Read: Isaiah 30:8-17
This is a rebellious people, lying children, children who will not hear the law of the LORD. --- Isaiah 30:9
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 27-28
Matthew 21:1-22
"I don't have to listen to you!" That's a sentence parents don't like to hear from their teenage children. It means they have decided not to obey their parents. Usually, it's spoken in anger and soon forgotten.
Sometimes, though, a teen might decide to make that attitude a way of life. When that happens, it's hard for everyone in the family. A child's refusal to obey authority creates ongoing turmoil in the home and saps the joy from life.
The teenager openly rebels, thinking he would be happier by resisting authority. But instead, he can actually become miserable in his heart.
The prophet Isaiah told about some resisters --- rebellious, lying people who refused to listen to what God was saying [30:8-17]. In effect, they said to Him, "We've heard enough. We don't have to listen to You!" Their heart of resistance turned them against God's truth.
Rebellion is not limited to teens or to the people of Isaiah's day. Sometimes we too wear the resister label. We read God's Word and decide it's too restrictive. Or we sense that God wants us to do something, and we run from it. That leads only to misery. Instead, if we obey God's Word, we will enjoy His peace in our hearts. --- Dave Branon
If you've rebelled and turned away
From what you know is true,
Turn back to God --- He will forgive;
He waits to pardon you. --- Sper
OBEDIENCE IS THE PATHWAY TO JOY.
Monday, January 31, 2005
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Time Flies
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:
Exodus 25-26
Matthew 20:17-34
Many metaphors are used in literature to describe life's brevity. It is a dream, a swift runner, a mist, a puff of smoke, a shadow, a gesture in the air, a sentence written in the sand, a bird flying in one window of a house and out another. Another symbolic description was suggested by a friend of mine who said that the short dash between the dates of birth and death on tombstones represents the brief span of one's life.
When we were children, time loitered. But as we get closer to the end of our lives, time moves with increasing swiftness, like water swirling down a drain. In childhood we measured our age in small increments. "I'm 6 1/2," we would say, for it seemed to take so long to get older. Now we have no time for such childishness. Who claims to be 60 1/2?
It's good to ponder the brevity of life now and then. Life is too short to treat it carelessly. In Psalm 90, after describing the shortness of life, Moses prayed, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" [v.12].
To make the most of our earthly existence, we must lose ourselves in the will of God [1 Peter 4:2]. This we can do even when time is running out. It's never too late to give ourselves totally to God. --- David Roper
Lord, help us to redeem the time
You give us every day ---
To take each opportunity
To follow and obey. --- Sper
DON'T JUST COUNT YOUR DAYS, MAKE YOUR DAYS COUNT.
Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. --- Psalm 90:12
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 25-26
Matthew 20:17-34
Many metaphors are used in literature to describe life's brevity. It is a dream, a swift runner, a mist, a puff of smoke, a shadow, a gesture in the air, a sentence written in the sand, a bird flying in one window of a house and out another. Another symbolic description was suggested by a friend of mine who said that the short dash between the dates of birth and death on tombstones represents the brief span of one's life.
When we were children, time loitered. But as we get closer to the end of our lives, time moves with increasing swiftness, like water swirling down a drain. In childhood we measured our age in small increments. "I'm 6 1/2," we would say, for it seemed to take so long to get older. Now we have no time for such childishness. Who claims to be 60 1/2?
It's good to ponder the brevity of life now and then. Life is too short to treat it carelessly. In Psalm 90, after describing the shortness of life, Moses prayed, "Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" [v.12].
To make the most of our earthly existence, we must lose ourselves in the will of God [1 Peter 4:2]. This we can do even when time is running out. It's never too late to give ourselves totally to God. --- David Roper
Lord, help us to redeem the time
You give us every day ---
To take each opportunity
To follow and obey. --- Sper
DON'T JUST COUNT YOUR DAYS, MAKE YOUR DAYS COUNT.
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Turnaround Expert
Read: Galatians 3:22-4:7
When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. --- Galatians 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 23-24
Matthew 20:1-16
Members of The Turnaround Management Association are rarely asked to join successful companies. Instead, these skilled professionals are called into ailing businesses to help get them back on their feet.
The same need for dramatic change exists throughout society. People who can reverse the downward spiral in an individual's life, a relationship, or a team are constantly in demand.
But what about changing the world? Many people would say that only God can do that. And that's exactly what He sent His Son to do. The Bible describes humanity's downward spiral by saying that the entire world was imprisoned by sin and "in bondage" [Galatians 3:22; 4:3].
Into the hopeless situation Jesus came "to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" [4:5]. The personal turnaround for us begins when we accept God's offer to eternal life in Christ and receive His Spirit into our hearts [v.6]. Rather than simply being given a new set of rules and sent off on our own, we are adopted into God's family.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate turnaroud expert. He specializes in impossible cases. Will you invite Him into your life today? --- David McCasland
The Lord will turn your life around
If you'll invite Him in;
Then you'll at once be heaven-bound,
No longer chained by sin. --- Hess
WHEN WE CHOOSE TO FOLLOW JESUS, OUR WHOLE LIFE CHANGES DIRECTION.
When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. --- Galatians 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 23-24
Matthew 20:1-16
Members of The Turnaround Management Association are rarely asked to join successful companies. Instead, these skilled professionals are called into ailing businesses to help get them back on their feet.
The same need for dramatic change exists throughout society. People who can reverse the downward spiral in an individual's life, a relationship, or a team are constantly in demand.
But what about changing the world? Many people would say that only God can do that. And that's exactly what He sent His Son to do. The Bible describes humanity's downward spiral by saying that the entire world was imprisoned by sin and "in bondage" [Galatians 3:22; 4:3].
Into the hopeless situation Jesus came "to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" [4:5]. The personal turnaround for us begins when we accept God's offer to eternal life in Christ and receive His Spirit into our hearts [v.6]. Rather than simply being given a new set of rules and sent off on our own, we are adopted into God's family.
Jesus Christ is the ultimate turnaroud expert. He specializes in impossible cases. Will you invite Him into your life today? --- David McCasland
The Lord will turn your life around
If you'll invite Him in;
Then you'll at once be heaven-bound,
No longer chained by sin. --- Hess
WHEN WE CHOOSE TO FOLLOW JESUS, OUR WHOLE LIFE CHANGES DIRECTION.
Friday, January 28, 2005
Let's Talk About It!
Read: Matthew 18:15-20
Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. --- Proverbs 3:3
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 21-22
Matthew 19
The police in San Diego received complaints from a woman who said she was getting annoying phone calls. In the middle of the night a person would phone her, bark like a dog, and then hang up. Police eventually discovered that the source of the calls was a neighbor. He said that whenever he was awakened by the barking of her dog, he wanted to make sure she was awake too.
The neighbor's approach certainly didn't express the wisdom of God. The Scriptures tell us that it is often necessary to face a problem head-on [Matthew 18:15-20]. At the right time and for the sake of all parties involved, an honest discussion is part of the solution.
Yet such a loving, open approach is not usually followed among Christians. Rather than trusting God and walking into a tense situation with a clear conscience and a desire for peace, we tend to play games. Hints are dropped. Affection is withheld. Conversation is abbreviated. The air gets chilly, and ice forms around a situation that can only be melted by a wise combination of mercy and truth [Proverbs 3:3].
Our complaints against others cannot be smoothed over by burying our anger. If a problem is not small enough to overlook graciously, then let's talk about it. --- Mart De Haan
If you can't forgive a brother
For the wrong he's done to you,
Go to him and talk it over ---
That's the Christian thing to do. --- D. De Haan
THE BEST WAY TO DESTROY YOUR ENEMY IS TO MAKE HIM YOUR FRIEND.
Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. --- Proverbs 3:3
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 21-22
Matthew 19
The police in San Diego received complaints from a woman who said she was getting annoying phone calls. In the middle of the night a person would phone her, bark like a dog, and then hang up. Police eventually discovered that the source of the calls was a neighbor. He said that whenever he was awakened by the barking of her dog, he wanted to make sure she was awake too.
The neighbor's approach certainly didn't express the wisdom of God. The Scriptures tell us that it is often necessary to face a problem head-on [Matthew 18:15-20]. At the right time and for the sake of all parties involved, an honest discussion is part of the solution.
Yet such a loving, open approach is not usually followed among Christians. Rather than trusting God and walking into a tense situation with a clear conscience and a desire for peace, we tend to play games. Hints are dropped. Affection is withheld. Conversation is abbreviated. The air gets chilly, and ice forms around a situation that can only be melted by a wise combination of mercy and truth [Proverbs 3:3].
Our complaints against others cannot be smoothed over by burying our anger. If a problem is not small enough to overlook graciously, then let's talk about it. --- Mart De Haan
If you can't forgive a brother
For the wrong he's done to you,
Go to him and talk it over ---
That's the Christian thing to do. --- D. De Haan
THE BEST WAY TO DESTROY YOUR ENEMY IS TO MAKE HIM YOUR FRIEND.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Caring Prayer
Read: Romans 15:30-33
I beg you, ... strive together with me in prayers to God for me. --- Romans 15:30
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 19-20
Matthew 18:21-35
I recently received an e-mail from someone I didn't know. It was from a teenager who set a great example we all can learn from. His e-mail showed how much he believed in the power of prayer.
He told about a teenage girl in his hometown who had become pregnant outside of marriage. Her parents were threatening to force her to get an abortion. When the young man heard about it, he got on his computer and sent an e-mail to more than 100 people, telling of the girl's predicament and saying over and over, "Please pray for this girl." His compassion for her was evident --- as well as his faith in God to answer prayer.
This teenager could have spent time on his computer doing many other things: looking up information about cars, playing video games, sending jokes to his buddies. Instead, he took the time to compile all those e-mail addresses, then he wrote a caring, heartfelt note. In Romans 15:30-33, the apostle Paul showed that he knew the value of concerted prayer --- whether it's for ourselves or for someone else in need.
What a lesson! It reminds us to cling to the Lord in prayer, and it shows us an example of the compassion that leads us to team up with others in caring prayer. --- Dave Branon
LEARNING TO PRAY
Unsure of how to develop an affective prayer life?
Read the booklet Jesus' Blueprint For Prayer at
www.discoveryseries.org/hj891
WHEN YOU CAN'T BE THERE, YOU CAN HELP THROUGH PRAYER.
I beg you, ... strive together with me in prayers to God for me. --- Romans 15:30
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 19-20
Matthew 18:21-35
I recently received an e-mail from someone I didn't know. It was from a teenager who set a great example we all can learn from. His e-mail showed how much he believed in the power of prayer.
He told about a teenage girl in his hometown who had become pregnant outside of marriage. Her parents were threatening to force her to get an abortion. When the young man heard about it, he got on his computer and sent an e-mail to more than 100 people, telling of the girl's predicament and saying over and over, "Please pray for this girl." His compassion for her was evident --- as well as his faith in God to answer prayer.
This teenager could have spent time on his computer doing many other things: looking up information about cars, playing video games, sending jokes to his buddies. Instead, he took the time to compile all those e-mail addresses, then he wrote a caring, heartfelt note. In Romans 15:30-33, the apostle Paul showed that he knew the value of concerted prayer --- whether it's for ourselves or for someone else in need.
What a lesson! It reminds us to cling to the Lord in prayer, and it shows us an example of the compassion that leads us to team up with others in caring prayer. --- Dave Branon
LEARNING TO PRAY
Unsure of how to develop an affective prayer life?
Read the booklet Jesus' Blueprint For Prayer at
www.discoveryseries.org/hj891
WHEN YOU CAN'T BE THERE, YOU CAN HELP THROUGH PRAYER.
From Bitter To Sweet
Read: Exodus 15:22-27
The LORD showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet. --- Exodus 15:25
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 16-18
Matthew 18:1-20
Joy and sorrow are often close companions. Just as the Israelites went from the thrill of victory at the Red Sea to the bitter waters of Marah just 3 days later [Exodus 15:22-23], our rejoicing can quickly turn into anguish.
At Marah, the Lord told Moses to throw a tree into the water, which made it "sweet" and drinkable [v.25]. Another "tree," when "cast into" the bitter circumstances of our lives, can make them sweet. It is the cross of Jesus [1 Peter 2:24]. Our outlook will be transformed as we contemplate His sacrificial death and His submission to the will of God [Luke 22:42].
Our pain may come from the ill-will of others, or worse, from their neglect. Nevertheless, our Lord has permitted it. We may not understand why, yet it is the will of our Father and Friend, whose wisdom and love are infinite.
When we say yes to God as His Spirit reveals His will to us through His Word, the bitter circumstances of our lives can become sweet. We must not grumble against what the Lord permits. Instead, we must do all that He asks us to do. Jesus said that we are to take up our cross daily and follow Him [Luke 9:23].
When we remember Jesus' cross and submit to the Father as He did, bitter experiences can become sweet. --- David Roper
Lord, I've not always understood
What plan You have for me;
Yet I wil glory in Your cross
And bear mine patiently. --- Anon.
GOD USES OUR DIFFICULTIES TO MAKE US BETTER --- NOT BITTER.
The LORD showed him a tree. When he cast it into the waters, the waters were made sweet. --- Exodus 15:25
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 16-18
Matthew 18:1-20
Joy and sorrow are often close companions. Just as the Israelites went from the thrill of victory at the Red Sea to the bitter waters of Marah just 3 days later [Exodus 15:22-23], our rejoicing can quickly turn into anguish.
At Marah, the Lord told Moses to throw a tree into the water, which made it "sweet" and drinkable [v.25]. Another "tree," when "cast into" the bitter circumstances of our lives, can make them sweet. It is the cross of Jesus [1 Peter 2:24]. Our outlook will be transformed as we contemplate His sacrificial death and His submission to the will of God [Luke 22:42].
Our pain may come from the ill-will of others, or worse, from their neglect. Nevertheless, our Lord has permitted it. We may not understand why, yet it is the will of our Father and Friend, whose wisdom and love are infinite.
When we say yes to God as His Spirit reveals His will to us through His Word, the bitter circumstances of our lives can become sweet. We must not grumble against what the Lord permits. Instead, we must do all that He asks us to do. Jesus said that we are to take up our cross daily and follow Him [Luke 9:23].
When we remember Jesus' cross and submit to the Father as He did, bitter experiences can become sweet. --- David Roper
Lord, I've not always understood
What plan You have for me;
Yet I wil glory in Your cross
And bear mine patiently. --- Anon.
GOD USES OUR DIFFICULTIES TO MAKE US BETTER --- NOT BITTER.
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
A Time For Action
Read: Exodus 14:5-18
The LORD said to Moses, "Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward." --- Exodus 14:15
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 14-15
Matthew 17
The woman chuckled as she told me about the time she woke her husband to tell him she was in labor and needed to go to the hospital. He jumped out of bed, dropped to his knees, and said, "Honey, let's pray." She told him that it was not the time to kneel and pray. It was time to get dressed and head for the hospital. It was time for action!
I think this was the type of message God gave Moses when He said of the Israelites, "Why do you cry to Me?" [Exodus 14:15]. Not long before that, Pharaoh had permitted the Israelites to leave Egypt, but then he changed his mind [vv.5-6]. Wanting to bring them back, he and his army chased after them [vv.7-9]. The Israelites were terrified when they saw the Egyptians approaching. They were trapped at the shore of the Red Sea, with nowhere to go! But Moses assured Israel that God would deliver them. Now was a time for action --- not crying to Him. It was time to "go on dry ground through the midst of the sea" [v.16].
There's a proper time for everything [Ecclesiastes 3:1], including a time to pray and a time to act. When we see someone who lacks food and clothes, it's right to provide what they need [James 2:15-16]. Sometimes we need to trust God and take immediate action. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Lord, when I sense Your call to serve,
Help me to follow through;
I must not just stand by and pray
When there is work to do. --- Fasick
IF GOD HAS ALREADY TOLD YOU WHAT TO DO, YOU DON'T NEED TO ASK HIM AGAIN.
The LORD said to Moses, "Why do you cry to Me? Tell the children of Israel to go forward." --- Exodus 14:15
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 14-15
Matthew 17
The woman chuckled as she told me about the time she woke her husband to tell him she was in labor and needed to go to the hospital. He jumped out of bed, dropped to his knees, and said, "Honey, let's pray." She told him that it was not the time to kneel and pray. It was time to get dressed and head for the hospital. It was time for action!
I think this was the type of message God gave Moses when He said of the Israelites, "Why do you cry to Me?" [Exodus 14:15]. Not long before that, Pharaoh had permitted the Israelites to leave Egypt, but then he changed his mind [vv.5-6]. Wanting to bring them back, he and his army chased after them [vv.7-9]. The Israelites were terrified when they saw the Egyptians approaching. They were trapped at the shore of the Red Sea, with nowhere to go! But Moses assured Israel that God would deliver them. Now was a time for action --- not crying to Him. It was time to "go on dry ground through the midst of the sea" [v.16].
There's a proper time for everything [Ecclesiastes 3:1], including a time to pray and a time to act. When we see someone who lacks food and clothes, it's right to provide what they need [James 2:15-16]. Sometimes we need to trust God and take immediate action. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Lord, when I sense Your call to serve,
Help me to follow through;
I must not just stand by and pray
When there is work to do. --- Fasick
IF GOD HAS ALREADY TOLD YOU WHAT TO DO, YOU DON'T NEED TO ASK HIM AGAIN.
Monday, January 24, 2005
Golden Gods
Read: Exodus 12:29-36
You shall have no other gods before Me. --- Exodus 20:3
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 12-13
Matthew 16
God has seized the attention of Pharaoh and the Egyptians with a series of plagues. Now they were dying to be rid of their Hebrew slaves. But God didn't want the Israelites to leave Egypt empty-handed. After all, they had 400 years of wages due them. So they asked their former masters for articles of silver, gold, and clothing, and they got them. Exodus 12:36 says that the Israelites "plundered the Egyptians."
It wasn't long, however, until God's people fell into idolatry. They used their gold to make a golden calf, which they worhiped while Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the law [32:1-4].
This tragic experience highlights the tension that Christians are required to maintain in relation to their possessions. There is much in our society that we may enjoy, but material things can also pose grave dangers when we use them unwisely. Os Guinness says that we are "free to utilize" but "forbidden to idolize." We are "strangers and pilgrims on the earth" [Hebrews 11:13], and we must not become so enamored with "the treasures in Egypt" [v.26] that we grow complacent and forget our true calling.
Are we using our material blessings to serve the Lord --- or have we become slaves to them? --- Haddon Robinson
I have an old nature that noisily clamors
To satisfy empty desire;
But God in His goodness has sent me a Helper
Who whispers, "Your calling is higher." --- Gustafson
GOLD CAN BE A HELPFUL SERVANT BUT A CRUEL MASTER.
You shall have no other gods before Me. --- Exodus 20:3
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 12-13
Matthew 16
God has seized the attention of Pharaoh and the Egyptians with a series of plagues. Now they were dying to be rid of their Hebrew slaves. But God didn't want the Israelites to leave Egypt empty-handed. After all, they had 400 years of wages due them. So they asked their former masters for articles of silver, gold, and clothing, and they got them. Exodus 12:36 says that the Israelites "plundered the Egyptians."
It wasn't long, however, until God's people fell into idolatry. They used their gold to make a golden calf, which they worhiped while Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the law [32:1-4].
This tragic experience highlights the tension that Christians are required to maintain in relation to their possessions. There is much in our society that we may enjoy, but material things can also pose grave dangers when we use them unwisely. Os Guinness says that we are "free to utilize" but "forbidden to idolize." We are "strangers and pilgrims on the earth" [Hebrews 11:13], and we must not become so enamored with "the treasures in Egypt" [v.26] that we grow complacent and forget our true calling.
Are we using our material blessings to serve the Lord --- or have we become slaves to them? --- Haddon Robinson
I have an old nature that noisily clamors
To satisfy empty desire;
But God in His goodness has sent me a Helper
Who whispers, "Your calling is higher." --- Gustafson
GOLD CAN BE A HELPFUL SERVANT BUT A CRUEL MASTER.
Steadfast Service
Read: Acts 20:23-24
Be steadfast, immovable, ... knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. --- 1 Corinthians 15:58
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 9-11
Matthew 15:21-39
How do we react to tragic events? When upsetting experiences come into our personal lives and create an atmosphere of darkness and gloom, how do we respond? We may tend to panic or lose heart. A man named Abraham Davenport can teach us a lesson in steadfastness.
On May 19, 1780, a mysterious phenomenon took place. Thick darkness [perhaps caused by smoke from forest fires combined with dense fog] covered areas of New England. Filled with fear, many people thought the world was coming to an end.
The Connecticut legislature was meeting that day, and many members were urging adjournment. Abraham Davenport, however, proclaimed to his colleagues, "I am against adjournment. The day of judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for an adjournment; if it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. I wish therefore that candles may be brought."
The apostle Paul had a similar determination. Even though he had faced severe hardship and opposition, and he was hearing gloomy news about his future, he was determined to "finish [his] race with joy" [Acts 20:24].
Let us, then, with soul-quieting confidence in our Lord, remain steadfast in serving Him all our days. --- Vernon Grounds
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior's love. --- Owens
TO SURVIVE THE STORMS OF LIFE, BE ANCHORED TO THE ROCK OF AGES.
Be steadfast, immovable, ... knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. --- 1 Corinthians 15:58
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 9-11
Matthew 15:21-39
How do we react to tragic events? When upsetting experiences come into our personal lives and create an atmosphere of darkness and gloom, how do we respond? We may tend to panic or lose heart. A man named Abraham Davenport can teach us a lesson in steadfastness.
On May 19, 1780, a mysterious phenomenon took place. Thick darkness [perhaps caused by smoke from forest fires combined with dense fog] covered areas of New England. Filled with fear, many people thought the world was coming to an end.
The Connecticut legislature was meeting that day, and many members were urging adjournment. Abraham Davenport, however, proclaimed to his colleagues, "I am against adjournment. The day of judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for an adjournment; if it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. I wish therefore that candles may be brought."
The apostle Paul had a similar determination. Even though he had faced severe hardship and opposition, and he was hearing gloomy news about his future, he was determined to "finish [his] race with joy" [Acts 20:24].
Let us, then, with soul-quieting confidence in our Lord, remain steadfast in serving Him all our days. --- Vernon Grounds
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior's love. --- Owens
TO SURVIVE THE STORMS OF LIFE, BE ANCHORED TO THE ROCK OF AGES.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
The Freedom Of Structure
Read: 1 John 5:1-13
This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. --- 1 John 5:3
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 7-8
Matthew 15:1-20
Concert pianist Jeannette Haien believes that the structure of a fine musical composition actually provides great freedom for the person who plays it. "Within the strictures of so-called form," she says, "is all the freedom in the world."
It's easy to feel confined by structure in our faith because we have a natural resistance to rules. But God's commands are given to enhance our lives rather than restrict them.
First John 5:3 states, "This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments are not burdensome." Instead of weighing us down, they protect us from the burden of sin. As we follow His commands, we experience liberty.
Speaking of an excellent musical composition, Jeannette Haien says, "Under the laws of structure you have the freedom to work in the freest way imaginable. What [the composer] has written is that which I honor."
The Bible is our sheet music for living. Today, we can play the song of life as God has written it, and we can discover anew the promise of Jesus to those who believe in Him: "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" [John 8:31-32]. --- David McCasland
Lord, help us to value the freedom
Of life we receive from Your love,
A life of obedience and service,
Kept safe by Your hand from above. --- K. De Haan
TRUE FREEDOM IS FOUND IN OBEDIENCE TO CHRIST.
This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. --- 1 John 5:3
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 7-8
Matthew 15:1-20
Concert pianist Jeannette Haien believes that the structure of a fine musical composition actually provides great freedom for the person who plays it. "Within the strictures of so-called form," she says, "is all the freedom in the world."
It's easy to feel confined by structure in our faith because we have a natural resistance to rules. But God's commands are given to enhance our lives rather than restrict them.
First John 5:3 states, "This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments are not burdensome." Instead of weighing us down, they protect us from the burden of sin. As we follow His commands, we experience liberty.
Speaking of an excellent musical composition, Jeannette Haien says, "Under the laws of structure you have the freedom to work in the freest way imaginable. What [the composer] has written is that which I honor."
The Bible is our sheet music for living. Today, we can play the song of life as God has written it, and we can discover anew the promise of Jesus to those who believe in Him: "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" [John 8:31-32]. --- David McCasland
Lord, help us to value the freedom
Of life we receive from Your love,
A life of obedience and service,
Kept safe by Your hand from above. --- K. De Haan
TRUE FREEDOM IS FOUND IN OBEDIENCE TO CHRIST.
Friday, January 21, 2005
A Witness Of Hope
Read: Acts 26:1-8, 24-32
Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. --- 1 Peter 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 4-6
Matthew 14:22-36
As a child growing up in the former Soviet Union, Nickolas was the only one in his school who refused to join the political group for young people. Because of his faith in God, he was singled out for ridicule, given bad grades he did not deserve, and denied a recommendation to the university. Despite the opposition, he persisted, and in later years he led some of his persecutors to trust in Jesus Christ. Now he is the pastor of a thriving church in Belarus.
The apostle Paul also suffered persecution. His faith landed him in the court of King Agrippa, and he had opportunity to tell how God had changed his life. He testified, "Now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers" [Acts 26:6]. His witness to the king about salvation in Christ and the hope of resurrection was clear and convicting.
When we live our our faith in Christ, we're bound to attract the attention of others and may even face persecution. We know our sins are forgiven, and we look forward to being with Jesus forever in heaven. We want to share our faith with others, and some people will want to know the reason for our hope [1 Peter 3:15]. When questions come, let's be ready to give a witness. --- Dave Egner
When witnessing, if people ask,
"How do you know it's true?"
Remember that they can't deny
What Christ has done for you. --- Sper
OUR WITNESS FOR CHRIST IS THE LIGHT FOR A WORLD IN DARKNESS.
Always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you. --- 1 Peter 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 4-6
Matthew 14:22-36
As a child growing up in the former Soviet Union, Nickolas was the only one in his school who refused to join the political group for young people. Because of his faith in God, he was singled out for ridicule, given bad grades he did not deserve, and denied a recommendation to the university. Despite the opposition, he persisted, and in later years he led some of his persecutors to trust in Jesus Christ. Now he is the pastor of a thriving church in Belarus.
The apostle Paul also suffered persecution. His faith landed him in the court of King Agrippa, and he had opportunity to tell how God had changed his life. He testified, "Now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made by God to our fathers" [Acts 26:6]. His witness to the king about salvation in Christ and the hope of resurrection was clear and convicting.
When we live our our faith in Christ, we're bound to attract the attention of others and may even face persecution. We know our sins are forgiven, and we look forward to being with Jesus forever in heaven. We want to share our faith with others, and some people will want to know the reason for our hope [1 Peter 3:15]. When questions come, let's be ready to give a witness. --- Dave Egner
When witnessing, if people ask,
"How do you know it's true?"
Remember that they can't deny
What Christ has done for you. --- Sper
OUR WITNESS FOR CHRIST IS THE LIGHT FOR A WORLD IN DARKNESS.
Thursday, January 20, 2005
What Do You Seek?
Read: John 1:35-42
Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, "What do you seek?" --- John 1:38
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 1-3
Matthew 14:1-21
How would you answer if Jesus were to ask you, "What do you seek?" [John 1:38]. Would you ask Him for health and fitness? A better job? A happier marriage? Financial security? Vindication from a false accusation? Salvation for a wayward loved one? An explanation of some difficult theological concept?
For two disciples of John the Baptist, this situation was more than an exercise in imagination. One day while they were with John, Jesus walked by and John announced, "Behold the Lamb of God!" [v.36]. Instead of continuing to follow John, his two disciples started following Jesus.
When Jesus saw them, He asked, "What do you seek?" [v.38].
Apparently John had taught them well, because their answer indicated that they were not seeking something for themselves but Jesus Himself. They wanted to know where Jesus was staying. Not only did Jesus show them the place, He spent the remainder of the day with them.
I wonder how often we miss an opportunity to spend time with Jesus because we're seeking something other than His presence. I know from experience that the more time I spend with Jesus, the less desire I have for a lot of things that once seemed very important. --- Julie Ackerman Link
To walk in fellowship with Christ
And sense His love so deep and true
Brings to the soul its highest joy
As nothing in this world can do. --- D. De Haan
JESUS LONGS FOR OUR FELLOWSHIP EVEN MORE THAN WE LONG FOR HIS.
Jesus turned, and seeing them following, said to them, "What do you seek?" --- John 1:38
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 1-3
Matthew 14:1-21
How would you answer if Jesus were to ask you, "What do you seek?" [John 1:38]. Would you ask Him for health and fitness? A better job? A happier marriage? Financial security? Vindication from a false accusation? Salvation for a wayward loved one? An explanation of some difficult theological concept?
For two disciples of John the Baptist, this situation was more than an exercise in imagination. One day while they were with John, Jesus walked by and John announced, "Behold the Lamb of God!" [v.36]. Instead of continuing to follow John, his two disciples started following Jesus.
When Jesus saw them, He asked, "What do you seek?" [v.38].
Apparently John had taught them well, because their answer indicated that they were not seeking something for themselves but Jesus Himself. They wanted to know where Jesus was staying. Not only did Jesus show them the place, He spent the remainder of the day with them.
I wonder how often we miss an opportunity to spend time with Jesus because we're seeking something other than His presence. I know from experience that the more time I spend with Jesus, the less desire I have for a lot of things that once seemed very important. --- Julie Ackerman Link
To walk in fellowship with Christ
And sense His love so deep and true
Brings to the soul its highest joy
As nothing in this world can do. --- D. De Haan
JESUS LONGS FOR OUR FELLOWSHIP EVEN MORE THAN WE LONG FOR HIS.
Limitation Or Advantage?
Read: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." --- 2 Corinthians 12:9
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 49-50
Matthew 13:31-58
We've been taught that when we ask God for something through prayer, His answer may be yes, no, or wait. We're told that even no is an answer, though obviously not the one we may want. It certainly wasn't the answer Paul wanted when he begged God three times to remove his "thorn in the flesh" [2 Corinthians 12:7-8].
Whatever Paul's thorn was, it weakened him. Because he wanted to be strong in his ministry, Paul asked God for deliverance. Although God didn't grant his request, He answered his prayer! He said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" [v.9]. The all-sufficient strength of Christ became Paul's new boast.
Author J. Oswald Sanders summarized Paul's attitude about his thorn like this: "At first he viewed it as a limiting handicap, but later he came to regard it as a heavenly advantage." Paul could therefore testify, "I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses .... For when I am weak, then I am strong" [v.10].
Have you prayed for deliverance from something that weakens you, but deliverance hasn't come? Remember, God's grace is sufficient for you. He can transform your limitation into your "heavenly advantage." --- Joanie Yoder
There's advantage in our weakness,
There is blessing in our pain;
It is when we're feeling helpless
That God's grace and strength sustain. --- Fitzhugh
OUR WEAKNESS IS A BLESSING WHEN WE LEAN ON GOD'S STRENGTH.
He said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." --- 2 Corinthians 12:9
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 49-50
Matthew 13:31-58
We've been taught that when we ask God for something through prayer, His answer may be yes, no, or wait. We're told that even no is an answer, though obviously not the one we may want. It certainly wasn't the answer Paul wanted when he begged God three times to remove his "thorn in the flesh" [2 Corinthians 12:7-8].
Whatever Paul's thorn was, it weakened him. Because he wanted to be strong in his ministry, Paul asked God for deliverance. Although God didn't grant his request, He answered his prayer! He said to Paul, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" [v.9]. The all-sufficient strength of Christ became Paul's new boast.
Author J. Oswald Sanders summarized Paul's attitude about his thorn like this: "At first he viewed it as a limiting handicap, but later he came to regard it as a heavenly advantage." Paul could therefore testify, "I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses .... For when I am weak, then I am strong" [v.10].
Have you prayed for deliverance from something that weakens you, but deliverance hasn't come? Remember, God's grace is sufficient for you. He can transform your limitation into your "heavenly advantage." --- Joanie Yoder
There's advantage in our weakness,
There is blessing in our pain;
It is when we're feeling helpless
That God's grace and strength sustain. --- Fitzhugh
OUR WEAKNESS IS A BLESSING WHEN WE LEAN ON GOD'S STRENGTH.
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
A Work Of Peace
Read: James 3:13-18
The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. --- James 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 46-48
Matthew 13:1-30
The small church in Umbarger, Texas, was an unlikely place for an international work of art. But toward the end of World War II, seven italian prisoners of war, who were being held at a large camp nearby, were chosen to help decorate the church's plain brick walls.
The prisoners were reluctant to aid their captors, but they agreed on the condition that their efforts be considered a contribution toward Christian brotherhood and understanding. But as they worked on their paintings and a woodcarving of the Last Supper, one of teh POWs later recalled, "A spontaneous stream of good feelings began almost at once to flow among us." No one spoke of the war or the past because "we were here for a work of peace and love."
Our lives are filled with unlikely settings for introducing God's peace. We can feel imprisoned by hard feelings, strained relationships, and confining circumstances. But peace has the power to break out anywher. James reminded us that "the wisdom that is from above is ... peaceable, gentle, willing to yield .... The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace" [James 3:17-18].
Wherever we are today, let's ask the Lord to use us as His peacemakers. --- David McCasland
O Prince of Peace, keep us, we pray,
From strife and enmity;
Help us to speak with loving words
That caml hostility. --- Branon
THE BEST PEACEMAKERS ARE THOSE WHO KNOW THE PEACE OF GOD.
The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. --- James 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 46-48
Matthew 13:1-30
The small church in Umbarger, Texas, was an unlikely place for an international work of art. But toward the end of World War II, seven italian prisoners of war, who were being held at a large camp nearby, were chosen to help decorate the church's plain brick walls.
The prisoners were reluctant to aid their captors, but they agreed on the condition that their efforts be considered a contribution toward Christian brotherhood and understanding. But as they worked on their paintings and a woodcarving of the Last Supper, one of teh POWs later recalled, "A spontaneous stream of good feelings began almost at once to flow among us." No one spoke of the war or the past because "we were here for a work of peace and love."
Our lives are filled with unlikely settings for introducing God's peace. We can feel imprisoned by hard feelings, strained relationships, and confining circumstances. But peace has the power to break out anywher. James reminded us that "the wisdom that is from above is ... peaceable, gentle, willing to yield .... The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace" [James 3:17-18].
Wherever we are today, let's ask the Lord to use us as His peacemakers. --- David McCasland
O Prince of Peace, keep us, we pray,
From strife and enmity;
Help us to speak with loving words
That caml hostility. --- Branon
THE BEST PEACEMAKERS ARE THOSE WHO KNOW THE PEACE OF GOD.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Reality Or Illusion?
Read: Malachi 2:13-17
You say, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD." --- Malachi 2:17
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 43-45
Matthew 12:24-50
I had just started to back the van away from the loading area. In my rearview mirror I saw two semi trucks side by side. I had plenty of clearance. Just then it appeared that one of the trucks was moving into my path. I stopped. But then I realized that the other truck was actually backing up, creating an illusion that the standing semi was moving forward.
An illusion, according to the dictionary, is an "erroneous perception of reality." Sleight-of-hand artists us it to "do the impossible." Most illusions are harmless, but some can be fatal. In a desert, chasing a mirage that looks like water can lead to death.
But the most dangerous illusions are the spiritual and moral ones that people are so prone to believe. In Malachi 2, the Israelites were breaking their marriage vows [vv.14-16]. They knew that God hates divorce [v.16], yet they were saying, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD" [v.17].
Doesn't that sound like today's culture? People believe that things like abortion, extramarital sex, and divorce for other than biblical reasons are morally right. Even some Christians believe in such illusions.
It's crucial that we allow the Bible to be the standard by which we distinguish reality from illusion! --- Dennis De Haan
The Word of God declares what's right
And what is pleasing in His sight;
It also shows that deep within
What we call good may be a sin. --- Hess
ONE OF LIFE'S GREATEST ILLUSIONS IS THAT SIN HAS NO CONSEQUENCES.
You say, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD." --- Malachi 2:17
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 43-45
Matthew 12:24-50
I had just started to back the van away from the loading area. In my rearview mirror I saw two semi trucks side by side. I had plenty of clearance. Just then it appeared that one of the trucks was moving into my path. I stopped. But then I realized that the other truck was actually backing up, creating an illusion that the standing semi was moving forward.
An illusion, according to the dictionary, is an "erroneous perception of reality." Sleight-of-hand artists us it to "do the impossible." Most illusions are harmless, but some can be fatal. In a desert, chasing a mirage that looks like water can lead to death.
But the most dangerous illusions are the spiritual and moral ones that people are so prone to believe. In Malachi 2, the Israelites were breaking their marriage vows [vv.14-16]. They knew that God hates divorce [v.16], yet they were saying, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD" [v.17].
Doesn't that sound like today's culture? People believe that things like abortion, extramarital sex, and divorce for other than biblical reasons are morally right. Even some Christians believe in such illusions.
It's crucial that we allow the Bible to be the standard by which we distinguish reality from illusion! --- Dennis De Haan
The Word of God declares what's right
And what is pleasing in His sight;
It also shows that deep within
What we call good may be a sin. --- Hess
ONE OF LIFE'S GREATEST ILLUSIONS IS THAT SIN HAS NO CONSEQUENCES.
Sunday, January 16, 2005
Shopping Strategy
Read: Malachi 1:6-14
"You bring the stolen, the lame, and the sick. ... Should I accept this from your hand?" says the LORD. --- Malachi 1:13
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 41-42
Matthew 12:1-23
"I have no pleasure in you." This was the Lord's stinging rebuke to His people through the prophet Malachi [1:10]. God was angry with their careless, shoddy methods of worship. The animals they brought for sacrifice were not acceptable to Him because they were not the best of the herds and flocks. Instead, they offered stolen, lame, and sick animals [v.13].
While we may not be showing this degree of contempt toward God, sometimes we are too casual in our worship. A friend of mine made this observation about herself: "When I shop for simple things like soap or butter, I hardly think about it. But when I'm looking for a blouse to match a skirt, I shop very carefully. I go from store to store until I find exactly what I'm looking for." Then she added thoughtfully, "I should pay that same attention when I am worshipping God. But sometimes I approach Him as casually as if I were shopping for a box of Kleenex."
During worship services in our churches, we may fail to give God our full attention. We rush in late. Our thoughts wander. We need to discipline our minds so that we are not focusing on yesterday's cares or tomorrow's responsibilities. When we worship the Lord with all our heart, He will be pleased with us. --- Dave Egner
Our very best we offer to You,
Gracious God, Almighty King;
As we come to You in worship,
Let our lives Your praises sing. --- Sper
AT THE HEART OF WORSHIP IS A WORSHIP FROM THE HEART.
"You bring the stolen, the lame, and the sick. ... Should I accept this from your hand?" says the LORD. --- Malachi 1:13
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 41-42
Matthew 12:1-23
"I have no pleasure in you." This was the Lord's stinging rebuke to His people through the prophet Malachi [1:10]. God was angry with their careless, shoddy methods of worship. The animals they brought for sacrifice were not acceptable to Him because they were not the best of the herds and flocks. Instead, they offered stolen, lame, and sick animals [v.13].
While we may not be showing this degree of contempt toward God, sometimes we are too casual in our worship. A friend of mine made this observation about herself: "When I shop for simple things like soap or butter, I hardly think about it. But when I'm looking for a blouse to match a skirt, I shop very carefully. I go from store to store until I find exactly what I'm looking for." Then she added thoughtfully, "I should pay that same attention when I am worshipping God. But sometimes I approach Him as casually as if I were shopping for a box of Kleenex."
During worship services in our churches, we may fail to give God our full attention. We rush in late. Our thoughts wander. We need to discipline our minds so that we are not focusing on yesterday's cares or tomorrow's responsibilities. When we worship the Lord with all our heart, He will be pleased with us. --- Dave Egner
Our very best we offer to You,
Gracious God, Almighty King;
As we come to You in worship,
Let our lives Your praises sing. --- Sper
AT THE HEART OF WORSHIP IS A WORSHIP FROM THE HEART.
Saturday, January 15, 2005
Nothing But The Truth
Read: Proverbs 12:17-22
Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight. --- Proverbs 12:22
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 39-40
Matthew 11
Years ago I read some unusual and humorous explanations for auto accidents. The following are just a few that people submitted to an insurance company:
"An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car, and vanished."
"I had been driving my car for 40 years when I fell asleep at the wheel and had the accident."
"I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment."
"The pedestrian had no idea which direction to go, so I ran over him."
"The telephone pole was approaching fast. I attempted to swerve out of its path when it struck my front end."
"The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him."
"The indirect cause of this accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth."
These "excuses" may bring a smile, and some were probably meant to. But they also remind us how prone we are to shade the facts, especially when it works to our advantage. The book of Proverbs tells us that "lying lips are an abomination to the LORD" [12:22].
So let's be careful at all times to speak the truth --- and nothing but the truth! --- Richard De Haan
Deceit at first may have its sweets,
But these are brief, decaying,
So speak the truth as God directs,
For all your words He's weighing! --- Bosch
A LIE IS A COWARD'S ATTEMPT TO GET OUT OF TROUBLE.
Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal truthfully are His delight. --- Proverbs 12:22
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 39-40
Matthew 11
Years ago I read some unusual and humorous explanations for auto accidents. The following are just a few that people submitted to an insurance company:
"An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car, and vanished."
"I had been driving my car for 40 years when I fell asleep at the wheel and had the accident."
"I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment."
"The pedestrian had no idea which direction to go, so I ran over him."
"The telephone pole was approaching fast. I attempted to swerve out of its path when it struck my front end."
"The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him."
"The indirect cause of this accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth."
These "excuses" may bring a smile, and some were probably meant to. But they also remind us how prone we are to shade the facts, especially when it works to our advantage. The book of Proverbs tells us that "lying lips are an abomination to the LORD" [12:22].
So let's be careful at all times to speak the truth --- and nothing but the truth! --- Richard De Haan
Deceit at first may have its sweets,
But these are brief, decaying,
So speak the truth as God directs,
For all your words He's weighing! --- Bosch
A LIE IS A COWARD'S ATTEMPT TO GET OUT OF TROUBLE.
Let's Not Kid Ourselves
Read: James 1:19-25
Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. --- James 1:22
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 36-38
Matthew 10:21-42
A child was told by his mother, "Go look inthe mirror and wash your face." He insisted, "I already have!" But she replied, "You're only kidding yourself!" His dirty face proved to her that if he really had looked in the mirror, he ignored what it revealed. He may have seen the truth about himself, but he didn't act on it.
The apostle James taught that anyone who hears God's Word but does not obey it is kidding himself. He is like someone who looks at himself in a mirror but goes his way unchanged [James 1:22-24]. He hears and reads God's Word, but then dismisses it, not letting the Scriptures change him. The person who looks into the mirror of God's Word, however, longing to be transformed by it, "is not a forgetful hearer" [v.25]. He wants the Word to reveal his true needs and show him truths to obey. As he obeys, he progressively becomes more like Jesus. James said that kind of person "will be blessed in what he does" [v.25].
If we honestly want to become more like Christ in our attitudes, actions, and reactions, we must look into God's mirror, the Bible, regularly. But let's not kid ourselves --- just looking ins't enough. God's Word will transform us, but only if we obey it. --- Joanie Yoder
Lord, help me heed Your every word,
Commands that I have read or heard;
As You reveal Your will each day,
Help me to follow and obey. --- Fitzhugh
OPEN YOUR BIBLE PRAYERFULLY, READ IT CAREFULLY, AND OBEY IT JOYFULLY.
Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. --- James 1:22
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 36-38
Matthew 10:21-42
A child was told by his mother, "Go look inthe mirror and wash your face." He insisted, "I already have!" But she replied, "You're only kidding yourself!" His dirty face proved to her that if he really had looked in the mirror, he ignored what it revealed. He may have seen the truth about himself, but he didn't act on it.
The apostle James taught that anyone who hears God's Word but does not obey it is kidding himself. He is like someone who looks at himself in a mirror but goes his way unchanged [James 1:22-24]. He hears and reads God's Word, but then dismisses it, not letting the Scriptures change him. The person who looks into the mirror of God's Word, however, longing to be transformed by it, "is not a forgetful hearer" [v.25]. He wants the Word to reveal his true needs and show him truths to obey. As he obeys, he progressively becomes more like Jesus. James said that kind of person "will be blessed in what he does" [v.25].
If we honestly want to become more like Christ in our attitudes, actions, and reactions, we must look into God's mirror, the Bible, regularly. But let's not kid ourselves --- just looking ins't enough. God's Word will transform us, but only if we obey it. --- Joanie Yoder
Lord, help me heed Your every word,
Commands that I have read or heard;
As You reveal Your will each day,
Help me to follow and obey. --- Fitzhugh
OPEN YOUR BIBLE PRAYERFULLY, READ IT CAREFULLY, AND OBEY IT JOYFULLY.
Thursday, January 13, 2005
In The Morning
Read: Mark 1:23-39
In the morning ... He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. --- Mark 1:35
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 33-35
Matthew 10:1-20
Are you so rushed during the day that you find it hard to take even a few minutes to spend with God? Many people set aside time in the early morning before they get caught up in the hectic pace of the day.
I read about a very busy man who somehow manages to find time for giving the day a spiritual jump-start. He's Dr. Ben Carson, chief of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, a position he assumed in 1984 when he was only 33 years old.
Here's Carson's testimony about the value of putting spiritual things first: "I've found that having a morning ritual --- meditation or some quiet reading time --- can set the tone for the whole day. Every morning, I spend a half-hour reading the Bible, especially the book of Proverbs. There's so much wisdom there. During the day, if I encounter a frustrating situation, I think back to one of the verses that I read that morning."
Jesus faced busy days filled with demanding crowds of people. In Mark's gospel we read, "In the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed" [1:35].
Do you take time to read God's Word and pray? Try it in the morning. It can transform your day. --- Vernon Grounds
In the stillness of the morning,
Before a busy day of care,
How sweet to be alone with God
Through His holy Word and prayer. --- Anderson
LET CHRIST BE FIRST IN YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE MORNING, AND LAST IN YOUR THOUGHTS AT NIGHT.
In the morning ... He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. --- Mark 1:35
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 33-35
Matthew 10:1-20
Are you so rushed during the day that you find it hard to take even a few minutes to spend with God? Many people set aside time in the early morning before they get caught up in the hectic pace of the day.
I read about a very busy man who somehow manages to find time for giving the day a spiritual jump-start. He's Dr. Ben Carson, chief of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Children's Center, a position he assumed in 1984 when he was only 33 years old.
Here's Carson's testimony about the value of putting spiritual things first: "I've found that having a morning ritual --- meditation or some quiet reading time --- can set the tone for the whole day. Every morning, I spend a half-hour reading the Bible, especially the book of Proverbs. There's so much wisdom there. During the day, if I encounter a frustrating situation, I think back to one of the verses that I read that morning."
Jesus faced busy days filled with demanding crowds of people. In Mark's gospel we read, "In the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed" [1:35].
Do you take time to read God's Word and pray? Try it in the morning. It can transform your day. --- Vernon Grounds
In the stillness of the morning,
Before a busy day of care,
How sweet to be alone with God
Through His holy Word and prayer. --- Anderson
LET CHRIST BE FIRST IN YOUR THOUGHTS IN THE MORNING, AND LAST IN YOUR THOUGHTS AT NIGHT.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Looking Ahead
Read: Philippians 3:7-14
Forgetting those things which are behind ..., I press toward the goal. --- Philippians 3:13-14
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 31-32
Matthew 9:18-38
The month of January is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings. He was symbolized as a man with two faces, one looking back and the other looking ahead.
Some people have trouble looking ahead with hope because they keep looking back and moping over the mistakes of the past. Their outlook for the future is dimmed, and their enthusiasm is dampened. But there is no use "crying over spilled milk." History is likely to repeat itself if they keep on brooding over failures of the old year, or continue complaining about the injustices they suffered during the last 12 months. Nothing is gained by continually grieving over the past.
On this day early in the new year, begin by confessing your sins to the Lord and accepting the gracious forgiveness He offers [1 John 1:9-10]. Make right what needs correcting, and then, "forgetting those things which are behind," press onward with confidence and trust in your heavenly Father [Philippians 3:13-14]. That was Paul's secret, and it worked.
Let's stop looking back and brooding over past failures. Rather, with a forward look, let's move ahead with hope and joy. --- Richard De Haan
THINKING IT OVER
What mistakes of the past are still burdening you?
Have you confessed them to God and accepted
His complete forgiveness? [1 John 1:9].
When you do, your future will hold great promise.
INSTEAD OF LIVING IN THE SHADOWS OF YESTERDAY, WALK IN THE LIGHT OF TODAY AND THE HOPE OF TOMORROW.
Forgetting those things which are behind ..., I press toward the goal. --- Philippians 3:13-14
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 31-32
Matthew 9:18-38
The month of January is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings. He was symbolized as a man with two faces, one looking back and the other looking ahead.
Some people have trouble looking ahead with hope because they keep looking back and moping over the mistakes of the past. Their outlook for the future is dimmed, and their enthusiasm is dampened. But there is no use "crying over spilled milk." History is likely to repeat itself if they keep on brooding over failures of the old year, or continue complaining about the injustices they suffered during the last 12 months. Nothing is gained by continually grieving over the past.
On this day early in the new year, begin by confessing your sins to the Lord and accepting the gracious forgiveness He offers [1 John 1:9-10]. Make right what needs correcting, and then, "forgetting those things which are behind," press onward with confidence and trust in your heavenly Father [Philippians 3:13-14]. That was Paul's secret, and it worked.
Let's stop looking back and brooding over past failures. Rather, with a forward look, let's move ahead with hope and joy. --- Richard De Haan
THINKING IT OVER
What mistakes of the past are still burdening you?
Have you confessed them to God and accepted
His complete forgiveness? [1 John 1:9].
When you do, your future will hold great promise.
INSTEAD OF LIVING IN THE SHADOWS OF YESTERDAY, WALK IN THE LIGHT OF TODAY AND THE HOPE OF TOMORROW.
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Either Cold Or Hot
Read: Revelation 3:14-22
I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. --- Revelation 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 29-30
Matthew 9:1-17
I like soup when it is steaming hot and a soft drink when it is icy cold. I can't stand either one lukewarm. Jesus has the same attitude toward people who profess to be His children. He detests lukewarmness. He said He wished they would be either cold or hot [Revelation 3:15].
Although some people believe the term cold refers to hostility toward Jesus and the gospel, I don't believe He prefers hostility to halfheartedness. Rather, in His message to the church in Laodicea, Jesus may have had in mind two springs in the region --- the hot mineral springs at Hierapolis and the pure cold water springs in Colosse. The hot springs were seen as having healing powers. The cold springs provided refreshment. The Christians in the church at Laodicea brought neither healing to the spiritually ill nor refreshment to the weary. They were lukewarm and of no help to anyone.
You and I must ask ourselves these questions: Do I provide refreshment to the spiritually weary by bringing them encouragement, joy, and hope? Do I bring healing by challenging the careless, correcting the erring, and motivating the indifferent? Remember, we can't help anybody if we are lukewarm. The Lord wants us either cold or hot --- whatever is needed at the moment. --- Herb Vander Lugt
O God, grant me the strength of heart,
Of motive, and of will
To falter not but do my part
Your purpose to fulfill. --- Anon.
A HALF-HEARTED CHRISTIAN NEEDS TO REGAIN A HEART FOR GOD.
I know your works, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. --- Revelation 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 29-30
Matthew 9:1-17
I like soup when it is steaming hot and a soft drink when it is icy cold. I can't stand either one lukewarm. Jesus has the same attitude toward people who profess to be His children. He detests lukewarmness. He said He wished they would be either cold or hot [Revelation 3:15].
Although some people believe the term cold refers to hostility toward Jesus and the gospel, I don't believe He prefers hostility to halfheartedness. Rather, in His message to the church in Laodicea, Jesus may have had in mind two springs in the region --- the hot mineral springs at Hierapolis and the pure cold water springs in Colosse. The hot springs were seen as having healing powers. The cold springs provided refreshment. The Christians in the church at Laodicea brought neither healing to the spiritually ill nor refreshment to the weary. They were lukewarm and of no help to anyone.
You and I must ask ourselves these questions: Do I provide refreshment to the spiritually weary by bringing them encouragement, joy, and hope? Do I bring healing by challenging the careless, correcting the erring, and motivating the indifferent? Remember, we can't help anybody if we are lukewarm. The Lord wants us either cold or hot --- whatever is needed at the moment. --- Herb Vander Lugt
O God, grant me the strength of heart,
Of motive, and of will
To falter not but do my part
Your purpose to fulfill. --- Anon.
A HALF-HEARTED CHRISTIAN NEEDS TO REGAIN A HEART FOR GOD.
Monday, January 10, 2005
Him Only
Read: Ezra 4:1-5
We alone will build to the LORD God of Israel, as King Cyrus the king of Persia has commanded us. --- Ezra 4:3
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 27-28
Matthew 8:18-34
A Christian youth organization in Singapore learned that the local horse-racing club wanted to donate a significant sum of money to its work. The gift would be helpful, but the organization had taken a position against gambling. Now it had to decide whether accepting money from a racing club that derived its revenue from gambling would compromise its commitment to Christ.
Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the heads of the families of Israel faced a similar dilemma. They were being offered help to rebuild the temple by Assyrian settlers in the land who had intermarried with remnants of the tribes of Israel. Later known as Samaritans, these people were adversaries of Israel [Ezra 4:1]. Zerubbabel's response was decisive: "We alone will build tot he LORD God." Why such exclusivity? In 2 Kings 17:33, we learn that those who offered help "feared the LORD, yet served their own gods."
We need to be reminded often of the first commandment: "You shall have no other gods before Me" [Exodus 20:3]. Although the Lord can use even unbelievers to accomplish His purposes, we are never to compromise our loyalty to Him. By our words and our actions we must show that we worship Him and Him only. --- Albert Lee
The dearest idol I have known,
Whate'er that idol be,
Help me to tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee. --- Cowper
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO WORSHIP GOD, BUT ONLY ONE GOD TO WORSHIP.
We alone will build to the LORD God of Israel, as King Cyrus the king of Persia has commanded us. --- Ezra 4:3
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 27-28
Matthew 8:18-34
A Christian youth organization in Singapore learned that the local horse-racing club wanted to donate a significant sum of money to its work. The gift would be helpful, but the organization had taken a position against gambling. Now it had to decide whether accepting money from a racing club that derived its revenue from gambling would compromise its commitment to Christ.
Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the heads of the families of Israel faced a similar dilemma. They were being offered help to rebuild the temple by Assyrian settlers in the land who had intermarried with remnants of the tribes of Israel. Later known as Samaritans, these people were adversaries of Israel [Ezra 4:1]. Zerubbabel's response was decisive: "We alone will build tot he LORD God." Why such exclusivity? In 2 Kings 17:33, we learn that those who offered help "feared the LORD, yet served their own gods."
We need to be reminded often of the first commandment: "You shall have no other gods before Me" [Exodus 20:3]. Although the Lord can use even unbelievers to accomplish His purposes, we are never to compromise our loyalty to Him. By our words and our actions we must show that we worship Him and Him only. --- Albert Lee
The dearest idol I have known,
Whate'er that idol be,
Help me to tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee. --- Cowper
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO WORSHIP GOD, BUT ONLY ONE GOD TO WORSHIP.
Sunday, January 09, 2005
The World Is Watching
Read: 1 John 2:1-11
He who says he abides in [Jesus] ought himself also to walk just as He walked. --- 1 John 2:6
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 25-26
Matthew 8:1-17
If the people in your community were asked about the Christians who live there, what do you think they would say? Would they say they recognize Christians by their love, or because of something else?
Consider these two true situations: In one small town a restaurant decided to close on Sunday nights because the staff refused to work for the after-evening-church crowd. The people who came from church were rude, messy, and left small tips.
In another town, the manager of a store that sold concert tickets reported that some of the rudest people she had ever met were several who had bought tickets to hear a well-known Christian singing group.
Sometimes we don't realize it, but the Non-Christian world is watching us. Our neighbors and acquiantances and others we encounter notice our behavior. They know that if we claim to be followers of Christ we are supposed to be kind and compassionate. They know that our lives should reflect love and Christlikeness [John 13:35; 1 John 2:6]. They know that we should't be so busy with our own interests that we don't love other people.
Let's make sure the people who are watching our lives will want to get to know our Savior. --- Dave Branon
I want my life to shine for Jesus
So that everywhere I go
The watching world will see He loves them
And His saving grace will know. --- Hess
NOTHING IS SO ATTRACTIVE AS BEING LIKE CHRIST.
He who says he abides in [Jesus] ought himself also to walk just as He walked. --- 1 John 2:6
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 25-26
Matthew 8:1-17
If the people in your community were asked about the Christians who live there, what do you think they would say? Would they say they recognize Christians by their love, or because of something else?
Consider these two true situations: In one small town a restaurant decided to close on Sunday nights because the staff refused to work for the after-evening-church crowd. The people who came from church were rude, messy, and left small tips.
In another town, the manager of a store that sold concert tickets reported that some of the rudest people she had ever met were several who had bought tickets to hear a well-known Christian singing group.
Sometimes we don't realize it, but the Non-Christian world is watching us. Our neighbors and acquiantances and others we encounter notice our behavior. They know that if we claim to be followers of Christ we are supposed to be kind and compassionate. They know that our lives should reflect love and Christlikeness [John 13:35; 1 John 2:6]. They know that we should't be so busy with our own interests that we don't love other people.
Let's make sure the people who are watching our lives will want to get to know our Savior. --- Dave Branon
I want my life to shine for Jesus
So that everywhere I go
The watching world will see He loves them
And His saving grace will know. --- Hess
NOTHING IS SO ATTRACTIVE AS BEING LIKE CHRIST.
Saturday, January 08, 2005
Who's Guilty?
Read: Matthew 7:1-5
Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye. --- Matthew 7:5
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 23-24
Matthew 7
A North Carolina man accused his estranged wife of being married to two men. When the woman was arrested, she didn't deny the charge of bigamy. She not only admitted her guilt, but she also told authorities that she must have been crazy to get married twice without having gone through divorce or widowhood.
That was only half the story. What surprised her, she said, was that her husband would turn her in, because her was guilty of the same crime. When the countercharges were explored, the husband admitted that he too was illegally married to two women.
This husband is an example of what Jesus described in Matthew 7:1-5. While having a "plank" in his own eye, the man pointed critically to a "speck" in the eye of his wife. Both had broken the law by being married to two people at the same time. His sin, however, was the greater because he was arrogant to think he could get away with judging another person for the same sin he was committing.
The message is clear. Christ shows mercy to us when we admit our sin, but He judges our hypocrisy and pride when we refuse to be humbled in His presence.
Let's deal with our own sin and not become experts in pointing out the sins of others. --- Mart De Haan
Don't be too harsh with the one who sins,
Nor pelt him with word or stone,
Unless you are sure, yes, doubly sure,
That you have no sins of your own. --- Anon.
MOST OF US ARE FAR-SIGHTED ABOUT SIN --- WE SEE THE SINS OF OTHERS BUT NOT OUR OWN.
Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye. --- Matthew 7:5
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 23-24
Matthew 7
A North Carolina man accused his estranged wife of being married to two men. When the woman was arrested, she didn't deny the charge of bigamy. She not only admitted her guilt, but she also told authorities that she must have been crazy to get married twice without having gone through divorce or widowhood.
That was only half the story. What surprised her, she said, was that her husband would turn her in, because her was guilty of the same crime. When the countercharges were explored, the husband admitted that he too was illegally married to two women.
This husband is an example of what Jesus described in Matthew 7:1-5. While having a "plank" in his own eye, the man pointed critically to a "speck" in the eye of his wife. Both had broken the law by being married to two people at the same time. His sin, however, was the greater because he was arrogant to think he could get away with judging another person for the same sin he was committing.
The message is clear. Christ shows mercy to us when we admit our sin, but He judges our hypocrisy and pride when we refuse to be humbled in His presence.
Let's deal with our own sin and not become experts in pointing out the sins of others. --- Mart De Haan
Don't be too harsh with the one who sins,
Nor pelt him with word or stone,
Unless you are sure, yes, doubly sure,
That you have no sins of your own. --- Anon.
MOST OF US ARE FAR-SIGHTED ABOUT SIN --- WE SEE THE SINS OF OTHERS BUT NOT OUR OWN.
Friday, January 07, 2005
Our Home Is Ahead
Read: Hebrews 11:8-10
By faith [Abraham] dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country. --- Hebrews 11:9
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 20-22
Matthew 6:19-34
Now that I'm getting closer to the end of life's journey, I'm thinking more like a transient. I suppose it's natural. Abraham first described himself as "a foreigner and a visitor" when he was buying a burial plot for Sarah [Genesis 23:4]. Time and death make you think about such things.
Most elderly believers say the same thing: There's no home for us this side of heaven. Like Pilgrim in Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress, once we've caught sight of the Celestial City we can never be content with anything less. Like Abraham, we look for a city whose builder is God [Hebrews 11:10].
In Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings, as Frodo and the other hobbits set out on their great adventure, they sing, "Home is behind, the world ahead." But for Christians, it's the other way around: The world is behind; our home is ahead.
There are no valleys of weeping there, for "God will wipe away every tear from [our] eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. These shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away" [Revelation 21:4]. That promise makes the present journey easier to endure.
Put another way, it's the hope of going home that keeps me going. I can hardly wait to get there! --- David Roper
I have a home in heaven above,
From sin and sorrow free,
A mansion which eternal love
Designed and formed for me. --- Bennett
THE MORE YOU LOOK FORWARD TO HEAVEN, THE LESS YOU'LL DESIRE OF EARTH.
By faith [Abraham] dwelt in the land of promise as in a foreign country. --- Hebrews 11:9
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 20-22
Matthew 6:19-34
Now that I'm getting closer to the end of life's journey, I'm thinking more like a transient. I suppose it's natural. Abraham first described himself as "a foreigner and a visitor" when he was buying a burial plot for Sarah [Genesis 23:4]. Time and death make you think about such things.
Most elderly believers say the same thing: There's no home for us this side of heaven. Like Pilgrim in Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress, once we've caught sight of the Celestial City we can never be content with anything less. Like Abraham, we look for a city whose builder is God [Hebrews 11:10].
In Tolkien's Lord Of The Rings, as Frodo and the other hobbits set out on their great adventure, they sing, "Home is behind, the world ahead." But for Christians, it's the other way around: The world is behind; our home is ahead.
There are no valleys of weeping there, for "God will wipe away every tear from [our] eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. These shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away" [Revelation 21:4]. That promise makes the present journey easier to endure.
Put another way, it's the hope of going home that keeps me going. I can hardly wait to get there! --- David Roper
I have a home in heaven above,
From sin and sorrow free,
A mansion which eternal love
Designed and formed for me. --- Bennett
THE MORE YOU LOOK FORWARD TO HEAVEN, THE LESS YOU'LL DESIRE OF EARTH.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Joy List
Read: John 15:9-17
These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. --- John 15:11
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 18-19
Matthew 6:1-18
Writer C.W. Metcalf was working as a hospice volunteer when he met 13-year-old Chuck, who was terminally ill. One day Chuck gave Metcalf half a dozen sheets of paper with writing on both sides and said, "I want you to give this to my mom and dad after I die. It's a list of all the fun we had, all the times we laughed." Metcalf was amazed that this teenager on the verge of death was thinking about the well-being of others.
Metcalf delivered the list. Years later he decided to make a list of his own. Surprisingly, he found it difficult at first to compile his "joy list." But as he began looking each day for the moments of laughter, satisfaction, and joy, his list began to grow.
Any joy list that we compile will no doubt include many references to the presence and power of Jesus Christ. No matter what our circumstances, joy is His gracious gift to all who trust Him. Even as Jesus faced the cross, He looked beyond its agony to the glad result of His sacrifice. He told His disciples, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full" [John 15:11].
Why not begin your own joy list today. It can be a good reminder of the Lord's faithful love and the gladness of heart He brings. --- David McCasland
Because life's circumstances change,
Our happiness may not remain;
But if we're walking with the Lord,
Our inner joy He will sustain. --- Sper
TO MULTIPLY YOUR JOY, COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS.
These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full. --- John 15:11
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 18-19
Matthew 6:1-18
Writer C.W. Metcalf was working as a hospice volunteer when he met 13-year-old Chuck, who was terminally ill. One day Chuck gave Metcalf half a dozen sheets of paper with writing on both sides and said, "I want you to give this to my mom and dad after I die. It's a list of all the fun we had, all the times we laughed." Metcalf was amazed that this teenager on the verge of death was thinking about the well-being of others.
Metcalf delivered the list. Years later he decided to make a list of his own. Surprisingly, he found it difficult at first to compile his "joy list." But as he began looking each day for the moments of laughter, satisfaction, and joy, his list began to grow.
Any joy list that we compile will no doubt include many references to the presence and power of Jesus Christ. No matter what our circumstances, joy is His gracious gift to all who trust Him. Even as Jesus faced the cross, He looked beyond its agony to the glad result of His sacrifice. He told His disciples, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full" [John 15:11].
Why not begin your own joy list today. It can be a good reminder of the Lord's faithful love and the gladness of heart He brings. --- David McCasland
Because life's circumstances change,
Our happiness may not remain;
But if we're walking with the Lord,
Our inner joy He will sustain. --- Sper
TO MULTIPLY YOUR JOY, COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS.
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
The Great Potter
Read: Jeremiah 18:1-6
As the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand. --- Jeremiah 18:6
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 16-17
Matthew 5:27-48
One definition of the word attitude is "the angle of approach" that an aircraft takes when landing. Author Chris Spicer writes: "Attitudes are to life as the angle of approach is to flying." He adds, "Attitude s the way we choose to think about things; attitudes will cause us to react and behave in a certain way." He also says that attitudes are not inborn or accidental. They are learned and absorbed reactions; therefore they can be changed.
During my thirties, the Lord began convicting me of my wrong thinking toward myself, others, and life --- negative, self-pitying, and bitter thinking. With the help of God's Word, I recognized my need for change in three main areas: my attitudes, actions, and reactions. But I feared I couldn't change. One day I read in Jeremiah 18 how the potter refashioned some marred clay [which is what I felt like] into a different vessel, as it pleased the potter. What I couldn't do, my great Potter could! I only needed to be cooperative clay.
Today this vessel is far from finished. But as I put myself in the Potter's hands, He keeps working on me and shaping my attitudes and actions. I call them Christ-attitudes, Christ-actions, and Christ-reactions.
The great Potter can do the same for you. --- Joanie Yoder
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay;
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still. --- Pollard
A CHANGE IN THE HEART BRINGS A CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR.
As the clay is in the potter's hand, so are you in My hand. --- Jeremiah 18:6
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 16-17
Matthew 5:27-48
One definition of the word attitude is "the angle of approach" that an aircraft takes when landing. Author Chris Spicer writes: "Attitudes are to life as the angle of approach is to flying." He adds, "Attitude s the way we choose to think about things; attitudes will cause us to react and behave in a certain way." He also says that attitudes are not inborn or accidental. They are learned and absorbed reactions; therefore they can be changed.
During my thirties, the Lord began convicting me of my wrong thinking toward myself, others, and life --- negative, self-pitying, and bitter thinking. With the help of God's Word, I recognized my need for change in three main areas: my attitudes, actions, and reactions. But I feared I couldn't change. One day I read in Jeremiah 18 how the potter refashioned some marred clay [which is what I felt like] into a different vessel, as it pleased the potter. What I couldn't do, my great Potter could! I only needed to be cooperative clay.
Today this vessel is far from finished. But as I put myself in the Potter's hands, He keeps working on me and shaping my attitudes and actions. I call them Christ-attitudes, Christ-actions, and Christ-reactions.
The great Potter can do the same for you. --- Joanie Yoder
Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
Thou art the Potter, I am the clay;
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still. --- Pollard
A CHANGE IN THE HEART BRINGS A CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR.
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
Get Into The Stew
Read: Matthew 5:11-16
You are the salt of the earth. --- Matthew 5:13
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 13-15
Matthew 5:1-26
It's common, cheap, and used around the world. It has stirred up wars, led to the establishment of trade routes, and paid the salaries of soldiers. Today it serves chiefly as a preservative and a flavoring. What is it? It's the crystalline substance we call salt.
Jesus, who was a master of using ordinary things to illustrate spiritual realities, talked about salt when He was teaching His disciples how they were to serve as agents of His kingdom. He said, "You are the salt of the earth" [Matthew 5:13].
If we think of salt as a preservative, we can assume Jesus wants us to prevent moral decay in our society. And if we think of salt's ability to enhance flavor, we can be sure He wants us to help people discover the joy of knowing and living for Him.
Salt stored away on a shelf is not fulfilling its function. In a similar way, unless we are actively at work sharing God's life-enhancing truth, we are not serving as spiritual salt. After all, the place for salt is in the "stew" of human activities. Instead of just criticizing the corruption of our culture as well as the flatness of the life so many people endure, let's get into the stew --- for we are the salt of the earth. --- Vernon Grounds
Called to be salt and light in this world,
Called to preserve and to shine,
Called to reflect the glory of God ---
Oh, what a calling is mine! --- Fitzhugh
A SALTY CHRISTIAN MAKES OTHERS THIRSTY FOR JESUS, THE WATER OF LIFE.
You are the salt of the earth. --- Matthew 5:13
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 13-15
Matthew 5:1-26
It's common, cheap, and used around the world. It has stirred up wars, led to the establishment of trade routes, and paid the salaries of soldiers. Today it serves chiefly as a preservative and a flavoring. What is it? It's the crystalline substance we call salt.
Jesus, who was a master of using ordinary things to illustrate spiritual realities, talked about salt when He was teaching His disciples how they were to serve as agents of His kingdom. He said, "You are the salt of the earth" [Matthew 5:13].
If we think of salt as a preservative, we can assume Jesus wants us to prevent moral decay in our society. And if we think of salt's ability to enhance flavor, we can be sure He wants us to help people discover the joy of knowing and living for Him.
Salt stored away on a shelf is not fulfilling its function. In a similar way, unless we are actively at work sharing God's life-enhancing truth, we are not serving as spiritual salt. After all, the place for salt is in the "stew" of human activities. Instead of just criticizing the corruption of our culture as well as the flatness of the life so many people endure, let's get into the stew --- for we are the salt of the earth. --- Vernon Grounds
Called to be salt and light in this world,
Called to preserve and to shine,
Called to reflect the glory of God ---
Oh, what a calling is mine! --- Fitzhugh
A SALTY CHRISTIAN MAKES OTHERS THIRSTY FOR JESUS, THE WATER OF LIFE.
Monday, January 03, 2005
Always For Us
Read: Ruth 1
If God is for us, who can be against us? --- Romans 8:31
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 10-12
Matthew 4
Naomi, her husband, and their two sons left Israel and moved to Moab because of a famine [Ruth 1:1-2]. One son married Ruth, the other married Orpah. Eventually Naomi's husband and sons died [vv.3,5], so she decided to return to Israel. But she felt that her daughters-in-law would be better off staying in Moab [vv.6-13]. She tried to dissuade them from going with her by saying, "No, my daughters; for it grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD has gone out against me!" [v.13].
Was Naomi right in her thinking about God? Perhaps the family had displayed a lack of faith by moving to pagan Moab, but God certainly was not against her. He proved this by wonderfully providing for her and Ruth after they returned to Israel. [Read the rest of the book --- it's short.]
You may be unemployed, terminally ill, have a disabled child, or care for a loved one with Alzheimer's. God hasn't promised to keep us from such problems. But He has proven that He is always "for us" as Christians by what He did through Jesus [Romans 5:8-9]. Nothing, not even death, can separate us from His love [8:35-39].
The Lord is never "against us," not even when He chastens us [Hebrews 12:5-6]. He is always for us! --- Herb Vander Lugt
Our God is always there for us ---
Receiving every prayer,
Delighting in our words of praise,
Responding with His care. --- Sper
THE ONE WHO DIED TO SAVE YOU WILL NEVER BE AGAINST YOU.
If God is for us, who can be against us? --- Romans 8:31
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 10-12
Matthew 4
Naomi, her husband, and their two sons left Israel and moved to Moab because of a famine [Ruth 1:1-2]. One son married Ruth, the other married Orpah. Eventually Naomi's husband and sons died [vv.3,5], so she decided to return to Israel. But she felt that her daughters-in-law would be better off staying in Moab [vv.6-13]. She tried to dissuade them from going with her by saying, "No, my daughters; for it grieves me very much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD has gone out against me!" [v.13].
Was Naomi right in her thinking about God? Perhaps the family had displayed a lack of faith by moving to pagan Moab, but God certainly was not against her. He proved this by wonderfully providing for her and Ruth after they returned to Israel. [Read the rest of the book --- it's short.]
You may be unemployed, terminally ill, have a disabled child, or care for a loved one with Alzheimer's. God hasn't promised to keep us from such problems. But He has proven that He is always "for us" as Christians by what He did through Jesus [Romans 5:8-9]. Nothing, not even death, can separate us from His love [8:35-39].
The Lord is never "against us," not even when He chastens us [Hebrews 12:5-6]. He is always for us! --- Herb Vander Lugt
Our God is always there for us ---
Receiving every prayer,
Delighting in our words of praise,
Responding with His care. --- Sper
THE ONE WHO DIED TO SAVE YOU WILL NEVER BE AGAINST YOU.
Sunday, January 02, 2005
"I Smile"
Read: Psalm 118:14-21
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. --- 2 Corinthians 5:17
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 7-9
Matthew 3
A few years ago, singer Russ Lee came out with a song titled "I Smile." When you discover how his life was changed by Jesus Christ, you'll know why he sings a song that says, "I smile when I think about the way You turned my life around. I smile when I think about the happiness in You I've found."
When Russ was 17, his days were wasted on drugs, alcohol, boredom, and pain. His life was full of self-inflicted trouble and hopelessness. One day, while listening to an old rock song called "I Can't Get No Satisfaction," he realized that this described his life. Two days later, a friend invited him to church. There Russ heard that real satisfaction comes from knowing Jesus Christ, so he reached out in faith to Him.
So, what was the first thing Russ did after trusting Christ? According to the book Touched By The Savior by Mike Yorkey, Russ said, "I walked back out to my car. In the trunk was a garbage bag filled with drugs I had been selling. I won't be needing these again, I thought, and I was right. I threw the bag away. From that day forward, God transformed my life from the inside out. I became a new creation."
No wonder Russ Lee can sing with exuberance, "I smile." Can you? --- Dave Branon
BECOMING A NEW CREATION
To find out how to have a new life in Jesus, read the booklet Why Does It Make Sense To Believe In Christ? www.discoveryseries.org/q1104
A SONG IN THE HEART PUTS A SMILE ON THE FACE.
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. --- 2 Corinthians 5:17
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 7-9
Matthew 3
A few years ago, singer Russ Lee came out with a song titled "I Smile." When you discover how his life was changed by Jesus Christ, you'll know why he sings a song that says, "I smile when I think about the way You turned my life around. I smile when I think about the happiness in You I've found."
When Russ was 17, his days were wasted on drugs, alcohol, boredom, and pain. His life was full of self-inflicted trouble and hopelessness. One day, while listening to an old rock song called "I Can't Get No Satisfaction," he realized that this described his life. Two days later, a friend invited him to church. There Russ heard that real satisfaction comes from knowing Jesus Christ, so he reached out in faith to Him.
So, what was the first thing Russ did after trusting Christ? According to the book Touched By The Savior by Mike Yorkey, Russ said, "I walked back out to my car. In the trunk was a garbage bag filled with drugs I had been selling. I won't be needing these again, I thought, and I was right. I threw the bag away. From that day forward, God transformed my life from the inside out. I became a new creation."
No wonder Russ Lee can sing with exuberance, "I smile." Can you? --- Dave Branon
BECOMING A NEW CREATION
To find out how to have a new life in Jesus, read the booklet Why Does It Make Sense To Believe In Christ? www.discoveryseries.org/q1104
A SONG IN THE HEART PUTS A SMILE ON THE FACE.
Saturday, January 01, 2005
Noble Plans
Read: Isaiah 32:1-8
A generous man devises generous things, and by generosity he shall stand. --- Isaiah 32:8
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 4-6
Matthew 2
There's a difference between saying, "I would like to visit England sometime" and saying, "I'm planning to visit England next week." One statement expresses a desire; the other indicates definite preparation.
So often we enter a new year with hopes, desires, and resolutions that can be the seeds of positive change. But the key to what actually happens in our lives is in making definite plans. That involves thought, purpose, and effort.
Isaiah wrote about a future time when "a king will reign in righteousness" [Isaiah 32:1]. This prophetic passage tells us about the coming rule of Christ, but it also gives us a principle that we who bow before Jesus as King can apply today. Isaiah contrasted the schemer who "devises wicked plans" with the generous or noble person who "devises generous things" [vv.7-8]. As Christ's followers, we are to be generous people.
What plans have we made for increased generosity during this new year? Are we only hoping to give more time and attention to others, or have we made some specific commitments? If we want to help a person or a cause financially, have we written the first check?
This is a great time to make noble plans that honor God with our vision and generosity. --- David McCasland
In Jesus' name our prayer we raise,
Whose guiding hand has blessed our days;
And may we, Lord, in godly fear
Serve You throughout this coming year. --- Anon.
GOD'S PLANS INCLUDE YOU. DO YOUR PLANS INCLUDE GOD?
A generous man devises generous things, and by generosity he shall stand. --- Isaiah 32:8
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 4-6
Matthew 2
There's a difference between saying, "I would like to visit England sometime" and saying, "I'm planning to visit England next week." One statement expresses a desire; the other indicates definite preparation.
So often we enter a new year with hopes, desires, and resolutions that can be the seeds of positive change. But the key to what actually happens in our lives is in making definite plans. That involves thought, purpose, and effort.
Isaiah wrote about a future time when "a king will reign in righteousness" [Isaiah 32:1]. This prophetic passage tells us about the coming rule of Christ, but it also gives us a principle that we who bow before Jesus as King can apply today. Isaiah contrasted the schemer who "devises wicked plans" with the generous or noble person who "devises generous things" [vv.7-8]. As Christ's followers, we are to be generous people.
What plans have we made for increased generosity during this new year? Are we only hoping to give more time and attention to others, or have we made some specific commitments? If we want to help a person or a cause financially, have we written the first check?
This is a great time to make noble plans that honor God with our vision and generosity. --- David McCasland
In Jesus' name our prayer we raise,
Whose guiding hand has blessed our days;
And may we, Lord, in godly fear
Serve You throughout this coming year. --- Anon.
GOD'S PLANS INCLUDE YOU. DO YOUR PLANS INCLUDE GOD?
Restoring The Years
Read: Joel 2:12-27
I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten. --- Joel 2:25
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 1-3
Matthew 1
How many years have you lost to the locust? Have a self-indulgence, sensuality, sinful motives, and personal ambition robbed you of joy, peace, and fruitfulness? Perhaps you feel discouraged when you think of all the time that seems to have been wasted, never to be reclaimed.
If so, consider the words of the Lord through the prophet Joel. God told the people of Israel that even though they had been disobedient to Him and had been disciplined through a plague of locusts, there was still hope. The Lord said that He is "gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness" [Joel 2:13]. Then He promised, "I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten" [v.25].
When we confess our sin to the Lord, He is quick to forgive our past and fill our future with hope. He can bring good out of our wasted years. He does that by teaching us humility through our failures, and by helping us to understand the weaknesses we have in common with others.
Although our previous years may have been blighted by sin, God is eager to restore us and give us much fruit from our labor. What we have learned from the past can now result in productive service for Him and heartfelt praise to Him. The year ahead is filled with hope! --- David Roper
Forgive me, O Lord, for all of my sin,
Please make my heart pure and cleanse me within;
To You I confess, my ways have been wrong;
Restore now my joy and fill me with song. --- Fitzhugh
NO MATTER HOW DARK YOUR PAST, WITH CHRIST YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT.
I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten. --- Joel 2:25
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 1-3
Matthew 1
How many years have you lost to the locust? Have a self-indulgence, sensuality, sinful motives, and personal ambition robbed you of joy, peace, and fruitfulness? Perhaps you feel discouraged when you think of all the time that seems to have been wasted, never to be reclaimed.
If so, consider the words of the Lord through the prophet Joel. God told the people of Israel that even though they had been disobedient to Him and had been disciplined through a plague of locusts, there was still hope. The Lord said that He is "gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness" [Joel 2:13]. Then He promised, "I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten" [v.25].
When we confess our sin to the Lord, He is quick to forgive our past and fill our future with hope. He can bring good out of our wasted years. He does that by teaching us humility through our failures, and by helping us to understand the weaknesses we have in common with others.
Although our previous years may have been blighted by sin, God is eager to restore us and give us much fruit from our labor. What we have learned from the past can now result in productive service for Him and heartfelt praise to Him. The year ahead is filled with hope! --- David Roper
Forgive me, O Lord, for all of my sin,
Please make my heart pure and cleanse me within;
To You I confess, my ways have been wrong;
Restore now my joy and fill me with song. --- Fitzhugh
NO MATTER HOW DARK YOUR PAST, WITH CHRIST YOUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT.
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