Read: Colossians 3:22-4:1
Masters, give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven. --- Colossians 4:1
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 47-49
When Truett Cathy started his first restaurant in 1946, it was closed on Sundays to give his employees time to be with their families and to attend church. It's still true today of the more than 1,000 Chick-fil-A fast-food outlets franchised by his company.
Cathy's slogan is: "Put people and principle before profit." It's a motto each of us can make our own, whether we give orders or take them on the job.
The apostle Paul had a word for employers and employees in Colossians 3:22-4:1. He said we need to remember that we have a Master in heaven [4:1], and we are to work from our hearts to please Him, not just the person watching us [3:22-24].
Truett Cathy strives to remain true to biblical principles in his business. Larry Julian, author of God Is My CEO, a book about Cathy and other business leaders, says: "God doesn't promise a tangible return on investments, but He promises the fruits of the Spirit, love and peace and joy, on a personal level. Cathy is not only experiencing peace and joy and love in his life personally, but he's also making a difference to his foster children, his own children and grandchildren, and his employees. He's leaving a legacy on how you can do things the right way."
That's an example we can take to work. --- David McCasland
Lord, teach me how to love and work,
That everything I do
May be to someone in its turn
A service good and true. --- Anon.
WHEN PEOPLE ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAT PROFITS, EVERYONE PROFITS.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Monday, August 30, 2004
The Real Jesus
Read: Matthew 16:13-20
You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. --- Matthew 16:16
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 43-46
Who is Jesus? Observing the ways He is portrayed these days, it's almost impossible to recognize Him as the Jesus of the Bible. Some groups add to what the Bible says about Him, while others diminish Him to simple humanity, claiming that He was merely a wise teacher or a master moralist. Some would like to make Him disappear altogether.
But this is nothing new. It's been happening for nearly 2,000 years. This reminds me of Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the US Declaration of Independence. He went through the New Testament Gospels with scissors and cut out all references to Jesus' deity and the supernatural. This is know as The Jefferson Bible. Even recently, people have approached the Gospels in similar ways.
When Jesus asked His 12 disciples what people were saying about who He was, some answers were Elijah, Jeremiah, and John the Baptist, but these answers wer all inadequate. Peter was correct when he said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" [Matthew 16:16].
Don't be deceived by fuzzy, watered down, or false descriptions of Jesus that you read, see, or hear about. Stick to the Bible. When people try to minimize His identity, tell them in no uncertain terms who the real Jesus is! --- Dave Egner
All glory to Jesus, begotten of God,
The great I AM is He;
Creator, sustainer --- but wonder of all,
The Lamb of Calvary! --- Peterson
TO KNOW JESUS IS TO KNOW GOD.
You are the Christ, the Son of the living God. --- Matthew 16:16
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 43-46
Who is Jesus? Observing the ways He is portrayed these days, it's almost impossible to recognize Him as the Jesus of the Bible. Some groups add to what the Bible says about Him, while others diminish Him to simple humanity, claiming that He was merely a wise teacher or a master moralist. Some would like to make Him disappear altogether.
But this is nothing new. It's been happening for nearly 2,000 years. This reminds me of Thomas Jefferson, who wrote the US Declaration of Independence. He went through the New Testament Gospels with scissors and cut out all references to Jesus' deity and the supernatural. This is know as The Jefferson Bible. Even recently, people have approached the Gospels in similar ways.
When Jesus asked His 12 disciples what people were saying about who He was, some answers were Elijah, Jeremiah, and John the Baptist, but these answers wer all inadequate. Peter was correct when he said, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God" [Matthew 16:16].
Don't be deceived by fuzzy, watered down, or false descriptions of Jesus that you read, see, or hear about. Stick to the Bible. When people try to minimize His identity, tell them in no uncertain terms who the real Jesus is! --- Dave Egner
All glory to Jesus, begotten of God,
The great I AM is He;
Creator, sustainer --- but wonder of all,
The Lamb of Calvary! --- Peterson
TO KNOW JESUS IS TO KNOW GOD.
Sunday, August 29, 2004
An Eternal Future
Read: John 5:24-29
He who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and ... has passed from death into life. --- John 5:24
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 40-42
Some countries are very old. Their history stretches far into the distant past. Others are fairly new to the world map. Yet, while all nations are destined to disappear, every human soul is destined to live eternally.
This prompted C.S. Lewis to say, "If we had foolish unchristian hopes about human culture, they are now shattered. If we thought we were building up a heaven on earth, if we looked for something that would turn the present world from a place of pilgrimage into a permanent city satisfying the soul of man, we are disillusioned, and not a moment too soon."
Civilizations will fall, but the human soul will live on forever. And because every individual will one day stand and face God's judgment [Hebrews 9:27], the most important question is how each of us will spend the endless ages stretching before us. Will we be with God in indescribable glory and joy? Or will we be exiled from God, lost forever in a condition too horrible for language to describe?
What a responsibility rests on believers! We must tell people that the only way to spend eternity in God's presence is to accept His offer of forgiveness and reconciliation [John 5:24]. By God's grace, we can begin rejoicing in eternal life with Him right now! --- Vernon Grounds
There is a place reserved in heaven
For all who have believed;
Eternal life is freely given
When humbly it's received. --- Sper
WHEN YOU OPEN YOUR HEART TO JESUS, HEAVEN IS OPEN TO YOU.
He who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and ... has passed from death into life. --- John 5:24
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 40-42
Some countries are very old. Their history stretches far into the distant past. Others are fairly new to the world map. Yet, while all nations are destined to disappear, every human soul is destined to live eternally.
This prompted C.S. Lewis to say, "If we had foolish unchristian hopes about human culture, they are now shattered. If we thought we were building up a heaven on earth, if we looked for something that would turn the present world from a place of pilgrimage into a permanent city satisfying the soul of man, we are disillusioned, and not a moment too soon."
Civilizations will fall, but the human soul will live on forever. And because every individual will one day stand and face God's judgment [Hebrews 9:27], the most important question is how each of us will spend the endless ages stretching before us. Will we be with God in indescribable glory and joy? Or will we be exiled from God, lost forever in a condition too horrible for language to describe?
What a responsibility rests on believers! We must tell people that the only way to spend eternity in God's presence is to accept His offer of forgiveness and reconciliation [John 5:24]. By God's grace, we can begin rejoicing in eternal life with Him right now! --- Vernon Grounds
There is a place reserved in heaven
For all who have believed;
Eternal life is freely given
When humbly it's received. --- Sper
WHEN YOU OPEN YOUR HEART TO JESUS, HEAVEN IS OPEN TO YOU.
Saturday, August 28, 2004
Fretting Is A Waste
Read: Psalm 90:10-17
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. --- Psalm 90:12
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 37-39
The older we get, the shorter life seems. Author Victor Hugo said, "Short as life is, we make it still shorter by the careless waste of time."
There's no sadder example of wasted time than a life dominated by fretting. Take, for example, an American woman whose dream of riding a train through the English countryside came true. After boarding the train she kept fretting about the windows and the temperature, complaining about her seat assignment, rearranging her luggage, and so on. To her shock, she suddenly reached her journey's end. With deep regret she said to the person meeting her, "If I'd known I was going to arrive so soon, I wouldn't have wasted my time fretting so much."
It's easy to get sidetracked by problems that won't matter at life's end --- difficult neighbors, a tight budget, signs of aging, people who are wealthier than you. Moses acknowledged the brevity of life and prayed, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" [Psalm 90:12].
Instead of fretting, feed on God's Word and apply it to yourself. Strive to grow in God's wisdom every day. Stay focused on eternal values. Make it your goal to greet your waiting Savior one day with a heart of wisdome, rather than a heart of care. --- Joanie Yoder
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've not cause for worry or for fear. --- Berg
WORRY CASTS A BIG SHADOW BEHIND A SMALL THING.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. --- Psalm 90:12
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 37-39
The older we get, the shorter life seems. Author Victor Hugo said, "Short as life is, we make it still shorter by the careless waste of time."
There's no sadder example of wasted time than a life dominated by fretting. Take, for example, an American woman whose dream of riding a train through the English countryside came true. After boarding the train she kept fretting about the windows and the temperature, complaining about her seat assignment, rearranging her luggage, and so on. To her shock, she suddenly reached her journey's end. With deep regret she said to the person meeting her, "If I'd known I was going to arrive so soon, I wouldn't have wasted my time fretting so much."
It's easy to get sidetracked by problems that won't matter at life's end --- difficult neighbors, a tight budget, signs of aging, people who are wealthier than you. Moses acknowledged the brevity of life and prayed, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" [Psalm 90:12].
Instead of fretting, feed on God's Word and apply it to yourself. Strive to grow in God's wisdom every day. Stay focused on eternal values. Make it your goal to greet your waiting Savior one day with a heart of wisdome, rather than a heart of care. --- Joanie Yoder
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've not cause for worry or for fear. --- Berg
WORRY CASTS A BIG SHADOW BEHIND A SMALL THING.
Friday, August 27, 2004
Priceless Letters
Read: Ephesians 3:1-12
When you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ. --- Ephesians 3:4
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 33-36
If you have a letter from Mark Twain in your attic, it could be worth a lot of money. A personal, 9-page letter written to his daughter in 1875 sold for $33,000 back in 1991. Ordinary correspondence from the author of Tom Sawyer usually brings $1,200 to $1,500 a page. Experts say that even though Twain wrote 50,000 letters during his lifetime, demand is still strong for these personal notes from one of America's favorite authors.
You probably don't have any correspondence from Mark Twain, but chances are you own a priceless collection of letters. Twenty-one of the 27 books in the New Testament are letters written to encourage and instruct Christians. They contain the priceless revelation of Jesus Christ.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul wrote, "By revelation He made known to me the mystery ... of which I became a minister" [3:3,7]. He had received a message from God and was told to preach it to the world [v.8]. The letters is not their cash value, but the wisdom they bring to an open heart --- wisdom from God Himself. --- David McCasland
Exceeding great and precious
Are the promises of God,
Inscribed in golden letters
In the pages of His Word. --- Cockrell
IF YOU WANT LIFE-CHANGING MAIL, OPEN YOUR BIBLE AND READ A LETTER FROM GOD.
When you read, you may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ. --- Ephesians 3:4
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 33-36
If you have a letter from Mark Twain in your attic, it could be worth a lot of money. A personal, 9-page letter written to his daughter in 1875 sold for $33,000 back in 1991. Ordinary correspondence from the author of Tom Sawyer usually brings $1,200 to $1,500 a page. Experts say that even though Twain wrote 50,000 letters during his lifetime, demand is still strong for these personal notes from one of America's favorite authors.
You probably don't have any correspondence from Mark Twain, but chances are you own a priceless collection of letters. Twenty-one of the 27 books in the New Testament are letters written to encourage and instruct Christians. They contain the priceless revelation of Jesus Christ.
In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul wrote, "By revelation He made known to me the mystery ... of which I became a minister" [3:3,7]. He had received a message from God and was told to preach it to the world [v.8]. The letters is not their cash value, but the wisdom they bring to an open heart --- wisdom from God Himself. --- David McCasland
Exceeding great and precious
Are the promises of God,
Inscribed in golden letters
In the pages of His Word. --- Cockrell
IF YOU WANT LIFE-CHANGING MAIL, OPEN YOUR BIBLE AND READ A LETTER FROM GOD.
Thursday, August 26, 2004
More Than A Contract
Read: Romans 8:14-17
The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs. --- Romans 8:16-17
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 30-32
We are all accustomed to contracts. We are often required to sign them, whether we're closing a business deal, taking out a bank loan, buying a car, leasing an apartment, or purchasing a major appliance. Contracts, formal or informal, specify what happens if one of the parties fails to live up to an agreement.
When we put our trust in Christ for salvation, however, we do more than sign a contract. We enter into a binding relationship with God whereby He makes us His children by the new birth and by adoption [1 Peter 1:23; Ephesians 1:5]. Because of this close family relationship, we are permanent heirs of an eternal inheritance reserved in heaven for us [1 Peter 1:4].
Contracts can be broken if one of the parties fails to keep his part of the promise. Fortunately for us, our eternal destiny is based on more than some legal agreement we make with God. Rather, we are secure because of our family relationship with Him. If a youngster fails to show up for dinner, the parent's obligation isn't canceled. The parent starts a search for the child. One member's failure doesn't cancel the relationship.
How thankful we can be that eternal life is based on our relationship with God through Christ. --- Haddon Robinson
We're members of God's family,
We're children of the King;
Because we've put our faith in Christ,
To us He'll always cling. --- Sper
WE ARE HEIRS OF GOD NOT MERELY BY CONTRACT, BUT BY BIRTHRIGHT.
The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs. --- Romans 8:16-17
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 30-32
We are all accustomed to contracts. We are often required to sign them, whether we're closing a business deal, taking out a bank loan, buying a car, leasing an apartment, or purchasing a major appliance. Contracts, formal or informal, specify what happens if one of the parties fails to live up to an agreement.
When we put our trust in Christ for salvation, however, we do more than sign a contract. We enter into a binding relationship with God whereby He makes us His children by the new birth and by adoption [1 Peter 1:23; Ephesians 1:5]. Because of this close family relationship, we are permanent heirs of an eternal inheritance reserved in heaven for us [1 Peter 1:4].
Contracts can be broken if one of the parties fails to keep his part of the promise. Fortunately for us, our eternal destiny is based on more than some legal agreement we make with God. Rather, we are secure because of our family relationship with Him. If a youngster fails to show up for dinner, the parent's obligation isn't canceled. The parent starts a search for the child. One member's failure doesn't cancel the relationship.
How thankful we can be that eternal life is based on our relationship with God through Christ. --- Haddon Robinson
We're members of God's family,
We're children of the King;
Because we've put our faith in Christ,
To us He'll always cling. --- Sper
WE ARE HEIRS OF GOD NOT MERELY BY CONTRACT, BUT BY BIRTHRIGHT.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
Gestures Of Love
Read: Romans 12:9-16
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love ... and weep with those who weep. --- Romans 12:10, 15
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 27-29
Cards. Hundreds and hundreds of cards. Our mail carrier must have thought we were going for a world record. They came by the stack --- day after day after day.
It was just one of the many ways we knew that people cared for us as our family endured the painful first weeks after our teenage daughter Melissa died in a car accident.
But it wasn't just the cards that provided assurance of loving support. Food came in so fast we nearly filled up the freezer. Flowers filled every corner of the house, especially sunflowers --- Melissa's favorite.
People sent pictures of her, blankets with verses, memorial gifts to her school, and books --- lots of helpful books on trusting God with a broken heart. Then there were the e-mails, phone calls, and personal words of hope and help. Promises of prayer. Offers to do anything we needed. All from friends following God's prompting.
Our aching hearts were lifted by these deeds too numerous to list but too beautiful to forget. The love behind these expressions carried us through days heavy with sorrow.
Look for people in need and follow the Lord's leading. Help heal their brokenness with gestures of love [Romans 12:10-15]. Encourage them for God's glory. --- Dave Branon
It was only a brief little note,
Or a word that was prayerfully spoken,
Yet not in vain, for it soothed the pain
Of a heart that was nearly broken. --- Anon.
A LITTLE KINDNESS CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love ... and weep with those who weep. --- Romans 12:10, 15
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 27-29
Cards. Hundreds and hundreds of cards. Our mail carrier must have thought we were going for a world record. They came by the stack --- day after day after day.
It was just one of the many ways we knew that people cared for us as our family endured the painful first weeks after our teenage daughter Melissa died in a car accident.
But it wasn't just the cards that provided assurance of loving support. Food came in so fast we nearly filled up the freezer. Flowers filled every corner of the house, especially sunflowers --- Melissa's favorite.
People sent pictures of her, blankets with verses, memorial gifts to her school, and books --- lots of helpful books on trusting God with a broken heart. Then there were the e-mails, phone calls, and personal words of hope and help. Promises of prayer. Offers to do anything we needed. All from friends following God's prompting.
Our aching hearts were lifted by these deeds too numerous to list but too beautiful to forget. The love behind these expressions carried us through days heavy with sorrow.
Look for people in need and follow the Lord's leading. Help heal their brokenness with gestures of love [Romans 12:10-15]. Encourage them for God's glory. --- Dave Branon
It was only a brief little note,
Or a word that was prayerfully spoken,
Yet not in vain, for it soothed the pain
Of a heart that was nearly broken. --- Anon.
A LITTLE KINDNESS CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE.
Tuesday, August 24, 2004
Christ-Centered Faith
Read: Colossians 2:1-10
As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. --- Colossians 2:6
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 24-26
Some Christians try to live from one dramatic mountaintop experience to another. Their relationship with the Lord is based on their feelings at the moment. They go from Bible conferences to seminars to Bible studies, trying to maintain an emotional high.
Author Creath Davis, referring to his early Christian life, wrote, "I felt that if something spectacular was not transpiring, my faith was weakening. As a result, I missed most of what was going on in the valleys, waiting to get back on the mountain."
What's an effective antidote for a feelings-centered faith? According to the apostle Paul in Colossians 2, being Christ-centered is the answer. Having received Christ Jesus by faith, we are instructed to continue to "walk in Him" by faith [v.6] through both the highs and lows of life. By walking in close fellowship with Him each day, we become "rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith" [v.7]. We grow steadily into maturity as we focus on Christ and what He has done for us, and not on our feelings.
Mountaintop experiences can be beneficial, but nothing is more profitable than an ongoing, Christ-centered life of faith. --- Joanie Yoder
With faith in Christ we walk each day,
Accepting all that comes our way;
So let us view each task at hand
As being His divine command. --- D. De Haan
TRUE FAITH NEEDS NO FEELINGS TO REST UPON.
As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him. --- Colossians 2:6
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 24-26
Some Christians try to live from one dramatic mountaintop experience to another. Their relationship with the Lord is based on their feelings at the moment. They go from Bible conferences to seminars to Bible studies, trying to maintain an emotional high.
Author Creath Davis, referring to his early Christian life, wrote, "I felt that if something spectacular was not transpiring, my faith was weakening. As a result, I missed most of what was going on in the valleys, waiting to get back on the mountain."
What's an effective antidote for a feelings-centered faith? According to the apostle Paul in Colossians 2, being Christ-centered is the answer. Having received Christ Jesus by faith, we are instructed to continue to "walk in Him" by faith [v.6] through both the highs and lows of life. By walking in close fellowship with Him each day, we become "rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith" [v.7]. We grow steadily into maturity as we focus on Christ and what He has done for us, and not on our feelings.
Mountaintop experiences can be beneficial, but nothing is more profitable than an ongoing, Christ-centered life of faith. --- Joanie Yoder
With faith in Christ we walk each day,
Accepting all that comes our way;
So let us view each task at hand
As being His divine command. --- D. De Haan
TRUE FAITH NEEDS NO FEELINGS TO REST UPON.
Monday, August 23, 2004
Spare Change?
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it. --- 1 Corinthians 12:24
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 21-23
A Washington, DC, couple invited friends to bring their loose change to a party to benefit a charity fund. From what people had at home in boxes, cookie jars, plastic bags, and a few old socks, they brought coins totaling more than $1,500.
Few individuals have more than $30 in change around the house, but Americans together have an estimated $7.7 billion in loose change just lying around. And researchers say that's typical of people in many other countries of the world.
To me, it's a wonderful illustration of the collective wealth and worth of the family of all believers in Jesus Christ. The Bible often refers to the church as "the body of Christ" and says that "all members of that one body, being many, are one body" [1 Corinthians 12:12].
Every person, therefore, is essential and valuable as part of the whole. By ourselves, we may sometimes feel insignificant, unneeded, and of little value, like so much spare change. But as individual parts that make up the whole, each of us is needed [vv. 15-22].
All people are unique individuals, but as Christians we are also indispensable parts of the body of Christ, and of greater value than we can ever know. --- David McCasland
Help us, Lord, to work together
With the gifts that You bestow;
Give us unity of purpose
As we serve You here below. --- Sper
THERE ARE NO UNIMPORTANT MEMBERS IN THE BODY OF CHRIST.
God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it. --- 1 Corinthians 12:24
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 21-23
A Washington, DC, couple invited friends to bring their loose change to a party to benefit a charity fund. From what people had at home in boxes, cookie jars, plastic bags, and a few old socks, they brought coins totaling more than $1,500.
Few individuals have more than $30 in change around the house, but Americans together have an estimated $7.7 billion in loose change just lying around. And researchers say that's typical of people in many other countries of the world.
To me, it's a wonderful illustration of the collective wealth and worth of the family of all believers in Jesus Christ. The Bible often refers to the church as "the body of Christ" and says that "all members of that one body, being many, are one body" [1 Corinthians 12:12].
Every person, therefore, is essential and valuable as part of the whole. By ourselves, we may sometimes feel insignificant, unneeded, and of little value, like so much spare change. But as individual parts that make up the whole, each of us is needed [vv. 15-22].
All people are unique individuals, but as Christians we are also indispensable parts of the body of Christ, and of greater value than we can ever know. --- David McCasland
Help us, Lord, to work together
With the gifts that You bestow;
Give us unity of purpose
As we serve You here below. --- Sper
THERE ARE NO UNIMPORTANT MEMBERS IN THE BODY OF CHRIST.
Sunday, August 22, 2004
The Divided Heart
Read: Hosea 7:8-12
Teach me Your way, O LORD, I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name. --- Psalm 86:11
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 17-20
The Israelites of Hosea's day were trying to worship both pagan idols and the one true and living God. So the prophet Hosea used three colorful figures of speech to describe their divided hearts.
First, they were like a half-baked cake --- palatable neither to God nor the pagans [7:8]. Second, they were like a proud man who can't see the signs of his aging --- they were unaware of their spiritual decline [vv.9-10]. Third, they were like a senseless dove --- flying from one pagan nation to another in a vain quest for help [v.11].
Today, we as Christians are often afflicted with the same divided-heart syndrome. We believe on Jesus but are reluctant to commit every area of our lives to Him. We go to church but don't want to live out our faith each day if it deprives us of worldly success or pleasure. A divided heart, though, results in some serious consequences. First, we don't please God or attract non-believers to Christ. Second, it may take a crisis to show us our true spiritual decline. And third, we live unfulfilled lives, eventhough we flit from one worldly pleasure to another.
Let's pray each day, "Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth, unite my heart to fear Your name" [Psalm 86:11]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
An undivided heart, O Lord,
Is what we need each day,
For we are prone to compromise
And wander from Your way. --- D. De Haan
A DIVIDED HEART MULTIPLIES OUR PROBLEMS.
Teach me Your way, O LORD, I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name. --- Psalm 86:11
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 17-20
The Israelites of Hosea's day were trying to worship both pagan idols and the one true and living God. So the prophet Hosea used three colorful figures of speech to describe their divided hearts.
First, they were like a half-baked cake --- palatable neither to God nor the pagans [7:8]. Second, they were like a proud man who can't see the signs of his aging --- they were unaware of their spiritual decline [vv.9-10]. Third, they were like a senseless dove --- flying from one pagan nation to another in a vain quest for help [v.11].
Today, we as Christians are often afflicted with the same divided-heart syndrome. We believe on Jesus but are reluctant to commit every area of our lives to Him. We go to church but don't want to live out our faith each day if it deprives us of worldly success or pleasure. A divided heart, though, results in some serious consequences. First, we don't please God or attract non-believers to Christ. Second, it may take a crisis to show us our true spiritual decline. And third, we live unfulfilled lives, eventhough we flit from one worldly pleasure to another.
Let's pray each day, "Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth, unite my heart to fear Your name" [Psalm 86:11]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
An undivided heart, O Lord,
Is what we need each day,
For we are prone to compromise
And wander from Your way. --- D. De Haan
A DIVIDED HEART MULTIPLIES OUR PROBLEMS.
Saturday, August 21, 2004
When You Say, "I'm Sorry"
Read: Hosea 6:1-6
Godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted. --- 2 Corinthians 7:10
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 13-16
With tears in his eyes a man said tome, "I told my wife I was sorry, but she says she won't continue to live with me. First John 1:9 says that God forgives us when we confess our sins. Please talk to her and tell her that if God forgives, she should too."
I knew this man had "repented" several time before, only to revert to his abusive behavior. So I said, "No, I'm not going to tell her that. In your case, saying, 'I'm sorry' isn't enough." His wife insisted that he receive counseling and give evidence of a genuine change before returning home. She was right.
Just saying "I'm sorry" is not enough for God either. The leaders of Israel, in the face of trouble brought on by their sin, thought that merely returning to prescribed sacrificial offerings would solve their problems. But God rejected that kind of "repentance." It was as fleeting as "a morning cloud" and "the early dew" that fades away with the first rays of sunlight [Hosea 6:4].
Merely saying "I'm sorry" is no different than the empty rituals of the Israelites. God said, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings" [v.6]. He meant that repentance must result in a change of heart and a change in behavior. That's "godly sorrow" [2 Corinthians 7:10]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Repentance is to leave the sin
That we had loved before,
And showing we are grieved by it
By doing it no more. --- Anon.
REPENTANCE MEANS HATING SIN ENOUGH TO TURN FROM IT.
Godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted. --- 2 Corinthians 7:10
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 13-16
With tears in his eyes a man said tome, "I told my wife I was sorry, but she says she won't continue to live with me. First John 1:9 says that God forgives us when we confess our sins. Please talk to her and tell her that if God forgives, she should too."
I knew this man had "repented" several time before, only to revert to his abusive behavior. So I said, "No, I'm not going to tell her that. In your case, saying, 'I'm sorry' isn't enough." His wife insisted that he receive counseling and give evidence of a genuine change before returning home. She was right.
Just saying "I'm sorry" is not enough for God either. The leaders of Israel, in the face of trouble brought on by their sin, thought that merely returning to prescribed sacrificial offerings would solve their problems. But God rejected that kind of "repentance." It was as fleeting as "a morning cloud" and "the early dew" that fades away with the first rays of sunlight [Hosea 6:4].
Merely saying "I'm sorry" is no different than the empty rituals of the Israelites. God said, "I desire mercy and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings" [v.6]. He meant that repentance must result in a change of heart and a change in behavior. That's "godly sorrow" [2 Corinthians 7:10]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Repentance is to leave the sin
That we had loved before,
And showing we are grieved by it
By doing it no more. --- Anon.
REPENTANCE MEANS HATING SIN ENOUGH TO TURN FROM IT.
Friday, August 20, 2004
On Wearing White
Read: Colossians 3:8-14
Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering. --- Colossians 3:12
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 9-12
When I was growing up, wearing white in the US after Labor Day was a serious fashion blunder. So even though I love white clothes, every year I dutifully start putting them away at the end of August.
Late one year, while following a Bible-reading schedule, I came to Ecclesiastes 9:8, which states, "Let your garments always be white." I smiled, imagining for a moment that the author was giving permission to wear white all year. But Solomon was not talking about fashion. He was instructing us to find joy in everything we do and to express it in ways that show faith in God even at times when life doesn't seem to make sense.
One way we can do this is to observe the "fashion advice" of the apostle Paul. First-century Christians in Colosse had become confused. They were overly concerned with man-made rules, so Paul reminded them of the holy laws of God and gave them these instructions: "Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering" [Colossians 3:12].
These are the commands of an infinite God, not the rules of finite humans. So if we put on these "clothes" every day, we'll never be out of season. --- Julie Link
Help us, O Lord, to live our lives
So people clearly see
Reflections of Your loving heart,
Your kindness, purity. --- Sper
CHRISTLIKENESS IS ALWAYS IN SEASON.
Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering. --- Colossians 3:12
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 9-12
When I was growing up, wearing white in the US after Labor Day was a serious fashion blunder. So even though I love white clothes, every year I dutifully start putting them away at the end of August.
Late one year, while following a Bible-reading schedule, I came to Ecclesiastes 9:8, which states, "Let your garments always be white." I smiled, imagining for a moment that the author was giving permission to wear white all year. But Solomon was not talking about fashion. He was instructing us to find joy in everything we do and to express it in ways that show faith in God even at times when life doesn't seem to make sense.
One way we can do this is to observe the "fashion advice" of the apostle Paul. First-century Christians in Colosse had become confused. They were overly concerned with man-made rules, so Paul reminded them of the holy laws of God and gave them these instructions: "Put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering" [Colossians 3:12].
These are the commands of an infinite God, not the rules of finite humans. So if we put on these "clothes" every day, we'll never be out of season. --- Julie Link
Help us, O Lord, to live our lives
So people clearly see
Reflections of Your loving heart,
Your kindness, purity. --- Sper
CHRISTLIKENESS IS ALWAYS IN SEASON.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
Jesus Is Greater
Read: Luke 11:14-23
He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. --- 1 John 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 6-8
Chinese communities in Southeast Asia and some villages in China celebrate the month-long Ghosts Festival. It is believed that during this time the spirits of the dead return to earth to roam among the living. So people burn joss sticks [incense] and phony money, prepare feasts, and perform in street theaters --- all to keep the spirits happy.
As a child growing up in Singapore, I was taught to fear those ghosts. One year I had a fever during the festival, and I was told that I must have bumped into some and offended them.
Now that I know what the Bible says about Jesus' power over the real spirit world of Satan and his demons, I have been freed from my former fears. Because I have placed my faith in Christ as my Lord and Savior, I realize that I don't need to try to appease or fight evil spirits by myself.
Jesus showed His power over the spirit world as He cast out demons [Luke 11:14-23]. When He died on the cross for us and rose from the grave, Jesus triumphed over Satan and sealed his doom [Colossians 2:15; Revelation 20:10]. The Bible assures followers of Christ, "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" [1 John 4:4].
We need not fear the devil or demons. Our Lord Jesus is greater! --- Albert Lee
And though this world, with devils filled,
Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God has willed,
His truth no triumph through us. --- Luther
THE POWER OF SATAN IS NO MATCH FOR THE POWER OF JESUS.
He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. --- 1 John 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 6-8
Chinese communities in Southeast Asia and some villages in China celebrate the month-long Ghosts Festival. It is believed that during this time the spirits of the dead return to earth to roam among the living. So people burn joss sticks [incense] and phony money, prepare feasts, and perform in street theaters --- all to keep the spirits happy.
As a child growing up in Singapore, I was taught to fear those ghosts. One year I had a fever during the festival, and I was told that I must have bumped into some and offended them.
Now that I know what the Bible says about Jesus' power over the real spirit world of Satan and his demons, I have been freed from my former fears. Because I have placed my faith in Christ as my Lord and Savior, I realize that I don't need to try to appease or fight evil spirits by myself.
Jesus showed His power over the spirit world as He cast out demons [Luke 11:14-23]. When He died on the cross for us and rose from the grave, Jesus triumphed over Satan and sealed his doom [Colossians 2:15; Revelation 20:10]. The Bible assures followers of Christ, "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" [1 John 4:4].
We need not fear the devil or demons. Our Lord Jesus is greater! --- Albert Lee
And though this world, with devils filled,
Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God has willed,
His truth no triumph through us. --- Luther
THE POWER OF SATAN IS NO MATCH FOR THE POWER OF JESUS.
Wednesday, August 18, 2004
A Ray Of Hope
Read: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. --- 1 Thessalonians 4:13
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 3-5
It was to be an exciting summer for our family. We had many activities planned, including a trip to Florida to help our daughter Julie begin her teaching career.
Instead, the summer of 2002 began with tragedy. When our teenage daughter Melissa was killed in an automobile accident on the last day of school, our summer of hope turned into a nightmare.
Right away, I began to pray that the loss o our bright, athletic, friendly daughter could have a positive impact on teenagers --- first among her friends and then in ever-widening ways.
Toward the end of the summer, we did take that Florida trip to get Julie started, heavy-hearted as we were. As she began teaching, Julie never forgot the desire to see Melissa's life change the lives of others. She told her classes about her sister and her faith.
One day, a student talked to Julie after class. "I'm scared," she said, "because I'm not a Christian like Melissa was." Julie then led her to faith in Jesus Christ. I imagined Melissa rejoicing in heaven.
The summer of 2002 didn't turn out as planned, but we were thankful to see some fruit of a life well-lived. Even in our sorrow, God gave us this ray of hope. --- Dave Branon
Lord, give us grace to trust You when
Life's burdens seem too much to bear;
Dispel the darkness with new hope
And help us rise above dispair. --- Sper
EVEN IN LIFE'S DARKEST HOUR, CHRISTIANS HAVE THE BRIGHTEST HOPE.
I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. --- 1 Thessalonians 4:13
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 3-5
It was to be an exciting summer for our family. We had many activities planned, including a trip to Florida to help our daughter Julie begin her teaching career.
Instead, the summer of 2002 began with tragedy. When our teenage daughter Melissa was killed in an automobile accident on the last day of school, our summer of hope turned into a nightmare.
Right away, I began to pray that the loss o our bright, athletic, friendly daughter could have a positive impact on teenagers --- first among her friends and then in ever-widening ways.
Toward the end of the summer, we did take that Florida trip to get Julie started, heavy-hearted as we were. As she began teaching, Julie never forgot the desire to see Melissa's life change the lives of others. She told her classes about her sister and her faith.
One day, a student talked to Julie after class. "I'm scared," she said, "because I'm not a Christian like Melissa was." Julie then led her to faith in Jesus Christ. I imagined Melissa rejoicing in heaven.
The summer of 2002 didn't turn out as planned, but we were thankful to see some fruit of a life well-lived. Even in our sorrow, God gave us this ray of hope. --- Dave Branon
Lord, give us grace to trust You when
Life's burdens seem too much to bear;
Dispel the darkness with new hope
And help us rise above dispair. --- Sper
EVEN IN LIFE'S DARKEST HOUR, CHRISTIANS HAVE THE BRIGHTEST HOPE.
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Caught Red-Handed
Read: Jeremiah 2:4-19
The prophets ... walked after things that do not profit. --- Jeremiah 2:8
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 1-2
A small plane loaded with cocaine valued at $20 million was intercepted by federal agents as it flew over the Florida coast. Suddenly, bales of cocaine began falling out of the sky. One dropped in a church parking lot. Another hit a housetop. Several others came down in the Everglades.
When the plane landed at a small airstrip near Homestead Air Force Base, four bundles of cocaine were still on board. Two men were arrested and charged with offenses that could put them behind bars for the rest of their lives. What irony! Something they thought was so profitable suddenly became so condemning.
The Israelites and their leaders also went after what they thought would be profitable for them --- they followed foreign gods [Jeremiah 2:5]. But the Lord told them they were going after "things that do not profit" [v.8], and their own sin was condemning them [v.19]. When intercepted by God, they stood accused not only by Him but also by their own actions. They could not elude the eyes of the Lord nor escape His justice.
We all stand guilty before the Lord and in need of His forgiveness [Romans 3:23]. But because He loved us enough to send His Son to die in our place, we can find --- before it is too late --- the mercy no human court can offer. --- Matt De Haan II
Sin-laden soul with your shame and disgrace,
Jesus stands ready your sin to erase;
Gladly He suffered and died in your place ---
Why not receive His forgiveness and grace? --- D. De Haan
THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE. --- Romans 6:23
The prophets ... walked after things that do not profit. --- Jeremiah 2:8
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 1-2
A small plane loaded with cocaine valued at $20 million was intercepted by federal agents as it flew over the Florida coast. Suddenly, bales of cocaine began falling out of the sky. One dropped in a church parking lot. Another hit a housetop. Several others came down in the Everglades.
When the plane landed at a small airstrip near Homestead Air Force Base, four bundles of cocaine were still on board. Two men were arrested and charged with offenses that could put them behind bars for the rest of their lives. What irony! Something they thought was so profitable suddenly became so condemning.
The Israelites and their leaders also went after what they thought would be profitable for them --- they followed foreign gods [Jeremiah 2:5]. But the Lord told them they were going after "things that do not profit" [v.8], and their own sin was condemning them [v.19]. When intercepted by God, they stood accused not only by Him but also by their own actions. They could not elude the eyes of the Lord nor escape His justice.
We all stand guilty before the Lord and in need of His forgiveness [Romans 3:23]. But because He loved us enough to send His Son to die in our place, we can find --- before it is too late --- the mercy no human court can offer. --- Matt De Haan II
Sin-laden soul with your shame and disgrace,
Jesus stands ready your sin to erase;
Gladly He suffered and died in your place ---
Why not receive His forgiveness and grace? --- D. De Haan
THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE. --- Romans 6:23
Monday, August 16, 2004
Barren But Not Bitter
Read: Luke 1:5-17
They were both righteous before God .... But they had no child. --- Luke 1:6-7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 64-66
Barrenness, whethere physical or spiritual, can lead to bitterness in some of God's people. It can develop in the heart of a disappointed couple who cannot have a child. It can also occur when people serve God and see no results.
A missionary couple who served diligently for many years with no visible fruit asked in frustration, "Have we wasted our lives?" A young pastor and his wife labored 5 years for a thankless, unresponsive congregation, pouring our their lives for their people. "Do they even care?" the woman asked.
Zacharias and Elizabeth, mentioned in Luke 1, are a model for anyone who is facing physical or spiritual barrenness. The aged couple had an impeccable reputation, having faithfully and obediently served the Lord for many years [v.6]. They had prayed for children, but none came. Yet instead of becoming bitter, they kept serving and obeying the Lord. In His time, God honored Zacharias and Elizabeth with a son named John, the one who would prepare the way for the Messiah [vv.13-17].
To avoid developing a bitter spirit in your life, faithfully serve and obey the Lord in the place where He has called you. Trust God to bless you in His time, in His way, and according to His plan. --- Dave Egner
Lord, keep me from being bitter
When things don't go my way,
And grant me Your grace and wisdom
To do Your will today. --- Fitzhugh
BE FAITHFUL --- AND LEAVE THE RESULTS WITH GOD.
They were both righteous before God .... But they had no child. --- Luke 1:6-7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 64-66
Barrenness, whethere physical or spiritual, can lead to bitterness in some of God's people. It can develop in the heart of a disappointed couple who cannot have a child. It can also occur when people serve God and see no results.
A missionary couple who served diligently for many years with no visible fruit asked in frustration, "Have we wasted our lives?" A young pastor and his wife labored 5 years for a thankless, unresponsive congregation, pouring our their lives for their people. "Do they even care?" the woman asked.
Zacharias and Elizabeth, mentioned in Luke 1, are a model for anyone who is facing physical or spiritual barrenness. The aged couple had an impeccable reputation, having faithfully and obediently served the Lord for many years [v.6]. They had prayed for children, but none came. Yet instead of becoming bitter, they kept serving and obeying the Lord. In His time, God honored Zacharias and Elizabeth with a son named John, the one who would prepare the way for the Messiah [vv.13-17].
To avoid developing a bitter spirit in your life, faithfully serve and obey the Lord in the place where He has called you. Trust God to bless you in His time, in His way, and according to His plan. --- Dave Egner
Lord, keep me from being bitter
When things don't go my way,
And grant me Your grace and wisdom
To do Your will today. --- Fitzhugh
BE FAITHFUL --- AND LEAVE THE RESULTS WITH GOD.
Sunday, August 15, 2004
Consider The Poor
Read: Psalm 41:1-3
Blessed is he who considers the poor; the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. --- Psalm 41:1
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 61-63
You many have heard of the blessings Jesus spoke of in His Sermon on the Mount [Matthew 5:1-10]. Here's a "blessing" from the Old Testament that is less well-known: "Blessed is he who considers the poor" [Psalm 41:1].
The Hebrew word translated "considers" means "to take thought for others." The word translated "poor" means "those in need."
There are many people around us who are poor --- in love, in hope, and in the knowledge of God. Even though we cannot solve all their problems, we can show them that we care.
We may not have lots of money, but we can give of ourselves. We can let needy people know that we're thinking of them. We can listen as they tell their stories. We can treat them with courtesy and respect. We can pray for them. We can write letters of encouragement. We can tell them about Jesus. If we can do nothing else, we can love them.
Think about those who live only for themselves, always trying to get ahead, looking for the next thing to make them happy. Compare them with people who give themselves to others. Which ones possess inner calm, strength, and joy?
The place of God's blessing is easily entered. Consider the poor. --- David Roper
Not in having or receiving,
But in giving, there is bliss;
He who has no other pleasure
Ever may rejoice in this. --- Anon.
GIVING IS THE TRUE MEASURE OF LOVE.
Blessed is he who considers the poor; the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble. --- Psalm 41:1
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 61-63
You many have heard of the blessings Jesus spoke of in His Sermon on the Mount [Matthew 5:1-10]. Here's a "blessing" from the Old Testament that is less well-known: "Blessed is he who considers the poor" [Psalm 41:1].
The Hebrew word translated "considers" means "to take thought for others." The word translated "poor" means "those in need."
There are many people around us who are poor --- in love, in hope, and in the knowledge of God. Even though we cannot solve all their problems, we can show them that we care.
We may not have lots of money, but we can give of ourselves. We can let needy people know that we're thinking of them. We can listen as they tell their stories. We can treat them with courtesy and respect. We can pray for them. We can write letters of encouragement. We can tell them about Jesus. If we can do nothing else, we can love them.
Think about those who live only for themselves, always trying to get ahead, looking for the next thing to make them happy. Compare them with people who give themselves to others. Which ones possess inner calm, strength, and joy?
The place of God's blessing is easily entered. Consider the poor. --- David Roper
Not in having or receiving,
But in giving, there is bliss;
He who has no other pleasure
Ever may rejoice in this. --- Anon.
GIVING IS THE TRUE MEASURE OF LOVE.
Saturday, August 14, 2004
Unlikely Servants
Read: Judges 6:11-16
God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise. --- 1 Corinthians 1:27
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 58-60
We often hear people say things like: "I'm only a housewife." "I'm only a janitor." "I'm only an average student."
Underestimating one's usefulness to God is nothing new. In Old Testament times, for example, when God looked for someone to conquer the troublesome Midianites, He chose unimpressive Gideon, calling him a "mighty man of valor" [Judges 6:12]. Gideon responded, "How can I save Israel? Indeed my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house" [v.15]. But God persisted, saying, "Have I not sent you? ... Surely I will be with you" [vv.14-16].
Gideon became God's man for the task, because there's no such thing as a "nobody" in His eyes. The Lord gave Gideon just 300 men to help him, rather than thousands [7:1-7], so that God alone would receive the glory.
The apostle Paul also taught that God chooses and uses things that the world calls foolish, weak, lowly, and despised. He shames the wise and the mighty so "that no flesh should glory in His presence" [1 Corinthians 1:29].
If you feel that you're "only a nobody," review God's call to Gideon. The Lord wants to use you more than you ever thought possible. --- Joanie Yoder
Gladly take the task God gives you,
Let His work your pleasure be;
Answer quickly when He calls you,
"I am willing, Lord, use me." --- Darch
GOD USES ORDINARY PEOPLE TO CARRY OUT HIS EXTRAORDINARY PLAN.
God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise. --- 1 Corinthians 1:27
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 58-60
We often hear people say things like: "I'm only a housewife." "I'm only a janitor." "I'm only an average student."
Underestimating one's usefulness to God is nothing new. In Old Testament times, for example, when God looked for someone to conquer the troublesome Midianites, He chose unimpressive Gideon, calling him a "mighty man of valor" [Judges 6:12]. Gideon responded, "How can I save Israel? Indeed my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house" [v.15]. But God persisted, saying, "Have I not sent you? ... Surely I will be with you" [vv.14-16].
Gideon became God's man for the task, because there's no such thing as a "nobody" in His eyes. The Lord gave Gideon just 300 men to help him, rather than thousands [7:1-7], so that God alone would receive the glory.
The apostle Paul also taught that God chooses and uses things that the world calls foolish, weak, lowly, and despised. He shames the wise and the mighty so "that no flesh should glory in His presence" [1 Corinthians 1:29].
If you feel that you're "only a nobody," review God's call to Gideon. The Lord wants to use you more than you ever thought possible. --- Joanie Yoder
Gladly take the task God gives you,
Let His work your pleasure be;
Answer quickly when He calls you,
"I am willing, Lord, use me." --- Darch
GOD USES ORDINARY PEOPLE TO CARRY OUT HIS EXTRAORDINARY PLAN.
Friday, August 13, 2004
The Price Of Food
Read: Isaiah 55
Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? --- Isaiah 55:2
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 55-57
A hummingbird near Bingham Canyon, Utah, was seen pressing its bill against the biggest red "flower" in town. No one knows for sure how long it took for the bird to realize you can't get nectar out of a traffic light!
National Wildlife magazine also told about a red-tailed hawk in North Carolina that was seen swooping down in an attempt to carry off a large tomcat. The cat fought back with such fury that the hawk barely escaped with its life.
This kind of foolishness is not just for the birds. Expending a lot of energy to feed our souls with food that doesn't satisfy is something all of us know about. Sometimes we're merely left empty, while at other times we are nearly consumed by the things we pursue. This is why the Lord's words in Isaiah 55 are so relevant. He asks, "Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy?"
God doesn't just leave us with the question. He goes on to assure us that our heart's deepest longing can be fulfilled --- in Him alone [vv.1-7]. There is strength in feeding on mercy rather than revenge, truth rather than falsehood, and peace rather than conflict. That's why we must choose Christ over religion, and the Bible over tradition. When we eat right, we'll discover that the Lord is good [v.2]. --- Mart De Haan II
Now none but Christ can satisfy,
None other name for me;
There's love and life and lasting joy,
Lord Jesus, found in Thee. --- McGranahan
THERE'S A LONGING IN EVERY HEART THAT ONLY JESUS CAN SATISFY.
Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy? --- Isaiah 55:2
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 55-57
A hummingbird near Bingham Canyon, Utah, was seen pressing its bill against the biggest red "flower" in town. No one knows for sure how long it took for the bird to realize you can't get nectar out of a traffic light!
National Wildlife magazine also told about a red-tailed hawk in North Carolina that was seen swooping down in an attempt to carry off a large tomcat. The cat fought back with such fury that the hawk barely escaped with its life.
This kind of foolishness is not just for the birds. Expending a lot of energy to feed our souls with food that doesn't satisfy is something all of us know about. Sometimes we're merely left empty, while at other times we are nearly consumed by the things we pursue. This is why the Lord's words in Isaiah 55 are so relevant. He asks, "Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy?"
God doesn't just leave us with the question. He goes on to assure us that our heart's deepest longing can be fulfilled --- in Him alone [vv.1-7]. There is strength in feeding on mercy rather than revenge, truth rather than falsehood, and peace rather than conflict. That's why we must choose Christ over religion, and the Bible over tradition. When we eat right, we'll discover that the Lord is good [v.2]. --- Mart De Haan II
Now none but Christ can satisfy,
None other name for me;
There's love and life and lasting joy,
Lord Jesus, found in Thee. --- McGranahan
THERE'S A LONGING IN EVERY HEART THAT ONLY JESUS CAN SATISFY.
Thursday, August 12, 2004
Close The Gate
Read: Isaiah 54:1-10
"With everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you," says the LORD your Redeemer. --- Isaiah 54:8
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 52-54
After a round of gold, a British statesman and his friend walked through a field in which cows were grazing. The men were so absorbed in conversation that they forgot to close the gate when they left the fenced area.
The statesman happened to notice the open gate, however, and went back to close it. Then he told his friend that this little incident reminded him of a doctor who was dying and was asked by a minister whether there was anything he wanted to say before he slipped away. "No," the doctor replied, "except that through life I think I have always closed the gates behind me." The dying man had learned to put failures and disappointments behind him so they wouldn't rob him of his joy and peace.
As Christians, we should learn that lesson well. When we sin, we can "close the gate" to nagging guilt by confessing our sin to our merciful Lord and accepting His forgiveness [Isaiah 54:7-10; 1 John 1:9]. Or, if we have a misunderstanding with someone, rather than allowing the irritation to fester, we should go to that person and make things right [Matthew 18:15].
Let's close the gate to the failures and disappointments of the past --- then move on! --- Richard De Haan
Look not back to yesterday,
So full of failure and regret;
Look ahead and seek God's way ---
Sins confessed you must forget. --- D. De Haan
TO ENJOY THE FUTURE, ACCEPT GOD'S FORGIVENESS FOR THE PAST.
"With everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you," says the LORD your Redeemer. --- Isaiah 54:8
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 52-54
After a round of gold, a British statesman and his friend walked through a field in which cows were grazing. The men were so absorbed in conversation that they forgot to close the gate when they left the fenced area.
The statesman happened to notice the open gate, however, and went back to close it. Then he told his friend that this little incident reminded him of a doctor who was dying and was asked by a minister whether there was anything he wanted to say before he slipped away. "No," the doctor replied, "except that through life I think I have always closed the gates behind me." The dying man had learned to put failures and disappointments behind him so they wouldn't rob him of his joy and peace.
As Christians, we should learn that lesson well. When we sin, we can "close the gate" to nagging guilt by confessing our sin to our merciful Lord and accepting His forgiveness [Isaiah 54:7-10; 1 John 1:9]. Or, if we have a misunderstanding with someone, rather than allowing the irritation to fester, we should go to that person and make things right [Matthew 18:15].
Let's close the gate to the failures and disappointments of the past --- then move on! --- Richard De Haan
Look not back to yesterday,
So full of failure and regret;
Look ahead and seek God's way ---
Sins confessed you must forget. --- D. De Haan
TO ENJOY THE FUTURE, ACCEPT GOD'S FORGIVENESS FOR THE PAST.
Wednesday, August 11, 2004
Self-Pity Or Rejoicing?
Read: Philippians 4:1-8
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! --- Philippians 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 49-51
Temperament seems to be something that each of us is born with. Some of us have upbeat dispositions, while others play the music of life in a minor key. Yet how we respond to life's trial also affects our overall disposition.
For example, Fanny Crosby lost her sight when she was only 6 weeks old. She lived into her nineties, composing thousands of beloved hymns. On her 92nd birthday she cheerfully said, "If in all the world you can find a happier person that I am, do bring him to me. I should like to shake his hand."
What enabled Fanny Crosby to experience such joy in the face of what many would term a "tragedy"? At an early age she chose to "rejoice in the Lord always" [Philippians 4:4]. In fact, Fanny carried out a resolution she made when she was only 8 years old: "How many blessings I enjoy that other people don't. To weep and sigh because I'm blind, I cannot and I won't."
Let's remember that "the joy of the LORD is [our] strength" [Nehemiah 8:10]. Let's also take comfort in the teachings of Jesus, who in John 15:11 said, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." When faced with the choice of self-pity or rejoicing, let's respond with rejoicing. --- Vernon Grounds
Be this the purpose of my soul,
My solemn, my determined choice:
To yield to God's supreme control,
And in my every trial rejoice. --- Anon.
RATHER THAN COMPLAIN ABOUT THE THORNS ON ROSES, BE THANKFUL FOR ROSES AMONG THE THORNS.
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! --- Philippians 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 49-51
Temperament seems to be something that each of us is born with. Some of us have upbeat dispositions, while others play the music of life in a minor key. Yet how we respond to life's trial also affects our overall disposition.
For example, Fanny Crosby lost her sight when she was only 6 weeks old. She lived into her nineties, composing thousands of beloved hymns. On her 92nd birthday she cheerfully said, "If in all the world you can find a happier person that I am, do bring him to me. I should like to shake his hand."
What enabled Fanny Crosby to experience such joy in the face of what many would term a "tragedy"? At an early age she chose to "rejoice in the Lord always" [Philippians 4:4]. In fact, Fanny carried out a resolution she made when she was only 8 years old: "How many blessings I enjoy that other people don't. To weep and sigh because I'm blind, I cannot and I won't."
Let's remember that "the joy of the LORD is [our] strength" [Nehemiah 8:10]. Let's also take comfort in the teachings of Jesus, who in John 15:11 said, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full." When faced with the choice of self-pity or rejoicing, let's respond with rejoicing. --- Vernon Grounds
Be this the purpose of my soul,
My solemn, my determined choice:
To yield to God's supreme control,
And in my every trial rejoice. --- Anon.
RATHER THAN COMPLAIN ABOUT THE THORNS ON ROSES, BE THANKFUL FOR ROSES AMONG THE THORNS.
The Hypocrite Excuse
Read: Galatians 2:11-18
The rest ... also played the hypocrite with him. --- Galatians 2:13
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 46-48
I have a neighbor who can't stand hypocrites. In fact, he tells me that he stopped going to church because he saw too many hypocrites there.
He's not alone. That's one of the most popular reasons people give for rejecting Christianity. My neighbor is right --- there are too many hypocrites in the church.
The problem of hypocrisy, though, is not the issue to pursue with people who reject the gospel. The key is validity. Does the presence of hypocrites in the church invalidate the gospel message?
In today's Bible reading, Paul accused Peter of hypocrisy [Galatians 2:13]. did that invalidate the gospel Peter preached? Some people may think so, perhaps because they expect Christians to be perfect. What might surprise them, however, is that Jesus Himself warned against and condemned hypocrisy [Matthew 6:1-18; 23:13-33]. He hates it more than they do.
That brings us to key point: The validity of Christianity is not based on imperfect Christians but on the perfect Christ. Therefore, if a person could show that Jesus was a hypocrite, he would have an argument. But that's impossible. Jesus was sinless and without fault [John 8:46; Hebrews 4:15].
Jesus is the answer to the hypocrite excuse. --- Dave Branon
Lord, help me make my witness clear,
And labor faithfully,
So friends and neighbors turn to Christ
Through what they hear from me. --- Anon.
INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT HYPOCRITES, LOOK AT JESUS.
The rest ... also played the hypocrite with him. --- Galatians 2:13
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 46-48
I have a neighbor who can't stand hypocrites. In fact, he tells me that he stopped going to church because he saw too many hypocrites there.
He's not alone. That's one of the most popular reasons people give for rejecting Christianity. My neighbor is right --- there are too many hypocrites in the church.
The problem of hypocrisy, though, is not the issue to pursue with people who reject the gospel. The key is validity. Does the presence of hypocrites in the church invalidate the gospel message?
In today's Bible reading, Paul accused Peter of hypocrisy [Galatians 2:13]. did that invalidate the gospel Peter preached? Some people may think so, perhaps because they expect Christians to be perfect. What might surprise them, however, is that Jesus Himself warned against and condemned hypocrisy [Matthew 6:1-18; 23:13-33]. He hates it more than they do.
That brings us to key point: The validity of Christianity is not based on imperfect Christians but on the perfect Christ. Therefore, if a person could show that Jesus was a hypocrite, he would have an argument. But that's impossible. Jesus was sinless and without fault [John 8:46; Hebrews 4:15].
Jesus is the answer to the hypocrite excuse. --- Dave Branon
Lord, help me make my witness clear,
And labor faithfully,
So friends and neighbors turn to Christ
Through what they hear from me. --- Anon.
INSTEAD OF LOOKING AT HYPOCRITES, LOOK AT JESUS.
Monday, August 09, 2004
Keep On Rowing
Read: 1 Corinthians 3:18-4:1
Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. --- 1 Corinthians 4:1
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 43-45
I once saw a cartoon depicting a group of shackled prisoners standing on a dock, waiting for a Roman galley that was pulling into port. "That's a great ship," one mused. "I wonder what makes it go?"
The sketch reminded me of the words of the apostle Paul: "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ" [1 Corinthians 4:1]. Paul used an unusual Greek word for servants. Literally, it means "under-rowers," and in that day it referred to the slaves that pulled the oars in Roman warships.
What a striking word picture! The great apostle, who could have asserted his authority, considered himself a mere galley slave in the hold of the ship with the rest of God's people, pulling on an oar with everyone else.
This is different from our usual concept of leadership. We tend to think of a regally dressed captain standing on the deck of a great sailing vessel, "calling the shots" and controlling the ship.
The Lord Jesus is our true Captain. The direction in which a church or any other ministry goes, the speed with which it develops, and the size to which it grows is His prerogative. Our task, no matter what our position or work, is to keep our eyes on Jesus and to keep on rowing. --- David Roper
The Master needs what you have to offer,
No matter if you think it's small;
His work on earth is done through His children,
So give Him your best, give your all. --- Hess
LEADERS DON'T ATTAIN GREATNESS BY GIVING ORDERS, BUT BY SERVING OTHERS.
Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. --- 1 Corinthians 4:1
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 43-45
I once saw a cartoon depicting a group of shackled prisoners standing on a dock, waiting for a Roman galley that was pulling into port. "That's a great ship," one mused. "I wonder what makes it go?"
The sketch reminded me of the words of the apostle Paul: "Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ" [1 Corinthians 4:1]. Paul used an unusual Greek word for servants. Literally, it means "under-rowers," and in that day it referred to the slaves that pulled the oars in Roman warships.
What a striking word picture! The great apostle, who could have asserted his authority, considered himself a mere galley slave in the hold of the ship with the rest of God's people, pulling on an oar with everyone else.
This is different from our usual concept of leadership. We tend to think of a regally dressed captain standing on the deck of a great sailing vessel, "calling the shots" and controlling the ship.
The Lord Jesus is our true Captain. The direction in which a church or any other ministry goes, the speed with which it develops, and the size to which it grows is His prerogative. Our task, no matter what our position or work, is to keep our eyes on Jesus and to keep on rowing. --- David Roper
The Master needs what you have to offer,
No matter if you think it's small;
His work on earth is done through His children,
So give Him your best, give your all. --- Hess
LEADERS DON'T ATTAIN GREATNESS BY GIVING ORDERS, BUT BY SERVING OTHERS.
Sunday, August 08, 2004
Calvary's Deepest Pain
Read: Matthew 26:36-46
The LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. --- Isaiah 53:6
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 40-42
After washing His disciples' feet and celebrating the Passover with them. Jesus led them into a familiar garden and "began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed" [Matthew 26:37]. Going a bit farther with Peter, James, and John, He said, "My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me" [v.38].
Then, walking a short distance away, Jesus "fell on His face" before God, saying, "O Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will" [v.39]. He did this three times [v.44].
How do we account for such a surge of emotional turmoil? Only by understanding the "cup" that Jesus asked His Father to take from Him. He was about to bear "the iniquity of us all" [Isaiah 53:6]. That "cup" was filled with the sins of the whole world.
The agony of Gethsemane would cultimate on the cross in His heart-wrenching cry: "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" [Matthew 27:46]. Jesus' physical pain was nothing compared with Calvary's deepest pain --- the awful reality of being abandoned by His Father. God made Jesus "to be sin for us" [2 Corinthians 5:2], so the Father had to turn away from Him.
Praise God for His great love for us! --- Herb Vander Lugt
"Man of Sorrows," what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! What a Savior! --- Bliss
CHRIST BRAVED THE SHADOW OF ETERNAL DEATH TO BRING US THE SUNSHINE OF ETERNAL LIFE.
The LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all. --- Isaiah 53:6
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 40-42
After washing His disciples' feet and celebrating the Passover with them. Jesus led them into a familiar garden and "began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed" [Matthew 26:37]. Going a bit farther with Peter, James, and John, He said, "My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me" [v.38].
Then, walking a short distance away, Jesus "fell on His face" before God, saying, "O Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will" [v.39]. He did this three times [v.44].
How do we account for such a surge of emotional turmoil? Only by understanding the "cup" that Jesus asked His Father to take from Him. He was about to bear "the iniquity of us all" [Isaiah 53:6]. That "cup" was filled with the sins of the whole world.
The agony of Gethsemane would cultimate on the cross in His heart-wrenching cry: "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" [Matthew 27:46]. Jesus' physical pain was nothing compared with Calvary's deepest pain --- the awful reality of being abandoned by His Father. God made Jesus "to be sin for us" [2 Corinthians 5:2], so the Father had to turn away from Him.
Praise God for His great love for us! --- Herb Vander Lugt
"Man of Sorrows," what a name
For the Son of God who came
Ruined sinners to reclaim!
Hallelujah! What a Savior! --- Bliss
CHRIST BRAVED THE SHADOW OF ETERNAL DEATH TO BRING US THE SUNSHINE OF ETERNAL LIFE.
Saturday, August 07, 2004
Little Nicks --- Big Trouble!
Read: Galatians 5:16-26
A little leaven leavens the whole lump. --- Galatians 5:9
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 37-39
We couldn't figure it out. My sn and I had purchased an old powerboat for fishing and couldn't make it run properly. We were unable to get it up to speed, and it shuddered when we tried to go faster. We figured that the trouble was with the fuel system, so we adjusted the carburetor and changed the fuel filter. But that still didn't solve the problem.
When we took the boat out of the water, my son found the cause of the trouble. One of the propeller fins had a 3/4-inch [2 cm] nick in it. That can't be it, I thought. That nick is too small. But when we installed a new propeller, what a difference it made! We had been slowed down by a tiny nick.
A similar problem is often at work in our lives as Christians. Sinful practices like those described in Galatians 5:16-21 have their roots in the seemingly insignificant thoughts and attitudes of the heart [Matthew 5:28; 15:18-19]. If we ignore or tolerate these "little" sins, they will eventually grow, corrupting more of our thoughts and actions --- even harming people around us. Just as a little yeast leavens a whole lump of dough [Galatians 5:9], so also a "little" sin can eventually weaken our service for Christ and the ministry of His church.
Remember, little nicks can cause big trouble. --- Dave Egner
One little sin, what harm can it do?
Give it free reign and soon there are two.
Then sinful deeds and habits ensue ---
Guard well your thoughts, lest they destroy you. --- D. De Haan
LITTLE SINS WON'T STAY LITTLE.
A little leaven leavens the whole lump. --- Galatians 5:9
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 37-39
We couldn't figure it out. My sn and I had purchased an old powerboat for fishing and couldn't make it run properly. We were unable to get it up to speed, and it shuddered when we tried to go faster. We figured that the trouble was with the fuel system, so we adjusted the carburetor and changed the fuel filter. But that still didn't solve the problem.
When we took the boat out of the water, my son found the cause of the trouble. One of the propeller fins had a 3/4-inch [2 cm] nick in it. That can't be it, I thought. That nick is too small. But when we installed a new propeller, what a difference it made! We had been slowed down by a tiny nick.
A similar problem is often at work in our lives as Christians. Sinful practices like those described in Galatians 5:16-21 have their roots in the seemingly insignificant thoughts and attitudes of the heart [Matthew 5:28; 15:18-19]. If we ignore or tolerate these "little" sins, they will eventually grow, corrupting more of our thoughts and actions --- even harming people around us. Just as a little yeast leavens a whole lump of dough [Galatians 5:9], so also a "little" sin can eventually weaken our service for Christ and the ministry of His church.
Remember, little nicks can cause big trouble. --- Dave Egner
One little sin, what harm can it do?
Give it free reign and soon there are two.
Then sinful deeds and habits ensue ---
Guard well your thoughts, lest they destroy you. --- D. De Haan
LITTLE SINS WON'T STAY LITTLE.
Friday, August 06, 2004
Obsolete
Read: Isaiah 35
The ransomed of the LORD ... shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. --- Isaiah 35:10
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 34-36
Pastor and author Joseph Parker [1830-1902] commented about the closing words of Isaiah 35:10, "Sorrow and sighing shall flee away." He said, "Looking through the dictionary, you will occasionally come across a word marked 'obsolete.' The time is coming when the two words sorrow and sighing shall be obsolete. The things which mar life here and now will then belong to the past."
Human existence has been marked by tragedy, heartache, disappointment, and evil. It's comforting to know that the time is coming when sorrow and death will pass away, and God Himself will wipe all tears from our eyes. Then we will experience the truth that "the former things have passed away" [Revelation 21:4].
Are you burdened today by some seemingly insurmountable problem? Are you lonely, heartbroken, and disappointed? If you are a child of God, dwell on this reassuring thought: "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" [Romans 8:18]. A brighter day is coming when words such as sighing, death, and tears will all be obsolete.
So don't be downhearted, beloved child of God. Keep looking up! --- Richard De Haan
God's tomorrow is a day of gladness,
And its joy shall never fade;
No more weeping, no more sense of sadness,
No more foes to make afraid. --- Ackley
HEAVEN --- NO PAIN, NO NIGHT, NO DEATH, NO TEARS.
The ransomed of the LORD ... shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. --- Isaiah 35:10
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 34-36
Pastor and author Joseph Parker [1830-1902] commented about the closing words of Isaiah 35:10, "Sorrow and sighing shall flee away." He said, "Looking through the dictionary, you will occasionally come across a word marked 'obsolete.' The time is coming when the two words sorrow and sighing shall be obsolete. The things which mar life here and now will then belong to the past."
Human existence has been marked by tragedy, heartache, disappointment, and evil. It's comforting to know that the time is coming when sorrow and death will pass away, and God Himself will wipe all tears from our eyes. Then we will experience the truth that "the former things have passed away" [Revelation 21:4].
Are you burdened today by some seemingly insurmountable problem? Are you lonely, heartbroken, and disappointed? If you are a child of God, dwell on this reassuring thought: "The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us" [Romans 8:18]. A brighter day is coming when words such as sighing, death, and tears will all be obsolete.
So don't be downhearted, beloved child of God. Keep looking up! --- Richard De Haan
God's tomorrow is a day of gladness,
And its joy shall never fade;
No more weeping, no more sense of sadness,
No more foes to make afraid. --- Ackley
HEAVEN --- NO PAIN, NO NIGHT, NO DEATH, NO TEARS.
Thursday, August 05, 2004
Eyes Of Compassion
Read: Luke 10:25-37
A certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. --- Luke 10:33
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 31-33
As Francisco Venegas, a school custodian in Colorado, watched the children on the playground, he saw a 9-year-old girl fall off a bench for no apparent reason. Another time he noticed her face twisted in a strange expression. Sensing that something was wrong, Francisco reported what he had seen to the school office.
A few days later, the girl had a seizure and was rushed to the hospital. The information that Francisco provided led doctors to perform a brain scan, and they found a tumor. Successful surgery and recovery followed.
Many people have called Francisco Venegas a "good samaritan," a name drawn from a story Jesus told about three people who saw a man in need. The first two "passed by on the other side" [Luke 10:31-32]. But the third, a Samaritan, showed compassion [vv.33-35]/
Compassion cannot see someone in need without helping. It accepts the consequences of getting involved because it cannot bear to turn away. Compassion comes from a heart that is tender toward God and fellow travelers on the road of life.
Jesus' story of the Good Samaritan ends with a command for each of us: "Go and do likewise" [v.37]. Jesus sees everyone through eyes of compassion, and He calls us to do the same. --- David McCasland
When you see someone in need,
Love demands a loving deed;
Don't just say you love him true,
Prove it by the deeds you do. --- Sper
COMPASSION IS LOVE IN ACTION.
A certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. --- Luke 10:33
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 31-33
As Francisco Venegas, a school custodian in Colorado, watched the children on the playground, he saw a 9-year-old girl fall off a bench for no apparent reason. Another time he noticed her face twisted in a strange expression. Sensing that something was wrong, Francisco reported what he had seen to the school office.
A few days later, the girl had a seizure and was rushed to the hospital. The information that Francisco provided led doctors to perform a brain scan, and they found a tumor. Successful surgery and recovery followed.
Many people have called Francisco Venegas a "good samaritan," a name drawn from a story Jesus told about three people who saw a man in need. The first two "passed by on the other side" [Luke 10:31-32]. But the third, a Samaritan, showed compassion [vv.33-35]/
Compassion cannot see someone in need without helping. It accepts the consequences of getting involved because it cannot bear to turn away. Compassion comes from a heart that is tender toward God and fellow travelers on the road of life.
Jesus' story of the Good Samaritan ends with a command for each of us: "Go and do likewise" [v.37]. Jesus sees everyone through eyes of compassion, and He calls us to do the same. --- David McCasland
When you see someone in need,
Love demands a loving deed;
Don't just say you love him true,
Prove it by the deeds you do. --- Sper
COMPASSION IS LOVE IN ACTION.
Wednesday, August 04, 2004
Unexpected Grief
Read: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. --- 2 Corinthians 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 28-30
Since 1988, I've enjoyed writing several Our Daily Bread articles each month. I've felt blessed to dig into Scripture, observe life, and provide spiritual help in this publication.
But on June 6, 2002, I found myself unable to offer help. On the last day of her junior year of high school, our 17-year-old daughter Melissa was killed in a car accident.
In one horrible instant, everything we knew about God and the Bible and heaven was put to the test. We needed the Christian community to guide us toward hope as we stood at the funeral of a beloved young woman who had touched so many lives with her smile, her godliness, her love of life, and her care for others.
For many weeks, I couldn't write. What could I say? How could I find words to help others when my family --- when I --- needed so much?
Now, months later as I begin to write again, I can say that God has not changed. He is still our loving heavenly Father, the "God of all comfort" [2 Corinthians 1:3]. He is still the source of hope in the face of unexpected grief. I write of Him with a renewed sense of my need for His touch, His love, His strength. Broken, I write of the only One who can make us whole. --- Dave Branon
I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the God of all comfort was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain. --- Anon.
WHEN GOD PERMITS TRIALS, HE ALSO PROVIDES COMFORT.
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. --- 2 Corinthians 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 28-30
Since 1988, I've enjoyed writing several Our Daily Bread articles each month. I've felt blessed to dig into Scripture, observe life, and provide spiritual help in this publication.
But on June 6, 2002, I found myself unable to offer help. On the last day of her junior year of high school, our 17-year-old daughter Melissa was killed in a car accident.
In one horrible instant, everything we knew about God and the Bible and heaven was put to the test. We needed the Christian community to guide us toward hope as we stood at the funeral of a beloved young woman who had touched so many lives with her smile, her godliness, her love of life, and her care for others.
For many weeks, I couldn't write. What could I say? How could I find words to help others when my family --- when I --- needed so much?
Now, months later as I begin to write again, I can say that God has not changed. He is still our loving heavenly Father, the "God of all comfort" [2 Corinthians 1:3]. He is still the source of hope in the face of unexpected grief. I write of Him with a renewed sense of my need for His touch, His love, His strength. Broken, I write of the only One who can make us whole. --- Dave Branon
I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the God of all comfort was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain. --- Anon.
WHEN GOD PERMITS TRIALS, HE ALSO PROVIDES COMFORT.
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
What Will Last?
Read: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
The things which are seen temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. --- 2 Corinthians 4:18
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 25-27
I have a friend who was denied a doctorate from a prestigious West Coast university because of his Christian worldview. As he was approaching the conclusion of his studies, his advisor invited him to come into his office and informed him that his dissertation had been rejected.
My friend's first thought was of thousands of dollars and 5 years of his life taking flight, and his heart sank. But then he thought of the words of the hymn by Rhea Miller: "I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold, I'd rather be His than have riches untold; ... I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today." And then my friend laughed --- for he realized that nothing of eternal value had been lost.
How we respond to loss is all a matter of perspective. One person is absorbed with the permanent; the other with the passing. One stores up treasure in heaven; the other accumulates it here on earth. One stays with a difficult marriage because heaven is on ahead; another moves out and looks for happiness in another mate. While one believes that happiness is found in being rich and famous, Christ's followers are willing to suffer poverty, hunger, indignity, and shame because of "the glory that will be revealed" [1 Peter 5:1].
Wouldn't you "rather have Jesus?" --- David Roper
I'd rather have Jesus than men's applause,
I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I'd rather have Jesus than worldwide fame,
I'd rather be true to His holy name. --- Miller
LIVING ONLY FOR TEMPORARY GAIN LEADS TO ETERNAL LOSS.
The things which are seen temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal. --- 2 Corinthians 4:18
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 25-27
I have a friend who was denied a doctorate from a prestigious West Coast university because of his Christian worldview. As he was approaching the conclusion of his studies, his advisor invited him to come into his office and informed him that his dissertation had been rejected.
My friend's first thought was of thousands of dollars and 5 years of his life taking flight, and his heart sank. But then he thought of the words of the hymn by Rhea Miller: "I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold, I'd rather be His than have riches untold; ... I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today." And then my friend laughed --- for he realized that nothing of eternal value had been lost.
How we respond to loss is all a matter of perspective. One person is absorbed with the permanent; the other with the passing. One stores up treasure in heaven; the other accumulates it here on earth. One stays with a difficult marriage because heaven is on ahead; another moves out and looks for happiness in another mate. While one believes that happiness is found in being rich and famous, Christ's followers are willing to suffer poverty, hunger, indignity, and shame because of "the glory that will be revealed" [1 Peter 5:1].
Wouldn't you "rather have Jesus?" --- David Roper
I'd rather have Jesus than men's applause,
I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;
I'd rather have Jesus than worldwide fame,
I'd rather be true to His holy name. --- Miller
LIVING ONLY FOR TEMPORARY GAIN LEADS TO ETERNAL LOSS.
Monday, August 02, 2004
Broken Status
Read: Daniel 2:36-45
The court shall be seated, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and destroy it forever. --- Daniel 7:26
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 22-24
In Moscow stands the New Tretyakov Gallery, a museum that displays art and artifacts from the days of the former Soviet Union. Scattered along the banks of the Moscow River near the museum are statues of once-powerful leaders that have been smashed and disfigured. Images of Stalin and Lenin have their noses knocked off and their heads separated from their bodies.
These gloomy scenes bring to mind the dream of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 2. He saw a statue with a glorious head of gold, a chest and arms of silver, a torso of bronze, legs of iron, and feet of iron and clay [vv. 31-33]. It portrayed the succession of four great ruling nations of the world. From history we know they were Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Then a stone "cut out of the mountain without hands" [v.45] rolled down and smashed the statue to smithereens. This pictured God's judgment of those four kingdoms and His supremacy over all the earth.
One day God will judge the nations of the world, and their monuments will lie in ruins. No matter how powerful the nation, all will crumble beneath the outpouring of God's holy wrath. We can be confident that Jesus Christ, the King of kings, will rule the world in righteousness, justice, and peace. What a glorious prospect! --- Dave Egner
Now evil prospers, falsehood reigns,
And darkness dims the light;
But soon the day will come when Christ
Returns to set things right. --- Sper
NATIONS RISE AND FALL, BUT CHRIST'S KINGDOM STANDS FOREVER.
The court shall be seated, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and destroy it forever. --- Daniel 7:26
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 22-24
In Moscow stands the New Tretyakov Gallery, a museum that displays art and artifacts from the days of the former Soviet Union. Scattered along the banks of the Moscow River near the museum are statues of once-powerful leaders that have been smashed and disfigured. Images of Stalin and Lenin have their noses knocked off and their heads separated from their bodies.
These gloomy scenes bring to mind the dream of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 2. He saw a statue with a glorious head of gold, a chest and arms of silver, a torso of bronze, legs of iron, and feet of iron and clay [vv. 31-33]. It portrayed the succession of four great ruling nations of the world. From history we know they were Babylon, Medo-Persia, Greece, and Rome. Then a stone "cut out of the mountain without hands" [v.45] rolled down and smashed the statue to smithereens. This pictured God's judgment of those four kingdoms and His supremacy over all the earth.
One day God will judge the nations of the world, and their monuments will lie in ruins. No matter how powerful the nation, all will crumble beneath the outpouring of God's holy wrath. We can be confident that Jesus Christ, the King of kings, will rule the world in righteousness, justice, and peace. What a glorious prospect! --- Dave Egner
Now evil prospers, falsehood reigns,
And darkness dims the light;
But soon the day will come when Christ
Returns to set things right. --- Sper
NATIONS RISE AND FALL, BUT CHRIST'S KINGDOM STANDS FOREVER.
Sunday, August 01, 2004
His Pain
Read: Judges 10:6-16
They put away the foreign gods from among them and served the LORD And His sould could no longer endure the misery of Israel. --- Judges 10:16
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 19-21
The Old Testament book of Judges is a somewhat depressing account of God's people locked in a recurring cycle of rebellion, punishment, repentance, and deliverance. After every divine intervention, the process was repeated. It was always their pain that caused God's people to call on Him: "The children of Israel said to the LORD, 'We have sinned! Do to us whatever seems best to You; only deliver us this day, we pray'" [Judges 10:15].
Six times in Judges they cried out to God, and each time He came to their rescue. But the Lord Himself was also in pain. In a remarkable statement, the Bible says of Almighty God, "His soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel" [v.16].
The misery we suffer because of our spiritual rebellion will always cause pain to the Lord. As teh prophet Isaiah wrote: "In all their affliction He was afflicted" [Isaiah 63:9].
God's suffering reached its zenith when His Son Jesus Christ went to the cross to die for our sin. We will never fully understand what it meant for the intimacy of the Father and the Son to be broken [Matthew 27:46-50].
It's good to ponder the pain of God even as we praise Him for the marvel of our salvation. --- David Mc Casland
Your love, O God, would spare no pain
To conquer death and win;
You sent Your only Son to die
To rescue us from sin. --- D. De Haan
SIN BRINGS PAIN --- TO US, AND TO GOD.
They put away the foreign gods from among them and served the LORD And His sould could no longer endure the misery of Israel. --- Judges 10:16
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 19-21
The Old Testament book of Judges is a somewhat depressing account of God's people locked in a recurring cycle of rebellion, punishment, repentance, and deliverance. After every divine intervention, the process was repeated. It was always their pain that caused God's people to call on Him: "The children of Israel said to the LORD, 'We have sinned! Do to us whatever seems best to You; only deliver us this day, we pray'" [Judges 10:15].
Six times in Judges they cried out to God, and each time He came to their rescue. But the Lord Himself was also in pain. In a remarkable statement, the Bible says of Almighty God, "His soul could no longer endure the misery of Israel" [v.16].
The misery we suffer because of our spiritual rebellion will always cause pain to the Lord. As teh prophet Isaiah wrote: "In all their affliction He was afflicted" [Isaiah 63:9].
God's suffering reached its zenith when His Son Jesus Christ went to the cross to die for our sin. We will never fully understand what it meant for the intimacy of the Father and the Son to be broken [Matthew 27:46-50].
It's good to ponder the pain of God even as we praise Him for the marvel of our salvation. --- David Mc Casland
Your love, O God, would spare no pain
To conquer death and win;
You sent Your only Son to die
To rescue us from sin. --- D. De Haan
SIN BRINGS PAIN --- TO US, AND TO GOD.
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