What do people see when they look at you? Do they know that God is with you? Maybe God isn't with you and that is a problem. Abimelech knew that God was working in the life of Abraham. God was real to Abimelech because of what he saw happening with Abraham.
Gen 21:22-26 22 Now it came about at that time that Abimelech and Phicol, the commander of his army, spoke to Abraham, saying, "God is with you in all that you do; 23 now therefore, swear to me here by God that you will not deal falsely with me or with my offspring or with my posterity, but according to the kindness that I have shown to you, you shall show to me and to the land in which you have sojourned." 24 Abraham said, "I swear it." 25 But Abraham complained to Abimelech because of the well of water which the servants of Abimelech had seized. 26 And Abimelech said, "I do not know who has done this thing; you did not tell me, nor did I hear of it until today." NASU
Beginning a new year is a great time to decide that you want your life to leave an impact for God. Begin by living in a manor that glorifies God. People will see God work in your life.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
All Gone
How far must we go before we seek God? There are times we must go pretty far down until we admit that we can no longer do it on our own.
Hager has been sent away. She went out on her own until she couldn't go any further, until all the water was all used up. At that point she abandoned all hope and left the boy to die alone as she went a little and cried.
At that deep moment, God responded. God came at this low point because Hager cried out and need help.
We also need to reach the point in our lives where we stop trying to do it on our own. We need to cry out just like Hagar. Hagar could not physically or spiritually save herself or her son. We too, can not save ourselves, we need to cry out to God for the salvation that we have in Christ.
Gen 21:15-21 15 When the water in the skin was used up, she left the boy under one of the bushes. 16 Then she went and sat down opposite him, about a bowshot away, for she said, "Do not let me see the boy die." And she sat opposite him, and lifted up her voice and wept. 17 God heard the lad crying; and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, "What is the matter with you, Hagar? Do not fear, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is. 18 "Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him by the hand, for I will make a great nation of him." 19 Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water; and she went and filled the skin with water and gave the lad a drink. 20 God was with the lad, and he grew; and he lived in the wilderness and became an archer. 21 He lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt. NAS
Stop trying to do what only God can do. Depend on God and God alone.
Hager has been sent away. She went out on her own until she couldn't go any further, until all the water was all used up. At that point she abandoned all hope and left the boy to die alone as she went a little and cried.
At that deep moment, God responded. God came at this low point because Hager cried out and need help.
We also need to reach the point in our lives where we stop trying to do it on our own. We need to cry out just like Hagar. Hagar could not physically or spiritually save herself or her son. We too, can not save ourselves, we need to cry out to God for the salvation that we have in Christ.
Gen 21:15-21 15 When the water in the skin was used up, she left the boy under one of the bushes. 16 Then she went and sat down opposite him, about a bowshot away, for she said, "Do not let me see the boy die." And she sat opposite him, and lifted up her voice and wept. 17 God heard the lad crying; and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven and said to her, "What is the matter with you, Hagar? Do not fear, for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is. 18 "Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him by the hand, for I will make a great nation of him." 19 Then God opened her eyes and she saw a well of water; and she went and filled the skin with water and gave the lad a drink. 20 God was with the lad, and he grew; and he lived in the wilderness and became an archer. 21 He lived in the wilderness of Paran, and his mother took a wife for him from the land of Egypt. NAS
Stop trying to do what only God can do. Depend on God and God alone.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Day 30--the end
Congratulations on completing your 30-day journey in authentic living! We pray these emails have been encouraging to you and have helped deepen your walk with Christ.
Day 30 of Your Journey
God Doesn't Deal in Mediocrity
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Eph. 3:20 NKJV).
Some years ago, a professional baseball player made this statement: “I find myself in the twilight of a mediocre career.” Unfortunately it could be said of many Christians today that they find themselves in the twilight of a mediocre Christian life. They are simply coasting along, content to go to church and hopefully avoid any major sins.
To live a life like that is not worthy of a God who gave extravagantly to call us His own. Scripture tells us that when God does His works, they are great; and when He surveys all He has done, it is good.
God does not deal in mediocrity, and neither should we. He wants to do in and through us “exceedingly abundantly” beyond what we can imagine. His plans for us will involve His excellence displayed from first to last.
Don’t fear that God’s ability to use you rests solely on your talents (or lack thereof). God delights in using the lowly. He looks at our hearts, not our outward appearance (1 Sam. 16:7 ). He searches for those whose hearts are longing to make an impact on this world that will bring God alone the glory.
Pastor and author John Piper once prayed, “Lord, help me to make an impact with my life that is totally disproportionate to who I am.” That is the kind of prayer we need today.
It has been said that God can do more through one person totally yielded to Him than through a thousand half-hearted followers. Ask God to make you one of the few who sell out for Him.
Making It Personal
Do you believe that God can do far more through you than you have imagined? Ask God to let your life have an impact disproportionate to who you are. Ask Him to enlarge your vision for His glory, not your own.
Day 30 of Your Journey
God Doesn't Deal in Mediocrity
Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us (Eph. 3:20 NKJV).
Some years ago, a professional baseball player made this statement: “I find myself in the twilight of a mediocre career.” Unfortunately it could be said of many Christians today that they find themselves in the twilight of a mediocre Christian life. They are simply coasting along, content to go to church and hopefully avoid any major sins.
To live a life like that is not worthy of a God who gave extravagantly to call us His own. Scripture tells us that when God does His works, they are great; and when He surveys all He has done, it is good.
God does not deal in mediocrity, and neither should we. He wants to do in and through us “exceedingly abundantly” beyond what we can imagine. His plans for us will involve His excellence displayed from first to last.
Don’t fear that God’s ability to use you rests solely on your talents (or lack thereof). God delights in using the lowly. He looks at our hearts, not our outward appearance (1 Sam. 16:7 ). He searches for those whose hearts are longing to make an impact on this world that will bring God alone the glory.
Pastor and author John Piper once prayed, “Lord, help me to make an impact with my life that is totally disproportionate to who I am.” That is the kind of prayer we need today.
It has been said that God can do more through one person totally yielded to Him than through a thousand half-hearted followers. Ask God to make you one of the few who sell out for Him.
Making It Personal
Do you believe that God can do far more through you than you have imagined? Ask God to let your life have an impact disproportionate to who you are. Ask Him to enlarge your vision for His glory, not your own.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Day 29
Day 29 of Your Journey
The Power of Encouraging Others
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing (1 Thess. 5:11 ESV).
But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin (Heb. 3:13).
We have all experienced how powerful words can be. Of all the memories that have faded from our minds, statements that have wounded us or encouraged us seem to live in our recollections.
That’s why the command to encourage each other is so constant in Scripture. It has force in a person’s life not only for the moment but for the future. Words of hope are rarely forgotten.
Some time ago I was stirred to write a letter of appreciation to a person who had had a meaningful impact in my life. I knew he was facing a terminal illness, so I prayed that God would give me specific things to say that would be a blessing to him. I didn’t hear back from him, but I understood that his illness made correspondence and speaking nearly impossible.
A couple of years later I received word that he had died. Though I sought to arrange my schedule to attend the funeral in another state, it was impossible to work out. After the funeral, I ran into a friend who had attended. He gave me a copy of the program to see. There on the inside cover was the letter I had sent to this man. It was obviously meaningful to him, and of anything I have ever had published, it was by far the most meaningful to me.
The most significant blessings in our lives will, in the end, not be the material ones. They will be those who have loved and encouraged us. Encouragement is not reserved for those who have the gift. It is the responsibility of every believer to “encourage one another daily.”
Making It Personal
Take time to thank God in prayer for those who have blessed your life. Then write at least one letter
The Power of Encouraging Others
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing (1 Thess. 5:11 ESV).
But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin (Heb. 3:13).
We have all experienced how powerful words can be. Of all the memories that have faded from our minds, statements that have wounded us or encouraged us seem to live in our recollections.
That’s why the command to encourage each other is so constant in Scripture. It has force in a person’s life not only for the moment but for the future. Words of hope are rarely forgotten.
Some time ago I was stirred to write a letter of appreciation to a person who had had a meaningful impact in my life. I knew he was facing a terminal illness, so I prayed that God would give me specific things to say that would be a blessing to him. I didn’t hear back from him, but I understood that his illness made correspondence and speaking nearly impossible.
A couple of years later I received word that he had died. Though I sought to arrange my schedule to attend the funeral in another state, it was impossible to work out. After the funeral, I ran into a friend who had attended. He gave me a copy of the program to see. There on the inside cover was the letter I had sent to this man. It was obviously meaningful to him, and of anything I have ever had published, it was by far the most meaningful to me.
The most significant blessings in our lives will, in the end, not be the material ones. They will be those who have loved and encouraged us. Encouragement is not reserved for those who have the gift. It is the responsibility of every believer to “encourage one another daily.”
Making It Personal
Take time to thank God in prayer for those who have blessed your life. Then write at least one letter
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Day 28 of Your Journey
Complaining: A Big Deal to God
“Nor [let us] complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer” (1 Cor. 10:10 NKJV).
Sometimes we have a tendency to categorize sin in our minds. Some seem greater, like murder, adultery, etc. Others seem lesser in our estimation, like impatience, anger, etc.
There is some truth to this thought. Though all sin separates us from God, the consequences of some sins are greater than others. Jesus Himself said to Pilate that the one who delivered Him up was guilty of a “greater” sin.
One of those sins we seem to take lightly, if we even acknowledge it as sin, is that of complaining. After all, everyone complains about something, right? For some of us, complaining is so much a part of our life that we don’t even notice how much we do it.
God, however, takes complaining seriously. It is telling that in 1 Corinthians 10, He places it in a sobering sequence of sins. This series includes sins like idolatry, sexual immorality, and tempting God. It was considered serious enough that the consequence for the Israelites was that those who complained were “destroyed by the destroyer.”
Why is complaining so serious? Because at its core, it is an accusation against God. Complaining implies that God has not sufficiently provided, or that He is unfair in His dealings with us.
Interestingly, the Israelites’ specific complaint was against their authority (Moses and Aaron). Perhaps we should remember this when we are tempted to complain about our parents, mate, boss, or pastor.
A simple solution? Every time you are tempted to complain about someone or something, stop and thank God for it instead. You’ll be amazed how your outlook will improve.
Making It Personal
Ask someone you trust and love if you complain often. Think of things you’ve complained about, and try praising God for them instead.
“Nor [let us] complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer” (1 Cor. 10:10 NKJV).
Sometimes we have a tendency to categorize sin in our minds. Some seem greater, like murder, adultery, etc. Others seem lesser in our estimation, like impatience, anger, etc.
There is some truth to this thought. Though all sin separates us from God, the consequences of some sins are greater than others. Jesus Himself said to Pilate that the one who delivered Him up was guilty of a “greater” sin.
One of those sins we seem to take lightly, if we even acknowledge it as sin, is that of complaining. After all, everyone complains about something, right? For some of us, complaining is so much a part of our life that we don’t even notice how much we do it.
God, however, takes complaining seriously. It is telling that in 1 Corinthians 10, He places it in a sobering sequence of sins. This series includes sins like idolatry, sexual immorality, and tempting God. It was considered serious enough that the consequence for the Israelites was that those who complained were “destroyed by the destroyer.”
Why is complaining so serious? Because at its core, it is an accusation against God. Complaining implies that God has not sufficiently provided, or that He is unfair in His dealings with us.
Interestingly, the Israelites’ specific complaint was against their authority (Moses and Aaron). Perhaps we should remember this when we are tempted to complain about our parents, mate, boss, or pastor.
A simple solution? Every time you are tempted to complain about someone or something, stop and thank God for it instead. You’ll be amazed how your outlook will improve.
Making It Personal
Ask someone you trust and love if you complain often. Think of things you’ve complained about, and try praising God for them instead.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Day 27 of Your Journey
No Panic in the Throne Room
In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of His robe filled the temple (Isaiah 6:1 ESV).
Isaiah 6 is one of the Bible’s most magnificent reminders of God’s glory. Here Isaiah gets a vision of God’s holiness. Like every glimpse of God, it would prove to be life-altering for Isaiah.
Notice in verse 1 a simple aspect of Isaiah’s revelation: “I saw the Lord sitting. . . .” God’s posture is significant to what He wanted to communicate. He was sitting, not pacing or looking about anxiously. He was in total control of His creation.
Sometimes our own tendency to worry can taint our view of God. Life can seem so out of control that we lose a sense of God’s reigning over it.
Remember, He is in absolute command of every aspect of this universe. He sits in authority over all that comes our way (Isa. 40:22-23). As someone has said, “There is no panic in the throne room.”
Remember this when you wonder as Jeremiah did, “Why does the way of the wicked prosper?” Think of it when you feel like crying out with the disciples, “Do you not care that we are perishing?” Rejoice in the truth when you want to ask God with David, “How long will my enemy triumph over me?” Rest in it when you feel like Moses and want to say, “Who am I that I should go . . .?”
God knows the end from the beginning. He worries about nothing and is caught off guard by nothing. All things are working together for good in your life.
Making It Personal
Lord, I am so prone to worry. I often doubt You will help, and sometimes I question that You even see what is happening. Thank You that You sit on Your throne in authority over all that I face. Help me to rest in that certainty.
In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of His robe filled the temple (Isaiah 6:1 ESV).
Isaiah 6 is one of the Bible’s most magnificent reminders of God’s glory. Here Isaiah gets a vision of God’s holiness. Like every glimpse of God, it would prove to be life-altering for Isaiah.
Notice in verse 1 a simple aspect of Isaiah’s revelation: “I saw the Lord sitting. . . .” God’s posture is significant to what He wanted to communicate. He was sitting, not pacing or looking about anxiously. He was in total control of His creation.
Sometimes our own tendency to worry can taint our view of God. Life can seem so out of control that we lose a sense of God’s reigning over it.
Remember, He is in absolute command of every aspect of this universe. He sits in authority over all that comes our way (Isa. 40:22-23). As someone has said, “There is no panic in the throne room.”
Remember this when you wonder as Jeremiah did, “Why does the way of the wicked prosper?” Think of it when you feel like crying out with the disciples, “Do you not care that we are perishing?” Rejoice in the truth when you want to ask God with David, “How long will my enemy triumph over me?” Rest in it when you feel like Moses and want to say, “Who am I that I should go . . .?”
God knows the end from the beginning. He worries about nothing and is caught off guard by nothing. All things are working together for good in your life.
Making It Personal
Lord, I am so prone to worry. I often doubt You will help, and sometimes I question that You even see what is happening. Thank You that You sit on Your throne in authority over all that I face. Help me to rest in that certainty.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Day 26
Day 26 of Your Journey
Grace Equips Us for Life
There are few things in life more frustrating than not feeling properly equipped for a task. Sometimes it’s a feeling of inadequacy in our abilities. Other times we feel like we haven’t been given the proper tools to succeed. We can begin to believe that failure is the probable outcome of our assignment.
Have you ever felt like what God asks of you seems so far beyond your capabilities that you are destined to disappoint Him? Most likely we have all faced the question of how it is possible to live victoriously in our walk of faith.
Philippians 2:13 gives us vital insight into how we can live the Christian life. Paul tells us that “it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (NKJV). In other words, it is God who gives us both the desire (“to will”), and the power (“to do”) to live in obedience to God.
Sometimes we want to live right, but we lack the power. In our lowest times we can feel like we don’t even have the desire to do the right thing.
Here is where God comes to the rescue. He will give us both the yearning and the ability to do what is right. The term for this blessed working of God is sanctifying grace.
The wonderful truth is that this grace is available by simply acknowledging our need for it. We don’t have to live with the idea of just doing our best and hoping it measures up to God’s impossible standard. We can live pleasing to Him by relying on His grace in our lives.
Making It Personal
Take time to list three areas where you need God to give you both the desire and the power to do the right thing. Ask for His sanctifying grace in those areas.
Grace Equips Us for Life
There are few things in life more frustrating than not feeling properly equipped for a task. Sometimes it’s a feeling of inadequacy in our abilities. Other times we feel like we haven’t been given the proper tools to succeed. We can begin to believe that failure is the probable outcome of our assignment.
Have you ever felt like what God asks of you seems so far beyond your capabilities that you are destined to disappoint Him? Most likely we have all faced the question of how it is possible to live victoriously in our walk of faith.
Philippians 2:13 gives us vital insight into how we can live the Christian life. Paul tells us that “it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (NKJV). In other words, it is God who gives us both the desire (“to will”), and the power (“to do”) to live in obedience to God.
Sometimes we want to live right, but we lack the power. In our lowest times we can feel like we don’t even have the desire to do the right thing.
Here is where God comes to the rescue. He will give us both the yearning and the ability to do what is right. The term for this blessed working of God is sanctifying grace.
The wonderful truth is that this grace is available by simply acknowledging our need for it. We don’t have to live with the idea of just doing our best and hoping it measures up to God’s impossible standard. We can live pleasing to Him by relying on His grace in our lives.
Making It Personal
Take time to list three areas where you need God to give you both the desire and the power to do the right thing. Ask for His sanctifying grace in those areas.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Day 25
Day 25 of Your Journey
Be Careful What You Grasp
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped (Phil. 2:6 NIV).
The whole history of mankind is our attempt to grasp equality with God. We can go back to our beginnings in the garden of Eden and find the initial temptation there.
Satan’s enticement to Eve was, “God knows . . . you will be like [Him]” (Gen. 3:5 ESV). The tragedy was that Adam and Eve never realized they were already more like Him than they would ever be again. Once sin entered, separation would enter and grow.
For us, the temptation to grasp equality with God comes in everyday decisions. In every instance that we are faced with a choice between God’s way and our own, we will be tempted to grasp.
We are lured into believing that we have the right to make any selection that pleases us. The result is that every time I choose my own way, I am in essence saying, “I will be God in my own life.”
Jesus, however, gives us a picture of what submitting to God should mean to us. Though He was fully God, He did not grasp that equality.
No one has existed who had more right to claim parity with God. Yet He willingly laid down His rights by becoming a man and fully obeying His Father’s direction. He lived not for His own glory but for His Father’s.
What is the key to Jesus’ attitude? We are told that He emptied himself of His rights. So we too should empty ourselves.
Any attitude that says, “I have the right to make the final decision in this matter,” will lead us to making an idol of ourselves. We must remove ourselves from this throne.
Making It Personal
What areas of your life are you grasping? Where have you not asked God His pleasure, or simply refused to release your own? Release those areas to God.
Be Careful What You Grasp
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped (Phil. 2:6 NIV).
The whole history of mankind is our attempt to grasp equality with God. We can go back to our beginnings in the garden of Eden and find the initial temptation there.
Satan’s enticement to Eve was, “God knows . . . you will be like [Him]” (Gen. 3:5 ESV). The tragedy was that Adam and Eve never realized they were already more like Him than they would ever be again. Once sin entered, separation would enter and grow.
For us, the temptation to grasp equality with God comes in everyday decisions. In every instance that we are faced with a choice between God’s way and our own, we will be tempted to grasp.
We are lured into believing that we have the right to make any selection that pleases us. The result is that every time I choose my own way, I am in essence saying, “I will be God in my own life.”
Jesus, however, gives us a picture of what submitting to God should mean to us. Though He was fully God, He did not grasp that equality.
No one has existed who had more right to claim parity with God. Yet He willingly laid down His rights by becoming a man and fully obeying His Father’s direction. He lived not for His own glory but for His Father’s.
What is the key to Jesus’ attitude? We are told that He emptied himself of His rights. So we too should empty ourselves.
Any attitude that says, “I have the right to make the final decision in this matter,” will lead us to making an idol of ourselves. We must remove ourselves from this throne.
Making It Personal
What areas of your life are you grasping? Where have you not asked God His pleasure, or simply refused to release your own? Release those areas to God.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Day 24 From Life Action Ministries
Day 24 of Your Journey
Vague Prayers Are Unanswered Prayers
Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10:51 ESV).
The setting of this question by Jesus makes it seem almost humorous. A blind man named Bartemaeus has been crying out to Jesus for mercy. Despite attempts to quiet him by those present, he has continued to yell in an attempt to draw Jesus’ attention. When finally he has succeeded, he is brought forward to stand in Christ’s presence.
Imagine the scene. The crowd parts, and shoved before Jesus is a half-dressed, blind beggar. He is obviously blind; he is obviously a beggar. He is probably filthy, and he probably smells terrible. Jesus looks at this pitiful, handicapped man and asks one simple question: “What do you want me to do for you?”
The answer to this question is so blatantly obvious that it almost seems a cruel query on Jesus’ part. Well, of course, he needs to see! Why even ask such a question? What purpose is there in playing with this poor man’s emotions? Just heal him! Right?
The question Jesus asked was not, however, for His own benefit. It was for the blind man’s. Jesus knew his needs better than he himself knew them. Prior to this point, his cry had been, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But really, what does that mean? It mirrors the kind of prayers we often pray: “Lord, help me be a better Christian.” Again, what does that mean?
So Jesus asks for a specific request. The answer came from the blind man immediately: “That I might receive my sight.” So we too must pray specifically. When we realize how blind we are, it will be easy to call on Him.
Making It Personal
It has been said: “God doesn’t hear prayer; He hears specific prayer.” What, specifically, is your need today? What specific area of your life needs to change? What specific need does your family have? Ask God to intervene.
Vague Prayers Are Unanswered Prayers
Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mark 10:51 ESV).
The setting of this question by Jesus makes it seem almost humorous. A blind man named Bartemaeus has been crying out to Jesus for mercy. Despite attempts to quiet him by those present, he has continued to yell in an attempt to draw Jesus’ attention. When finally he has succeeded, he is brought forward to stand in Christ’s presence.
Imagine the scene. The crowd parts, and shoved before Jesus is a half-dressed, blind beggar. He is obviously blind; he is obviously a beggar. He is probably filthy, and he probably smells terrible. Jesus looks at this pitiful, handicapped man and asks one simple question: “What do you want me to do for you?”
The answer to this question is so blatantly obvious that it almost seems a cruel query on Jesus’ part. Well, of course, he needs to see! Why even ask such a question? What purpose is there in playing with this poor man’s emotions? Just heal him! Right?
The question Jesus asked was not, however, for His own benefit. It was for the blind man’s. Jesus knew his needs better than he himself knew them. Prior to this point, his cry had been, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” But really, what does that mean? It mirrors the kind of prayers we often pray: “Lord, help me be a better Christian.” Again, what does that mean?
So Jesus asks for a specific request. The answer came from the blind man immediately: “That I might receive my sight.” So we too must pray specifically. When we realize how blind we are, it will be easy to call on Him.
Making It Personal
It has been said: “God doesn’t hear prayer; He hears specific prayer.” What, specifically, is your need today? What specific area of your life needs to change? What specific need does your family have? Ask God to intervene.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Day 23
I know that this is on the same day as day 22 but I got a day behind.
Day 23 of Your Journey
Repentance: A Beautiful Word
Repent therefore, and turn again . . . that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19-20 ESV).
One of Satan’s weapons to oppose our spiritual growth is to give us a negative view of a positive truth. If he can convince us that God’s way is not desirable, we will instinctively try to avoid it.
Such is the case with God’s call to repentance. The very idea of the word repent may bring with it images of Bible-pounding preachers or strange men on street corners yelling at passersby. Satan has so succeeded in stereotyping the word that most Christians don’t even see the need or understand the concept.
Despite all this, repentance is a beautiful word. It literally means to have a change of mind that results in a change of direction or action. It involves turning from our own way to get in line with God’s way. Furthermore, the Bible tells us that it is something God grants to us. It is His gracious work in our hearts to bring us back to Him.
The beauty of the word lies in the beauty of our lives being reconciled properly to God. Once this has happened, the blessings of God can begin to flow in our lives. We can now know the joy of fellowship with Him as He intends it to be.
In fact, Peter tells us in the passage above that repentance brings with it a refreshing of our spiritual lives that comes as God’s presence is manifested among us. Refreshed in His presence—what a wonderful thought!
Making It Personal
Since God is the one who grants repentance, we should ask Him if there are sins we need to turn from. Remember, He is more eager for us to know than we are to know ourselves. Ask God daily if there is anything that would hinder your fellowship with Him.
Day 23 of Your Journey
Repentance: A Beautiful Word
Repent therefore, and turn again . . . that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19-20 ESV).
One of Satan’s weapons to oppose our spiritual growth is to give us a negative view of a positive truth. If he can convince us that God’s way is not desirable, we will instinctively try to avoid it.
Such is the case with God’s call to repentance. The very idea of the word repent may bring with it images of Bible-pounding preachers or strange men on street corners yelling at passersby. Satan has so succeeded in stereotyping the word that most Christians don’t even see the need or understand the concept.
Despite all this, repentance is a beautiful word. It literally means to have a change of mind that results in a change of direction or action. It involves turning from our own way to get in line with God’s way. Furthermore, the Bible tells us that it is something God grants to us. It is His gracious work in our hearts to bring us back to Him.
The beauty of the word lies in the beauty of our lives being reconciled properly to God. Once this has happened, the blessings of God can begin to flow in our lives. We can now know the joy of fellowship with Him as He intends it to be.
In fact, Peter tells us in the passage above that repentance brings with it a refreshing of our spiritual lives that comes as God’s presence is manifested among us. Refreshed in His presence—what a wonderful thought!
Making It Personal
Since God is the one who grants repentance, we should ask Him if there are sins we need to turn from. Remember, He is more eager for us to know than we are to know ourselves. Ask God daily if there is anything that would hinder your fellowship with Him.
Day 22
Day 22 of Your Journey
The Importance of Remembering
He said to the people of Israel, “When your children ask your fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordon on dry ground’”( Josh. 4:21-22 ESV).
When God does a significant work in our life or marriage, we have a vital responsibility. We are to do as Joshua did before the people after crossing the Jordon River. Joshua knew he had to make sure that what God had done was commemorated. Likewise, our task is twofold:
Remember His works.
Communicate His works to our children.
Remembering is very important to God. Psalm 111:4 tells us that God has made His works to be remembered. Doing this keeps Him at the forefront of our thoughts and worship.
Remembering is also essential to our faith. Jesus often reminded His disciples of past events to encourage them to believe in the present. Recalling what God has done in the past will strengthen us when we face testing.
We are also to verbalize to our children what God has done. Their memories will often fade more quickly than ours, or they may not comprehend the significance of what has transpired in our relationship with God. Tell them what has happened so they can know that God is not just a concept—He is real to you.
Making It Personal
If God has done a powerful work in you, it is important that you set up a monument to it. Ask God to show you something unique you can place in your house to remind you of what He has done—perhaps even a stone of some kind, so when your children ask about it, you can recall to them what God did.
The Importance of Remembering
He said to the people of Israel, “When your children ask your fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordon on dry ground’”( Josh. 4:21-22 ESV).
When God does a significant work in our life or marriage, we have a vital responsibility. We are to do as Joshua did before the people after crossing the Jordon River. Joshua knew he had to make sure that what God had done was commemorated. Likewise, our task is twofold:
Remember His works.
Communicate His works to our children.
Remembering is very important to God. Psalm 111:4 tells us that God has made His works to be remembered. Doing this keeps Him at the forefront of our thoughts and worship.
Remembering is also essential to our faith. Jesus often reminded His disciples of past events to encourage them to believe in the present. Recalling what God has done in the past will strengthen us when we face testing.
We are also to verbalize to our children what God has done. Their memories will often fade more quickly than ours, or they may not comprehend the significance of what has transpired in our relationship with God. Tell them what has happened so they can know that God is not just a concept—He is real to you.
Making It Personal
If God has done a powerful work in you, it is important that you set up a monument to it. Ask God to show you something unique you can place in your house to remind you of what He has done—perhaps even a stone of some kind, so when your children ask about it, you can recall to them what God did.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Day 21
Day 21 of Your Journey
Some Paths Were Meant to Be Hard
“The way of transgressors [sinners] is hard” (Prov. 13:15 KJV).
There are certain truths that God has made clearly evident in His creation. Romans 1 tells us that God has revealed Himself extravagantly in all that we see around us. We can gain an incredible grasp of His nature by studying the earth and the heavens and all their fullness.
There is another truth built into the very essence of life that we often overlook, however. According to Solomon in the book of Proverbs, God has ordered the world in such a way that to choose the path of sin is hard. It may look appealing; it may seem desirable to our flesh, but in the end it will include a cost greater than we imagined.
Understanding and remembering this truth is essential to right living, because it affects not only the choices we make but also how we respond to the choices of those around us. God’s truth is just as sure for others as it is for us. If they choose the path of sin, it will be a hard path.
Here, then, is the danger: Our tendency is to try to lessen sin’s consequences for those we love. In our thinking, this is a caring, compassionate response to the conflict we see.
However, in doing so we will find ourselves in opposition to God.
Remember, God disciplines those He loves. Can you imagine how we would respond if someone constantly sought to undo the correction we give to our own children? We do it because we love them; so also God does it as an act of love. To try to soften God’s correction is to claim that we know more of love than He does.
Making It Personal
Is there someone undergoing God’s discipline that you need to release to His loving correction? Are you choosing a path that will lead you into sin? Pray and submit to God’s perfect ways.
Some Paths Were Meant to Be Hard
“The way of transgressors [sinners] is hard” (Prov. 13:15 KJV).
There are certain truths that God has made clearly evident in His creation. Romans 1 tells us that God has revealed Himself extravagantly in all that we see around us. We can gain an incredible grasp of His nature by studying the earth and the heavens and all their fullness.
There is another truth built into the very essence of life that we often overlook, however. According to Solomon in the book of Proverbs, God has ordered the world in such a way that to choose the path of sin is hard. It may look appealing; it may seem desirable to our flesh, but in the end it will include a cost greater than we imagined.
Understanding and remembering this truth is essential to right living, because it affects not only the choices we make but also how we respond to the choices of those around us. God’s truth is just as sure for others as it is for us. If they choose the path of sin, it will be a hard path.
Here, then, is the danger: Our tendency is to try to lessen sin’s consequences for those we love. In our thinking, this is a caring, compassionate response to the conflict we see.
However, in doing so we will find ourselves in opposition to God.
Remember, God disciplines those He loves. Can you imagine how we would respond if someone constantly sought to undo the correction we give to our own children? We do it because we love them; so also God does it as an act of love. To try to soften God’s correction is to claim that we know more of love than He does.
Making It Personal
Is there someone undergoing God’s discipline that you need to release to His loving correction? Are you choosing a path that will lead you into sin? Pray and submit to God’s perfect ways.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Day 20
Day 20 of Your Journey
Why Revival? Because God Deserves It
Revival is one of those words that often causes one of two responses. We may shrug our shoulders and say, “What’s the big deal?” We wonder why some people get so worked up over the issue and seem to talk incessantly about revival. It’s as though they have a one-track mind, and they expend all their energy to convince us we should want it too. Then, when we don’t respond with like passion, we feel looked down on.
Another response is to shy away from the concept. It seems mystical and unreal to many of us. The idea of asking God to show up and do some kind of miracle or to reveal Himself as some dramatic apparition just seems a little creepy to us. What’s wrong with our church the way it is? Why do we need to ask for something more?
The important thing to remember is that we pray for revival because we long to see God praised and glorified as He deserves. Revival is about God moving in such an extraordinary way that He becomes the total focus of what is happening.
Have you ever had a moment where God was so real to you that you felt like you could almost touch Him? A time when you realized in a fresh way how wonderful He was and how much He meant to you?
Now imagine that happening to everyone in your church simultaneously—your entire congregation so caught up in God that no one wants to leave the building. Crowds gather to encounter, praise, and submit to the wonderful God who has made Himself known.
That’s what revival is, and that’s why we seek it.
Making It Personal
“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?” (Psa. 85:6 ESV).
Why Revival? Because God Deserves It
Revival is one of those words that often causes one of two responses. We may shrug our shoulders and say, “What’s the big deal?” We wonder why some people get so worked up over the issue and seem to talk incessantly about revival. It’s as though they have a one-track mind, and they expend all their energy to convince us we should want it too. Then, when we don’t respond with like passion, we feel looked down on.
Another response is to shy away from the concept. It seems mystical and unreal to many of us. The idea of asking God to show up and do some kind of miracle or to reveal Himself as some dramatic apparition just seems a little creepy to us. What’s wrong with our church the way it is? Why do we need to ask for something more?
The important thing to remember is that we pray for revival because we long to see God praised and glorified as He deserves. Revival is about God moving in such an extraordinary way that He becomes the total focus of what is happening.
Have you ever had a moment where God was so real to you that you felt like you could almost touch Him? A time when you realized in a fresh way how wonderful He was and how much He meant to you?
Now imagine that happening to everyone in your church simultaneously—your entire congregation so caught up in God that no one wants to leave the building. Crowds gather to encounter, praise, and submit to the wonderful God who has made Himself known.
That’s what revival is, and that’s why we seek it.
Making It Personal
“Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?” (Psa. 85:6 ESV).
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
19
Day 19 of Your Journey
Praise: Fitting for All Our Circumstances
Praise is a powerful force. I’m not referring merely to the singing of songs or to an emotional experience. I’m referring to the heart that overflows into expressing its joy and confidence in God.
True praise originates in the believer’s heart, not on his lips. This kind of praise gets God’s attention. When we praise from our hearts, the Bible tells us that God is present, inhabiting the very praises we express.
Praise can also free us from the prison cell of despair. Isaiah 61:3 (NKJV) tells us that we can exchange a “spirit of heaviness” for the “garment of praise.”
Do you ever feel heavy, sometimes with no reason? Praise is a guard against the despair that can overtake our hearts. The key is praising God regardless of the circumstances.
David did this in Psalm 13. Despite the hopelessness he felt in his circumstances, he chose to praise God for His love, deliverance, and goodness. All these he rejoiced in with no outward sign of God’s relief in sight. By the end of the psalm, we find David joyfully singing the praises of God—again with no deliverance evident around him.
Praising God only in good times, and then complaining in hard times, shows that we know very little of God’s sovereignty.
Making It Personal
What are the hardest issues in your life right now? Have you taken time to praise God in the midst of them? You can praise Him as David did, because:
God has a loving purpose,
He will deliver us in His timing, and
He has always been good to us.
Praise: Fitting for All Our Circumstances
Praise is a powerful force. I’m not referring merely to the singing of songs or to an emotional experience. I’m referring to the heart that overflows into expressing its joy and confidence in God.
True praise originates in the believer’s heart, not on his lips. This kind of praise gets God’s attention. When we praise from our hearts, the Bible tells us that God is present, inhabiting the very praises we express.
Praise can also free us from the prison cell of despair. Isaiah 61:3 (NKJV) tells us that we can exchange a “spirit of heaviness” for the “garment of praise.”
Do you ever feel heavy, sometimes with no reason? Praise is a guard against the despair that can overtake our hearts. The key is praising God regardless of the circumstances.
David did this in Psalm 13. Despite the hopelessness he felt in his circumstances, he chose to praise God for His love, deliverance, and goodness. All these he rejoiced in with no outward sign of God’s relief in sight. By the end of the psalm, we find David joyfully singing the praises of God—again with no deliverance evident around him.
Praising God only in good times, and then complaining in hard times, shows that we know very little of God’s sovereignty.
Making It Personal
What are the hardest issues in your life right now? Have you taken time to praise God in the midst of them? You can praise Him as David did, because:
God has a loving purpose,
He will deliver us in His timing, and
He has always been good to us.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Day 18
Day 18 of Your Journey
Self-Reformation: The Enemy of Grace
One of the beauties of God’s grace is that it allows us to approach Him in our times of need. Often in the moments we feel most unworthy to come to Him, we are most welcomed by Him.
That’s what David realized as he wrote these words: “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth” (Psa. 121:1-2 ESV).
Our help will always be found in the Lord. Anything that keeps you from turning to Him when in need originates with Satan. Satan will tell you, “You have to get your life in order so you can go to God.” God will say, “You have to come to Me so you can get your life in order.”
This is not merely a play on words; it is essential to understanding God’s grace in your life. All true change will begin with God, not us. He is the source of everything we need to live a life glorifying to Him.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,” James 1:17 tells us. All our spiritual provision originates in heaven and is delivered down to us.
It’s futile to try to reform our lives as a means of gaining God’s acceptance. We can never make ourselves good enough for God.
We must start by realizing that our acceptance is through the blood of Christ. On that basis we come to God as we are, acknowledging that our only hope for change is His power.
Remember this today: Our help comes from the Lord, who made all of heaven and earth.
Making It Personal
Lord, I cannot make myself good enough for You. I need Your grace to even want to change. Work in me today by the power of Your might. Change me into the image of Jesus, as only You can.
Self-Reformation: The Enemy of Grace
One of the beauties of God’s grace is that it allows us to approach Him in our times of need. Often in the moments we feel most unworthy to come to Him, we are most welcomed by Him.
That’s what David realized as he wrote these words: “I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the LORD, who made heaven and earth” (Psa. 121:1-2 ESV).
Our help will always be found in the Lord. Anything that keeps you from turning to Him when in need originates with Satan. Satan will tell you, “You have to get your life in order so you can go to God.” God will say, “You have to come to Me so you can get your life in order.”
This is not merely a play on words; it is essential to understanding God’s grace in your life. All true change will begin with God, not us. He is the source of everything we need to live a life glorifying to Him.
“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,” James 1:17 tells us. All our spiritual provision originates in heaven and is delivered down to us.
It’s futile to try to reform our lives as a means of gaining God’s acceptance. We can never make ourselves good enough for God.
We must start by realizing that our acceptance is through the blood of Christ. On that basis we come to God as we are, acknowledging that our only hope for change is His power.
Remember this today: Our help comes from the Lord, who made all of heaven and earth.
Making It Personal
Lord, I cannot make myself good enough for You. I need Your grace to even want to change. Work in me today by the power of Your might. Change me into the image of Jesus, as only You can.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Day 17
Day 17 of Your Journey
How About a Radical Ambition?
“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35 ESV).
This is perhaps one of the most radical proclamations our Savior made. The drastic nature of Jesus’ statement lies in the fact that there is absolutely no qualification given to it.
Jesus did not say, “It is more blessed to give than to receive, unless someone gives you this much money. Then receiving is a greater blessing.”
There is no tipping point to the promise. It is simply more blessed to give.
The implications to this are staggering. For instance, the blessing we receive when we give ten dollars in obedience to God is greater than if someone walked up and gave us a check for a million dollars!
Why? Because the blessing we get for giving is stored up in heaven, where “neither moth nor rust destroys” (Matt. 6:20). Jesus made it clear that our goal should be to store up treasure in heaven, not on earth.
I have met many men who had an ambition to make a million dollars. The founder of Life Action Ministries, Del Fehsenfeld Jr., had a unique ambition: to give away a million dollars.
In Del’s lifetime, through his own substantial personal giving and the giving of Life Action, he gave away over a million dollars. This he did on a missionary’s income. When he died at the age of 42, all he had given was waiting in heaven to lay at the feet of Christ.
Making It Personal
What is your ambition? Are you living for earthly riches, or are you storing up treasure in heaven?
The surest way to fight greed is to give. How can you give in an unusual way? Big or small, give to someone in need today.
How About a Radical Ambition?
“It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35 ESV).
This is perhaps one of the most radical proclamations our Savior made. The drastic nature of Jesus’ statement lies in the fact that there is absolutely no qualification given to it.
Jesus did not say, “It is more blessed to give than to receive, unless someone gives you this much money. Then receiving is a greater blessing.”
There is no tipping point to the promise. It is simply more blessed to give.
The implications to this are staggering. For instance, the blessing we receive when we give ten dollars in obedience to God is greater than if someone walked up and gave us a check for a million dollars!
Why? Because the blessing we get for giving is stored up in heaven, where “neither moth nor rust destroys” (Matt. 6:20). Jesus made it clear that our goal should be to store up treasure in heaven, not on earth.
I have met many men who had an ambition to make a million dollars. The founder of Life Action Ministries, Del Fehsenfeld Jr., had a unique ambition: to give away a million dollars.
In Del’s lifetime, through his own substantial personal giving and the giving of Life Action, he gave away over a million dollars. This he did on a missionary’s income. When he died at the age of 42, all he had given was waiting in heaven to lay at the feet of Christ.
Making It Personal
What is your ambition? Are you living for earthly riches, or are you storing up treasure in heaven?
The surest way to fight greed is to give. How can you give in an unusual way? Big or small, give to someone in need today.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Day 16
Day 16 of Your Journey
Our "Default" Prayer
“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but . . . the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God” (Rom. 8:26-27 ESV).
Perhaps the greatest challenge to prayer is praying according to God’s will. Paul acknowledges in these verses that sometimes we just don’t know what to pray for. Our understanding can be clouded in the midst of our circumstances.
Sometimes this is because of ignorance or lack of biblical knowledge. At other times our immaturity or our own emotions and desires confuse us. We look into the fog and see nothing that makes sense.
At these moments the Spirit is present to aid us. One of His jobs is to intercede on our behalf according to the Father’s will.
The Spirit is one with the Father. He knows the Father’s desire and heart perfectly. He will faithfully guide us toward God’s plan.
Our responsibility in uncertainty is always to return to what should be our “default” prayer. This is the prayer of Jesus in John 12:28, “Father, glorify your name.”
When we are uncertain what God is up to, the most important thing we can do is remember that life’s primary goal is for God to be glorified as He should be.
Making It Personal
Think of some specific circumstances that seem to be unresolved in your life. Take a moment to simply pray, “God, in this circumstance, glorify Your name.”
Our "Default" Prayer
“Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but . . . the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God” (Rom. 8:26-27 ESV).
Perhaps the greatest challenge to prayer is praying according to God’s will. Paul acknowledges in these verses that sometimes we just don’t know what to pray for. Our understanding can be clouded in the midst of our circumstances.
Sometimes this is because of ignorance or lack of biblical knowledge. At other times our immaturity or our own emotions and desires confuse us. We look into the fog and see nothing that makes sense.
At these moments the Spirit is present to aid us. One of His jobs is to intercede on our behalf according to the Father’s will.
The Spirit is one with the Father. He knows the Father’s desire and heart perfectly. He will faithfully guide us toward God’s plan.
Our responsibility in uncertainty is always to return to what should be our “default” prayer. This is the prayer of Jesus in John 12:28, “Father, glorify your name.”
When we are uncertain what God is up to, the most important thing we can do is remember that life’s primary goal is for God to be glorified as He should be.
Making It Personal
Think of some specific circumstances that seem to be unresolved in your life. Take a moment to simply pray, “God, in this circumstance, glorify Your name.”
Friday, November 27, 2009
Day 15
Day 15 of Your Journey
Discernment Is Not for Criticizing Others
“I therefore . . . urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love” (Eph. 4:1-2 ESV).
Walking in a manner worthy of our Lord involves being kind and patient with fellow believers. When we are revived, we begin to see things more clearly. Areas we once considered gray, or perhaps did not even bother to consider, now become clear. Our perspective of ourselves and others may undergo a radical transformation.
If we’re not careful, we can be quick to condemn and look down on those who don’t seem to have the enlightenment we have. Remember this simple truth: God never gives discernment for the purpose of criticism. He gives it for the purpose of intercession.
As you walk more deeply with God, He will often give you understanding and discernment into the lives of others. This is a special blessing from God that is not meant to tear them down, but rather to build them up.
This is where asking God to watch our motives is important. The difference between wanting to make someone know they are wrong, and desiring to help someone be right, is as vast as the heavens yet as narrow as our motive. Our job is to patiently bear with one another in love as we pray and encourage them toward doing what is right.
Making It Personal
Lord, help me to stand passionately for truth, yet with patience and kindness toward others. Let the discernment You give me stir me to pray for others, not criticize them.
Take time to think of anyone you have been critical of. Spend some time praying for them.
Discernment Is Not for Criticizing Others
“I therefore . . . urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love” (Eph. 4:1-2 ESV).
Walking in a manner worthy of our Lord involves being kind and patient with fellow believers. When we are revived, we begin to see things more clearly. Areas we once considered gray, or perhaps did not even bother to consider, now become clear. Our perspective of ourselves and others may undergo a radical transformation.
If we’re not careful, we can be quick to condemn and look down on those who don’t seem to have the enlightenment we have. Remember this simple truth: God never gives discernment for the purpose of criticism. He gives it for the purpose of intercession.
As you walk more deeply with God, He will often give you understanding and discernment into the lives of others. This is a special blessing from God that is not meant to tear them down, but rather to build them up.
This is where asking God to watch our motives is important. The difference between wanting to make someone know they are wrong, and desiring to help someone be right, is as vast as the heavens yet as narrow as our motive. Our job is to patiently bear with one another in love as we pray and encourage them toward doing what is right.
Making It Personal
Lord, help me to stand passionately for truth, yet with patience and kindness toward others. Let the discernment You give me stir me to pray for others, not criticize them.
Take time to think of anyone you have been critical of. Spend some time praying for them.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Day 14
Day 14 of Your Journey
Submission Requires Active Faith
There are very few times in Scripture where Jesus compliments someone. One of these is found in Matthew 8:5-13.
The Bible says that Jesus marveled at the centurion. That alone is amazing, that the Son of God would marvel at anyone.
Jesus then says of him, “I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel” (v. 10 NASB). What was the key to this faith the centurion possessed? It was his understanding of what it meant to be under authority (v. 9).
Responding and submitting to authority is one of the greatest challenges of the Christian life. In our submission we learn to trust God’s sovereign control over all things. God asks us to trust that He will use even ungodly leaders to accomplish His purposes. This is hard because it goes against our natural inclination to try to control our life.
Whether in our marriage, job, family, or church, God gives us the opportunity to learn submission. This earthly submission then gives us the faith to submit to God as He works in our lives.
Make no mistake, you will not grow in faith while you resist God-given authority. We cannot say we are in submission to God while rebelling against earthly authorities.
Our one exception, of course, is if we are asked to violate Scripture. Then we have a higher authority to obey. This, however, is rarely the case. We will find that most of the issues we struggle with will simply involve dying to our will or preference.
Making It Personal
Are there any authorities you find yourself resisting, in action or attitude? Each one provides an opportunity to learn submission to God. Take a moment to confess your sin to God, and then place yourself once again under that authority.
Submission Requires Active Faith
There are very few times in Scripture where Jesus compliments someone. One of these is found in Matthew 8:5-13.
The Bible says that Jesus marveled at the centurion. That alone is amazing, that the Son of God would marvel at anyone.
Jesus then says of him, “I have not found such great faith with anyone in Israel” (v. 10 NASB). What was the key to this faith the centurion possessed? It was his understanding of what it meant to be under authority (v. 9).
Responding and submitting to authority is one of the greatest challenges of the Christian life. In our submission we learn to trust God’s sovereign control over all things. God asks us to trust that He will use even ungodly leaders to accomplish His purposes. This is hard because it goes against our natural inclination to try to control our life.
Whether in our marriage, job, family, or church, God gives us the opportunity to learn submission. This earthly submission then gives us the faith to submit to God as He works in our lives.
Make no mistake, you will not grow in faith while you resist God-given authority. We cannot say we are in submission to God while rebelling against earthly authorities.
Our one exception, of course, is if we are asked to violate Scripture. Then we have a higher authority to obey. This, however, is rarely the case. We will find that most of the issues we struggle with will simply involve dying to our will or preference.
Making It Personal
Are there any authorities you find yourself resisting, in action or attitude? Each one provides an opportunity to learn submission to God. Take a moment to confess your sin to God, and then place yourself once again under that authority.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Day 13 From Life Action Ministries
Day 13 of Your Journey
Need: The Path to Revival
“. . . that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Rom. 12:2 NKJV).
Speaking on the subject of prayer, George Müller once said, “I seek at the beginning to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in regard to a given matter. Nine-tenths of the difficulties are overcome when our hearts are ready to do the Lord’s will.”
For most of us, that is the greatest part of our battle in prayer. It means releasing our desires and accepting that God’s plan will always be best.
Romans 12:2 tells us three very important things about God’s will. First, it is good. God’s will is innately good and therefore will always accomplish good, both in our lives and in those around us.
Second, God’s will is acceptable or well pleasing. Though God’s will may not, at any given moment, seem to be our preference, it will always bring us the greatest joy in the long run. We will always find it well pleasing in retrospect.
Finally, His will is perfect. Think how incredible it is to have a path in life that is perfect! His plan lacks nothing for our well-being, and at the same time it will bring Him the greatest glory.
That’s why someone has defined God’s will as “what I would choose if I knew all the facts.”
Making It Personal
Lord, too often I fear Your will. Please bring me to a place where I can sincerely pray, “If You are pleased, I am pleased.” Make my will Your own by the power of Your name. Amen.
Need: The Path to Revival
“. . . that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Rom. 12:2 NKJV).
Speaking on the subject of prayer, George Müller once said, “I seek at the beginning to get my heart into such a state that it has no will of its own in regard to a given matter. Nine-tenths of the difficulties are overcome when our hearts are ready to do the Lord’s will.”
For most of us, that is the greatest part of our battle in prayer. It means releasing our desires and accepting that God’s plan will always be best.
Romans 12:2 tells us three very important things about God’s will. First, it is good. God’s will is innately good and therefore will always accomplish good, both in our lives and in those around us.
Second, God’s will is acceptable or well pleasing. Though God’s will may not, at any given moment, seem to be our preference, it will always bring us the greatest joy in the long run. We will always find it well pleasing in retrospect.
Finally, His will is perfect. Think how incredible it is to have a path in life that is perfect! His plan lacks nothing for our well-being, and at the same time it will bring Him the greatest glory.
That’s why someone has defined God’s will as “what I would choose if I knew all the facts.”
Making It Personal
Lord, too often I fear Your will. Please bring me to a place where I can sincerely pray, “If You are pleased, I am pleased.” Make my will Your own by the power of Your name. Amen.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Day 12
Day 12 of Your Journey
Can God Bless with Trials?
Interpreting life’s events can be a tricky undertaking. Our instinct is to assume that if something bad happens, it’s because God is displeased with us. We then go on what I call a wild hunt for sin—that desperate search for whatever we’ve done to bring on our calamity.
To be sure, sin will bring with it trials (Prov. 13:15). The problem is, trials don’t necessarily indicate that sin is present.
James refers to “the testing of your faith” in James 1:3. Think about those very words: faith (a good thing) being tested by the events of life. In other words, God responds to something good He sees in our life by sending trials to grow it.
One of the greatest challenges of the Christian life is learning to embrace the trials God sends our way as gifts from Him. We use so much energy trying to escape or fight the tough situations we face, that we fail to see they have actually been given to us by God.
Are you going through a trial? Ask God for wisdom as to its source. According to James 1:5, God will liberally and graciously answer.
Making It Personal
What is the greatest trial you are facing right now? Whether it is caused by sin or testing, the Spirit will specifically show you if you sincerely ask for wisdom. If it is testing, take time to thank God for His commitment to your life in giving you this trial.
Can God Bless with Trials?
Interpreting life’s events can be a tricky undertaking. Our instinct is to assume that if something bad happens, it’s because God is displeased with us. We then go on what I call a wild hunt for sin—that desperate search for whatever we’ve done to bring on our calamity.
To be sure, sin will bring with it trials (Prov. 13:15). The problem is, trials don’t necessarily indicate that sin is present.
James refers to “the testing of your faith” in James 1:3. Think about those very words: faith (a good thing) being tested by the events of life. In other words, God responds to something good He sees in our life by sending trials to grow it.
One of the greatest challenges of the Christian life is learning to embrace the trials God sends our way as gifts from Him. We use so much energy trying to escape or fight the tough situations we face, that we fail to see they have actually been given to us by God.
Are you going through a trial? Ask God for wisdom as to its source. According to James 1:5, God will liberally and graciously answer.
Making It Personal
What is the greatest trial you are facing right now? Whether it is caused by sin or testing, the Spirit will specifically show you if you sincerely ask for wisdom. If it is testing, take time to thank God for His commitment to your life in giving you this trial.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Purity?
Day 11 of Your Journey
Purity: A Reflection of God's Redeeming Grace
“But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints” (Eph. 5:3 ESV).
Years ago as a college student, I sat in a devotional led by a Christian singer who would go on to become nationally known for his music and ministry. He said something that day I have never forgotten: “I should be so holy that when another woman looks into my eyes, she sees nothing but that I love my wife deeply.”
That is the heart behind Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 5:3. We are not to let immorality even be named in our lives. There should not even be a ground to utter a word implying that immorality exists in us.
This is a strong statement. That’s because the decision to be pure in every way will have to be a radical one.
Why is this so important? Because we are told that it is proper, or “becoming,” for a saint to be pure. This word is most often used in the New Testament in relation to Christ and His role and purpose in our redemption.
The process of redemption was beautiful and becoming because it reflected God’s heart. In the same way, our purity is “becoming” for those who have been saved and bought by His sacrifice.
Making It Personal
Are you walking in purity in every area of your life—not just your actions, but your thoughts, speech, viewing habits, and reading as well? What decisions will you have to make to achieve purity in your life?
Purity: A Reflection of God's Redeeming Grace
“But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints” (Eph. 5:3 ESV).
Years ago as a college student, I sat in a devotional led by a Christian singer who would go on to become nationally known for his music and ministry. He said something that day I have never forgotten: “I should be so holy that when another woman looks into my eyes, she sees nothing but that I love my wife deeply.”
That is the heart behind Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 5:3. We are not to let immorality even be named in our lives. There should not even be a ground to utter a word implying that immorality exists in us.
This is a strong statement. That’s because the decision to be pure in every way will have to be a radical one.
Why is this so important? Because we are told that it is proper, or “becoming,” for a saint to be pure. This word is most often used in the New Testament in relation to Christ and His role and purpose in our redemption.
The process of redemption was beautiful and becoming because it reflected God’s heart. In the same way, our purity is “becoming” for those who have been saved and bought by His sacrifice.
Making It Personal
Are you walking in purity in every area of your life—not just your actions, but your thoughts, speech, viewing habits, and reading as well? What decisions will you have to make to achieve purity in your life?
Day 10...From Life Action Ministries
Day 10 of Your Journey
Humility: The Key to Resolving Conflict
Family relationships are vitally important to God. He doesn’t just give general encouragement to get along with each other. Instead, He gives specific direction to husbands, wives, children, and parents.
Many of these instructions are given with promises for obedience and/or consequences for disobedience (1 Pet. 3:7; Eph. 6:1-3; Col.3:21). Perhaps that’s why Jesus told us not to present offerings when we have un-reconciled relationships (Matt. 5:23-24).
Rightness with God requires rightness with each other (as much as is possible within our power). If a husband and wife have unresolved conflict, it will affect not only their fellowship with God, but also the health of the whole family.
The same can be said of a rebellious or wounded child. Ultimately, everyone is affected by the fractured relationship.
Solomon tells us the key to diffusing conflict and gaining reconciliation: “Only by pride cometh contention” (Proverbs 13:10 KJV). Notice that it doesn’t say “usually” or “mostly”; it says only.
Therefore, if pride is the source of conflict, then humility is its antidote. If I am waiting for the other person to acknowledge wrong before I will, then my pride is feeding the conflict.
When conflict arises, pray for grace from God to humble yourself. He will give you the words and power to reunite your hearts.
Making It Personal
Lord, my pride always wants to plead my case and claim my rights. Help me to honor You by humbling myself. I trust You to bring conviction where needed in my family members’ lives.
Humility: The Key to Resolving Conflict
Family relationships are vitally important to God. He doesn’t just give general encouragement to get along with each other. Instead, He gives specific direction to husbands, wives, children, and parents.
Many of these instructions are given with promises for obedience and/or consequences for disobedience (1 Pet. 3:7; Eph. 6:1-3; Col.3:21). Perhaps that’s why Jesus told us not to present offerings when we have un-reconciled relationships (Matt. 5:23-24).
Rightness with God requires rightness with each other (as much as is possible within our power). If a husband and wife have unresolved conflict, it will affect not only their fellowship with God, but also the health of the whole family.
The same can be said of a rebellious or wounded child. Ultimately, everyone is affected by the fractured relationship.
Solomon tells us the key to diffusing conflict and gaining reconciliation: “Only by pride cometh contention” (Proverbs 13:10 KJV). Notice that it doesn’t say “usually” or “mostly”; it says only.
Therefore, if pride is the source of conflict, then humility is its antidote. If I am waiting for the other person to acknowledge wrong before I will, then my pride is feeding the conflict.
When conflict arises, pray for grace from God to humble yourself. He will give you the words and power to reunite your hearts.
Making It Personal
Lord, my pride always wants to plead my case and claim my rights. Help me to honor You by humbling myself. I trust You to bring conviction where needed in my family members’ lives.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Spritual Revival-Life Action Ministries
Day 9 of Your Journey
Prayer Is About God's Will, Not Ours
“But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 20 ESV).
The Holy Spirit’s guidance is essential for effective praying.
We often think of prayer as bringing to God our wish list. Then somehow, if we can just convince Him how serious we are, He will stir Himself to answer. Prayer becomes for us a frustrated attempt to sway God in our direction.
No wonder prayer is so often neglected in the Christian life.
It has been said that prayer is not about getting my will done in heaven, but getting God’s will done on earth. The purpose of prayer is to learn what is on the heart of God and then to become a part of seeing His will done in that area.
This is where the work of the Holy Spirit comes in. One of His jobs is to guide us into truth by relaying God’s heart to us in a given situation (John 16:13). This guidance then allows us to pray in faith regarding the issue.
Our goal is not simply to pray about a matter, but to pray according to His will. The Spirit will always use the Word of God as a compass to direct our praying. Then, when asking according to His will, we know He will answer (1 John 5:14).
Making It Personal
Do you have unanswered prayers that burden your heart? God may be strengthening your faith by making you wait, or you may be praying without the Spirit’s guidance in the matter. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your praying.
Prayer Is About God's Will, Not Ours
“But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit” (Jude 20 ESV).
The Holy Spirit’s guidance is essential for effective praying.
We often think of prayer as bringing to God our wish list. Then somehow, if we can just convince Him how serious we are, He will stir Himself to answer. Prayer becomes for us a frustrated attempt to sway God in our direction.
No wonder prayer is so often neglected in the Christian life.
It has been said that prayer is not about getting my will done in heaven, but getting God’s will done on earth. The purpose of prayer is to learn what is on the heart of God and then to become a part of seeing His will done in that area.
This is where the work of the Holy Spirit comes in. One of His jobs is to guide us into truth by relaying God’s heart to us in a given situation (John 16:13). This guidance then allows us to pray in faith regarding the issue.
Our goal is not simply to pray about a matter, but to pray according to His will. The Spirit will always use the Word of God as a compass to direct our praying. Then, when asking according to His will, we know He will answer (1 John 5:14).
Making It Personal
Do you have unanswered prayers that burden your heart? God may be strengthening your faith by making you wait, or you may be praying without the Spirit’s guidance in the matter. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your praying.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Day 8
Day 8 of Your Journey
Holiness Begins in the Heart
The late Christian singer Keith Green once said, “Discipline will not make you holy, but it will keep you holy.” Spiritual disciplines are essential to continued fruitfulness in our walk with God. Time in God’s Word, prayer, meditation, Scripture memory, etc. are all great tools to aid us toward holiness.
When all is said and done, however, holiness will not come from our outward actions. It will arise from a heart that seeks God’s pleasure in all of life.
Holiness is a passion that seeks to reflect Christ’s love in action and attitude. It understands that to be much with Jesus is to become much like Jesus. Discipline is the tool which gets us into His presence; it is His presence which then changes us into His image.
Seek to develop good disciplines in your life. They will aid you in your spiritual growth. But always remember, they are a means to an end, not an end in themselves.
The end should always be Jesus. It is to Him that the elders and angels cry, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Rev. 5:11-12 ESV).
Making It Personal
Lord, help me to develop good disciplines in life. But may I always remember that discipline is not a substitute for holiness—it’s just the pathway to it. My goal is not self-righteousness. My goal is for You to be exalted in my life. Make me holy for Your glory. Amen.
Holiness Begins in the Heart
The late Christian singer Keith Green once said, “Discipline will not make you holy, but it will keep you holy.” Spiritual disciplines are essential to continued fruitfulness in our walk with God. Time in God’s Word, prayer, meditation, Scripture memory, etc. are all great tools to aid us toward holiness.
When all is said and done, however, holiness will not come from our outward actions. It will arise from a heart that seeks God’s pleasure in all of life.
Holiness is a passion that seeks to reflect Christ’s love in action and attitude. It understands that to be much with Jesus is to become much like Jesus. Discipline is the tool which gets us into His presence; it is His presence which then changes us into His image.
Seek to develop good disciplines in your life. They will aid you in your spiritual growth. But always remember, they are a means to an end, not an end in themselves.
The end should always be Jesus. It is to Him that the elders and angels cry, “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honor and glory and blessing!” (Rev. 5:11-12 ESV).
Making It Personal
Lord, help me to develop good disciplines in life. But may I always remember that discipline is not a substitute for holiness—it’s just the pathway to it. My goal is not self-righteousness. My goal is for You to be exalted in my life. Make me holy for Your glory. Amen.
Life Action Ministries - Day 7
Day 7 of Your Journey
Worry: A Useless Endeavor
Sometimes Scripture makes some seemingly extreme statements. Consider these words of Paul’s: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6 NKJV).
Stop and think for a moment how radical that is: “Be anxious for nothing.” Absolutely nothing! There is no acceptable reason before God to worry. There is no escape clause based on the size or intensity of our circumstance. We are simply not to do it.
Why not? Well, Jesus tells us that worry will add nothing to our lives (Matt. 6:27). I remember my children singing “The Song That Never Ends,” a musical circle that goes on indefinitely. After a short time I felt like I would go crazy! Singing the same thing over and over was accomplishing nothing.
That’s what worry is—a useless endeavor. The only way to end it is to simply stop.
How can we stop? By praying about and thanking God for our circumstances. The result is that His peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (see Phil. 4:7). God-given peace alone will always conquer our worries.
Making It Personal
Father, I am prone to worry over life. I tend to look at circumstances instead of at You, who order all things. Thank You for my pressures. They are my opportunity to live above this world, by Your peace which passes all understanding.
Worry: A Useless Endeavor
Sometimes Scripture makes some seemingly extreme statements. Consider these words of Paul’s: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God” (Phil. 4:6 NKJV).
Stop and think for a moment how radical that is: “Be anxious for nothing.” Absolutely nothing! There is no acceptable reason before God to worry. There is no escape clause based on the size or intensity of our circumstance. We are simply not to do it.
Why not? Well, Jesus tells us that worry will add nothing to our lives (Matt. 6:27). I remember my children singing “The Song That Never Ends,” a musical circle that goes on indefinitely. After a short time I felt like I would go crazy! Singing the same thing over and over was accomplishing nothing.
That’s what worry is—a useless endeavor. The only way to end it is to simply stop.
How can we stop? By praying about and thanking God for our circumstances. The result is that His peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (see Phil. 4:7). God-given peace alone will always conquer our worries.
Making It Personal
Father, I am prone to worry over life. I tend to look at circumstances instead of at You, who order all things. Thank You for my pressures. They are my opportunity to live above this world, by Your peace which passes all understanding.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Life Action Ministries-Day 6
Day 6 of Your Journey
Faith Can Become Natural
Faith is often counterintuitive; or, more simply put, it goes against what feels natural to us. For instance, it doesn’t feel natural to wait on God. What feels natural is to push ahead to solve our problems.
It doesn’t feel natural to give; it feels more natural to hold onto what we have. The same can be said of almost any step of obedience we take as an act of faith—it usually feels unnatural to us.
As we obey God, however, faith becomes the natural response. Each step of obedience strengthens our trust in God, making the next step easier to choose.
When Jesus rebuked the disciples in Matthew 14:31 for their lack of faith, Mark tells us that it occurred because they had not learned the lesson from Jesus’ previous work in feeding the five thousand (Mark 6:52). In other words, each lesson of faith should prepare us for the next.
If the old saying is true that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” then it can also be said that the walk of faith begins with a single step of faith. What is your “step of faith” today?
Making It Personal
Lord, today I need to walk by faith to please You. Would You show me a specific step of faith I can obey to show Your power?
Faith Can Become Natural
Faith is often counterintuitive; or, more simply put, it goes against what feels natural to us. For instance, it doesn’t feel natural to wait on God. What feels natural is to push ahead to solve our problems.
It doesn’t feel natural to give; it feels more natural to hold onto what we have. The same can be said of almost any step of obedience we take as an act of faith—it usually feels unnatural to us.
As we obey God, however, faith becomes the natural response. Each step of obedience strengthens our trust in God, making the next step easier to choose.
When Jesus rebuked the disciples in Matthew 14:31 for their lack of faith, Mark tells us that it occurred because they had not learned the lesson from Jesus’ previous work in feeding the five thousand (Mark 6:52). In other words, each lesson of faith should prepare us for the next.
If the old saying is true that “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” then it can also be said that the walk of faith begins with a single step of faith. What is your “step of faith” today?
Making It Personal
Lord, today I need to walk by faith to please You. Would You show me a specific step of faith I can obey to show Your power?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Day 5
Forward from daily emails from Life Action Ministries.
Day 5 of Your Journey
Forgiving As We Are Forgiven
Walking in the grace of God requires extending that grace to others. That’s why forgiveness plays such a prominent role in New Testament teaching.
Ephesians 4:32 tells us that our forgiveness of others is to be in light of the incredible grace and forgiveness we have received. Jesus emphasized the consequences of not forgiving in His commentary on prayer in Matthew 6:15.
The challenge of forgiveness is that it’s an ongoing process. Although there is often a moment of surrender as we give up our “right” to hold a grudge, forgiveness requires choosing to continually love someone who may repeatedly hurt us. It can be like a wound that’s healing; every time it gets bumped, it hurts again.
That’s why the remembrance of God’s grace is such an encouragement to us. This very morning, His mercies to you were brand new (Lam. 3:22-23). His love doesn’t hinge on yesterday’s successes and failures.
Jesus said, “If you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?” (Matt. 5:46 ESV). One of the defining marks of a true believer is exercising the grace of forgiveness.
Making It Personal
Forgiveness may be an ongoing process for you. Take time to pray for God’s blessing on the person you’re most tempted to hold an offense against. Pray what you would for them if they were your favorite friend
Day 5 of Your Journey
Forgiving As We Are Forgiven
Walking in the grace of God requires extending that grace to others. That’s why forgiveness plays such a prominent role in New Testament teaching.
Ephesians 4:32 tells us that our forgiveness of others is to be in light of the incredible grace and forgiveness we have received. Jesus emphasized the consequences of not forgiving in His commentary on prayer in Matthew 6:15.
The challenge of forgiveness is that it’s an ongoing process. Although there is often a moment of surrender as we give up our “right” to hold a grudge, forgiveness requires choosing to continually love someone who may repeatedly hurt us. It can be like a wound that’s healing; every time it gets bumped, it hurts again.
That’s why the remembrance of God’s grace is such an encouragement to us. This very morning, His mercies to you were brand new (Lam. 3:22-23). His love doesn’t hinge on yesterday’s successes and failures.
Jesus said, “If you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same?” (Matt. 5:46 ESV). One of the defining marks of a true believer is exercising the grace of forgiveness.
Making It Personal
Forgiveness may be an ongoing process for you. Take time to pray for God’s blessing on the person you’re most tempted to hold an offense against. Pray what you would for them if they were your favorite friend
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Day 4: Life Action Ministries...
Day 4 of Your Journey
Everything We Have Belongs to God
A. W. Tozer once observed that the words me and mine never entered our vocabulary until after the fall of man in the Garden. Once sin entered, the desire to possess came with it. All the things around us that were meant for our enjoyment are corrupted when we begin to cling to them as though they were ours.
God makes it very clear in Psalm 24:1 that everything on this earth belongs to Him. All the “fullness” of the earth is His. It is important that we frequently and consistently remind ourselves of this truth.
Because of our desire to possess, the natural flow of life will lead us back toward clinging to material things. That’s why it’s good to periodically transfer ownership of all our earthly riches to Him.
The ultimate goal is to guard our hearts against the love of things. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21 ESV). Transferring is one way of keeping our heart fully His.
Making It Personal
“I try never to grasp anything in life too tightly, because it hurts when God has to pry my fingers open to take it away.” (Corrie ten Boom)
Take a moment to acknowledge that all your material possessions belong to God. They are His to do with as He chooses.
Everything We Have Belongs to God
A. W. Tozer once observed that the words me and mine never entered our vocabulary until after the fall of man in the Garden. Once sin entered, the desire to possess came with it. All the things around us that were meant for our enjoyment are corrupted when we begin to cling to them as though they were ours.
God makes it very clear in Psalm 24:1 that everything on this earth belongs to Him. All the “fullness” of the earth is His. It is important that we frequently and consistently remind ourselves of this truth.
Because of our desire to possess, the natural flow of life will lead us back toward clinging to material things. That’s why it’s good to periodically transfer ownership of all our earthly riches to Him.
The ultimate goal is to guard our hearts against the love of things. Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21 ESV). Transferring is one way of keeping our heart fully His.
Making It Personal
“I try never to grasp anything in life too tightly, because it hurts when God has to pry my fingers open to take it away.” (Corrie ten Boom)
Take a moment to acknowledge that all your material possessions belong to God. They are His to do with as He chooses.
Day 3
These post are emails I receive from Life Action Ministries.
Day 3 of Your Journey
God Revives the Broken Ones
In Isaiah 57:15, God tells us something significant about what He values. “Thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit’” (NKJV).
Isn’t it interesting that a high and holy God doesn’t dwell with royalty or rulers? Instead He dwells with the contrite and humble. Or, as one translation puts it, “the broken ones.”
Brokenness is one of those concepts that seems to chafe against us. We conjure up images of an emotional collapse or a catastrophic event. But the reality is, brokenness is a simple, profound choice we make.
Jesus demonstrated this choice in Gethsemane when He prayed to His Father, “Not as I will, but as You will” (Matt. 26:39).
At its core, brokenness is a choice to follow God’s direction, not our own. This can be as profound as surrendering to go to the mission field, or as practical as submitting our finances to His control.
Remember this, however: Though the cost may seem great, the benefit is far greater. The benefit is God dwelling with us “to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones” (Isa. 57:15).
Making It Personal
What areas of your life need submitting to His authority? Take time prayerfully to do that now.
Day 3 of Your Journey
God Revives the Broken Ones
In Isaiah 57:15, God tells us something significant about what He values. “Thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit’” (NKJV).
Isn’t it interesting that a high and holy God doesn’t dwell with royalty or rulers? Instead He dwells with the contrite and humble. Or, as one translation puts it, “the broken ones.”
Brokenness is one of those concepts that seems to chafe against us. We conjure up images of an emotional collapse or a catastrophic event. But the reality is, brokenness is a simple, profound choice we make.
Jesus demonstrated this choice in Gethsemane when He prayed to His Father, “Not as I will, but as You will” (Matt. 26:39).
At its core, brokenness is a choice to follow God’s direction, not our own. This can be as profound as surrendering to go to the mission field, or as practical as submitting our finances to His control.
Remember this, however: Though the cost may seem great, the benefit is far greater. The benefit is God dwelling with us “to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones” (Isa. 57:15).
Making It Personal
What areas of your life need submitting to His authority? Take time prayerfully to do that now.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Day 2 of Life Action Ministries
Day 2 of Your Journey
Responses Reveal Our Heart
Life is the great “exposer.” No matter what we say we are, or even what we think we are, life’s pressures expose our true nature. Our responses to the events of life are a window into who is in control of our life.
If we are responding in anger, impatience, jealousy, selfishness, etc., we are not under the Spirit’s control. God uses pressure to show us who we really are. Sometimes that’s not a pretty picture. The good news is that we have God’s Holy Spirit living in us, and He is able to change us from the inside out.
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us what our responses to life’s pressures should look like: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” In other words, our responses should look like Jesus!
Does that seem impossible? Apart from God, it is. The Bible tells us that He alone is able to keep us from stumbling (Jude 24). That “stumbling” certainly includes our responses. Today, let the pressures and frustrations of life be an opportunity for God to show Himself powerful in your life.
Making It Personal
“It doesn’t matter really how great the pressure is, it only matters where it lies. Never let it come between you and Jesus. Then, no matter how great the pressure, it will only serve to press you to His breast.” (Hudson Taylor)
Responses Reveal Our Heart
Life is the great “exposer.” No matter what we say we are, or even what we think we are, life’s pressures expose our true nature. Our responses to the events of life are a window into who is in control of our life.
If we are responding in anger, impatience, jealousy, selfishness, etc., we are not under the Spirit’s control. God uses pressure to show us who we really are. Sometimes that’s not a pretty picture. The good news is that we have God’s Holy Spirit living in us, and He is able to change us from the inside out.
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us what our responses to life’s pressures should look like: “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” In other words, our responses should look like Jesus!
Does that seem impossible? Apart from God, it is. The Bible tells us that He alone is able to keep us from stumbling (Jude 24). That “stumbling” certainly includes our responses. Today, let the pressures and frustrations of life be an opportunity for God to show Himself powerful in your life.
Making It Personal
“It doesn’t matter really how great the pressure is, it only matters where it lies. Never let it come between you and Jesus. Then, no matter how great the pressure, it will only serve to press you to His breast.” (Hudson Taylor)
From Life Action Ministries: Day 1
Welcome to Continuous Revival, a 30-day journey in authentic living. We pray that over the next 30 days, God will use this resource to deepen your walk with Him.
From Life Action Ministries
Welcome to Day One of your journey! Need: The Path to Revival
One of the wonders of God’s working in our lives is that He never seems to do it like we thought He would. When we have thoughts of what it would mean to be revived, we usually think of a happy emotional experience culminating in joyous singing.
Make no mistake, God’s workings in us will always lead to greater joy. It’s the path to that joy that often surprises us. Before King Dvid could pray, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation” (Psa. 51:12 ESV), he had to acknowledge his sins and transgressions (v. 3), and he had to acknowledge that God alone could blot them out.
It’s a hard thing to admit how needy we are. We live in a generation enamored by self-esteem, which tells us we will only find peace by convincing ourselves how good we are. It’s always a shock to our system when we realize we’re not as good as we believed—that we really do need someone who is merciful and can cleanse us from our sins.
A wise man once said, “Revival is not the top blowing off, but the bottom falling out.” The surprise we found on the path to revival is that it was a downward path. It began by admitting we were in desperate need of Him. He then, in His mercy, met us at that point of acknowledged need.
So what is the key to continuing on this revived path? It is daily realizing and admitting how desperately needy we are. Today, you cannot live rightly, think rightly, love rightly, or even desire rightly without a gracious God working in you (Phil. 2:13). Begin your day by crying out to God for the power to honor Him today.
Making It Personal
Dear Jesus, I cannot even want to live for You if You don't give me that desire. Left to myself, I will always move back toward sinful habits. Today, let me choose the path of humility. Empower me to rely completely on You. As a beggar cries out for help, I cry out to You in my need.
From Life Action Ministries
Welcome to Day One of your journey! Need: The Path to Revival
One of the wonders of God’s working in our lives is that He never seems to do it like we thought He would. When we have thoughts of what it would mean to be revived, we usually think of a happy emotional experience culminating in joyous singing.
Make no mistake, God’s workings in us will always lead to greater joy. It’s the path to that joy that often surprises us. Before King Dvid could pray, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation” (Psa. 51:12 ESV), he had to acknowledge his sins and transgressions (v. 3), and he had to acknowledge that God alone could blot them out.
It’s a hard thing to admit how needy we are. We live in a generation enamored by self-esteem, which tells us we will only find peace by convincing ourselves how good we are. It’s always a shock to our system when we realize we’re not as good as we believed—that we really do need someone who is merciful and can cleanse us from our sins.
A wise man once said, “Revival is not the top blowing off, but the bottom falling out.” The surprise we found on the path to revival is that it was a downward path. It began by admitting we were in desperate need of Him. He then, in His mercy, met us at that point of acknowledged need.
So what is the key to continuing on this revived path? It is daily realizing and admitting how desperately needy we are. Today, you cannot live rightly, think rightly, love rightly, or even desire rightly without a gracious God working in you (Phil. 2:13). Begin your day by crying out to God for the power to honor Him today.
Making It Personal
Dear Jesus, I cannot even want to live for You if You don't give me that desire. Left to myself, I will always move back toward sinful habits. Today, let me choose the path of humility. Empower me to rely completely on You. As a beggar cries out for help, I cry out to You in my need.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Slow Heat Boils Water
My wife will put eggs on the stove on a extremely low heat in order to make hard boiled eggs. Sometimes I think the heat is so low that it will never boil (men do everything on high). But every time I am proven wrong. No matter how low she sets the temp it will build up heat and start boiling.
The same is true with our heart, if we keep bitterness or anger in our lives it will eventually lead to a boiling situation. We must deal with it completely. Carrying the burden and anger, even in small amount can lead to great damage.
Sarah has been dealing with Hagar in Genesis 21:9 ff.(see below) Her bitterness had festered till it exploded.
The same is true with our heart, if we keep bitterness or anger in our lives it will eventually lead to a boiling situation. We must deal with it completely. Carrying the burden and anger, even in small amount can lead to great damage.
Are you willing to deal with anger and bitterness correctly or do you simply stuff it away only to have it explode one day.
Please know that when not dealt with it will explode.
Gen 21:9-14 9 Now Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, mocking. 10 Therefore she said to Abraham, "Drive out this maid and her son, for the son of this maid shall not be an heir with my son Isaac." 11 The matter distressed Abraham greatly because of his son. 12 But God said to Abraham, "Do not be distressed because of the lad and your maid; whatever Sarah tells you, listen to her, for through Isaac your descendants shall be named. 13 "And of the son of the maid I will make a nation also, because he is your descendant." 14 So Abraham rose early in the morning and took bread and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar, putting them on her shoulder, and gave her the boy, and sent her away. And she departed and wandered about in the wilderness of Beersheba.
NASU
The same is true with our heart, if we keep bitterness or anger in our lives it will eventually lead to a boiling situation. We must deal with it completely. Carrying the burden and anger, even in small amount can lead to great damage.
Sarah has been dealing with Hagar in Genesis 21:9 ff.(see below) Her bitterness had festered till it exploded.
The same is true with our heart, if we keep bitterness or anger in our lives it will eventually lead to a boiling situation. We must deal with it completely. Carrying the burden and anger, even in small amount can lead to great damage.
Are you willing to deal with anger and bitterness correctly or do you simply stuff it away only to have it explode one day.
Please know that when not dealt with it will explode.
Gen 21:9-14 9 Now Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, mocking. 10 Therefore she said to Abraham, "Drive out this maid and her son, for the son of this maid shall not be an heir with my son Isaac." 11 The matter distressed Abraham greatly because of his son. 12 But God said to Abraham, "Do not be distressed because of the lad and your maid; whatever Sarah tells you, listen to her, for through Isaac your descendants shall be named. 13 "And of the son of the maid I will make a nation also, because he is your descendant." 14 So Abraham rose early in the morning and took bread and a skin of water and gave them to Hagar, putting them on her shoulder, and gave her the boy, and sent her away. And she departed and wandered about in the wilderness of Beersheba.
NASU
Thank you
How can we thank you all for your prayers for our ministry and family? We know that God is working because of your prayers.
Praises:
Praises:
- Praise for Reformation Day outreach in Camden
- Praise for our current "God Question" series
- Open door to Brian and Wendy for discipleship
- Safe travel for Milford and Camden work.
Prayer
- Spiritual growth for Brian and Wendy
- Growth of individuals at Milford Study
- Camden teens from Wed. evening would begin attending on Sunday
- Open door with fire people, working to show the "Fireproof" movie
We thank each of you who stand with us in prayer and support.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Promises-Promises!
I promise!
Sadly, I must admit there are times that I said that only to not fulfill that promise. As much as I meant it when i said it I wasn't able to complete whatever I said I would do.
How happy it is to realize that when God makes a promise, He fulfills to completely. Such is the case with Abraham and Sarah. He promised that Sarah would have a son, despite the fact that she was well beyond the normal age for having a child.
Gen 21:1-8 Then the Lord took note of Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did for Sarah as He had promised. 2 So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the appointed time of which God had spoken to him. 3 Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore to him, Isaac. 4 Then Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. 5 Now Abraham was one hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. 6 Sarah said, "God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh with me." 7 And she said, " Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age."
8 The child grew and was weaned, and Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. NASU
What does this have to do with us?
God has promises in the Bible that apply to us today. We can know that God will complete all of those promises as well.
Sadly, I must admit there are times that I said that only to not fulfill that promise. As much as I meant it when i said it I wasn't able to complete whatever I said I would do.
How happy it is to realize that when God makes a promise, He fulfills to completely. Such is the case with Abraham and Sarah. He promised that Sarah would have a son, despite the fact that she was well beyond the normal age for having a child.
Gen 21:1-8 Then the Lord took note of Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did for Sarah as He had promised. 2 So Sarah conceived and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the appointed time of which God had spoken to him. 3 Abraham called the name of his son who was born to him, whom Sarah bore to him, Isaac. 4 Then Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. 5 Now Abraham was one hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. 6 Sarah said, "God has made laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh with me." 7 And she said, " Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age."
8 The child grew and was weaned, and Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. NASU
What does this have to do with us?
God has promises in the Bible that apply to us today. We can know that God will complete all of those promises as well.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Crafting the Lie
What was that rhyme that we learned as children "Oh what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive." (a quote by Sir Walter Scott).
Not only did Abraham lie, he and Sarah planned it from early in there relationship. His plan to tell Abimelech that Sarah was his sister was part of the plan from the moment they arrived in Egpyt. It was a "half truth" but it was not the truth that mattered. Abimelech nearly sinned with Sarah because of the lie that Abraham told.
What do we tell others that may lead them to sin and suffer? Do we withhold the truth to avoid hardship in our lives? Do we say things to "make it easier to endure"?
Gen 20:12-1312 "Besides, she actually is my sister, the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother, and she became my wife; 13 and it came about, when God caused me to wander from my father's house, that I said to her, 'This is the kindness which you will show to me: everywhere we go, say of me, "He is my brother."'"NASU
Let's decided today to choose wisely and tell the truth and not some "small lie."
Not only did Abraham lie, he and Sarah planned it from early in there relationship. His plan to tell Abimelech that Sarah was his sister was part of the plan from the moment they arrived in Egpyt. It was a "half truth" but it was not the truth that mattered. Abimelech nearly sinned with Sarah because of the lie that Abraham told.
What do we tell others that may lead them to sin and suffer? Do we withhold the truth to avoid hardship in our lives? Do we say things to "make it easier to endure"?
Gen 20:12-1312 "Besides, she actually is my sister, the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my mother, and she became my wife; 13 and it came about, when God caused me to wander from my father's house, that I said to her, 'This is the kindness which you will show to me: everywhere we go, say of me, "He is my brother."'"NASU
Let's decided today to choose wisely and tell the truth and not some "small lie."
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Needs Prayer
Have you been asking yourself?
· How do I know that God is real?
· Is the Bible really the Word of God?
· Is there really only one way to heaven?
· How can a good God allow suffering?
Camden Bible Fellowship Church
will be taking four weeks and seek answers
to these questions!
October 25, November 1, 8, 15 @ 11 AM
www.camdenbfc.org
Pastor Raymond Bertolet
Please be praying with us regarding this outreach.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Lost God?
In your life have you ever thought that you had been somewhere where God wasn't going to be? Maybe you thought God was there but those around you really didn't care so they wouldn't do anything that would be in line with following any of God's commands.
Abraham did not stay in the land where God had taken him and had left there due to a famine. However, when he came to Gerar, where Abimlech was king, he figured he had outrun the protection of God. He incorrectly assumed that no one there would ever listen to a command of God.
Gen 20:11 Abraham said, "Because I thought, surely there is no fear of God in this place, and they will kill me because of my wife. NAS
I think many of us today would say, "how foolish" of Abraham. Surely he should have know that he would be protected by God no matter where he was in life.
Yes, he should have know and he was protected but let me ask you a different question.
Do we hesitate to share the hope and truth of Jesus because we assume that with "this type of person" there is no fear of God? That somehow they would never be interested in knowing Jesus as Savior and turning from their current life style.
I think if we carry that attitude then we are no different then Abraham, we assume that somehow we are in a place where God can not work.
Please let us all rethink our understanding of where and how God can work. He can work anywhere and in many ways.
Ps 139:7-8
7 Where can I go from Your Spirit?Or where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, You are there;If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. NASU
Abraham did not stay in the land where God had taken him and had left there due to a famine. However, when he came to Gerar, where Abimlech was king, he figured he had outrun the protection of God. He incorrectly assumed that no one there would ever listen to a command of God.
Gen 20:11 Abraham said, "Because I thought, surely there is no fear of God in this place, and they will kill me because of my wife. NAS
I think many of us today would say, "how foolish" of Abraham. Surely he should have know that he would be protected by God no matter where he was in life.
Yes, he should have know and he was protected but let me ask you a different question.
Do we hesitate to share the hope and truth of Jesus because we assume that with "this type of person" there is no fear of God? That somehow they would never be interested in knowing Jesus as Savior and turning from their current life style.
I think if we carry that attitude then we are no different then Abraham, we assume that somehow we are in a place where God can not work.
Please let us all rethink our understanding of where and how God can work. He can work anywhere and in many ways.
Ps 139:7-8
7 Where can I go from Your Spirit?Or where can I flee from Your presence? 8 If I ascend to heaven, You are there;If I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. NASU
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
What have you done?
Sometimes things happen in life and you want to ask this questions, "what where you thinking?" This is the questions that Abimelech asks Abraham.
Abimelech first instructions his servants in all that God had spoken to him. Then he begins a conversation with Abraham and challenges him with concerns as to the situation that has resulted because of Abraham's actions.
Are you willing to ask those around you "what have you done to us?" Do you see how the actions of others impact your life?
Now ask yourself this question. How are my actions impacting those around me? If they were bold enough would they come to me and ask, "what were you thinking?"
Gen 20:8-10
8 So Abimelech arose early in the morning and called all his servants and told all these things in their hearing; and the men were greatly frightened. 9 Then Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, "What have you done to us? And how have I sinned against you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? You have done to me things that ought not to be done." 10 And Abimelech said to Abraham, "What have you encountered, that you have done this thing?"NASU
Abimelech first instructions his servants in all that God had spoken to him. Then he begins a conversation with Abraham and challenges him with concerns as to the situation that has resulted because of Abraham's actions.
Are you willing to ask those around you "what have you done to us?" Do you see how the actions of others impact your life?
Now ask yourself this question. How are my actions impacting those around me? If they were bold enough would they come to me and ask, "what were you thinking?"
Gen 20:8-10
8 So Abimelech arose early in the morning and called all his servants and told all these things in their hearing; and the men were greatly frightened. 9 Then Abimelech called Abraham and said to him, "What have you done to us? And how have I sinned against you, that you have brought on me and on my kingdom a great sin? You have done to me things that ought not to be done." 10 And Abimelech said to Abraham, "What have you encountered, that you have done this thing?"NASU
Monday, September 28, 2009
Not Fair?
Raising three kids we would often here "that is not fair". Our reply to that statement is "life is not always fair". Just because we see something as not "being fair" to ourselves we still are required to do the right thing anyway.
God told Abimelech that he would be put to death because he had taken Abraham wife. He reply was how could I know, since he said, she is my sister I am really blameless. He asked God would you punish someone who is blameless.
God tells Abimelech that he is aware of all that has happen and that He has kept Abimelech from sinning so he better go and restore Sarah back to Abraham and do the right thing, following God's command and not to worry about if he was blameless.
Do you feel you are in a situation where you are being treated unfairly? God's instruction to you (and me) is to do the right thing anyway, no matter what has happened to you.
Gen 20:4-7 4 Now Abimelech had not come near her; and he said, "Lord, will You slay a nation, even though blameless? 5 "Did he not himself say to me, 'She is my sister'? And she herself said, 'He is my brother.' In the integrity of my heart and the innocence of my hands I have done this." 6 Then God said to him in the dream, "Yes, I know that in the integrity of your heart you have done this, and I also kept you from sinning against Me; therefore I did not let you touch her. 7 "Now therefore, restore the man's wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you will live. But if you do not restore her, know that you shall surely die, you and all who are yours." NASU
God told Abimelech that he would be put to death because he had taken Abraham wife. He reply was how could I know, since he said, she is my sister I am really blameless. He asked God would you punish someone who is blameless.
God tells Abimelech that he is aware of all that has happen and that He has kept Abimelech from sinning so he better go and restore Sarah back to Abraham and do the right thing, following God's command and not to worry about if he was blameless.
Do you feel you are in a situation where you are being treated unfairly? God's instruction to you (and me) is to do the right thing anyway, no matter what has happened to you.
Gen 20:4-7 4 Now Abimelech had not come near her; and he said, "Lord, will You slay a nation, even though blameless? 5 "Did he not himself say to me, 'She is my sister'? And she herself said, 'He is my brother.' In the integrity of my heart and the innocence of my hands I have done this." 6 Then God said to him in the dream, "Yes, I know that in the integrity of your heart you have done this, and I also kept you from sinning against Me; therefore I did not let you touch her. 7 "Now therefore, restore the man's wife, for he is a prophet, and he will pray for you and you will live. But if you do not restore her, know that you shall surely die, you and all who are yours." NASU
Friday, September 25, 2009
White Lie?
Have you ever thought it is better to lie than get in trouble for the telling the truth? Sadly, I had to learn the hard way that I would have been better telling someone the truth rather than thinking that a "small lie" would be my best options.
Abraham thought it best to lie about being married to Sarah. Is half truth, resulted in his wife being taken and also announcement that God would take Abimelech's life. Not only did Abraham's lie impact is wife but also Abimelech, king of Gerar.
Gen 20:1-3 Now Abraham journeyed from there toward the land of the Negev, and settled between Kadesh and Shur; then he sojourned in Gerar. 2 Abraham said of Sarah his wife, " She is my sister." So Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah. 3 But God came to Abimelech in a dream of the night, and said to him, "Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is married."NASU
There is no such thing as a small white lie. All lies open the door to more trouble.
Put a guard over your month and be truthful.
Abraham thought it best to lie about being married to Sarah. Is half truth, resulted in his wife being taken and also announcement that God would take Abimelech's life. Not only did Abraham's lie impact is wife but also Abimelech, king of Gerar.
Gen 20:1-3 Now Abraham journeyed from there toward the land of the Negev, and settled between Kadesh and Shur; then he sojourned in Gerar. 2 Abraham said of Sarah his wife, " She is my sister." So Abimelech king of Gerar sent and took Sarah. 3 But God came to Abimelech in a dream of the night, and said to him, "Behold, you are a dead man because of the woman whom you have taken, for she is married."NASU
There is no such thing as a small white lie. All lies open the door to more trouble.
Put a guard over your month and be truthful.
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Scars of Life
Sometimes in our youth we get an injury that produces a scar. Those scars will be there all our lives. In fact, sometimes a scar "grows" right along with our body. That tiny scar from our youth now seems extremely large.
Lot allow himself to be involved with his daughter. This sin produced a scar and although it seems like it was such a small thing it turns into a large problem later for the children of Israel.
One of the dangers was that Lot's daughter reasoned away this sin and being necessary. They concluded it was necessary for the survival of the family line.
Are you willing to reason away sin in your life? Do you understand that sin produces scars, even though it can be forgiven?
Today, consider "Do I want a permanent scar in my life?"
Gen 19:36-38 36 Thus both the daughters of Lot were with child by their father. 37 The firstborn bore a son, and called his name Moab; he is the father of the Moabites to this day. 38 As for the younger, she also bore a son, and called his name Ben-ammi; he is the father of the sons of Ammon to this day. NASU
Lot allow himself to be involved with his daughter. This sin produced a scar and although it seems like it was such a small thing it turns into a large problem later for the children of Israel.
One of the dangers was that Lot's daughter reasoned away this sin and being necessary. They concluded it was necessary for the survival of the family line.
Are you willing to reason away sin in your life? Do you understand that sin produces scars, even though it can be forgiven?
Today, consider "Do I want a permanent scar in my life?"
Gen 19:36-38 36 Thus both the daughters of Lot were with child by their father. 37 The firstborn bore a son, and called his name Moab; he is the father of the Moabites to this day. 38 As for the younger, she also bore a son, and called his name Ben-ammi; he is the father of the sons of Ammon to this day. NASU
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Waiting and Watching
When each of our children started driving I can remember clearly the first time they drove somewhere on their own. I trusted them to be safe but we keep watching from them to come down the road. When traffic was heavy or they stayed a little later than planned the waiting part was hard because I had no idea what was happening. (these are the days before cell phones).
When we are watching and waiting for others the burdens on our hearts is heavy. Abraham had pleaded with God to spare Sodom where Lot was living but he did not know what took place. Was Lot safe, did he and his family escape, what choices were made, did God intervene? All of these thought must have gone through his mind.
The source of my confort when I was worried about my children was the fact that I knew that God cared for them better than I ever could because He could watch over them every moment of every day.
Gen 19:27-29 27 Now Abraham arose early in the morning and went to the place where he had stood before the Lord; 28 and he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the valley, and he saw, and behold, the smoke of the land ascended like the smoke of a furnace. 29 Thus it came about, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when He overthrew the cities in which Lot lived. NAS
We can watch, we can wait and we can pray but God is the one who can intervene just as He did for Lot.
Today put those we care about into the hands of God. Find strength by trusting Him to watch and care for them.
When we are watching and waiting for others the burdens on our hearts is heavy. Abraham had pleaded with God to spare Sodom where Lot was living but he did not know what took place. Was Lot safe, did he and his family escape, what choices were made, did God intervene? All of these thought must have gone through his mind.
The source of my confort when I was worried about my children was the fact that I knew that God cared for them better than I ever could because He could watch over them every moment of every day.
Gen 19:27-29 27 Now Abraham arose early in the morning and went to the place where he had stood before the Lord; 28 and he looked down toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the valley, and he saw, and behold, the smoke of the land ascended like the smoke of a furnace. 29 Thus it came about, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when He overthrew the cities in which Lot lived. NAS
We can watch, we can wait and we can pray but God is the one who can intervene just as He did for Lot.
Today put those we care about into the hands of God. Find strength by trusting Him to watch and care for them.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Don't Look Back
If a lion was chasing you as you run away you would not think about running toward the lion and risk being devoured. So why when evil is coming to destroy our lives do we want to wait and see what will happen? We think that he really want be that bad. If someone tries and warns us we think they are simply exaggerating.
There is a line in the movie "Forrest Gump" where his friend calls out to him saying, "Run Forrest, run"....and away he runs never looking back, never wanting to be caught by the danger.
Run my friend, Run!!! Don't look back at the evil that is chasing you.
Gen 19:16-23 17 When they had brought them outside, one said, " Escape for your life! Do not look behind you, and do not stay anywhere in the valley; escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away." 18 But Lot said to them, "Oh no, my lords! 19 "Now behold, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have magnified your loving kindness, which you have shown me by saving my life; but I cannot escape to the mountains, for the disaster will overtake me and I will die; 20 now behold, this town is near enough to flee to, and it is small. Please, let me escape there (is it not small?) that my life may be saved." 21 He said to him, "Behold, I grant you this request also, not to overthrow the town of which you have spoken. 22 "Hurry, escape there, for I cannot do anything until you arrive there." Therefore the name of the town was called Zoar. NASU
There is a line in the movie "Forrest Gump" where his friend calls out to him saying, "Run Forrest, run"....and away he runs never looking back, never wanting to be caught by the danger.
Run my friend, Run!!! Don't look back at the evil that is chasing you.
Gen 19:16-23 17 When they had brought them outside, one said, " Escape for your life! Do not look behind you, and do not stay anywhere in the valley; escape to the mountains, or you will be swept away." 18 But Lot said to them, "Oh no, my lords! 19 "Now behold, your servant has found favor in your sight, and you have magnified your loving kindness, which you have shown me by saving my life; but I cannot escape to the mountains, for the disaster will overtake me and I will die; 20 now behold, this town is near enough to flee to, and it is small. Please, let me escape there (is it not small?) that my life may be saved." 21 He said to him, "Behold, I grant you this request also, not to overthrow the town of which you have spoken. 22 "Hurry, escape there, for I cannot do anything until you arrive there." Therefore the name of the town was called Zoar. NASU
Monday, August 31, 2009
Grab My Hand
Sitting here I was thinking how many times I grab one of the hands of my children or even grandchildren. Most times it was to keep them safe, to keep them from harm. Often they didn't see or understand the possible danger to which they could be exposed. Keeping their hand in mine served to keep them safe, even move them along to avoid the possible dangers that lay ahead.
Lot was urged by the angels but when he was slow to respond they seized his hand and placed him out of harms way. When you read that it sounds rough and forceful. If we stop there we might say, "that wasn't nice why didn't they give him some time to respond?" However, the next words give us an entirely different view, the view of God. We see the angels responded in the manner they did because of the compassion of the Lord.
Has someone tried to help you? Has their help seemed a little forceful? Perhaps it is because of their love for you and the love of God in their hearts.
No one would object to when someone force themselves into your life to rescue you from harms way so if you are in spiritual danger don't be upset when someone wants to rescue you that danger.
Gen 19:15-16 15 When morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, "Up, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away in the punishment of the city." 16 But he hesitated. So the men seized his hand and the hand of his wife and the hands of his two daughters, for the compassion of the Lord was upon him; and they brought him out, and put him outside the city. NASU
Lot was urged by the angels but when he was slow to respond they seized his hand and placed him out of harms way. When you read that it sounds rough and forceful. If we stop there we might say, "that wasn't nice why didn't they give him some time to respond?" However, the next words give us an entirely different view, the view of God. We see the angels responded in the manner they did because of the compassion of the Lord.
Has someone tried to help you? Has their help seemed a little forceful? Perhaps it is because of their love for you and the love of God in their hearts.
No one would object to when someone force themselves into your life to rescue you from harms way so if you are in spiritual danger don't be upset when someone wants to rescue you that danger.
Gen 19:15-16 15 When morning dawned, the angels urged Lot, saying, "Up, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away in the punishment of the city." 16 But he hesitated. So the men seized his hand and the hand of his wife and the hands of his two daughters, for the compassion of the Lord was upon him; and they brought him out, and put him outside the city. NASU
Friday, August 28, 2009
Failure to Believe
How many times did you tell your children (or you were told yourself) if you do that your going to get hurt? Well, our kids stop for the moment only to back to whatever they were doing when you weren't looking and then.....come crying out because they got hurt. They just didn't believe you knew about what you were talking. So they just went ahead and did exactly what you told them not to do. (Remember, this may fit you too).
Lot tried to warn his family and future son-in-laws.
Gen 19:12-14 12 Then the two men said to Lot, "Whom else have you here? A son-in-law, and your sons, and your daughters, and whomever you have in the city, bring them out of the place; 13 for we are about to destroy this place, because their outcry has become so great before the Lord that the Lord has sent us to destroy it." 14 Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were to marry his daughters, and said, "Up, get out of this place, for the Lord will destroy the city." But he appeared to his sons-in-law to be jesting. NASU
God has provided many warning in the Scriptures.
Rom 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. NASU
Luke 13:3-53 "I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4 "Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem? 5 "I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." NASU
These are two warning that God has provided. Don't be like Lot's son-in-laws who those he was teasing.God is not teasing. The warning is real.
Today, confess your sins and ask Jesus to forgive your sins and come into your life.
Let today be the day change begins.
Lot tried to warn his family and future son-in-laws.
Gen 19:12-14 12 Then the two men said to Lot, "Whom else have you here? A son-in-law, and your sons, and your daughters, and whomever you have in the city, bring them out of the place; 13 for we are about to destroy this place, because their outcry has become so great before the Lord that the Lord has sent us to destroy it." 14 Lot went out and spoke to his sons-in-law, who were to marry his daughters, and said, "Up, get out of this place, for the Lord will destroy the city." But he appeared to his sons-in-law to be jesting. NASU
God has provided many warning in the Scriptures.
Rom 6:23 23 For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. NASU
Luke 13:3-53 "I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 4 "Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem? 5 "I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish." NASU
These are two warning that God has provided. Don't be like Lot's son-in-laws who those he was teasing.God is not teasing. The warning is real.
Today, confess your sins and ask Jesus to forgive your sins and come into your life.
Let today be the day change begins.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Can Not Appease Evil
Evil is not something to mess with, nor can you appease evil. Those who have evil in their heart and mind will not rest till they get what they want or their heart is change by God.
Lot sought to distract those men who wanted to do evil with the guest of Lot by offering them his virgin daughters. However, the men of Sodom would not be diverted from their evil desires. We read this and shake our head is sadness. But their is more to see here. Lot did evil by offering the purity of his daughters rather than defend them.
When we constantly live among evil we will be blinded to the small changes in our own hearts. We must live with our eyes on the Lord.
1 Cor 6:17-1817 But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him. 18 Flee immorality. Every other sin that a man commits is outside the body, but the immoral man sins against his own body. NASU
2 Tim 2:22-2322 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. NASU
We are stengthen when we gather with like minded individuals.
Heb 10:23-25 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; 24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. NASU
Gen 19:4-11 4 Before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, surrounded the house, both young and old, all the people from every quarter; 5 and they called to Lot and said to him, " Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us that we may have relations with them." 6 But Lot went out to them at the doorway, and shut the door behind him, 7 and said, "Please, my brothers, do not act wickedly. 8 "Now behold, I have two daughters who have not had relations with man; please let me bring them out to you, and do to them whatever you like; only do nothing to these men, in as much as they have come under the shelter of my roof." 9 But they said, "Stand aside." Furthermore, they said, "This one came in as an alien, and already he is acting like a judge; now we will treat you worse than them." So they pressed hard against Lot and came near to break the door. 10 But the men reached out their hands and brought Lot into the house with them, and shut the door. 11 They struck the men who were at the doorway of the house with blindness, both small and great, so that they wearied themselves trying to find the doorway. NASU
Join with other believers and be strengthen for the battle of the week.
Lot sought to distract those men who wanted to do evil with the guest of Lot by offering them his virgin daughters. However, the men of Sodom would not be diverted from their evil desires. We read this and shake our head is sadness. But their is more to see here. Lot did evil by offering the purity of his daughters rather than defend them.
When we constantly live among evil we will be blinded to the small changes in our own hearts. We must live with our eyes on the Lord.
1 Cor 6:17-1817 But the one who joins himself to the Lord is one spirit with Him. 18 Flee immorality. Every other sin that a man commits is outside the body, but the immoral man sins against his own body. NASU
2 Tim 2:22-2322 Now flee from youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. 23 But refuse foolish and ignorant speculations, knowing that they produce quarrels. NASU
We are stengthen when we gather with like minded individuals.
Heb 10:23-25 23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; 24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. NASU
Gen 19:4-11 4 Before they lay down, the men of the city, the men of Sodom, surrounded the house, both young and old, all the people from every quarter; 5 and they called to Lot and said to him, " Where are the men who came to you tonight? Bring them out to us that we may have relations with them." 6 But Lot went out to them at the doorway, and shut the door behind him, 7 and said, "Please, my brothers, do not act wickedly. 8 "Now behold, I have two daughters who have not had relations with man; please let me bring them out to you, and do to them whatever you like; only do nothing to these men, in as much as they have come under the shelter of my roof." 9 But they said, "Stand aside." Furthermore, they said, "This one came in as an alien, and already he is acting like a judge; now we will treat you worse than them." So they pressed hard against Lot and came near to break the door. 10 But the men reached out their hands and brought Lot into the house with them, and shut the door. 11 They struck the men who were at the doorway of the house with blindness, both small and great, so that they wearied themselves trying to find the doorway. NASU
Join with other believers and be strengthen for the battle of the week.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Knock, knock...Angels Here
There is a commercial running right now that says, "if we only knew what laid ahead, then we could make better choices". Today we see how we should choose, not only doing good when we know but even if we don't know we should do the right thing.
Gen 19:1-3 19 Now the two angels came to Sodom in the evening as Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground. 2 And he said, "Now behold, my lords, please turn aside into your servant's house, and spend the night, and wash your feet; then you may rise early and go on your way." They said however, "No, but we shall spend the night in the square." 3 Yet he urged them strongly, so they turned aside to him and entered his house; and he prepared a feast for them, and baked unleavened bread, and they ate. NAS
How will you treat a stranger today. Will they be an inconvenience or will you treat them with kindness and the love of Christ?
Gen 19:1-3 19 Now the two angels came to Sodom in the evening as Lot was sitting in the gate of Sodom. When Lot saw them, he rose to meet them and bowed down with his face to the ground. 2 And he said, "Now behold, my lords, please turn aside into your servant's house, and spend the night, and wash your feet; then you may rise early and go on your way." They said however, "No, but we shall spend the night in the square." 3 Yet he urged them strongly, so they turned aside to him and entered his house; and he prepared a feast for them, and baked unleavened bread, and they ate. NAS
How will you treat a stranger today. Will they be an inconvenience or will you treat them with kindness and the love of Christ?
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
For Who Would You Plead?
Ah, mom...why can't I go to my friends house? We all pleaded for ourselves when we were little. We wanted something for ourselves, but now that we are grow up do we still "plead" for ourselves or are we willing to plead for the need of someone else?
Abraham goes before God and pleads for the welfare of Lot and the people in the communities of Sodom and Gommorah. His prayer was that even one would be saved from the judgement of God.
Do you know Christ as your Savior? Then are you willing to go before God and "plead" for their salvation?
Gen 18:22-33 22 Then the men turned away from there and went toward Sodom, while Abraham was still standing before the Lord. 23 Abraham came near and said, " Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? 24 "Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it? 25 "Far be it from You to do such a thing, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?" 26 So the Lord said, " If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the whole place on their account." 27 And Abraham replied, "Now behold, I have ventured to speak to the Lord, although I am but dust and ashes. 28 "Suppose the fifty righteous are lacking five, will You destroy the whole city because of five?" And He said, "I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there." 29 He spoke to Him yet again and said, "Suppose forty are found there?" And He said, "I will not do it on account of the forty." 30 Then he said, "Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak; suppose thirty are found there?" And He said, "I will not do it if I find thirty there." 31 And he said, "Now behold, I have ventured to speak to the Lord; suppose twenty are found there?" And He said, "I will not destroy it on account of the twenty." 32 Then he said, " Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak only this once; suppose ten are found there?" And He said, "I will not destroy it on account of the ten." 33 As soon as He had finished speaking to Abraham the Lord departed, and Abraham returned to his place. NASU
Plead for your neighbors on the street where you live. Plead for the community where you live.
Cry out to God for He alone can save His people from their sins.
Matt 1:21 "She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." NASU
Abraham goes before God and pleads for the welfare of Lot and the people in the communities of Sodom and Gommorah. His prayer was that even one would be saved from the judgement of God.
Do you know Christ as your Savior? Then are you willing to go before God and "plead" for their salvation?
Gen 18:22-33 22 Then the men turned away from there and went toward Sodom, while Abraham was still standing before the Lord. 23 Abraham came near and said, " Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? 24 "Suppose there are fifty righteous within the city; will You indeed sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous who are in it? 25 "Far be it from You to do such a thing, to slay the righteous with the wicked, so that the righteous and the wicked are treated alike. Far be it from You! Shall not the Judge of all the earth deal justly?" 26 So the Lord said, " If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare the whole place on their account." 27 And Abraham replied, "Now behold, I have ventured to speak to the Lord, although I am but dust and ashes. 28 "Suppose the fifty righteous are lacking five, will You destroy the whole city because of five?" And He said, "I will not destroy it if I find forty-five there." 29 He spoke to Him yet again and said, "Suppose forty are found there?" And He said, "I will not do it on account of the forty." 30 Then he said, "Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak; suppose thirty are found there?" And He said, "I will not do it if I find thirty there." 31 And he said, "Now behold, I have ventured to speak to the Lord; suppose twenty are found there?" And He said, "I will not destroy it on account of the twenty." 32 Then he said, " Oh may the Lord not be angry, and I shall speak only this once; suppose ten are found there?" And He said, "I will not destroy it on account of the ten." 33 As soon as He had finished speaking to Abraham the Lord departed, and Abraham returned to his place. NASU
Plead for your neighbors on the street where you live. Plead for the community where you live.
Cry out to God for He alone can save His people from their sins.
Matt 1:21 "She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins." NASU
Monday, August 17, 2009
Judgement Revealed
I am sure we remember the days when Mom or Dad would say "if you do that, you will be sent to your room". They were teaching you what their judgement would be before they implemented into your life.
God also wants us to know about his judgement that will be coming into our life. Before the Lord's judgement on Sodom and Gomorrah He revealed to Abraham what was headed their way. Abraham was chosen to teach his children. Teaching children that actions as consequences is an important step in their development.
Genesis 18:16-21 16 Then the men rose up from there, and looked down toward Sodom; and Abraham was walking with them to send them off. 17 The Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do, 18 since Abraham will surely become a great and mighty nation, and in him all the nations of the earth will be blessed? 19 "For I have chosen him, so that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice, so that the Lord may bring upon Abraham what He has spoken about him." 20 And the Lord said, " The outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is indeed great, and their sin is exceedingly grave. 21 "I will go down now, and see if they have done entirely according to its outcry, which has come to Me; and if not, I will know." NAS
The Lord was heading to Sodom and Gomorrah to examine and judge them. But not before he revealed to Abraham that judgement was heading their way.
Are you prepared for judgement in your life?
Ps 9:8 And He will judge the world in righteousness; He will execute judgment for the peoples with equity. NASU
1 Peter 4:5-6 5 but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God. NASU
God also wants us to know about his judgement that will be coming into our life. Before the Lord's judgement on Sodom and Gomorrah He revealed to Abraham what was headed their way. Abraham was chosen to teach his children. Teaching children that actions as consequences is an important step in their development.
Genesis 18:16-21 16 Then the men rose up from there, and looked down toward Sodom; and Abraham was walking with them to send them off. 17 The Lord said, "Shall I hide from Abraham what I am about to do, 18 since Abraham will surely become a great and mighty nation, and in him all the nations of the earth will be blessed? 19 "For I have chosen him, so that he may command his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice, so that the Lord may bring upon Abraham what He has spoken about him." 20 And the Lord said, " The outcry of Sodom and Gomorrah is indeed great, and their sin is exceedingly grave. 21 "I will go down now, and see if they have done entirely according to its outcry, which has come to Me; and if not, I will know." NAS
The Lord was heading to Sodom and Gomorrah to examine and judge them. But not before he revealed to Abraham that judgement was heading their way.
Are you prepared for judgement in your life?
Ps 9:8 And He will judge the world in righteousness; He will execute judgment for the peoples with equity. NASU
1 Peter 4:5-6 5 but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God. NASU
Monday, August 3, 2009
Impossible-Possible
Have you ever watched someone do something, carving in ice, doing a chalk talk, get a computer going when you have been working on it for hours, and wondered "how did they do that"? Something aren't that difficult when you are trained in those areas. For an person who is good a carving, carving in ice isn't that difficult but to someone who only "carves" a piece of steak well, that is another story.
Be careful that when it goes to things that God is doing that we don't try and explain them away. How many times have we heard people try to deny that God has done something miraculous. Today we see that Abraham and Sarah were well beyond child bearing age when the Lord tells Abraham that by "next year" Sarah would bear a child. Now that is "impossible", yes it is for man...but not for God.
Gen 18:9-15 9 Then they said to him, "Where is Sarah your wife?" And he said, "There, in the tent." 10 He said, " I will surely return to you at this time next year; and behold, Sarah your wife will have a son." And Sarah was listening at the tent door, which was behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in age; Sarah was past childbearing. 12 Sarah laughed to herself, saying, " After I have become old, shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?" 13 And the Lord said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh, saying, 'Shall I indeed bear a child, when I am so old?' 14 " Is anything too difficult for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, at this time next year, and Sarah will have a son." 15 Sarah denied it however, saying, "I did not laugh"; for she was afraid. And He said, "No, but you did laugh."NASU
Are you facing a humanly impossible situation? God can do more than we can think or ask.
Eph 3:20-21 20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21 to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. NASU
Trust God to do what you can't do!
Be careful that when it goes to things that God is doing that we don't try and explain them away. How many times have we heard people try to deny that God has done something miraculous. Today we see that Abraham and Sarah were well beyond child bearing age when the Lord tells Abraham that by "next year" Sarah would bear a child. Now that is "impossible", yes it is for man...but not for God.
Gen 18:9-15 9 Then they said to him, "Where is Sarah your wife?" And he said, "There, in the tent." 10 He said, " I will surely return to you at this time next year; and behold, Sarah your wife will have a son." And Sarah was listening at the tent door, which was behind him. 11 Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in age; Sarah was past childbearing. 12 Sarah laughed to herself, saying, " After I have become old, shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also?" 13 And the Lord said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh, saying, 'Shall I indeed bear a child, when I am so old?' 14 " Is anything too difficult for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, at this time next year, and Sarah will have a son." 15 Sarah denied it however, saying, "I did not laugh"; for she was afraid. And He said, "No, but you did laugh."NASU
Are you facing a humanly impossible situation? God can do more than we can think or ask.
Eph 3:20-21 20 Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, 21 to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen. NASU
Trust God to do what you can't do!
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Are you Ready
There are times in my life when I wasn't sure I was ready for the next steps. Each time we bought or built a home, signing all the legal paper work, I had to ask myself was I ready for this commitment. Making decisions and taking our time is usually something we do to be ready. But what happens when things must happen at a moments notice. Are we "prepared" for the unplanable? Sometimes we have to respond at a moments notice..we don't have time to get ready we must react. It is those time that our true character comes to the forefront of our lives. How we respond in a moment is something this is deep within us.
The Lord came to meet Abraham and Sarah, how he respond is critical for us to see. Despite not being able to know "in advance" of His coming Abraham jumped into action to provide a meal for his guests.
Gen 18:1-8
18 Now the Lord appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, while he was sitting at the tent door in the heat of the day. 2 When he lifted up his eyes and looked, behold, three men were standing opposite him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth, 3 and said, " My Lord, if now I have found favor in Your sight, please do not pass Your servant by. 4 "Please let a little water be brought and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree; 5 and I will bring a piece of bread, that you may refresh yourselves; after that you may go on, since you have visited your servant." And they said, "So do, as you have said." 6 So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah, and said, " Quickly, prepare three measures of fine flour, knead it and make bread cakes." 7 Abraham also ran to the herd, and took a tender and choice calf and gave it to the servant, and he hurried to prepare it. 8 He took curds and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and placed it before them; and he was standing by them under the tree as they ate. NAS
How would you respond if your neighbor needed help? What if your co-worker had an emergency could they rely on you to assist them or are you to busy.
Let's be sure that we are never to so busy that we can respond to someone else's need.
The Lord came to meet Abraham and Sarah, how he respond is critical for us to see. Despite not being able to know "in advance" of His coming Abraham jumped into action to provide a meal for his guests.
Gen 18:1-8
18 Now the Lord appeared to him by the oaks of Mamre, while he was sitting at the tent door in the heat of the day. 2 When he lifted up his eyes and looked, behold, three men were standing opposite him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them and bowed himself to the earth, 3 and said, " My Lord, if now I have found favor in Your sight, please do not pass Your servant by. 4 "Please let a little water be brought and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree; 5 and I will bring a piece of bread, that you may refresh yourselves; after that you may go on, since you have visited your servant." And they said, "So do, as you have said." 6 So Abraham hurried into the tent to Sarah, and said, " Quickly, prepare three measures of fine flour, knead it and make bread cakes." 7 Abraham also ran to the herd, and took a tender and choice calf and gave it to the servant, and he hurried to prepare it. 8 He took curds and milk and the calf which he had prepared, and placed it before them; and he was standing by them under the tree as they ate. NAS
How would you respond if your neighbor needed help? What if your co-worker had an emergency could they rely on you to assist them or are you to busy.
Let's be sure that we are never to so busy that we can respond to someone else's need.
Friday, July 31, 2009
What Age Got to do with it?
No matter what age you are there is something thinking you are either to old or to for something. Having gotten married at 20 there are those who though I was to young. I knew a man who was in his sixties and he thought he was to young to be a grandfather. Age means nothing when God is involved.
When Abraham acted on faith and was circumcised he was 99 years old. Sadly, some people want to "live life" before putting it all aside to accept "restrictions" of Christianity. What we do not know is will we have tomorrow to live. Just this past week, a person driving down a road, passed a car and then slide into a tree. He had no more time. He going fast to somewhere but sadly he never arrived.
Gen 17:24-2724 Now Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. 25 And Ishmael his son was thirteen years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. 26 In the very same day Abraham was circumcised, and Ishmael his son. 27 All the men of his household, who were born in the house or bought with money from a foreigner, were circumcised with him. NASU
Waiting in life can bring lots of scars and tragedies. You are never to young or old to respond to God invitation to receive Jesus as your Savior. Why not respond today?
When Abraham acted on faith and was circumcised he was 99 years old. Sadly, some people want to "live life" before putting it all aside to accept "restrictions" of Christianity. What we do not know is will we have tomorrow to live. Just this past week, a person driving down a road, passed a car and then slide into a tree. He had no more time. He going fast to somewhere but sadly he never arrived.
Gen 17:24-2724 Now Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. 25 And Ishmael his son was thirteen years old when he was circumcised in the flesh of his foreskin. 26 In the very same day Abraham was circumcised, and Ishmael his son. 27 All the men of his household, who were born in the house or bought with money from a foreigner, were circumcised with him. NASU
Waiting in life can bring lots of scars and tragedies. You are never to young or old to respond to God invitation to receive Jesus as your Savior. Why not respond today?
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Laughing At God
There are many things that we find funny in life. We laugh a jokes, family miscues even untimely falls are laugh at from time to time but we would never laugh at God would we? Sadly, we do laugh at God maybe not out loud but silently. Not one of those belly rolling laughs but more like a silent snicker. We laugh at His promises that He can change our lives. Sadly, we laugh because we don't believe it is possible. We would never dream of telling God He is not able to do that so we smile, grin and chuckle to ourselves....laugh at God. Sadly, we are just like Abraham. God tells him that Sarai will have a new name, Sarah, and also she will have a son that they will name Isaac. All this seem so unbelievable to Abraham so he simply tries to laugh it off.
Gen 17:15-23
15 Then God said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16 "I will bless her, and indeed I will give you a son by her. Then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her." 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, "Will a child be born to a man one hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?" 18 And Abraham said to God, "Oh that Ishmael might live before You!" 19 But God said, "No, but Sarah your wife will bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac; and I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. 20 "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him, and will make him fruitful and will multiply him exceedingly. He shall become the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. 21 "But My covenant I will establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you at this season next year." 22 When He finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham. NAS
Abraham assumed that since Sarah was 90 she could not have a child. By man's standard this would be true but God promised it would happen and it did come to pass.
What promise of God are you laughing at today? What challenge has He laid before you and you simply think God there is no way that this can happen. Even though you might not be laughing out loud you heart is snickering at God.
Seek God's forgives. Let us be like this man who spoke to Jesus.
Mark 9:22-24 23 And Jesus said to him, " 'If You can?' All things are possible to him who believes." 24 Immediately the boy's father cried out and said, "I do believe; help my unbelief." NAS
Do you believe or do you laugh at God?
Gen 17:15-23
15 Then God said to Abraham, "As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. 16 "I will bless her, and indeed I will give you a son by her. Then I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples will come from her." 17 Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said in his heart, "Will a child be born to a man one hundred years old? And will Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?" 18 And Abraham said to God, "Oh that Ishmael might live before You!" 19 But God said, "No, but Sarah your wife will bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac; and I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. 20 "As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him, and will make him fruitful and will multiply him exceedingly. He shall become the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. 21 "But My covenant I will establish with Isaac, whom Sarah will bear to you at this season next year." 22 When He finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham. NAS
Abraham assumed that since Sarah was 90 she could not have a child. By man's standard this would be true but God promised it would happen and it did come to pass.
What promise of God are you laughing at today? What challenge has He laid before you and you simply think God there is no way that this can happen. Even though you might not be laughing out loud you heart is snickering at God.
Seek God's forgives. Let us be like this man who spoke to Jesus.
Mark 9:22-24 23 And Jesus said to him, " 'If You can?' All things are possible to him who believes." 24 Immediately the boy's father cried out and said, "I do believe; help my unbelief." NAS
Do you believe or do you laugh at God?
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
The Sign
Traveling is much easier when the road sign are in place. Have you ever traveled with a set of directions that were incomplete? Maybe they forgot to give you are turn or maybe the turn that was supposed to be marked with a sign was no longer there, blow away by a storm.
Sign tell us about stores, bargains and all kinds of other things that are available or happening in our community.
God instructed Abraham what he was to keep His covenant. Know that this was not an act of work on Abraham's part. This was the accepting of God promise to him.
Gen 17:9-10 9 God said further to Abraham, "Now as for you, you shall keep My covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations. 10 " This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: every male among you shall be circumcised. NASU
This act of faith on Abraham's part showed that he believed God.
Do you believe the promises of God?
Sign tell us about stores, bargains and all kinds of other things that are available or happening in our community.
God instructed Abraham what he was to keep His covenant. Know that this was not an act of work on Abraham's part. This was the accepting of God promise to him.
Gen 17:9-10 9 God said further to Abraham, "Now as for you, you shall keep My covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations. 10 " This is My covenant, which you shall keep, between Me and you and your descendants after you: every male among you shall be circumcised. NASU
This act of faith on Abraham's part showed that he believed God.
Do you believe the promises of God?
Monday, July 20, 2009
God Does It All
There are certain things in life that we simply have no control over. When a young man asks a girl to marry him he does not control her answer. He may do many things but none of them guarantee that she will say yes. Doctor's operate of someone without a 100% guarantee that everything will come out well. Many times it often does but never 100% of the time.
With God everything is guaranteed because He promised without any involvement on our part to insure the promise is kept.
Gen 17:6-8 6 "I (GOD) will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make nations of you, and kings will come forth from you. 7 "I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your descendants after you. 8 " I will give to you and to your descendants after you, the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God." NASU
All that is promised here was kept, not because of some actions on Abram part but because of God's promise.
Eph 2:8-9 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. NASU
Acts 16:31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." NASU
Do you believe? These promises are there for those who believe, why not take them today.
With God everything is guaranteed because He promised without any involvement on our part to insure the promise is kept.
Gen 17:6-8 6 "I (GOD) will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make nations of you, and kings will come forth from you. 7 "I will establish My covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your descendants after you. 8 " I will give to you and to your descendants after you, the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God." NASU
All that is promised here was kept, not because of some actions on Abram part but because of God's promise.
Eph 2:8-9 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. NASU
Acts 16:31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." NASU
Do you believe? These promises are there for those who believe, why not take them today.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
I Promise, GOD!
How do you get someone to keep there promise? Sometime you have to promise something in return, other times you have to encourage, or bug them. (not that bugging is good). Sadly, many times you are involved in some way for a promise to you to be keep. Even in our marriages today when people "promise" to stay together for all time, they are quick to step away if the other person does something deem unworthy, dishonorable or just plain bad. So, since the other person did something bad it is assumed that it is OK to give up on your promise to them.
What a joy to know that this is not how God work in His promises to us.
Gen 17:1-5 Now when Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, "I am God Almighty;Walk before Me, and be blameless. 2 "I will establish My covenant between Me and you, And I will multiply you exceedingly." 3 Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him, saying, 4 "As for Me, behold, My covenant is with you,And you will be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 "No longer shall your name be called Abram,But your name shall be Abraham;For I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. NASU
God's promise to Abram was not based on Abram's life or obedience. It was God's promise period. God shows us that He keeps all His promises. What a wonderful blessing for us to see and know.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. NASU
A promise made and a promise kept.
Have you experienced the promise of God in your life? If you haven't why not take that promise today.
What a joy to know that this is not how God work in His promises to us.
Gen 17:1-5 Now when Abram was ninety-nine years old, the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, "I am God Almighty;Walk before Me, and be blameless. 2 "I will establish My covenant between Me and you, And I will multiply you exceedingly." 3 Abram fell on his face, and God talked with him, saying, 4 "As for Me, behold, My covenant is with you,And you will be the father of a multitude of nations. 5 "No longer shall your name be called Abram,But your name shall be Abraham;For I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. NASU
God's promise to Abram was not based on Abram's life or obedience. It was God's promise period. God shows us that He keeps all His promises. What a wonderful blessing for us to see and know.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. NASU
A promise made and a promise kept.
Have you experienced the promise of God in your life? If you haven't why not take that promise today.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Peek A Boo!
Little children love the game "Peek-A-Boo". For them, when their eyes are covered no one can see them until they decide. Alas, they grow up and come to realize that even when they cover their eyes other people can still see them.
Sadly, many people play "peek-a-boo" with God. As long as they aren't looking at Him or for Him they assume that they can do what every they want cause He must be busy elsewhere.
Hagar gives a name for God, Elroi, which means "You are a God who sees"
Gen 16:9-14 10 Moreover, the angel of the Lord said to her, " I will greatly multiply your descendants so that they will be too many to count." 11 The angel of the Lord said to her further,
"Behold, you are with child, And you will bear a son;And you shall call his name Ishmael,Because the Lord has given heed to your affliction. 12 "He will be a wild donkey of a man,His hand will be against everyone,And every one's hand will be against him; And he will live to the east of all his brothers." 13 Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, " You are a God who sees"; for she said, " Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?" 14 Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi; behold, it is between Kadesh and Bered. NASU
So do you understand that where ever you are and whatever you do there is God, Elroi? "God who sees."
Sadly, many people play "peek-a-boo" with God. As long as they aren't looking at Him or for Him they assume that they can do what every they want cause He must be busy elsewhere.
Hagar gives a name for God, Elroi, which means "You are a God who sees"
Gen 16:9-14 10 Moreover, the angel of the Lord said to her, " I will greatly multiply your descendants so that they will be too many to count." 11 The angel of the Lord said to her further,
"Behold, you are with child, And you will bear a son;And you shall call his name Ishmael,Because the Lord has given heed to your affliction. 12 "He will be a wild donkey of a man,His hand will be against everyone,And every one's hand will be against him; And he will live to the east of all his brothers." 13 Then she called the name of the Lord who spoke to her, " You are a God who sees"; for she said, " Have I even remained alive here after seeing Him?" 14 Therefore the well was called Beer-lahai-roi; behold, it is between Kadesh and Bered. NASU
So do you understand that where ever you are and whatever you do there is God, Elroi? "God who sees."
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