medicine, chewed them, and swallowed them. A few hours later, he was dead.

Brokenhearted and feeling guilty and confused, I did not forgive myself for years. I wrestled with God and kept asking, "Why?" Through prayer, my family's love, the support of my church, and reading God's word, I have found the way to forgive myself. With this forgiveness has come the healing and joy I need to rear my four remaining children.

In many different ways, people have lost loved ones through accidents. The people responsible for the accidents may suffer from guilt and remorse. Let us forgive them, so that perhaps then they can forgive themselves. Jesus Christ -- the way, the truth, the life, and the resurrection (John 14:6; 11:25) -- is our model in forgiving.

Charlotte Mande Kasongo-Lenge (Western Cape, South Africa)

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for loving us enough to send your son Jesus Christ, who paid the ultimate price for our sin. Help us to forgive ourselves and those who trespass against us. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Beating the Odds

 

Suggested Bible Reading

But Moses said to the LORD, "O my Lord, I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor even now that you have spoken to your servant; but I am slow of speech and slow of tongue." Then the LORD said to him, "Who gives speech to mortals? Who makes them mute or deaf, seeing or blind? Is it not I, the LORD? Now go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what you are to speak."

-Exodus 4:10-12 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.

-1 Peter 4:10 (NRSV)

IN 1985, I read 1 Peter 4:10 while God was in the process of delivering me from a 16-year drug and alcohol addiction. My recovery was rough, but it was the first step to an exciting journey with Christ. I lean on that scripture every day and have not abused drugs or alcohol since.

I understood that this scripture was telling me to serve God in whatever situation God led me to. I was a mechanic back then, so I began telling people that I repaired their cars because scripture told me to. But I had no idea that God had a different plan for my life, a plan I never would have believed - full-time ministry. You see, I was born tongue-tied and with Tourette syndrome. I had only a ninth-grade education. I was a biker with long hair; tattoos covered my arms. In society's eyes, I was not cut out to be a public speaker. But by following God's word, I am now an ordained minister with a bachelor's degree in religion. I am involved in prison ministry, and I travel nationally and internationally telling those in prison how God can change their lives.

I still find it amazing how God can use someone like me. I guess God is still in the business of beating the odds.

Al Paquette (Florida, USA)

Prayer

Lord, help us each day to seek people who are lost. Give us courage to speak a word of hope and comfort from you. Amen.

Watching for God

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Elijah said to Ahab, "Go up, eat and drink; for there is a sound of rushing rain." So Ahab went up to eat and to drink. Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; there he bowed himself down upon the earth and put his face between his knees. He said to his servant, "Go up now, look toward the sea." He went up and looked, and said, "There is nothing." Then he said, "Go again seven times." At the seventh time he said, "Look, a little cloud no bigger than a person's hand is rising out of the sea." Then he said, "Go say to Ahab, 'Harness your chariot and go down before the rain stops you.'" In a little while the heavens grew black with clouds and wind; there was a heavy rain. Ahab rode off and went to Jezreel. But the hand of the LORD was on Elijah; he girded up his loins and ran in front of Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.

-1 Kings 18:41-46 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The seventh time [the servant] said, "Look, a little cloud no bigger than a person's head is rising out of the sea."

-1 Kings 18:44 (NRSV)

FOR three years Israel had been suffering from drought. When Elijah's servant scanned the parched land beneath a cloudless sky, he saw no sign of change. Yet Elijah, praying on Mt. Carmel, insisted rain was near. For the seventh time that day, his servant checked the horizon. When the servant spotted a wisp of cloud, Elijah saw the movement of God and bolted into action. The prophet needed little evidence of God's work because he already expected it.

Thinking about Elijah, I wondered, Would I have sent a storm warning to the king based on a single cloud puff? Not likely. I'd have waited for a mountainous thunderhead to blow in before proclaiming my faith that God was answering prayer. How many times have I overlooked God's handiwork around me because it seemed too small? When I pray about desperate situations, God's answer often begins in a subtle way: one kind word from a rude co-worker, one respectful answer from a difficult child, one night's deep sleep for a tired mind or body.

I want to be more like Elijah. I want to pray faithfully for God's help and readily recognize it when it arrives. The sooner I acknowledge God moving in my life, the sooner I will see change.

JoLynne Keough (California, USA)

Prayer

Dear God, show us your handiwork, both large and small. Help us declare your goodness to others. Amen.

 
 
 

Love Letters

Suggested Bible Reading

I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God--what is good and acceptable and perfect.

-Romans 12:1-2 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

You show that you are a letter of Christ, prepared by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God ... on tablets of human hearts.

-2 Corinthians 3:3 (NRSV)

IN this day of electronic correspondence, we don't spend much time or effort writing letters on paper. It is easier and quicker, not to mention less expensive, just to send an e-mail. Press a key - instant communication!

Our lives can be Christ's instant letters to the world, addressed to everyone we meet every day. Such letters are short and to the point. They can be read instantly by those we come in contact with - a store clerk, a co-worker, another driver on the highway, the kicking child behind us on an airplane, someone at church. Christ wants to use us to communicate love to those we meet. Do we let Christ communicate the message he wants to send, or do we let our desires, anger, or need to control get in the way and block the message instead?

We are not left alone in this work of communicating love. God gave us the Holy Spirit to transform us by the renewing of our minds so that we become the living, loving message God intends.

M. Ted Haynes (Texas, USA)

Prayer

Dear God, show us how to yield to you so we can be your letter to others and carry your message of love. Amen.

The Power of Prayer
2 Chronicles 20:1-15

In Scripture, we find examples of people who prayed with spiritual authority. Elijah boldly challenged the prophets of the false god Baal because he knew the Lord would hear and answer. King Jehoshaphat heard that a great army was coming against Israel, so he sought God for direction and strength--and called upon the nation to do the same.

These examples can teach us important lessons about praying powerfully:

Dependence on God. The petitions of both men showed their deep reliance upon the Lord. Knowing that victory over Israel's enemies was beyond their own abilities, they asked the Lord to intervene.

A Focus on His plan. The prophet did things God's way against tremendous odds and at great personal risk (1 Kings 19:1-2). The king called for the nation to fast as he sought to discover the Lord's strategy.

Purity of motive. Both leaders had God-centered intentions with a goal of furthering His purposes. They were not trying to gain anything for themselves.

Confidence in the Lord's faithfulness. Neither man hesitated to ask publicly for divine help. Elijah told the plan to the 450 enemy prophets, and Jehoshaphat called upon all of Israel to join him in prayer.

If your prayers seem to be having little impact, ask yourself, Have I been relying upon my own strength to resolve matters? Is there a selfish basis for my request? Am I lacking confidence in God (James 1:5-7)? If so, turn to God, confess, and seek to follow the example of the prophet and the king. By Dr Charles Stanley

The Hidden Word

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD. Happy are those who keep his decrees, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways. You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous ordinances. I will observe your statutes; do not utterly forsake me.

How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; do not let me stray from your commandments. I treasure your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against you. Blessed are you, O LORD; teach me your statutes. With my lips I declare all the ordinances of your mouth. I delight in the way of your decrees as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts, and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.

-Psalm 119:1-16 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The psalmist wrote, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

-Psalm 119:11 (KJV)

I was part of a group of young men being addressed by an older church leader. He encouraged us to memorize scripture so we would have it with us always. There would be times, he said, when we would not have ready access to a Bible. Or we might lie awake at night, unable to sleep. He reminded us that in those situations we could call forth and meditate on scripture we had memorized.

Another reason to memorize scripture is found in our Bible verse for today. We can counter temptation by quoting scripture. Jesus did this when he was tempted by the devil in the wilderness (Matt. 4).

Reading, studying, and memorizing God's word take effort, but the rewards far outweigh the effort we expend. Having scripture hidden in our heart provides continual blessings in our daily walk with God. Jesus said, "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life" (John 6:63, NRSV).

David L. Burkholder (Virginia, USA)

Prayer

Eternal Source of knowledge, give us unending hunger to know you and your word, as we pray, "Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."* Amen.

Take a Look!

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous. Praise befits the upright. Praise the LORD with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings. Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts.

For the word of the LORD is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD.

By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and all their host by the breath of his mouth. He gathered the waters of the sea as in a bottle; he put the deeps in storehouses.

Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.

-Psalm 33:1-9 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it."

-Luke 18:17 (NRSV)

EXTREMELY heavy wind had blown all the autumn leaves off the trees. With the withering leaves hurled into heaps around the garden, the whole area looked neglected and a mess.

The schedule for my busy day was bulging, but I knew I would have to spend precious time clearing up leaves. Matters were not helped when my three-year-old daughter, Lucy, came out and wanted to help me. With little grace, I found her a small broom before rushing back to my own task. After only a few minutes, I turned around to find Lucy slowly picking up leaf after leaf and examining each one closely. As I opened my mouth to complain to her, she spoke first: "Look, Mummy. Pretty!" She handed me a perfect specimen of a golden leaf. Then she rushed around picking up leaf after leaf - yellow, red, purple, pink, and golden brown - exclaiming over each one's beauty and tracing its irregular shape with her tiny finger.

I stood still - and ashamed. I had seen in the leaves only another task in an already over-full day, but my daughter had seen beauty created by God. Lucy had opened my eyes to our loving God's work.

Carol Purves (Cumbria, England)

Prayer

Lord, open our eyes that we may see, really see, the beauty that you have created all around for us to enjoy. Amen.

Hidden Treasures

 

Suggested Bible Reading

But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you.

But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture--"I believed, and so I spoke"--we also believe, and so we speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will bring us with you into his presence. Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.

-2 Corinthians 4:7-15 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

We have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.

-2 Corinthians 4:7 (NRSV)

IN the natural history museum we visited in Washington, D.C., our son's favorite section was an extensive geological exhibit. Its first display consisted of rocks found in deep, cold, dark, and practically forgotten places. The next showed rocks of incredible shapes and sizes, filled with exquisitely colored crystals created by heat pressure deep in the earth. Farther along in the exhibit were more common rocks - discolored or malformed or hollow. Upon closer inspection, however, I could see in them the beginnings of the beautiful colors of delicate, polished, fine crystal.

As I admired these wonders, I could sense what God already knows: this is the way we may appear, as common rocks shaped by the experiences of life's trials and challenges. But inside us lies a treasure waiting to be formed and polished by the very same pressures of the struggles that mark our everyday lives.

If we persevere, that treasure is perfected so that others may see our example and be drawn to Christ. Instead of deforming us, our struggles can refine us, shaping us into better servants of God.

Miriam Piñero (Puerto Rico)

Prayer

Lord, help us to see how struggles in our lives can help us grow and make us more like Christ. Amen.

Truly Living

Suggested Bible Reading

Then Jesus said to them, "Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is that which comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." They said to him, "Sir, give us this bread always."

Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and anyone who comes to me I will never drive away; for I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. This is indeed the will of my Father, that all who see the Son and believe in him may have eternal life; and I will raise them up on the last day."

Then the Jews began to complain about him because he said, "I am the bread that came down from heaven." They were saying, "Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can he now say, 'I have come down from heaven'?" Jesus answered them, "Do not complain among yourselves. No one can come to me unless drawn by the Father who sent me; and I will raise that person up on the last day. It is written in the prophets, 'And they shall all be taught by God.' Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father. Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life.

-John 6:32-48 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Jesus said, "Very truly, I tell you, whoever believes has eternal life."

-John 6:47 (NRSV)

AFTER my father's funeral, I stopped by the house I grew up in, to spend time with my mother. As I was leaving, she asked if I wanted anything of my father's. I asked if I could have his old wallet. When I was a kid, I loved to look through his wallet. Breathing in its leathery smell and touching its texture, and knowing my dad had touched it, made me feel close to him.

When I got home later that evening, I looked through the wallet. In one of the pockets, I found an old, folded piece of paper on which my father had written, "Lord Jesus Christ, I confess to you my sins. Come into my heart and forgive me for all the sins I have ever done. Thank you for forgiving me, Lord Jesus." As tears began to roll down my face, I heard the quiet voice that I had come to know well as God's voice within me. He's truly living now were the words whispered to my heart. I was reminded of the scripture: "I am telling you the truth: he who believes has eternal life" (TEV).

At that point I knew that I would see my dad again. How wonderful that we have the promise of eternal life in Jesus Christ!

Jay Wollenburg (Ohio, USA)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for your promise of eternal life offered to all. Amen.

Exploratory Procedure

READ: Hebrews 4:11-16

11Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.

 12For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Jesus the Great High Priest

 14Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens,[a] Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. 15For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. 16Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.


The Word of God is living and powerful, . . . a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. —Hebrews 4:12

I have a friend who recently underwent a laryngoscopy. I winced as he explained how his doctor took a camera with a light on the end and stuck it down his throat to try to find the cause of his pain.

It reminded me that God’s Word is like a laryngoscopy. It invades the unseen areas of our lives, exposing the diseased and damaged spiritual tissue that troubles us. If you’re wincing at the thought of how uncomfortable this divine procedure might be, consider Jesus’ words: “Everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed” (John 3:20). Internal intrusions may be uncomfortable, but do you really want the disease?

Welcoming God’s Word to penetrate the deep, dark places of our hearts is the only way to find true healing and the spiritual health we long for.

Believe me, the procedure will be thorough. As the writer of Hebrews assures, God’s Word is “sharper than any two-edged sword” (4:12)—piercing all the way through the external stuff of our lives, all the way down to our thoughts, intentions, and motives.

So what are you waiting for? With God’s Word you don’t need an appointment. The divine Surgeon is ready when you are!  — Joe Stowell

Ever present, truest Friend,
Ever near Thine aid to lend,
Guide us as we search the Word,
Make it both our shield and sword. —Anon.

Let God’s Word explore your inner being.

Choosing Our Leader


READ: Joshua 24:14-25 (New International Version)

 14 "Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.

15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."

 16 Then the people answered, "Far be it from us to forsake the LORD to serve other gods!

17 It was the LORD our God himself who brought us and our fathers up out of Egypt, from that land of slavery, and performed those great signs before our eyes. He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled.

18 And the LORD drove out before us all the nations, including the Amorites, who lived in the land. We too will serve the LORD, because he is our God."

 19 Joshua said to the people, "You are not able to serve the LORD. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins.

20 If you forsake the LORD and serve foreign gods, he will turn and bring disaster on you and make an end of you, after he has been good to you."

 21 But the people said to Joshua, "No! We will serve the LORD."

 22 Then Joshua said, "You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen to serve the LORD."
      "Yes, we are witnesses," they replied.

 23 "Now then," said Joshua, "throw away the foreign gods that are among you and yield your hearts to the LORD, the God of Israel."

 24 And the people said to Joshua, "We will serve the LORD our God and obey him."

 25 On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he drew up for them decrees and laws.


Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve . . . . But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. —Joshua 24:15

Today, millions of people in the United States will cast their votes for a slate of political leaders, including President. After months of campaign speeches, television ads, and debates, each voter has the opportunity to say to one candidate, “I choose you.” Not everyone’s favorite will win, but every voter has a choice.

Unlike a political election in which the majority rules, each of us is given the opportunity to select our personal leader each day. In the spiritual election deep within our hearts, our choice will stand no matter what others may decide.

After many years in the Promised Land of Canaan, the aged Joshua called the people of Israel together and issued this challenge: “If it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell.

But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Josh. 24:15). In a great collective response, the people said, “We will serve the Lord!” (v.21).

Everyone serves some kind of god. Whom will we choose to have rule in our hearts today?  — David C. McCasland

Thy will I choose; I give to Thee
All of the life Thou gavest me;
Thy will I choose, no life I ask
Except to do Thy given task. —Anon.

Each day we choose the one we will follow in life.

A Second Chance

 

Suggested Bible Reading

From now on, therefore, we regard no one from a human point of view; even though we once knew Christ from a human point of view, we know him no longer in that way. So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.

-2 Corinthians 5:16-20 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

-Romans 3:23 (NIV)

THE aircraft carrier on which I serve recently crossed the International Date Line, which is in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Traveling east across the date line, we moved the clocks ahead one hour and stepped back one day. In effect, we got to live an entire day over again. For those of us six months into a military deployment, it can feel exasperating to wake up and see that it's Tuesday - again! But I chose to look on the bright side: at least I could use this "second" Tuesday to avoid the mistakes I had made on the previous one.

How many of us wish we had the chance to go back in time and live some portion of our life over again, to be given a second chance? While we may not get to travel through time, we do have a second chance, thanks to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Because Jesus was willing to lay down his life, we are now able to find forgiveness, to put our sins behind us, and to move ahead, knowing that God will not hold our past mistakes against us. Because of this, we have the ability to wake up each day unburdened, striving anew to live our lives according to God's purpose.

Will Moynahan (Kentucky, USA)

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us remember that it's never too late to turn away from sin and toward you. We humbly ask for your forgiveness so that we may embrace the future with its opportunities to grow closer to you. Amen.

Spiritual Maturity 
Isaiah 48:10

"Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction."

The world's way is to choose the strongest, most talented individuals to accomplish tasks. In contrast, the Lord often selects the weakest, who have nothing to offer except total reliance upon Him. And this dependency is what characterizes the mature in faith.

Such maturity isn't automatic. Our Father patiently meets people where they are, but lovingly refuses to let His children stagnate. Instead, He helps us to grow more and more like His Son (2 Cor. 3:18). As followers of Christ, we must let go of old ways, ideas, and motivations. The Holy Spirit illuminates our understanding and lets us see from God's perspective. Then, the Lord can build in us a dependence on Himself and a submission to His Spirit. Transformation is often gradual, but God sometimes will allow difficulty and pain to develop our reliance upon Him.

Consider biblical models of faith. Sarah and Abraham dealt with infertility for many years prior to receiving the promised child (Gen. 21:1-2). Joseph was sold into slavery and wrongly imprisoned before he spared his nation from the effects of famine (Gen. 45:5). In her new role as Jesus' mother, Mary--who had been falsely regarded as an adulteress--followed God's inconvenient command to flee areas of danger (Matt. 2:13, 22).

These people all faced hardship and brokenness, which allowed them to recognize both their own inability and God's ability.

What's standing in your way of full submission to the Lord? His desire is to grow you into maturity so that in your weakness, He will be strong. By Dr Charles Stanley

Busy without God?

Suggested Bible Reading

Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, "What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?" They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, "Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?" He asked them, "What things?" They replied, "The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him." Then he said to them, "Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?" Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, "Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over." So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?"

-Luke 24:13-32 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

As [the two followers of Jesus] talked and discussed, Jesus himself drew near and walked along with them; they saw him, but somehow did not recognize him.

-Luke 24:15-16 (TEV)

THE two disciples walking on the road to Emmaus were so busy in their thoughts and in their discussion that they did not recognize Jesus when he began to walk with them. How this story reminds me of my walk with Jesus!

As a Christian leader and trainer, I often find myself extremely busy in ministry, training ministers in spiritual formation and Christian leadership. Recently, though, I have realized that in doing so much work "in the name of God," I have neglected a basic element in my own life of faith: intimacy with God and growth in my personal spiritual formation.

When we become busy in our "doing" for God and forget to spend time in God's presence with scripture and prayer, we will find ourselves becoming tired and frustrated with our work. In our ministry for Christ, we miss Christ's ministry to us.

I have learned that I need to have intimate times with God constantly, even as I go about doing things for God. My Christian service has changed for the better as I have prayed, "Lord, help me and lead me as I daily serve you."

Sammy N. Gumbe (Maputo, Mozambique)

Prayer

Faithful God, help us to be constantly aware of your presence. We seek your love and your wisdom as we spend our days serving you and those you call us to love. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Through Eyes of Love

Suggested Bible Reading

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God; everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love. God's love was revealed among us in this way: God sent his only Son into the world so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father has sent his Son as the Savior of the world. God abides in those who confess that Jesus is the Son of God, and they abide in God. So we have known and believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and God abides in them. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness on the day of judgment, because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not reached perfection in love. We love because he first loved us. Those who say, "I love God," and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they have seen, cannot love God whom they have not seen. The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.

-1 John 4:7-21 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

-1 John 4:11 (RSV)

WHEN my little grandson, Aidan, visits, I find joy in doing the things he enjoys. However, on one visit, I was not feeling well. Pain kept me from our usual activities, and my face was weary and worn. As Aidan and I sat reading books, he suddenly looked up at me. He put a tiny hand on each side of my face and said, "Grammie, I like your face." What a blessing! My little grandson was seeing me through eyes of love.

How wonderful it is to receive unconditional love! We are wise to pause and ask ourselves if we extend the same love to others. When interacting with people who are disagreeable or unkind, seeing them through eyes of love becomes more challenging. Yet we know that Jesus commanded God's children to "love one another, as I have loved you" (John 15:12, KJV).

Having received God's unconditional love, we can surely forgive and love one another. We have the example of Jesus on the cross saying, "Father, forgive them" (Luke 23:34). We are able to forgive those who hurt us as we allow God to transform our hearts so that we see one another as God does - through eyes of love.

Sandra Sullivan (West Virginia, USA)

Prayer

Thank you, God, for seeing us through eyes of love. Help us to see all people with your grace in our hearts. Amen.

Reclaimed Faith

 

Suggested Bible Reading

When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. But Thomas (who was called the Twin ), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe." A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."

-John 20:19-20, 24-29 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and sustain in me a willing spirit.

-Psalm 51:12 (NRSV)

RECENTLY I experienced a lack of faith. Having been an active Christian for over 47 years, this was new territory for me. But I quickly realized that being a Christian did not shield me from doubt.

As I spent time in earnest prayer, the Holy Spirit reminded me of the disciple Thomas and his unwillingness to believe that Jesus had risen until he could see Jesus' wounds with his own eyes. After Thomas saw the hands and feet of Jesus, he believed, crying out to Jesus, "My Lord and my God!"

The scripture reading for this meditation helped ease the fear my doubting had created, specifically these words that Jesus said to Thomas: "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe." My walk with Jesus Christ has been made new again.

Harold Lemley (Georgia, USA)

Prayer

Lord Jesus, stand by us as we struggle with our weaknesses and lack of faith. By your grace, renew us as we pray, "Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil."* Amen.

Surrender?

 

Suggested Bible Reading

When he looked up and saw a large crowd coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, "Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?" He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do. Philip answered him, "Six months' wages would not buy enough bread for each of them to get a little." One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to him, "There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?" Jesus said, "Make the people sit down." Now there was a great deal of grass in the place; so they sat down, about five thousand in all. Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, "Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost." So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets.

-John 6:5-13 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

"Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish."

-John 6:9 (NIV)

I wonder how the story of feeding five thousand would have turned out if the boy had said, "I won't give you all of my lunch, but I will give you half." Would there even be a story? Part of what we learn from the passage is that the boy gave everything he had. In giving all the food he had, the boy and the others got more than enough to eat.

Sometimes when I think I've given a situation to God, I realize that I've held on to a corner of it until I see how things will turn out. The truth is that God can't work freely in my life until I surrender - all my circumstances.

It's good to give a tenth of my income to God, but one hundred percent belongs to God. It's good to give a seventh of my time to God, but all of it is God's. Everything is. When I get clear on that, I find that there is more than enough to go around - enough time, enough food, enough love, enough everything. God is enough.

Carolyn Caldwell (South Carolina, USA)

Prayer

Almighty God, I give you my life, my all. Do with it what you will, for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Problem of Laziness 
Proverbs 6:9-11

The book of Proverbs has much to say about people who are lazy. They are regarded as sluggards who do not think beyond today (20:4), who wrongly consider themselves wise (26:16), and who are on a path leading to future poverty.

When people develop a habit of laziness, they tend to offer excuses--such as "I was too tired" or "I ran out of time." They will avoid doing something they don't like, even if it is their responsibility, and instead do only what pleases them. Sadly, individuals who act this way have trouble seeing clearly what they are doing wrong, and they find criticism unreasonable (Prov. 26:16). Though such men and women might think that their self-centeredness slips by unnoticed, it is usually evident to others.

People may fool themselves, but God, who sees poor attitudes and careless ways, is not pleased by shoddy efforts. He has prepared work for us to do and expects it to be handled conscientiously. The Lord knows that the consequences of laziness are serious: at work, there is the possibility of frequent criticism, probation, or even termination; at home, harsh words can add tension to the atmosphere as frustration builds; and in a "trickle-down effect," children may copy their parents' undesirable work habits.

If you are already a disciplined worker but must interact with people who are not, continue to please the Lord with your productiveness. In addition, pray for patience (Gal. 5:22), and be an example of Christ to those around you. By Dr Charles Stanley

The Danger of Laziness
2 Thessalonians 3:7-10

The Lord has appointed believers to be His ambassadors to a lost and hurting world. As His followers, we are to represent Him in our character, conduct, and conversation whenever we interact with family, friends, neighbors, or coworkers.

God expects us to be diligent in our work and faithful to complete it. However, in our self-absorbed, pleasure-seeking culture, it is very easy to get sidetracked into laziness. This sin is dangerous in a Christian's life because of the potential harm that can result--it can hurt our witness for Christ, damage our relationships with others, and waste both the time and the gifts the Lord has given us. One negative result of such a lifestyle is a character marked as unreliable and untrustworthy.

Laziness frequently shows up as procrastination. For example, despite saying that we will take action, we repeatedly delay the start time. Or we may begin a project and yet find reasons not to finish it. Being neglectful is another manifestation: though we make an attempt to carry out responsibilities, they are handled in a haphazard or incomplete way; relationships with loved ones go untended; or the needs of others are overlooked.

Irresponsible behavior doesn't fit who we are in Christ. If you realize you've been careless in some area of your life, pray, "Lord, I have not lived as I should, and I ask You to forgive me. I choose to turn away from lazy attitudes and neglectful behavior. Please help me to follow through and become someone who is industrious for You." By Dr Charles Stanley

Breaking The Spin Cycle

READ: John 8:42-47

42 Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.

43 Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.

44 Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

45 And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not.

46 Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?

47 He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.


[Satan] was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. . . . He is a liar and the father of it. —John 8:44


Politicians are adept at “spinning” the details of a story to advance their own agenda. During a political campaign, spin doctors massage stories to ensure that their candidate is cast in a positive light—often at the expense of the truth. This leaves us with serious questions about what the real truth is.

According to Jesus, Satan is the “spin doctor” of hell—the master deceiver who “speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar” (John 8:44). He casts himself as the one who wants to give us unfettered freedom and pleasure, carefully masking his plan to steal, kill, and destroy us (John 10:10). He even spins the loving laws of God by claiming that God’s boundaries are restrictive, simply intended to take all the fun out of living. When we buy into Satan’s damaging lies, we will eventually find ourselves empty and broken—sidelined in our journey with God.

Thankfully, Jesus warns us. He says that Satan is the father of lies. And we know Satan is lying when what he tells us contradicts God’s Word. Jesus, on the other hand, is the truth (John 14:6). So, when it comes to sorting out the spin, our only defense against the spin doctor of hell is to listen constantly for the voice of Jesus as we pray and study His Word. And that’s the truth!  — Joe Stowell

The devil is crafty, deceptive, and sly;
He cleverly tricks us to swallow his lie.
But his cunning methods we’re sure to discern
If we make God’s warnings our daily concern. —D. De Haan

God’s truth stops the spin of Satan’s lies.

Praying for Peace

 

Suggested Bible Reading

I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD!" Our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem--built as a city that is bound firmly together. To it the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD. For there the thrones for judgment were set up, the thrones of the house of David.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, and security within your towers." For the sake of my relatives and friends I will say, "Peace be within you." For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.

-Psalm 122 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls."

-Psalm 122:6-7 (NIV)

THE room was hot and the floor was hard where seven college-aged women (including me) were trying to sleep. Working for an urban ministry for the summer, we were getting a taste of what the coming weeks would be like as we hosted teens and adults joining us in an outreach ministry to the inner city.

In the morning, we heard that overnight four acts of violence had occurred in the neighborhood. We sat motionless, each contemplating our own feelings of fear or surprise. What could we do? As I silently asked God that question, God brought to my mind the words of David in Psalm 122. I realized I could pray for the peace of my neighborhood, not simply for my own sake but for the sake of my co-workers, my friends, and the neighborhood families. Their faces floated through my mind as I prayed, and in no time my intercession for peace in those urban streets had become personal.

As a staff, we continued to faithfully pray for peace in our neighborhood that summer. I am thankful to say that our staff, neighborhood youth, and volunteers were safe. Not only that, I experienced peace in my mind and heart as I placed my concerns into God's competent care.

Melissa Chappell (North Carolina, USA)

Prayer

Dear God, bring your peace into the lives of all those who have been touched by violence. Amen.

Have Mercy!

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them."

So he told them this parable: "Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance."

-Luke 15:1-7 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

When [Bartimaeus] heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!"

-Mark 10:47 (NRSV)

MY cat has a habit of jumping onto the roof. Later, if she becomes desperate to get down, she'll come within my reach so I can grab her and whisk her down to food, water, and shelter. Kitty's cooperation depends on the length of time she has spent on the roof. If she has been there only an hour, she stands out of reach. But after a day in the heat or rain, Kitty, in her desperation, is ready.

Hoping to end my late-night climbs, I decided to cut a limb that was hanging over the roof to eliminate her means of getting on top of the house. But the following night, the cat was again on the roof, soaked in rain. As I climbed the ladder, Kitty let out a loud cry and jumped into my arms.

I realized that we sometimes behave like Kitty. God is always reaching for us when we're lost, but as St. Augustine said, God "will not save us without our consent." Like Kitty, we have to be needy enough, lost enough, humble enough to accept the mercy we need. When we admit our need, we will see the hand of God reaching out to us. May we acknowledge our deep need for God's grace.

Matt Berryman (Florida, USA)

Prayer

O God, help us to bring our needs to you, knowing that you stand ready to heal and to save us. Amen.

Erasmus

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READ: Psalm 119:17-24

Psalm 119:17-24 (King James Version)

 17 Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word.

 18 Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.

 19 I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me.

 20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times.

 21 Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments.

 22 Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies.

 23 Princes also did sit and speak against me: but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.

 24 Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counselors.

Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. —Jeremiah 15:16

For centuries, many Christians were not permitted to read God’s Word in their own language. Instead, they were encouraged to attend Latin services that few could understand.

Then, in 1516, the Dutch scholar Erasmus compiled and published the first New Testament in the original Greek language. This landmark work was the basis for the later publication of Luther’s German Bible, Tyndale’s English Bible, and the King James Version. These translations made the Scriptures understandable to millions of people around the world.

Erasmus could not have known the influence his Greek New Testament would have, but he did have a passion for getting its message to laypeople from all walks of life. In the preface he wrote: “I would have [the Gospels and the Epistles] translated into all languages . . . . I long for the plowboy to sing them to himself as he follows the plow [and] the weaver to hum them to the tune of his shuttle.”

The prophet Jeremiah reflected this same passion for the Word: “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart” (15:16).

Having God’s Word in our own language allows us to experience the joy of meditating on it each day.  — Dennis Fisher

More precious than gold is God’s Word to me,
Much better than pearls from deep in the sea;
For in the Lord’s Word I take great delight,
And it is my joy each day and each night.
—Fitzhugh


 

The treasures of truth in God’s Word are best mined with the spade of meditation.

Letting Go

Suggested Bible Reading

"But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you. "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. "Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back."

-Luke 6:27-38 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The Lord Almighty says, [My sinful people's] tongue is a deadly arrow; it speaks deceit through the mouth. They all speak friendly words to their neighbors, but inwardly are planning to lay an ambush.

-Jeremiah 9:8 (NRSV)

AS I walked by the nurses' station at work, I caught the ending words of a conversation among my co-workers. It was about me! What they were saying was not very favorable. What's more, it wasn't true. That really hurt. Upon seeing me, all the talkers became very quiet. During the rest of the shift, all of them either avoided me or were overly friendly. I carried a heavy heart the rest of that day.

The next day I prayed about how I should react to their behavior. How do I handle my hurt? Soon I came to realize that I am not responsible for deceit in others. I am not responsible for people who say one thing but act otherwise. I have no control over others; nor do I have the right to judge them. I am, however, responsible to God for my actions toward others, even those who hurt me. I took great comfort in this truth. So I resolved not to retaliate or hold a grudge.

Letting go of hurts is not easy, but it is possible. Jesus said, "For God all things are possible" (Mark 10:27). He didn't say all things are easy. The Bible tells me not to judge others. We cannot monitor their hearts or change their behavior. That's God's job.

Sandra K. Ramirez (Ohio, USA)

Prayer

Loving God, teach us to show kindness to one another and to forgive when others disappoint us. Amen.

A Community of Prayer

Suggested Bible Reading

Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective. Elijah was a human being like us, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain and the earth yielded its harvest. My brothers and sisters, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and is brought back by another, you should know that whoever brings back a sinner from wandering will save the sinner's soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

-James 5:13-20 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.

-James 5:16 (NIV)

OUR men's group meets weekly to praise the Lord, to learn from one another's testimonies, and then to share our troubles and joys. We are mechanics, doctors, lawyers, educators, laborers, ministers, but we leave our professions at the door. We leave our confessed past there too - adulterers, paroled prisoners, liars, cheaters, and myriad other labels that would fit our past selves and regrettably, at times, our present ones. We know our lives are but a breath and that our eternity is in the hands of Jesus Christ.

We gather around a table to pray - for our world, for friends and acquaintances, and for total strangers. We pray for physical healing and for spiritual redemption. We pray for each other to be filled with the Holy Spirit so we can love and honor God as we return to our daily work.

The time we spend praying as a community is powerful in its impact on those for whom we pray. But our time together is equally powerful in its effect on those of us gathered to pray. For most of us, it is one of the best hours of our week.

K. Jackson Peevy (Alabama, USA)

Prayer

Dear God, may every believer have friends in Christ, and may every non-believer be the subject of a believer's prayers. Amen.

Love Beyond Words

Suggested Bible Reading

Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor's work, will become a cause for pride. For all must carry their own loads. Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher. Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith.

-Galatians 6:2-10 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases.

-Lamentations 3:22 (NRSV)

RECENTLY my wife, Shirley, was diagnosed with a serious illness. Consequently, I took over the housework as well as doing my own jobs and looking after her. Shirley has always been a hardworking wife and mother, and it was hard for her not to carry on doing the jobs she had always done. She was feeling guilty and useless, and she thought that she had to thank me for all I did for her. I told her that she did not need to keep thanking me.

"But I'm so grateful for all you do," she said.

"I know how you feel," I replied. "We've been together for 45 years. Don't you know how much I love you and want to care for you?" Shirley understood.

I feel that God's love for us is also beyond words. When we are at our lowest emotional ebb, God's love is always there for us. We do not have to say or do anything; God is by our side to love and support us. If we can care without question for those we love, how much more will God care for us?

Brian Gaunt (East Yorkshire, England)

Prayer

Loving God, thank you for loving and caring for us, and for all the help you bring us. Amen.

We Are Rich!

Suggested Bible Reading

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.

-1 Peter 5:6-11 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Cast all your anxiety on [God], because he cares for you.

-1 Peter 5:7 (NRSV)

I had taken out a commercial loan to help support the construction of a hospital we needed in our community. The time to repay this large amount of money was approaching. I became anxious and unhappy because I did not have the money to pay the loan.

Then I stopped to think about all the blessings in my life. I thought of my wife and my children, my house, my work, my friends, my brothers and sisters in Christ, my parents, all the beautiful experiences of my life. I am rich! I told myself.

I felt ashamed. Kneeling, I gave thanks to God and asked for forgiveness, casting all my anxieties on God. After my prayer, I felt at peace and happy, as if everything had been taken care of.

Days later, I received a letter from my sister in Ohio. Since she was going through some rough times in her life, with her husband and her daughter in the hospital, I opened the letter with some trepidation. To my surprise, inside the letter was a check for exactly the amount I needed to repay my loan. My sister was repaying me for a loan I had made to her and forgotten.

Angel M. Mattos-Nieves (Puerto Rico)

Prayer

Lord, remind us every day that you are willing and able to supply all our needs if we trust in you. Amen.

Persevering

Suggested Bible Reading

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such hostility against himself from sinners, so that you may not grow weary or lose heart.

-Hebrews 12:1-3 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

-Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

MY work and ministry is caring for people with diabetes in a rural area where there are few medical services. I've often been frustrated trying to meet needs with my own limited resources. However, I've learned over the years that God's resources are unlimited and that God will use my small contribution for eternal purposes and for God's kingdom.

Mother Teresa was once challenged by someone who said it was impossible to meet the needs of all the poor of India. She replied that God didn't call her to be successful; God called her to be faithful.

Trying to be successful, to do it all, will only overwhelm us and limit our ability to do our part well. The more we focus on the tasks before us in single-minded devotion to God, the more we can trust God for the rest.

Jacquelin Deatcher (New York, USA)

Prayer

God, may we always be faithful to your call, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Amen.

Do something about it

When something is troubling you, make the commitment to change it. Then begin to act on that decision right away.

Some of the influences in your life are under your control, and many of those influences are outside your control. Yet you can always decide upon and put into action a positive response to anything.

Don't sit around being amazed at how miserable you are and at how unfairly life is treating you. Instead, be amazed at how quickly and effectively you can do something about it.

Don't complain to others about how tough it is for you. Instead, inspire them with your positive and enthusiastic attitude and actions.

When the world feels all wrong, that's a valuable signal. It's your way of telling yourself to get going and make a difference.

You have plenty of good options if you'll simply make the effort to find them. Pick the best one, get busy putting it into action, and take positive control of your world.

-- Ralph Marston

Witnesses for Christ 
Acts 1:4-8

Standing up and speaking out for Christ can be a scary thing for many believers. Even if we want to obey the Lord's call to "Go . . . and make disciples" (Matt. 28:19), we may wonder, What would I do? or What would I say? It can be a bit overwhelming and intimidating if we think we have to do it all on our own. Fortunately, we are not alone.

Look once again at yesterday's key verses, Matthew 28:18-20. Knowing He was issuing a potentially uncomfortable command, the Lord was intentional in the way He framed it. Notice that this passage has essentially three components: 

  1. Jesus has all authority in heaven and earth. 
  2. We are to go and make disciples. 
  3. Jesus will be with us every step of the way.

This wording, combined with the promise of the Holy Spirit in Acts 1:8, reveals that the responsibility of making disciples was never intended to be a solo act. Jesus is not only present with us, but He is pouring His power into us so that we may more effectively be His witnesses--His ambassadors--in the world. The work is His and the power is His; we're just the instruments He's chosen to use in carrying out His work.

God wants to use us, but He hasn't left us to tackle the job on our own. The One who holds all the power and authority in the universe is with us step by step, and He has put that power within us through His Holy Spirit. Everything we need is at our fingertips. All that's left is for us to follow the command to "Go!" Where will that command lead you today? By Dr Charles Stanley

Freedom in Jesus 
Psalm 51

According to the Bible, sin is a universal problem (Rom. 3:23). Consider David, someone God calls "a man after My own heart" (1 Sam. 13:14). We'd expect that a person with this qualification would surely "walk the straight and narrow." But even this righteous king fell short. Not only did he commit adultery with Bathsheba; to cover up his sin, he also sent her husband to the front lines so he'd die in battle (2 Sam. 11:15).

Doesn't it seem amazing that the Lord would refer to him as a man "who kept My commandments and who followed Me with all his heart, to do only that which was right in My sight" (1 Kings 14:8)? Yet because David repented (Ps. 51), God forgave him and regarded him as pure.

Scripture assures us that we are forgiven  when we confess sin (1 John 1:9). Jesus bought our pardon with His death, and once we accept His free gift, God sees us as righteous. Of course, we'll continue to wrestle with sin throughout life. Even the apostle Paul documented his struggle against doing wrong: "For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want" (Rom. 7:19).

As Christians, we're free from the wrath of God and eternal death, but the battle against sin will continue until we reach heaven. Therefore, we must continually admit and repent of wrongs so that they don't become a stronghold. We should also ask the Lord to reveal unknown areas of iniquity so that we can faithfully confess anything in our life that is not holy. By Dr Charles Stanley

The Bigger Picture

Suggested Bible Reading

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own insight. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD, and turn away from evil. It will be a healing for your flesh and a refreshment for your body. Honor the LORD with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine. My child, do not despise the LORD's discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the LORD reproves the one he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights.

-Proverbs 3:5-12 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

By the power at work within us [God] is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine.

-- Ephesians 3:20 (NRSV)

ONE morning I had an appointment and was running late. After I had stopped at a light behind three or four other vehicles, the light finally turned green. But we didn't move. I craned my neck to see the problem.

A car that had made a right turn appeared to be blocking the way as it waited for another light. I could see a large gap between that car and the one ahead of it. "If that car would just move forward to close the gap, we could all get through our light," I muttered.

Eventually the car moved. As it did so, I saw that it was towing a very long, low trailer. I realized that I had been seeing only a part of the situation.

Afterwards, I wondered how many times I have made a decision based on what I could see without asking God to reveal the bigger picture. I thought of the times God seemed not to answer a prayer or to be responding differently than seemed logical to me.

God sees the whole picture, and acts in my life based on a higher view than mine. I have learned not to make decisions on my limited view but to trust God, who looks beyond what we can see.

Elaine Richardson (Western Cape, South Africa)

Prayer

Lord, help us attend to your Holy Spirit to see the larger picture as we make decisions affecting our lives and those of others. Amen.

The Greatest Burden
Hebrews 9:24-28

At different points in life, everyone carries a burden of one kind or another. Some suffer after the death of a loved one; others face rejection or loneliness. But the burden that impacts an individual more profoundly than any life circumstance is the emotional and spiritual weight that comes from sin.

Biblically, "sin" means an action or thought that deviates from the Lord's standard of righteousness. Since no one is perfect, sinfulness affects us all; allowed to linger, it will fester and destroy lives.

Iniquity results in separation from the heavenly Father (Ps. 66:18). God is perfect and holy; just as light and darkness are incompatible, His perfection cannot function with our imperfection. This is why He does not answer the prayer of a person living in sin. What's more, sinners are under God's wrath (John 3:36) and ultimately sentenced to eternal death, or unending separation from Him. This righteous judgment would leave all humanity hopeless. But the Father, because of His great love, provided a way to Himself.

He sent His Son Jesus as a sacrificial lamb: His blood paid the penalty for every wrong committed throughout history. Christ is the substitute for everyone who trusts Him as Savior. In other words, Jesus is the bridge to God. In John 14:6, He says, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me."

God graciously saves those who receive Jesus. Though believers still sin, they are forgiven. Have you allowed the Lord to free you from the weight of iniquity? By Dr Charles Stanley

Defining Unforgiveness 
Matthew 5:23-24

Now that we've looked at forgiveness, let's think about unforgiveness--the deliberate decision to cling to 1) resentment you feel toward someone else and 2) your right to get even any way you can. It's a mindset that says, "You hurt me. You must pay."

What an ungodly, unscriptural attitude! And yet it is painfully evident in the hearts of far too many Christians. Therefore, we need to uncover the dark truth behind this destructive landmine. Unforgiveness . . .

• Demonstrates unwillingness to extend to others what the Lord has extended to you (Eph. 4:32). It simply means saying with your attitude that you refuse to show the grace and forgiveness of Christ to anyone else.

• Plants a root of bitterness in your heart. It may start with some simple resentment because of the way someone else acted. Then, that little seed of animosity begins to grow. Before long, a whole crop of anger, malice, and bitterness completely dominates you. If it is not dealt with early, these bitter fruits will spoil every part of your life.

• Prevents your becoming the person God wants you to be. An unforgiving spirit makes it impossible to accomplish what the heavenly Father has in mind for you. How can you expect to grow in Christ while willfully allowing bitterness to erode your heart?

The results of withholding forgiveness are obvious, and yet many believers stumble into this very trap. Don't fall for it. Ask God to help you release any unforgiveness you have, and be reconciled to your brothers and sisters without delay. By Dr Charles Stanley

The Landmine of Unforgiveness 
Ephesians 4:26-32

What is your first response when someone hurts you? Maybe you want to retaliate. Or perhaps your outward attitude doesn't change, but inside you are quietly nursing a dark bitterness and resentment. These reactions strike us as understandable and perfectly natural, don't they?

In reality, however, unforgiveness is one of the most destructive behaviors possible. Impacting every prayer, every relationship, and practically every thought you have, it is a land mine with the potential to completely destroy your life.

Scripture is clear that we are to openly and willingly forgive anyone who causes us harm. Why? The reason is that we ourselves have been forgiven. The grace that God pours out on each of us should be our motivation and example. If we have received God's loving pardon, then we simply must do the same for others, even when it seems difficult or unfair.

What is forgiveness? Simply put, it is the act of giving up resentment toward someone, along with the desire to retaliate. In other words, we must surrender three things: the general feeling of resentment, the specific feelings toward a particular individual, and all claims to retribution.

Forgiveness is far more than a simple "I forgive you" statement. It involves a total change of action and an attitude that declares, "Though you wronged me, I love and forgive you. I wish you the best and will help you however I can." Can you make this statement after being hurt? Pray for those who wrong you, and release your resentment. By Dr Charles Stanley

 

CALLED

READ: Romans 12:3-8

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them. —Romans 12:6

In September 2001, Lisa Jefferson had an unexpected opportunity to be used by God. Her now well-known 15-minute conversation with a passenger on United Flight 93 forever changed the direction of her life. In her book Called, she emphasizes that her listening skills and her ability to take charge and stay calm in a crisis were used to encourage fellow believer Todd Beamer in the last moments of his life.

She didn’t ask to be used that way. But God saw a woman who was available and matched her with someone who was in need. Lisa now shares her story with whomever she can to encourage believers to always be ready to serve.

Not only has God given us natural abilities, He also equips every believer with spiritual gifts for the purpose of ministry. God doesn’t use the unwilling—He won’t force us to serve Him. His part is to equip us (Eph. 4:11-13) and empower and prepare us for service. Our part is to be faithful and available and aware of opportunities to use our gifts (Rom. 12:6).

When you feel impelled to help fill a need, when you are inwardly driven to serve—listen to those thoughts. You don’t want to miss God’s call.  — Cindy Hess Kasper

In gladness I go forth each day
Expectantly to serve and claim
The happiness that service gives
When freely rendered in God’s name. —Anon.


 

God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary work.

Hear Their Cry

READ: Exodus 22:22-27

You shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child. If you afflict them in any way, and they cry at all to Me, I will surely hear their cry. —Exodus 22:22-23

CNN recently reported that there are approximately 40 million widows in India. Fifteen thousand of them live on the streets of the northern city of Vrindavan. Unfortunately, many of their families do not hear their cries. A 70-year-old widow says, “My son tells me: ‘You have grown old. Now who is going to feed you? Go away.’?” She cries, “What do I do? My pain has no limit.”

When God gave His people instructions in the desert, He told them they had a responsibility to care for widows and fatherless children in the land (Ex. 22:22-23). They were to leave some of the harvest in the field for them, and every third year they took up a special tithe for the needy. God expected His people to hear the cries of the powerless, defend their rights, and care for them.

The Israelites were commanded to care for others as a remembrance of their experience in Egypt. When they were in trouble and cried out to God, He heard their cries and helped them. So their memory of oppression and release was intended to mold their values, attitudes, and actions toward the powerless in the land (Deut. 24:18-22).

Let us imitate our Father by hearing the cries of the needy in our world.  — Marvin Williams

To love your neighbor as yourself
Is not an easy task,
But God will show His love through you
If only you will ask. —Sper


 

The closer you are to God, the more you’ll have a heart for others.

God Knows Us

 

Suggested Bible Reading

O LORD, you have searched me and known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from far away. You search out my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, O LORD, you know it completely. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is so high that I cannot attain it.

Where can I go from your spirit? Or where can I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, you are there. If I take the wings of the morning and settle at the farthest limits of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me fast. If I say, "Surely the darkness shall cover me, and the light around me become night," even the darkness is not dark to you; the night is as bright as the day, for darkness is as light to you.

For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works;that I know very well.

-Psalm 139:1-14 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Your Father knows what you need before you ask.

-Matthew 6:8 (NRSV)

VERY often we find we have so many things to pray for that we don't know how or where to begin. Our prayers can be jumbled and muddled as we pour out our needs to God. We feel confused and mixed up as we try in earnest to convey all we think God needs to know.

But we need not fear. God who knows each one of us intimately knows our needs before we even speak. God also knows our fears, our sins, and our feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. God knows every detail of your life and mine.

As Jesus talked to the woman at the well, she told him some personal facts. But Jesus already knew them! When Jesus walked along the road in Jericho, he already knew Zacchaeus was in the tree; in fact, he knew all about Zacchaeus too.

God knows about us as well. Even before we were born, God knew us. From the moment of our conception God has watched us. When we are in turmoil over how and what to pray, we can offer God simple words and our heart's yearnings. Our powerful and amazing God already knows the facts.

Gil Sayer (West Sussex, England)

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, that we don't need to offer complicated prayers. Whatever words we can say are enough for you because you know us so intimately. Amen.

That Hurts!

 

Suggested Bible Reading

For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Indeed, rarely will anyone die for a righteous person--though perhaps for a good person someone might actually dare to die. But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us. Much more surely then, now that we have been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, much more surely, having been reconciled, will we be saved by his life. But more than that, we even boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

-Romans 5:6-11 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

We ... rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

-Romans 5:11 (NIV)

BUDDY - my lively, curious, one-year-old Saint Bernard - ran astray. Seeking adventure, he ran into the wooded mountain ground surrounding the safety of our backyard. When he came back late that night, quills from an encounter with a porcupine decorated his face. The next morning, the vet sedated him and removed the visible quills. Unfortunately, several quills were embedded because Buddy had broken them off in an attempt to rid himself of the suffering. These had to fester out of his snout on their own. It took months for Buddy finally to be rid of the consequences of going where he wasn't supposed to go.

This made me think about how often we go astray from what we know is God's will and God's leading. Perhaps curiosity or what looks like a good time gets the better of us. Like Buddy, we too return hurt and suffering. Sometimes, long after the side trip, we still carry the burdens and pain we brought on ourselves. Just as the vet and time healed Buddy, we have a God and Savior who will heal us as well. When we humbly ask forgiveness, we are reconciled with God. Sometimes the consequences are with us long afterward, but our God is also with us, giving us strength to prevail.

Rhonda M. McLaughlin (Pennsylvania, USA)

Prayer

Father, thank you for forgiving us when we stray from your will. Give us strength to face the consequences and the wisdom to go only where you lead. Amen.

Contagious Kindness

 

Suggested Bible Reading

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.

-Romans 12:3-8 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us.

-Romans 12:6 (NRSV)

MARCUS greeted everyone each workday with a beaming smile. Holding the door open for me, he would respond exuberantly to my "How are you today?" with this answer, every time: "Great! It's a blessed day! May God bless you today!" No matter how many times I saw Marcus during the day, he was never without that smile and some words of cheer.

Marcus worked as a janitor in our office. His broad smile, sparkling eyes, and his uncontained joy and zest for living always buoyed my spirits. His kindness and encouraging behavior were highly infectious. Marcus reflected God's love and stirred in me the desire to do the same.

Whenever I read Romans 12:6-8, I think of Marcus and his special gift of encouragement. In the world's view, Marcus was neither wealthy nor powerful; but this one person's willingness to use God's gift changed me. Because of Marcus, I see more clearly how God has graced us all with special gifts, no one gift more important than another. I believe God smiles when we encourage and uplift others. Let us seek opportunities to spread joy to others with a smile and contagious acts of kindness.

John A. Ford (Georgia, USA)

Prayer

Loving Father, thank you for the gifts you have given us. Help us to use them so that others see and experience your unconditional love. Amen.

Bring a Friend

 

Suggested Bible Reading

He said also to the one who had invited him, "When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."

One of the dinner guests, on hearing this, said to him, "Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!" Then Jesus said to him, "Someone gave a great dinner and invited many. At the time for the dinner he sent his slave to say to those who had been invited, 'Come; for everything is ready now.' But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, 'I have bought a piece of land, and I must go out and see it; please accept my regrets.' Another said, 'I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to try them out; please accept my regrets.' Another said, 'I have just been married, and therefore I cannot come.' So the slave returned and reported this to his master. Then the owner of the house became angry and said to his slave, 'Go out at once into the streets and lanes of the town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.' And the slave said, 'Sir, what you ordered has been done, and there is still room.' Then the master said to the slave, 'Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled. For I tell you, none of those who were invited will taste my dinner.'"

-Luke 14:12-24 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Blessed is anyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!

-Luke 14:15 (NRSV)

MY friend Laura recently held a dinner party at her home. When I arrived, I noticed that almost everyone had brought something to contribute. Guests came carrying desserts, vegetable trays, and flowers. It seemed they all enjoyed giving something out of respect and love for my friend. Laura said that we need not bring anything, but we all told her that we just could not show up "empty-handed."

Jesus told a parable about a party that God will host in heaven. If we respond to an invitation on earth by bringing a gift, how much more so should we plan to bring something with us when we accept God's invitation into heaven? We obviously cannot bring a bouquet of flowers or a plate of cookies as our gift to God. What God wants is a gift that has eternal importance. Since God does not desire that anyone miss this event, God's wish is that we introduce as many people as we can to Christ and bring them with us to the feast. Then as we walk through heaven's gate and take our place at Christ's table, we won't come in alone.

Eileen Howe (Michigan, USA)

Prayer

Eternal God, may we respond to each opportunity - today and every day - to lead someone to you. Amen.

When We Cannot Pray

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

-Romans 8:26-27 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

The Lord says, "Even to your old age I am he, even when you turn gray I will carry you."

-Isaiah 46:4 (NRSV)

MY 87-year-old mom is a pistol. She moves in high gear, even with her walker, and always has a ready smile and a twinkle in her eye. After Mom was diagnosed with dementia a few years ago, we moved her to Florida so that we could look after her.

One evening when I called to say goodnight, God nudged me to read that day's devotion from The Upper Room. Mom listened until I finished reading and said she'd take that thought to bed with her. I began calling to read each day's meditation. When I called while traveling and Mom learned that I didn't have my magazine with me, to my astonishment, she read to me. She now reads to me every night I'm traveling - though she can't read even one paragraph from the newspaper.

Reading the witnesses from The Upper Room is something Mom can do for herself and for me. After she read a meditation about the Holy Spirit's praying for us, she told me it was a comfort to know that the Spirit intercedes for her when she can't quite focus on what to say to God. She comprehends and retains the messages from The Upper Room. I'm grateful for this miracle and for her continuing faith.*

Mary Webb Walker (Florida, USA)

Prayer

O God, help us to trust that your love is stronger than anything life brings us. Amen.

What a Man Brings to Marriage

Cliff Young

We often focus on what we will get out of a marriage relationship:  Is this person my soul mate?  Does she speak to me?  Does she affirm me?  Do her strengths compliment me?  And so forth. 

Perhaps it's time to start focusing on what we men can
bring to a marriage relationship and to start working on these areas right now in our lives, so that we will have something to bring to the table (a man's dowry, if you will) before making a lifelong commitment.

"It is painful, being a man, to have to assert the privilege, or the burden, which Christianity lays upon my own sex.  I am crushingly aware of how inadequate most of us are, on our actual and historical individualities, to fill the place prepared for us."

-- C.S. Lewis from God in the Dock

As men, we are expected (by society) to be cool, dress fashionably, make a lot of money, drive a sports car, have chiseled looks, and have it all together in order to be "marriage material."  As Christians, we are to be God-fearing, prayerful, seminary scholars on the path to eldership within our church.  Since most of us fall short of these so-called expectations, what can we do to bring the most to our marriages and where do we start?  We can begin by delving deep into the following passage.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25).

How did Christ actually love the church?  Simply put, through sacrificial and sanctifying love.

Sacrificial Love

As a single adult, the term sacrificial is not at the forefront of my thoughts.  My day usually revolves around me, my needs, my wants and my desires.  However, for me to prepare to be the best husband I can be, I must begin now to incorporate sacrificial thinking into my daily life.

For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh (Ephesians 5:31).

Jesus so loved the church that he gave himself up for her through his death.  If we are to love our wives someday as Christ loved the church, we must be prepared to die to ourselves in many ways that are a part of our everyday lives.  As two people become one, individual freedom, time and desires should be replaced with (or at least negotiated) with marital goals, obligations and activities.

Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?  (Acts 9:4).

Persecution of the church caused pain deep within Jesus' soul as indicated by His response to Saul.  Christ chose to suffer with His bride; husbands must be willing to share in the struggles of theirs.  It is not only a commitment, but also a sign of love.  Her problems, disappointments and losses become yours; mine and hers become ours.

I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them (John 17:9-10).

Jesus spent His time on earth, including his last moments, praying for Himself, for those closest to Him and for the church.  One of the most intimate things a couple can do is to pray together.  It would only follow that one of the most precious acts that a husband can do for his wife is to pray specifically for her.  Don't just make it a "dinner time" prayer, go off each day and fervently cover your future wife in all areas of her life.  If you are currently in a relationship, ask how you can pray for her and do it.

I don't know what it will be like to be married someday, but after all of my years of living single, I recognize that I will need to die to myself in many areas of my life, be prepared to share in both the triumphs and the struggles of my wife, and pray fervently for and with my future mate.

Sanctifying Love

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word (Ephesians 5:25-26).

Marriage under Christ is a relationship that will bring two individuals closer to Him and cause both to change for the better, making each more holy.  It is the responsibility of the man within a marriage to help lead the couple closer to holiness, towards sanctification.

The head of every man is Christ, the head of a woman is the man, and the head of Christ is God (1 Corinthians 11:3).

Today, we have a mixed message of what true leadership is.  Is a leader someone who scores a basket or a touchdown and beats his chest drawing attention to himself?  Is a leader a politician who uses their position not to serve but to self-serve?  Was Adam, our first male role model, a leader by following his wife into sin instead of standing up for what he knew was wrong?

The movie We Were Soldiers, starring Mel Gibson, depicted the life of Lt Col Hal Moore during his service in the Vietnam War.  His motto was, "We will all come home together."  His men fought for and alongside him so diligently because he led with integrity, by example, and with love.  That is true leadership.

To be that kind of leader, who leads a marriage closer to sanctification, we (men) must first place ourselves under the Lordship and authority of God.  Only through our relationship with Him can we learn how to live out His Word in our heart, exemplify His Word in our actions and follow His Word in how we love, which will all lead to holiness.

Lead with Integrity

For richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health...till death do us part. 

-- Common wedding vows

With the divorce rate hovering around 50%, I often wonder what happens to these vows that are made when a couple says, "I do."  A wedding is one of the few times in life where a person makes a public vow in front of God and witnesses, and chooses to enter into a commitment of marriage based upon love, not feelings. 

·         Love your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (Matthew 22:37).

·         Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you (Hebrew 13:5).

·         Do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony (Matthew 19:18).

·         Keep the oaths you have made to the Lord (Matthew 5:33).

Leading with integrity in a marriage means memorizing and living out verses like these.  If we truly love God and love others according to Scripture, we will honor our commitments and God's commandments will live deep within our soul.  When we reach that point, we will lead our marriages with integrity, grow closer to God and to each other.

Lead by Example 

In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you.  You are to live clean, innocent lives as children of God in a dark world full of crooked and perverse people.  Let your lives shine brightly before them (Philippians 2:14-15).
 
When God returned to the Garden of Eden after Adam and Eve ate from the Tree of Life (Genesis 3:8-20), he called to Adam and asked, "Did you eat fruit from the tree from which I commanded you not to eat?"  His response was not that of someone who was leading by example.  Adam's first words were, "You gave this woman to me..."  God calls us to take responsibility for our actions, confess our wrongdoing, and repent. 

Marriages need that kind of a leader, one who is willing to admit his wrong and one who is leading under the Lordship and guidance of the Lord.  Leading by example doesn't mean bringing attention to your achievements or telling others what they should be doing.  A husband can pray in solitude, help his wife without asking, spend time with the children, and show love to his wife through his actions.  Whether married or not, we can all lead by example.

Lead with Love 

Love is patient, love is kind.  Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.  Love does not demand its own way.  Love is not irritable, and it keeps no record of when it has been wronged.  It is never glad about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out.  Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).

I have heard these words spoken at almost every wedding ceremony that I have been a part of and I wonder if anyone really considers what this verse is saying.  Love is patient affects almost every other emotion or reaction in a relationship.

·         A patient person is less likely to be jealous, boastful, proud or rude

·         A patient person is probably less demanding

·         A patient person is probably more forgiving and understanding.

·         A patient person is more likely to listen first before reacting (and not react emotionally)

·         A patient person is more likely to wait on God

If love is patient, then patience is probably one of the most important traits a leader can have, especially if he wants to lead with love.

Husbands, love your wives as Christ loved the church and gave himself for it....In the same way, husbands should love their wives as they love their own bodies.  The man who loves his wife loves himself.  No one ever hates his own body, but feeds and takes care of it.  And that is what Christ does for the church (Ephesians 5:25, 28-30).

Jesus' message for us is clear.  We are to love our (future) wives as He loved the church, in a sacrificial and sanctifying way; we are to love her like we love ourselves.  It seems simple enough and it can be if we learn to take our eyes off of us and our personal desires.  If we place our eyes on the Lord, we will learn to live more sacrificially with our lives, our time and our prayers.  As we do, our lives will become an example of integrity and love to others.  This is what we can bring to a marriage.

So men, besides that ugly chair you can't get rid of, what are you bringing to a marriage?

The Trials of Life
1 Peter 1:6-7

Most likely, you have heard the age-old question, "If God is good, how can He let bad things happen?" Since the fall of man, life has always included hardship. Though trials are painful, understanding the Lord's purpose can bring joy and hope.

The Word of God is clear that suffering is purposeful. Primarily, the Lord is conforming His children to be like Him (Rom. 8:29). When a person is newly saved, he or she still has many "rough edges." The journey ahead, called sanctification, involves the process of becoming holy--and few things build character like sorrow. Unfortunately, people rarely mature during pleasant times. Instead, pain brings impurities to the surface and forces people to see the reality of their lives.

Another reason the Father allows trials is to test the faith of His children. Of course, He doesn't need this for His own information--it is the believers who benefit. Tested faith is stronger and more reliable than untried faith.

Furthermore, God allows hardship in order to reveal His character, love, and power. During life's storms, people who cling to their heavenly Father will find Him trustworthy and real. When the next difficulty arises, they'll remember His faithfulness during the previous trial and will rest confidently in Him.

While no one wants to suffer, experience and sorrow will mature the believer. We can learn certain things from books and other people's stories, but most growth occurs during trials. So, when problems occur and sorrow seems piercing, thank God for His purpose in your suffering.    By Dr Charles Stanley

Sheltered in the Storm

 

Suggested Bible Reading

But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior. I give Egypt as your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in exchange for you. Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you, I give people in return for you, nations in exchange for your life. Do not fear, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and from the west I will gather you; I will say to the north, "Give them up," and to the south, "Do not withhold; bring my sons from far away and my daughters from the end of the earth-- everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made."

-Isaiah 43:1-7 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

From the end of the earth I call to you, when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

-Psalm 61:2 (NRSV)

SUMMER storms can come up quickly on the water. I learned this on a nearly perfect day when I was about 10 years old. The water was calm as my dad maneuvered our boat around the river while my brothers and I fished. Then without warning the wind shifted and the sky grew dark. Lightning came down in great streaks, as if looking for little kids in a metal boat.

"Everyone lie down!" my dad yelled above the sound of the wind. We lay on the floorboards and closed our eyes while Dad guided the boat. We hadn't gone far when he called to us again and pointed to a rock cliff. He pulled up to the shore and helped us climb to a small cave in the side of that rock where we huddled in safety until the storm passed.

When life suddenly changes or danger lies in my path, I think of that day and the psalmist's words in Psalm 46: "God is my refuge and strength, a present help in trouble" (verse 1). I still have to face what frightens me, but _I am not alone. God is that "rock that is higher than I," a safe place to go when the storms of life are raging. We can trust in God, no matter what happens.

Judith Fulp-Eickstaedt (Virginia, U.S.A.)

Prayer

Shelter us, O God, and guide us to places of safety when we are in danger. Calm the storms in our lives and in our souls and keep us close to you always. Amen.

Handling Praise
Proverbs 27:2

We've all experienced how encouraging a word of praise can be. Most of us can remember a time when a parent, teacher, or employer voiced approval that motivated us to even greater heights.

Yet for many people, praise is nearly as difficult to handle as criticism. Because the Word of God instructs us to be humble (Matt. 18:4; Phil. 2:3), we may sometimes feel confused about the right way to give or receive compliments.

How, then, should we accept recognition? 

  1. Acknowledge the comment by simply thanking the person. Don't belittle the words in any way or explain reasons why you do not deserve them. 
  2. Identify and acknowledge the character quality that led the other person to offer his praise. For example, does he have a discerning spirit, deep compassion, or strong love for others? 
  3. Share what the encouragement means to you. If someone tells you how he enjoyed your teaching, you might say, "That really motivates me to study harder; I want to be what God desires of me." 
  4. When appropriate, deflect the praise to others. For instance, a pastor might redirect kind words about an effective worship service by acknowledging the wonderful staff that works with him. When you rightly praise others, it builds their self-esteem while protecting you from pride.

Both criticism and pride can develop us or be dangerous to us. Our response is the determining factor. By Dr Charles Stanley

Following God's Schedule 
Psalm 25:1-5

Waiting on God so we can discover His will is an essential discipline of the Christian life. Once we learn His plan, we must be careful to implement it in His time frame.

Following the Lord's schedule is always to our benefit because of His...

·         All-encompassing knowledge. Unlike us, the Father has complete awareness about our world and the details of every individual life--past, present, and future. (Acts 17:26). 

·         Complete wisdom. The Lord understands man's every motive (1 Chron. 28:9) and acts accordingly. Our decision making is flawed since we cannot clearly discern people's intentions. We make choices based on partial information, but God has the wisdom to properly interpret the facts and then take action based on truth (Rom. 11:33). He never makes a mistake. 

·         Unending love. Through His Son, the Father offers us unconditional love. By sending Jesus to die in our place, God proved the depth of His everlasting love (1 John 4:10). He always has our best interest at heart. 

·         Perfect sufficiency. The Lord offers us all the resources we need to carry out His plan--wisdom, strength, and skill (2 Peter 1:3).

Adhering to God's timetable requires both faith and courage. We must believe that He knows how we should live, trust that His plan is right, and have the determination to wait until He gives a signal to proceed. Those who follow the Lord's schedule will experience the blessing of watching Him work things together for their gain and His glory. By Dr Charles Stanley

Deeper Water

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Once while Jesus was standing beside the lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he saw two boats there at the shore of the lake; the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the one belonging to Simon, and asked him to put out a little way from the shore. Then he sat down and taught the crowds from the boat. When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep water and let down your nets for a catch." Simon answered, "Master, we have worked all night long but have caught nothing. Yet if you say so, I will let down the nets." When they had done this, they caught so many fish that their nets were beginning to break. So they signaled their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!" For he and all who were with him were amazed at the catch of fish that they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Then Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching people." When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.

-Luke 5:1-11 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

[Jesus] said to Simon, "Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch."

-Luke 5:4 (NIV)

JESUS' suggestion to the men who were to become his disciples was much more than a favor done to repay them for the use of their boat or a hint about catching fish after an otherwise unproductive day. The fishermen were tired, aching for rest. Can't you just imagine them saying, "Go out again? And into deep water?" The miracle that day wasn't only the glut of fish they caught; it was also the willingness of Peter and the others to heed Jesus' command. Their readiness foreshadowed the devotion to him that would characterize the rest of their lives.

When we Christians concern ourselves only with the contentment we find in our own salvation, we are like unproductive anglers fishing too near the bank. To truly follow Jesus may require us to launch out into "deeper water," to get in over our heads. Whether by an act of kindness, a word of witness, or a whispered prayer, our lives and actions each day can model the active Christianity to which we, like those first disciples, have been called.

Richard L. Mabry (Texas, U.S.A.)

Prayer

Dear Father, help us to recognize and obey your leading in our lives. Help us to go deeper. Amen.

God's Healing

 

Suggested Bible Reading

"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

-Matthew 11:28-30 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

You, O Lord, be not far off; O my Strength, come quickly to help me.

-Psalm 22:19 (NIV)

CHARGING out of the kitchen after a bitter family argument, the 15-year-old girl ran upstairs and slammed her bedroom door. Moments later, a single shot rang out and her lifeless body hit the floor. The autopsy showed no drugs or other physical reason for her distress, and her suicide was said to be due to "momentary insanity."

The girl was my daughter. She died over 30 years ago; and still not a week goes by without my asking, "Why?" What could we have done? What signs did we miss? How did she reach that point of despair? The loss my wife and I suffered was almost overwhelming; and, as is common in these circumstances, divorce followed.

Several years later, I attended my first evangelistic crusade, where I made a commitment to Christ, accepting him as Lord of my life. This was the turning point of my life. Through Christ, I have found "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding" (Phil. 4:7).

My subsequent marriage to a wonderful woman _and the birth of another daughter have also helped my healing. I have learned that though we cannot change the past, God offers us peace and new life in the present.

E. H. Eudy (Florida, U.S.A.)

Prayer

Lord, grant your peace to those facing tragic loss. Refresh and strengthen them and us daily. Amen.

Hope in the Midst of Suffering 
2 Corinthians 12:7-10

We all go through distressing times in life. These seasons of suffering may be brought about by relational difficulties, financial hardships, or other trials. But as God's children, we can take heart in knowing that our pain is not wasted.

Sometimes our pain is for the eternal benefit of others--the Lord uses it to reveal the genuineness of our faith so that others might see it and be drawn to His Son (1 Peter 1:7). By the way we respond to adversity, our belief in Jesus becomes visible to those around us. Believers will be encouraged, and seekers will ask us questions about our faith.

At other times, God uses trials to teach us to obey--Hebrews 5:8 tells us that even our Savior learned obedience from the things He suffered. Another purpose of hardship is to broaden our ministry. The apostle Paul's imprisonment let him minister among the guards, resulting in the salvation of many.

Difficulties can also be the Lord's tool in preventing a problem from happening--an unidentified ailment kept Paul from becoming prideful. When disobedience threatens our walk with God, He will take whatever steps are needed to draw us back to Him. He may allow a need to remain unmet or something cherished to be removed. His purpose is that we confess our sin and return to Him.

We may not know the reasons for our heartaches, but the wisest choice is to trust God. After all, He who saved us through the sacrifice of His Son has promised to use our suffering to bring about eternal good (Rom. 8:28). By Dr Charles Stanley

God Uses Our Suffering 
Hebrews 12:10-11

Last week we looked at the life of Joseph and the suffering that he endured. The young man was betrayed by his brothers, sold into slavery, unjustly imprisoned, and forgotten. But when God's plan was revealed, Joseph declared that it was good (Gen. 45:7-8).

Scripture tells us that the Lord has many purposes for the pain we experience. One is to develop personal righteousness in us. Desiring that we walk in holiness before Him, God utilizes discipline to direct us away from ungodliness and to increase our fruitfulness. He will use difficult people and circumstances to prune away any "deadwood"--attitudes, behaviors, and relationships that do not fit a child of God (Eph. 4:25, 29, 31). While such "pruning" is not a pleasant experience, it can effectively train us to lead godly lives.

God also uses suffering to manifest the life of Christ in us. For that to happen, we must learn to depend on Him for both our work and our words. If circumstances did not press in upon us, we would probably go our own way. But we are to be like Jesus, who relied on His Father no matter how easy or hard life became. As Christ's ambassadors, we are to be living examples of His character. This may mean forgiving our enemies, bearing our burdens with patience, or finding joy in the midst of sorrow, just as He did. Our witness will not be a perfect one, but we should display a growing "family resemblance."

Life is full of trouble. But in the hands of a loving God, our suffering is being used for His eternal purposes. By Dr Charles Stanley

Stormy Weather

 

Suggested Bible Reading

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified. What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? Who will bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, "For your sake we are being killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep to be slaughtered." No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

-Romans 8:28-39 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Paul wrote, "Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea."

-2 Corinthians 11:25 (NIV)

WHILE I'm writing this, a thunderstorm is brewing nearby. Every now and then I can hear the rumble of thunder in the distance and see an occasional flash of lightning. I'm waiting for the storm to break. I love the display of power as the lightning lights up the night sky and the thunder crashes across the heavens. I love thunderstorms.

However, I'm not quite so keen on life's other storms - the relational, financial, and spiritual ones. They come unexpectedly and catch me unawares. Then I feel like I've been tossed around, shipwrecked, and emotionally bruised and beaten. And I like complaining to God about them.

The Epistle of James tells us to "consider it pure joy" when we suffer troubles (James 1:2). Paul certainly had more than his fair share, but he considered it as part of being a Christian. If we trust that God is taking care of us, then our storms can have some lesson for us. Perhaps they can even help to prepare us for what God wants us to do.

Nancy Charley (Kent, England)

Prayer

God of all creation, help us to trust you when it seems like life is full of stormy weather. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Servant Joseph 
Genesis 37:1-17

Joseph is one of my favorite characters in the Bible. I mention him often because there's so much to learn from this successful young man. In fact, his youth is an important lesson in and of itself, and today's passage reveals two of his character traits that we should emulate.

First, he demonstrated a servant spirit early in life. In every exchange between Joseph and his father or masters, he embodies the very picture of respect and discipline. The young man never acts out against those in authority over him; on the contrary, he continually goes out of his way to serve others.

It is worth noting that Joseph is about 17 years of age in Genesis 37. The teen years are a time when the youth of any era are prone to retaliation and selfishness. However, this boy was clearly taught from an early age that a real man is a servant to others.

Second, Joseph realized at a young age that God was controlling his life. How else can you explain his relentless pursuit of excellence throughout his various trials? No matter what happened to him, Joseph always remembered the divine visions that the Father had laid on his heart in his teen years (Gen. 37:1-6). He was convinced that there was a plan for his life and that somehow, sometime, God would reveal what it was.

Whether you are 17 or 77, the lessons of Joseph's life are valuable. It is never too late to learn the art of service or to recognize God's perfect plan. Even better, it's never too late to help someone else discover these things. By Dr Charles Stanley

Change

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Yet whatever gains I had, these I have come to regard as loss because of Christ. More than that, I regard everything as loss because of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead.

-Philippians 3:7-11 (NRSV)

Today's Scripture

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.

-1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NIV)

LOOKING up at the hills near Lake Elsinore, California, I remembered the hills behind the neighborhood where I grew up. They were a great place to play - fairly safe, with just a slight element of danger to add excitement to our days. Several years later, those hilltops and tiny caves were gone, replaced by large, modern homes.

Just as neighborhoods change over the years, so do people. We go through various experiences that change us. Whether the results are for the better depends largely on our attitude.

Consider the apostle Paul. Both he and his living conditions changed after his experience with Christ on the Damascus Road. Rather than arresting Christians, he became a courageous and bold defender of the faith. He was beaten, stoned, shipwrecked, and imprisoned. Paul certainly had good reason to complain, but he thanked God. Why? Paul recognized that his greatest treasure was Jesus Christ and the righteousness Christ offers.

Change is inevitable for all of us. So when it comes, we can look for the new opportunities God is offering in it and, like Paul, we can rejoice, give thanks, and embrace the change.

Star Ferdinand (Texas, U.S.A.)

Prayer

Help us, God, to embrace the changes you bring to our lives and to grow through them. Amen.

Overcoming Bitterness

 

Suggested Bible Reading

Pursue peace with everyone, and the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springs up and causes trouble, and through it many become defiled. See to it that no one becomes like Esau, an immoral and godless person, who sold his birthright for a single meal. You know that later, when he wanted to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, even though he sought the blessing with tears. You have not come to something that can be touched, a blazing fire, and darkness, and gloom, and a tempest, and the sound of a trumpet, and a voice whose words made the hearers beg that not another word be spoken to them. (For they could not endure the order that was given, "If even an animal touches the mountain, it shall be stoned to death." Indeed, so terrifying was the sight that Moses said, "I tremble with fear.") But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to innumerable angels in festal gathering, and to the assembly of the firstborn who are enrolled in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

-Hebrews 12:14-24 (NRSV)

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