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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)