Read: Philippians 4:8-13
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. --- Philippians 4:13
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 23-25
Mark 7:14-37
Most people own a calendar or an appointment book in which they record details of future commitments. A Christian friend of mine uses one in the opposite way. He doesn't record key activities until after they've taken place.
Here's his approach: Each morning he prays, "Lord, I go forth in Your strength alone. Please use me as You wish." Then, whenever he accomplishes something unusual or difficult, he records it in his diary in the evening.
For example, he may write, "Today I was enabled to share my testimony with a friend." "Today God enabled me to overcome my fear through faith." "Today I was enabled to help and encourage a troubled person."
My friend uses the word enabled because he knows he couldn't do these things without God's help. By recording each "enabling," he is giving God all the glory. Relying constantly on God's strength, he can testify with the apostle Paul, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" [Philippians 4:13].
As you enter each new day, ask God to strengthen and use you. You can be sure that as you look back on your day, you'll praise and glorify the Lord as you realize what He has enabled you to do. --- Joanie Yoder
Lord, give me strength for this day's task,
Not for tomorrow would I ask;
At twilight hour, oh, may I say,
"The Lord has been my guide today." --- Nillingham
GOD ALWAYS GIVES ENOUGH STRENGTH FOR THE NEXT STEP.
Monday, February 28, 2005
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Old Skinflint
Read: 1 Timothy 6:17-19
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. --- John 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 20-22
Mark 7:1-13
Some people will do anything to save a buck. Like the miserly uncle I read about who invited his nephews to hunt for arrowheads in the field behind his house. Before the search could begin, however, he told the excited youngsters they had to move all the rocks out of the field and clear away the underbrush. By the time they were finished, it was too late to search for arrowheads. Later, they learned that none had ever been found on his property. When they complained to their dad, he said, "My old skinflint brother bamboozled you out of a day's work." Those boys will not soon forget how they were taken advantage of.
There's nothing wrong with being frugal. It's a matter of good stewardship. But there is something wrong with being so thrifty that you won't pay a boy what he's worth.
Stinginess at the cost of someone else's humiliation or hurt is not what our Lord wants. In 1 Timothy 6:18, we learn that we're to "do good" and be "ready to give, willing to share." We're to be fair, giving, and generous people.
God is the ultimate giver. He gave His Son, at unbelievable sacrifice, to offer us new life [John 3:16]. Let's follow His example of love and generosity --- they we won't be accused of being an "old skinflint." --- Dave Egner
One grace each child of God can show
Is giving from a willing heart;
Yet, if we wait till riches grow,
It well may be we'll never start. --- D. De Haan
BECAUSE GOD GIVES US ALL WE NEED, LET'S GIVE TO OTHERS IN THEIR NEED.
For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. --- John 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 20-22
Mark 7:1-13
Some people will do anything to save a buck. Like the miserly uncle I read about who invited his nephews to hunt for arrowheads in the field behind his house. Before the search could begin, however, he told the excited youngsters they had to move all the rocks out of the field and clear away the underbrush. By the time they were finished, it was too late to search for arrowheads. Later, they learned that none had ever been found on his property. When they complained to their dad, he said, "My old skinflint brother bamboozled you out of a day's work." Those boys will not soon forget how they were taken advantage of.
There's nothing wrong with being frugal. It's a matter of good stewardship. But there is something wrong with being so thrifty that you won't pay a boy what he's worth.
Stinginess at the cost of someone else's humiliation or hurt is not what our Lord wants. In 1 Timothy 6:18, we learn that we're to "do good" and be "ready to give, willing to share." We're to be fair, giving, and generous people.
God is the ultimate giver. He gave His Son, at unbelievable sacrifice, to offer us new life [John 3:16]. Let's follow His example of love and generosity --- they we won't be accused of being an "old skinflint." --- Dave Egner
One grace each child of God can show
Is giving from a willing heart;
Yet, if we wait till riches grow,
It well may be we'll never start. --- D. De Haan
BECAUSE GOD GIVES US ALL WE NEED, LET'S GIVE TO OTHERS IN THEIR NEED.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
A Good Neighbor
Read: Luke 10:25-37
Which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves? --- Luke 10:36
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 17-19
Mark 6:30-56
When Fred Rogers died February 27, 2003, scores of newspapers carried the story as front-page news, and almost every headline included the word neighbor. As host of the long-running children's television show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, he was well known to millions of children adn their parents as a kind, gentle, warm person who genuinely believed "each person is special, deep inside, just the way they are."
Mr. Rogers once told a journalist: "When we look at our neighbor with appreciative eyes, ... with gratitude for who that person truly is, then I feel we are arm in arm with Christ Jesus, the advocate of eternal good." Because Rogers recognized the value of each person, he believed in being a good neighbor to all.
When Jesus was wask, "Who is my neighbor?" He told the parable of the Good Samaritan [Luke 10:29-35]. At the conclusion of this story, the Lord asked, "Which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" The answer? "He who showed mercy on him" [vv.36-37].
Who in our "neighborhood" needs a kind word, an arm of friendship, or an act of encouragement today? Jesus calls us to show love and compassion to others as we love God with all our heart, and our neighbor as ourselves. --- David McCasland
How many lives shall I touch today?
How many neighbors will pass my way?
I can bless so many and help so much
If I meet each one with a Christlike touch. --- Jones
YOUR LOVE FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR IS PROOF OF YOUR LOVE FOR GOD.
Which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves? --- Luke 10:36
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 17-19
Mark 6:30-56
When Fred Rogers died February 27, 2003, scores of newspapers carried the story as front-page news, and almost every headline included the word neighbor. As host of the long-running children's television show Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood, he was well known to millions of children adn their parents as a kind, gentle, warm person who genuinely believed "each person is special, deep inside, just the way they are."
Mr. Rogers once told a journalist: "When we look at our neighbor with appreciative eyes, ... with gratitude for who that person truly is, then I feel we are arm in arm with Christ Jesus, the advocate of eternal good." Because Rogers recognized the value of each person, he believed in being a good neighbor to all.
When Jesus was wask, "Who is my neighbor?" He told the parable of the Good Samaritan [Luke 10:29-35]. At the conclusion of this story, the Lord asked, "Which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?" The answer? "He who showed mercy on him" [vv.36-37].
Who in our "neighborhood" needs a kind word, an arm of friendship, or an act of encouragement today? Jesus calls us to show love and compassion to others as we love God with all our heart, and our neighbor as ourselves. --- David McCasland
How many lives shall I touch today?
How many neighbors will pass my way?
I can bless so many and help so much
If I meet each one with a Christlike touch. --- Jones
YOUR LOVE FOR YOUR NEIGHBOR IS PROOF OF YOUR LOVE FOR GOD.
Friday, February 25, 2005
Idols Of The Heart
Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-14
My beloved, flee from idolatry. --- 1 Corinthians 10:14
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 15-16
Mark 6:1-29
In Old Testament times, idolatry was easy to recognize --- dancing around the golden calves, bowing before the Baals. Even when the apostle Paul wrote to followers of Christ in first-century Corinth, pagan idolatry was openly practiced. He warned them to avoid any association with it [1 Corinthians 10:14].
Idolatry is still a danger to the people of God, though it isn't always so open or obvious. Idols are usually more subtle and hard to detect, for they set up their home in the hidden places of our heart.
If we want to know our idols, we need to consider our predominant thoughts, for what we think about most of the time may be an idol. Our last thought before we sleep, our first thought when we awake, our reveries throughout the day, are spent on the items and issues we treasure and trust. Any possession or person we put our hope in to bring us fulfillment, any goal or aspiration that becomes more important to us than God --- these are the "gods" that attract our allegiance and subtly control our lives.
Only God can satisfy the deepest needs of our heart and make us truly alive. That's why we would be wise to heed the loving counsel of the apostle Paul: "My beloved, flee from idolatry." --- David Roper
The dearest idol I have known,
Whate'er that idol be,
Help me tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee. --- Cowper
AN IDOL IS ANYTHING THAT TAKES THE PLACE OF GOD.
My beloved, flee from idolatry. --- 1 Corinthians 10:14
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 15-16
Mark 6:1-29
In Old Testament times, idolatry was easy to recognize --- dancing around the golden calves, bowing before the Baals. Even when the apostle Paul wrote to followers of Christ in first-century Corinth, pagan idolatry was openly practiced. He warned them to avoid any association with it [1 Corinthians 10:14].
Idolatry is still a danger to the people of God, though it isn't always so open or obvious. Idols are usually more subtle and hard to detect, for they set up their home in the hidden places of our heart.
If we want to know our idols, we need to consider our predominant thoughts, for what we think about most of the time may be an idol. Our last thought before we sleep, our first thought when we awake, our reveries throughout the day, are spent on the items and issues we treasure and trust. Any possession or person we put our hope in to bring us fulfillment, any goal or aspiration that becomes more important to us than God --- these are the "gods" that attract our allegiance and subtly control our lives.
Only God can satisfy the deepest needs of our heart and make us truly alive. That's why we would be wise to heed the loving counsel of the apostle Paul: "My beloved, flee from idolatry." --- David Roper
The dearest idol I have known,
Whate'er that idol be,
Help me tear it from Thy throne
And worship only Thee. --- Cowper
AN IDOL IS ANYTHING THAT TAKES THE PLACE OF GOD.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Graffiti
Read: Luke 12:13-21
One's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. --- Luke 12:15
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 12-14
Mark 5:21-43
Pastor and evangelist E.V. Hill went home to be with his Lord and Savior on February 25, 2003. He was much sought after as a conference speaker, and few have gained the attention and respect of people from all levels of society as he did.
Many years ago, Pastor Hill was invited to speak in a suburban church of a large southern city in the United States. In the introduction to his message, Pastor Hill commented on teh difference between the affluent suburb and the poor urban area where he ministered. "I know what's missing," he said. "You folks don't have any graffiti anywhere. I'd like to volunteer to provide some for you. I'll get a bucket of paint and walk through your neighborhood, writing this one word on your million-dollar homes and expensive European cars: temporary. That's it --- temporary. None of it will last.
We enjoy and take care of what we have, and that's as it should be. But Jesus said we shouldn't be possessed by our possessions, for they won't last into eternity [Luke 12:15-21]. A house is just a box in which to stay warm and dry; a car is a way to get us from one place to another. Since we can't take as E.V. Hill did --- temporary. --- Dave Egner
The riches of this world are vain,
They vanish in a day;
But sweet the treasures of God's love ---
They never pass away. --- Bosch
THE REAL MEASURE OF OUR WEALTH IF WHAT WILL BE OURS IN ETERNITY.
One's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. --- Luke 12:15
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 12-14
Mark 5:21-43
Pastor and evangelist E.V. Hill went home to be with his Lord and Savior on February 25, 2003. He was much sought after as a conference speaker, and few have gained the attention and respect of people from all levels of society as he did.
Many years ago, Pastor Hill was invited to speak in a suburban church of a large southern city in the United States. In the introduction to his message, Pastor Hill commented on teh difference between the affluent suburb and the poor urban area where he ministered. "I know what's missing," he said. "You folks don't have any graffiti anywhere. I'd like to volunteer to provide some for you. I'll get a bucket of paint and walk through your neighborhood, writing this one word on your million-dollar homes and expensive European cars: temporary. That's it --- temporary. None of it will last.
We enjoy and take care of what we have, and that's as it should be. But Jesus said we shouldn't be possessed by our possessions, for they won't last into eternity [Luke 12:15-21]. A house is just a box in which to stay warm and dry; a car is a way to get us from one place to another. Since we can't take as E.V. Hill did --- temporary. --- Dave Egner
The riches of this world are vain,
They vanish in a day;
But sweet the treasures of God's love ---
They never pass away. --- Bosch
THE REAL MEASURE OF OUR WEALTH IF WHAT WILL BE OURS IN ETERNITY.
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
A Mysterious Equation
Read: Colossians 1:9-18
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. --- Romans 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 9-11
Mark 5:1-20
Professor John Nash of Princeton University is a math genius who has spent his life in the abstract world of numbers, equations --- and delusions. Nash suffers from schizophrenia, a mental illness that can result in bizaare behavior and broken relationships. With medical help and the love of his wife, he learned to live with his illness and later won the Nobel Prize.
In the movie version of his life, Nash said: "I've always believed in numbers and the equations and logics that lead to reason.... My quest has taken me through the physical, the metaphysical, the delusional, and back. And I've made the most important discovery of my life. It's the only in the mysterious equations of love that any logical reasons can be framed."
In Colossians 1, we read of "the mysterious equation of love" at its deepest level --- God's love for us in Christ. Jesus is the image of the invisible God, and out of love He has created us and sustains us [vv.16-17]. He has also provided deliverance from the powers of darkness [v.13] and the forgiveness of our sins [v.14]. No wonder Paul said that such love "passes knowledge" [Ephesians 3:19]. It takes us beyond logic into the very heart of who God is [1 John 4:16].
We are to live and show that love --- always. --- Dennis De Haan
FOR FURTHER STUDY
How do we experience the love of Christ? [John 15:10].
What is the evidence of God's love in our lives?
[1 John 4:16-21]. How can you show God's love today?
GOD'S LOVE CANNOT BE EXPLAINED --- IT CAN ONLY BE EXPERIENCED.
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. --- Romans 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 9-11
Mark 5:1-20
Professor John Nash of Princeton University is a math genius who has spent his life in the abstract world of numbers, equations --- and delusions. Nash suffers from schizophrenia, a mental illness that can result in bizaare behavior and broken relationships. With medical help and the love of his wife, he learned to live with his illness and later won the Nobel Prize.
In the movie version of his life, Nash said: "I've always believed in numbers and the equations and logics that lead to reason.... My quest has taken me through the physical, the metaphysical, the delusional, and back. And I've made the most important discovery of my life. It's the only in the mysterious equations of love that any logical reasons can be framed."
In Colossians 1, we read of "the mysterious equation of love" at its deepest level --- God's love for us in Christ. Jesus is the image of the invisible God, and out of love He has created us and sustains us [vv.16-17]. He has also provided deliverance from the powers of darkness [v.13] and the forgiveness of our sins [v.14]. No wonder Paul said that such love "passes knowledge" [Ephesians 3:19]. It takes us beyond logic into the very heart of who God is [1 John 4:16].
We are to live and show that love --- always. --- Dennis De Haan
FOR FURTHER STUDY
How do we experience the love of Christ? [John 15:10].
What is the evidence of God's love in our lives?
[1 John 4:16-21]. How can you show God's love today?
GOD'S LOVE CANNOT BE EXPLAINED --- IT CAN ONLY BE EXPERIENCED.
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Submissive Leadership
Read: 2 Chronicles 10
... submitting to one another in the fear of God. --- Ephesians 5:21
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 7-8
Mark 4:21-41
A mild-mannered man was reading a book on being self-assertive and decided to start at home. So he stormed into his house, pointed a finger in his wife's face, and said, "From now on I'm boss around here and my word is law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal and draw my bath. Then, when I've eaten and finished my bath, guess who's going to dress me and comb my hair." "The mortician," replied his wife.
King Rehoboam tried that kind of self-assertiveness and it turned Israel against him. When he came to the throne, the people pleaded for less oppressive taxation. His older advisors urged him to heed their request, but his young friends told him to be even more demanding than his father. As a result of listening to his peers, 10 of the 12 tribes of Israel seceded and formed a new kingdom [2 Chronicles 10:16-17].
Good leaders don't rely on domineering self-assertion --- not at home, nor in church, nor in business. Rather, they balance self-assertiveness [which isn't wrong in itself] with the principle of submitting to one another [Ephesians 5:21]. They listen respectfully, admit when they're wrong, show a willingness to change, and mix gentleness with firmness. That's submissive leadership --- and it works! --- Herb Vander Lugt
Submissive leadership requires
A kind and gentle honesty
That will attend to others' needs
And win their love and loyalty. --- D. De Haan
THE ONLY LEADERS QUALIFIED TO LEAD ARE THOSE WHO HAVE LEARNED TO SERVE.
... submitting to one another in the fear of God. --- Ephesians 5:21
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 7-8
Mark 4:21-41
A mild-mannered man was reading a book on being self-assertive and decided to start at home. So he stormed into his house, pointed a finger in his wife's face, and said, "From now on I'm boss around here and my word is law! I want you to prepare me a gourmet meal and draw my bath. Then, when I've eaten and finished my bath, guess who's going to dress me and comb my hair." "The mortician," replied his wife.
King Rehoboam tried that kind of self-assertiveness and it turned Israel against him. When he came to the throne, the people pleaded for less oppressive taxation. His older advisors urged him to heed their request, but his young friends told him to be even more demanding than his father. As a result of listening to his peers, 10 of the 12 tribes of Israel seceded and formed a new kingdom [2 Chronicles 10:16-17].
Good leaders don't rely on domineering self-assertion --- not at home, nor in church, nor in business. Rather, they balance self-assertiveness [which isn't wrong in itself] with the principle of submitting to one another [Ephesians 5:21]. They listen respectfully, admit when they're wrong, show a willingness to change, and mix gentleness with firmness. That's submissive leadership --- and it works! --- Herb Vander Lugt
Submissive leadership requires
A kind and gentle honesty
That will attend to others' needs
And win their love and loyalty. --- D. De Haan
THE ONLY LEADERS QUALIFIED TO LEAD ARE THOSE WHO HAVE LEARNED TO SERVE.
Monday, February 21, 2005
Gardening Tips
Read: Mark 4:1-9
These are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the Word, accept it, and bear fruit. --- Mark 4:20
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 4-6
Mark 4:1-20
I picked up a gardening book the other day and got some good advice: "Take care of the soil, and don't worry about the plants. If the soil is good, the seed will take root and grow."
In the parable of the sower in Mark 4, Jesus spoke of the importance of "good ground" [or good soil]. He defined good soil as referring to those who "hear" God's Word, "accept it," and "bear fruit" [v.20]. If we keep our heart soft and receptive, God's Word will take root, grow, and produce fruit.
In gardening, life is in teh seed. Under the right conditions, it will grow until it reaches maturity and produces fruit. Similarly, if the seed of the Word is planted in the good soil of a receptive heart, it will grow until the character of Jesus is seen.
For the Christian, the power of the spiritual life comes from the indwelling Holy Spirit. As we open our heart to the Word with an eagerness to obey it, the Spirit causes us to grow and bear fruit [Galatians 5:22-23].
We can't make ourselves grow, any more than we can force growth from the seeds in our gardens. But we can tend the soil, keeping our hearts soft, receptive, and obedient to God's Word. Then we will yield the fruit of righteousness.
What kind of soil are you? --- David Roper
Lord, I would be soil in which You can plant
You Word with its promise of fruit;
I want to be open to You every day,
So what You have planted takes roots. --- Hess
A HEART OPEN TO GOD IS SOIL IN WHICH THE SEED OF HIS WORD CAN FLOURISH.
These are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the Word, accept it, and bear fruit. --- Mark 4:20
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 4-6
Mark 4:1-20
I picked up a gardening book the other day and got some good advice: "Take care of the soil, and don't worry about the plants. If the soil is good, the seed will take root and grow."
In the parable of the sower in Mark 4, Jesus spoke of the importance of "good ground" [or good soil]. He defined good soil as referring to those who "hear" God's Word, "accept it," and "bear fruit" [v.20]. If we keep our heart soft and receptive, God's Word will take root, grow, and produce fruit.
In gardening, life is in teh seed. Under the right conditions, it will grow until it reaches maturity and produces fruit. Similarly, if the seed of the Word is planted in the good soil of a receptive heart, it will grow until the character of Jesus is seen.
For the Christian, the power of the spiritual life comes from the indwelling Holy Spirit. As we open our heart to the Word with an eagerness to obey it, the Spirit causes us to grow and bear fruit [Galatians 5:22-23].
We can't make ourselves grow, any more than we can force growth from the seeds in our gardens. But we can tend the soil, keeping our hearts soft, receptive, and obedient to God's Word. Then we will yield the fruit of righteousness.
What kind of soil are you? --- David Roper
Lord, I would be soil in which You can plant
You Word with its promise of fruit;
I want to be open to You every day,
So what You have planted takes roots. --- Hess
A HEART OPEN TO GOD IS SOIL IN WHICH THE SEED OF HIS WORD CAN FLOURISH.
Sunday, February 20, 2005
How Would You Answer?
Read: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout .... And the dead in Christ will rise first. --- 1 Thessalonians 4:16
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 1-3
Mark 3
Sir Norman Anderson was invited to give a television talk on the evidence for Christ's resurrection, a subject that he had written much about. When his son died of cancer, the program producers offered to cancel his participation, saying, "You can't speak about the resurrection when you've just lost a son." But Anderson said, "I want to speak about it now even more." And so, sad in heart but with great assurance, he spoke of Christ's resurrection, and ours as believers.
The resurrection of Jesus is no myth --- it's a historical, well-attested fact. Indeed, it's an eternal fact! Jesus declared, "I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore" [Revelation 1:18].
Jesus spoke to His disciples about His own resurrection and reassured them, "Because I live, you will live also" [John 14:19]. And Paul wrote of the Christian's resurrection, teaching that when a fellow believer dies we don't need to sorrow as those who have no hope [1 Thessalonians 4:13].
When Lazarus died, Jesus assured Martha that whoever believes in Him, though he dies, shall live again [John 11:25-26]. He then asked, "Do you believe his?" Martha replied, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God" [v.27]. How would you answer? --- Joanie Yoder
All flesh, as grass, shall pass away
From this vile world of sin and strife;
The one who sleeps in Christ today
Will wake to resurrected life. --- Benson
CHRIST'S RESURRECTION IS THE GUARANTEE OF OUR OWN.
The Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout .... And the dead in Christ will rise first. --- 1 Thessalonians 4:16
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 1-3
Mark 3
Sir Norman Anderson was invited to give a television talk on the evidence for Christ's resurrection, a subject that he had written much about. When his son died of cancer, the program producers offered to cancel his participation, saying, "You can't speak about the resurrection when you've just lost a son." But Anderson said, "I want to speak about it now even more." And so, sad in heart but with great assurance, he spoke of Christ's resurrection, and ours as believers.
The resurrection of Jesus is no myth --- it's a historical, well-attested fact. Indeed, it's an eternal fact! Jesus declared, "I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore" [Revelation 1:18].
Jesus spoke to His disciples about His own resurrection and reassured them, "Because I live, you will live also" [John 14:19]. And Paul wrote of the Christian's resurrection, teaching that when a fellow believer dies we don't need to sorrow as those who have no hope [1 Thessalonians 4:13].
When Lazarus died, Jesus assured Martha that whoever believes in Him, though he dies, shall live again [John 11:25-26]. He then asked, "Do you believe his?" Martha replied, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God" [v.27]. How would you answer? --- Joanie Yoder
All flesh, as grass, shall pass away
From this vile world of sin and strife;
The one who sleeps in Christ today
Will wake to resurrected life. --- Benson
CHRIST'S RESURRECTION IS THE GUARANTEE OF OUR OWN.
Saturday, February 19, 2005
Amazing!
Read: Mark 2:1-12
All were amazed and glorified God. --- Mark 2:12
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 26-27
Mark 2
When Jesus healed a paralytic as proof of His authority to forgive the man's sins, the people who witnessed the event were amazed, and they "glorified God, saying, 'We never saw anything like this!'" [Mark 2:12]. More than a dozen times in the gospel of Mark, we read accounts of people reacting in a similar way to the words and works of Jesus.
The word translated as "amazed" or "astonished" carries the meaning of "being thrown into a state of surprise or fear, or both." We may sometimes feel that way when we encounter Jesus Christ as we read God's Word. Like the disciples, we may be amazed when we read of Jesus saying, "How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!" [10:23]. So often we think that having lots of money would solve all our problems.
Those who saw a man delivered from a legion of demons reacted with amazement [v.20]. But why? Did they think he was beyond God's power to save? Do we feel the same way when God saves certain people?
Jesus is not bound by our limitations or expectations. He speaks and acts with authority and wisdom far beyond ours. With reverence and awe, let's hear Jesus' words and look for the transforming touch of His mighty hand. --- David McCasland
I bow, O Lord, before Your throne
In awed humility
When I reflect on who You are
And all You've done for me. --- Sper
NEVER MEASURE GOD'S UNLIMITED POWER BY YOUR LIMITED EXPECTATIONS.
All were amazed and glorified God. --- Mark 2:12
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 26-27
Mark 2
When Jesus healed a paralytic as proof of His authority to forgive the man's sins, the people who witnessed the event were amazed, and they "glorified God, saying, 'We never saw anything like this!'" [Mark 2:12]. More than a dozen times in the gospel of Mark, we read accounts of people reacting in a similar way to the words and works of Jesus.
The word translated as "amazed" or "astonished" carries the meaning of "being thrown into a state of surprise or fear, or both." We may sometimes feel that way when we encounter Jesus Christ as we read God's Word. Like the disciples, we may be amazed when we read of Jesus saying, "How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!" [10:23]. So often we think that having lots of money would solve all our problems.
Those who saw a man delivered from a legion of demons reacted with amazement [v.20]. But why? Did they think he was beyond God's power to save? Do we feel the same way when God saves certain people?
Jesus is not bound by our limitations or expectations. He speaks and acts with authority and wisdom far beyond ours. With reverence and awe, let's hear Jesus' words and look for the transforming touch of His mighty hand. --- David McCasland
I bow, O Lord, before Your throne
In awed humility
When I reflect on who You are
And all You've done for me. --- Sper
NEVER MEASURE GOD'S UNLIMITED POWER BY YOUR LIMITED EXPECTATIONS.
Friday, February 18, 2005
"Unsung"
Read: Romans 16:1-16
She has been a helper of many, and of myself also. --- Romans 16:2
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 25
Mark 1:23-45
James Deitz has produced paintings of airplanes and their crews that are so realistic they look like photographs. His works hang in many aviation galleries in the United States, including the Smithshonian Institution.
One of the paintings by Deitz, titled Unsung, depicts a crew of four mechanics who are working on a dive bomber. They are far below the flight deck on an aircraft carrier somewhere in the Pacific during World War II. The pale, serious-looking, grease-stained men are working tirelessly to get the plane ready to go back into battle.
We too may be performing unnoticed tasks as we support the church's mandate to spread the gospel and train believers. Without many volunteers, no church or mission agency could do its ministry effectively.
As the apostle Paul closed his letter to the believers in Rome, he listed several people who receive no other mention in Scripture. For example, Paul referred to Phoebe and said that she was "a helper of many" [16:2]. Phoebe and the others were essential to the life and work of the early church.
Are you working "below the flight deck"? Remember, your service for Christ is essential. Even if no one shows appreciation for your hard work, you can be sure that one day the Lord will reward you [Colossians 3:23-24]. --- Dave Egner
Our works of service in Christ's name
May not be noticed by our peers;
But what we've done in love for Him
Will be revealed when He appears. --- Sper
NO SERVICE FOR CHRIST GOES UNNOTICED BY HIM.
She has been a helper of many, and of myself also. --- Romans 16:2
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 25
Mark 1:23-45
James Deitz has produced paintings of airplanes and their crews that are so realistic they look like photographs. His works hang in many aviation galleries in the United States, including the Smithshonian Institution.
One of the paintings by Deitz, titled Unsung, depicts a crew of four mechanics who are working on a dive bomber. They are far below the flight deck on an aircraft carrier somewhere in the Pacific during World War II. The pale, serious-looking, grease-stained men are working tirelessly to get the plane ready to go back into battle.
We too may be performing unnoticed tasks as we support the church's mandate to spread the gospel and train believers. Without many volunteers, no church or mission agency could do its ministry effectively.
As the apostle Paul closed his letter to the believers in Rome, he listed several people who receive no other mention in Scripture. For example, Paul referred to Phoebe and said that she was "a helper of many" [16:2]. Phoebe and the others were essential to the life and work of the early church.
Are you working "below the flight deck"? Remember, your service for Christ is essential. Even if no one shows appreciation for your hard work, you can be sure that one day the Lord will reward you [Colossians 3:23-24]. --- Dave Egner
Our works of service in Christ's name
May not be noticed by our peers;
But what we've done in love for Him
Will be revealed when He appears. --- Sper
NO SERVICE FOR CHRIST GOES UNNOTICED BY HIM.
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Open At The Top
Read: Hebrews 4:14-16
We have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God. --- Hebrews 4:14
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 23-24
Mark 1:1-22
A preacher was delivering a sermon before a large congregation. He pointed out that believers aren't exempt from trouble --- trouble to the right, trouble to the left, trouble in front, and trouble behind. At this, a man who had served the Lord for many years, shouted, "Glory to God, it's always open at the top!"
This man's confidence in God is fully supported by Hebrews 4. Because our great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God, has ascended to heaven and is interceding there for us, we have good grounds for trusting Him in the midst of trouble [v.14]. Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, for when He lived on earth He was tempted in every way that we are, yet He never sinned [v.15]. His throne is completely approachable and is called "the throne of grace" [v.16].
In Hebrews we're urged to look up from our trials and to approach that throne boldly by faith. Through humble prayer, we will receive mercy for our failures and grace to help us in our time of need [v.16].
Are life's trials and temptations hemming you in? Has the tempter told you there's nowhere to go? Take heart. Keep looking up --- it's always open at the top! --- Joanie Yoder
When life's afflictions batter you
Like waves upon the sand,
Remember to look up to God
And take His outstretched hand. --- Sper
TO IMPROVE YOUR OUTLOOK, TRY THE UPLOOK.
We have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God. --- Hebrews 4:14
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 23-24
Mark 1:1-22
A preacher was delivering a sermon before a large congregation. He pointed out that believers aren't exempt from trouble --- trouble to the right, trouble to the left, trouble in front, and trouble behind. At this, a man who had served the Lord for many years, shouted, "Glory to God, it's always open at the top!"
This man's confidence in God is fully supported by Hebrews 4. Because our great High Priest, Jesus the Son of God, has ascended to heaven and is interceding there for us, we have good grounds for trusting Him in the midst of trouble [v.14]. Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, for when He lived on earth He was tempted in every way that we are, yet He never sinned [v.15]. His throne is completely approachable and is called "the throne of grace" [v.16].
In Hebrews we're urged to look up from our trials and to approach that throne boldly by faith. Through humble prayer, we will receive mercy for our failures and grace to help us in our time of need [v.16].
Are life's trials and temptations hemming you in? Has the tempter told you there's nowhere to go? Take heart. Keep looking up --- it's always open at the top! --- Joanie Yoder
When life's afflictions batter you
Like waves upon the sand,
Remember to look up to God
And take His outstretched hand. --- Sper
TO IMPROVE YOUR OUTLOOK, TRY THE UPLOOK.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
The Best Policy
Read: Leviticus 19:32-37
You shall have honest scales, honest weights, ... I am the LORD your God. --- Leviticus 19:36
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 21-22
Matthew 28
A former chairman of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants says that ethical behavior is the foundation of business success. Speaking to an audience of business and community leaders, Marvin Strait said, "People want to do business with people they can trust. Trust is what makes business work. It is the bedrock of the free-enterprise system."
In the wake of corporate scandals and eroding public confidence, his words remind us of the value of honesty. Without it, our lives and our work fall short of God's design.
The Old Testament law says, "You shall have honest scales, honest weights, ... I am the LORD your God" [Leviticus 19:36]. And the New Testament teaches that truth and honesty in all that we say and do should characterize those who have been redeemed by Christ [Ephesians 4:25-28].
A good way to evaluate our daily choices is to ask ourselves: "Would I be embarrassed if I read about this in the newspaper or if my family and friends knew about it? Am I excusing or profiting by the unethical acts of other people?"
Honesty is not only the best policy, it's God's policy for every aspect of our lives. Living with integrity honors and glorifies Him. --- David McCasland
Lord, help me to be honest
In all I do and say,
And grant me grace and power
To live for You each day. --- Fitzhugh
HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY. --- Benjamin Franklin
You shall have honest scales, honest weights, ... I am the LORD your God. --- Leviticus 19:36
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 21-22
Matthew 28
A former chairman of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants says that ethical behavior is the foundation of business success. Speaking to an audience of business and community leaders, Marvin Strait said, "People want to do business with people they can trust. Trust is what makes business work. It is the bedrock of the free-enterprise system."
In the wake of corporate scandals and eroding public confidence, his words remind us of the value of honesty. Without it, our lives and our work fall short of God's design.
The Old Testament law says, "You shall have honest scales, honest weights, ... I am the LORD your God" [Leviticus 19:36]. And the New Testament teaches that truth and honesty in all that we say and do should characterize those who have been redeemed by Christ [Ephesians 4:25-28].
A good way to evaluate our daily choices is to ask ourselves: "Would I be embarrassed if I read about this in the newspaper or if my family and friends knew about it? Am I excusing or profiting by the unethical acts of other people?"
Honesty is not only the best policy, it's God's policy for every aspect of our lives. Living with integrity honors and glorifies Him. --- David McCasland
Lord, help me to be honest
In all I do and say,
And grant me grace and power
To live for You each day. --- Fitzhugh
HONESTY IS THE BEST POLICY. --- Benjamin Franklin
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
The Tests Of Criticism
Read: Leviticus 19:15-18
Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. --- Proverbs 27:6
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 19-20
Matthew 27:51-66
After church service in which the minister had preached about spiritual gifts, he was greeted at the door by a woman who said, "Pastor, I believe I have the gift of criticism."
He responded, "Do you remember the person in Jesus' parable who had the one talent? Do you recall what he did with it?"
"Yes," replied the woman, "he went out and buried it" [see Matthew 25:18].
With a smile, the pastor suggested, "Go, and do likewise!"
If criticism is not given lovingly and with an honest desire to help, it can be cruel and destructive. The words of Leviticus 19:17, "You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him," are preceded by warnings against spreading slander and nursing hatred.
You can determine when you should criticize and when you shouldn't by asking yourself three questions:
1. Am I motivated by a desire to help the other person?
2. Am I planning to face him honestly, but gently?
3. Am I doing this for the Lord, or because I enjoy being critical?
If your goal is to help, if your motives are loving, and if your desire is to please God, then go ahead and criticize. If you can't pass these tests, keep quiet. --- Richard De Haan
We're building up or tearing down
In everything we do;
Are we in the construction gang
Or on the wrecking crew? --- Anon.
HE HAS THE RIGHT TO CRITICIZE WHO HAS THE HEART TO HELP.
Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful. --- Proverbs 27:6
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 19-20
Matthew 27:51-66
After church service in which the minister had preached about spiritual gifts, he was greeted at the door by a woman who said, "Pastor, I believe I have the gift of criticism."
He responded, "Do you remember the person in Jesus' parable who had the one talent? Do you recall what he did with it?"
"Yes," replied the woman, "he went out and buried it" [see Matthew 25:18].
With a smile, the pastor suggested, "Go, and do likewise!"
If criticism is not given lovingly and with an honest desire to help, it can be cruel and destructive. The words of Leviticus 19:17, "You shall surely rebuke your neighbor, and not bear sin because of him," are preceded by warnings against spreading slander and nursing hatred.
You can determine when you should criticize and when you shouldn't by asking yourself three questions:
1. Am I motivated by a desire to help the other person?
2. Am I planning to face him honestly, but gently?
3. Am I doing this for the Lord, or because I enjoy being critical?
If your goal is to help, if your motives are loving, and if your desire is to please God, then go ahead and criticize. If you can't pass these tests, keep quiet. --- Richard De Haan
We're building up or tearing down
In everything we do;
Are we in the construction gang
Or on the wrecking crew? --- Anon.
HE HAS THE RIGHT TO CRITICIZE WHO HAS THE HEART TO HELP.
Monday, February 14, 2005
Starting Over
Read: Ephesians 2:1-10
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:
Leviticus 17-18
Matthew 27:27-50
The little boy looked up at his mother and asked, "Mama, do you know why God made us?"
Knowing that her son had his own explanation, she asked, "Well, Justin, do you know why?"
"Oh, that's easy. Because the people in the Bible were so bad, He wanted to start over."
When you think about it, it's easy to see how this first-grader could come up with such a conclusion. When he listens to the Bible stories in Sunday school, he hears about Adam and Eve, who messed things up for all of us. He hears about Jonah, who wouldn't obey God and was swallowed by a big fish. He hears about Judas, who betrayed Jesus for 30 silver coins.
The Bible is painfully realistic in its portrayal of people. It is no whitewashed version of the history of God's people. In its honest presentation of its characters, the Bible proves that we all need to be forgiven of our sins. The "bad" people of the Bible remind us that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" [Romans 3:23].
But there's great news. God did provide a way to "start over." He sent Jesus, who died so that we could become new creations [2 Corinthians 5:17]. Trust Jesus and be saved from your sin. Then you will be able to "start over." --- David Branon
The Savior is waiting to save you,
And cleanse every sin-stain away;
By faith you can know full forgiveness
And be a new creature today! --- Bosch
FOR A NEW START, ASK GOD FOR A NEW HEART.
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:
Leviticus 17-18
Matthew 27:27-50
The little boy looked up at his mother and asked, "Mama, do you know why God made us?"
Knowing that her son had his own explanation, she asked, "Well, Justin, do you know why?"
"Oh, that's easy. Because the people in the Bible were so bad, He wanted to start over."
When you think about it, it's easy to see how this first-grader could come up with such a conclusion. When he listens to the Bible stories in Sunday school, he hears about Adam and Eve, who messed things up for all of us. He hears about Jonah, who wouldn't obey God and was swallowed by a big fish. He hears about Judas, who betrayed Jesus for 30 silver coins.
The Bible is painfully realistic in its portrayal of people. It is no whitewashed version of the history of God's people. In its honest presentation of its characters, the Bible proves that we all need to be forgiven of our sins. The "bad" people of the Bible remind us that "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" [Romans 3:23].
But there's great news. God did provide a way to "start over." He sent Jesus, who died so that we could become new creations [2 Corinthians 5:17]. Trust Jesus and be saved from your sin. Then you will be able to "start over." --- David Branon
The Savior is waiting to save you,
And cleanse every sin-stain away;
By faith you can know full forgiveness
And be a new creature today! --- Bosch
FOR A NEW START, ASK GOD FOR A NEW HEART.
Sunday, February 13, 2005
Keep The Romance
Read: Jude 17-23
Keep yourselves in the love of God. --- Jude 21
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 15-16
Matthew 27:1-23
The great American stateman and lawyer William Jennings Bryan [1860-1925] was having his portrait painted. The artist asked, "Why do you wear your hair over your ears?"
Bryan responded, "There is a romance connected with that. When I began courting Mrs. Bryan, she objected to the way my ears stood out. So, to please her, I let my hair grow to cover them."
"That was many years ago," the artist said. "Why don't you have your hair cut now?"
"Because," Bryan winked, "the romance is still going on."
Is the romance still going on in our relationship with Jesus? When we first came in faith to Christ, we experienced the joy of knowing our sins were forgiven and we were adopted into His family. Our hearts were full and overflowing with love for the Lord. We longed to please Him.
As time passed, however, the zeal of our first love may have begun to cool. That's why we need to take to heart the words of Jude in his brief letter. He wrote, "Keep yourselves in the love of God" [v.21]. Jesus used similar terms when He said, "Abide in My love" [John 15:9-10]. We nurture that love when we focus on pleasing Him instead of ourselves.
Keep the romance going. --- Dave Egner
"Keep yourselves in the love of God"
Is what He says to do;
Feeding on His Word each day,
You'll find His love anew. --- Hess
TO RENEW YOUR LOVE FOR CHRIST, REVIEW HIS LOVE FOR YOU.
Keep yourselves in the love of God. --- Jude 21
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 15-16
Matthew 27:1-23
The great American stateman and lawyer William Jennings Bryan [1860-1925] was having his portrait painted. The artist asked, "Why do you wear your hair over your ears?"
Bryan responded, "There is a romance connected with that. When I began courting Mrs. Bryan, she objected to the way my ears stood out. So, to please her, I let my hair grow to cover them."
"That was many years ago," the artist said. "Why don't you have your hair cut now?"
"Because," Bryan winked, "the romance is still going on."
Is the romance still going on in our relationship with Jesus? When we first came in faith to Christ, we experienced the joy of knowing our sins were forgiven and we were adopted into His family. Our hearts were full and overflowing with love for the Lord. We longed to please Him.
As time passed, however, the zeal of our first love may have begun to cool. That's why we need to take to heart the words of Jude in his brief letter. He wrote, "Keep yourselves in the love of God" [v.21]. Jesus used similar terms when He said, "Abide in My love" [John 15:9-10]. We nurture that love when we focus on pleasing Him instead of ourselves.
Keep the romance going. --- Dave Egner
"Keep yourselves in the love of God"
Is what He says to do;
Feeding on His Word each day,
You'll find His love anew. --- Hess
TO RENEW YOUR LOVE FOR CHRIST, REVIEW HIS LOVE FOR YOU.
Saturday, February 12, 2005
Perfect Love
Read: 1 John 4:15-18
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. --- 1 John 4:18
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 14
Matthew 26:51-75
A wise man once wrote, "When love comes, fear goes."
I know so many Christians who are tormented by feelings of self-doubt, worthlessness, and sinfulness. They think they must do something to make God love them more. Yet the apostle John siad that "as [Jesus] is, so are we in this world" [1 John 4:17]. In other words, we share the same confidence that Jesus has in knowing that the Father loves us with perfect love.
Because Jesus accomplished our redemption on the cross, all judgment for sin is behind Him and us, and the sin question is forever settled. We now face no condemnation.
This removes fear. For as John wrote, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear" [v.18]. The "fear" of which John spoke is fear of judgment. But we have nothing to fear, for "there is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" [Romans 8:1]. Fear is driven out by God's "perfect love."
We're forgiven for all our sins, held fast by God's love, and destined to enjoy eternal fellowship with Him, not because of anything we have done but because He has done everything for us. "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us" [1 John 4:10]. That's perfect love! --- David Roper
It was love that heard my pleadings
When I cried out in my sin;
It was love that gave me comfort;
It was love that took me in. --- Bonney
WE WON'T FEAR GOD'S JUDGMENT WHEN WE KNOW HIS FORGIVING LOVE.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. --- 1 John 4:18
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 14
Matthew 26:51-75
A wise man once wrote, "When love comes, fear goes."
I know so many Christians who are tormented by feelings of self-doubt, worthlessness, and sinfulness. They think they must do something to make God love them more. Yet the apostle John siad that "as [Jesus] is, so are we in this world" [1 John 4:17]. In other words, we share the same confidence that Jesus has in knowing that the Father loves us with perfect love.
Because Jesus accomplished our redemption on the cross, all judgment for sin is behind Him and us, and the sin question is forever settled. We now face no condemnation.
This removes fear. For as John wrote, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear" [v.18]. The "fear" of which John spoke is fear of judgment. But we have nothing to fear, for "there is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" [Romans 8:1]. Fear is driven out by God's "perfect love."
We're forgiven for all our sins, held fast by God's love, and destined to enjoy eternal fellowship with Him, not because of anything we have done but because He has done everything for us. "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us" [1 John 4:10]. That's perfect love! --- David Roper
It was love that heard my pleadings
When I cried out in my sin;
It was love that gave me comfort;
It was love that took me in. --- Bonney
WE WON'T FEAR GOD'S JUDGMENT WHEN WE KNOW HIS FORGIVING LOVE.
Friday, February 11, 2005
Oceans Of Praise
Read: Psalm 104:24-30
O LORD, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all. --- Psalm 104:24
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 13
Matthew 26:26-50
Whenever I see the ocean [which is not often enough], I am awed by its sheer volume and beauty and power. Great ships loaded with oil or food or merchandise make long journeys across its vast surface. Fishing vessels, working near the shore or hundreds of miles at sea, harvest its rich provisions: lobster and crab, tuna and swordfish. Beneath its churning surface is a storehouse of wealth of all kinds, some still undiscovered.
The author of Psalm 104, recounting the works of God in a lofty hymn of praise, used the "great and wide sea" as an example of God's creative power and wisdom [vv.24-25]. The Lord rules over all the "innumerable teeming things, living things both small and great" that inhabit the oceans [v.25]. The psalmist referred in poetic terms to the ocean as the playground of Leviathan, a giant sea monster that God "made to play there" [v.26].
The surging ocean, both life-sustaining and dangerous, points us to the greatness of our God. He is awesome in His works, unlimited in His provision, and generous in His bestowal of all kinds of life.
Lord, truly Your works are magnificent! As I think of them, I join the psalmist in praising You. --- Dave Egner
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies. --- Watts
ALL CREATION SINGS GOD'S PRAISE.
O LORD, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all. --- Psalm 104:24
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 13
Matthew 26:26-50
Whenever I see the ocean [which is not often enough], I am awed by its sheer volume and beauty and power. Great ships loaded with oil or food or merchandise make long journeys across its vast surface. Fishing vessels, working near the shore or hundreds of miles at sea, harvest its rich provisions: lobster and crab, tuna and swordfish. Beneath its churning surface is a storehouse of wealth of all kinds, some still undiscovered.
The author of Psalm 104, recounting the works of God in a lofty hymn of praise, used the "great and wide sea" as an example of God's creative power and wisdom [vv.24-25]. The Lord rules over all the "innumerable teeming things, living things both small and great" that inhabit the oceans [v.25]. The psalmist referred in poetic terms to the ocean as the playground of Leviathan, a giant sea monster that God "made to play there" [v.26].
The surging ocean, both life-sustaining and dangerous, points us to the greatness of our God. He is awesome in His works, unlimited in His provision, and generous in His bestowal of all kinds of life.
Lord, truly Your works are magnificent! As I think of them, I join the psalmist in praising You. --- Dave Egner
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies. --- Watts
ALL CREATION SINGS GOD'S PRAISE.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
A Significant Impact
Read: Daniel 10
We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against ... the rulers of the darkness of this age. --- Ephesians 6:12
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 11-12
Matthew 26:1-25
John Wesley was convinced that the prayers of God's people rather than his preaching accounted for the thousands who came to Christ through his ministry. That's why he said, "God will do nothing except in answer to prayer." An overstatement? Yes. But the fact is that our praying is a powerful weapon in the war between God and Satan.
In today's Scripture reading, Daniel was so disturbed by a revelation about Israel's future that he could do nothing except fast and pray. Three weeks later a heavenly messenger appeared, saying that God had sent him when Daniel prayed, but that the prince of Persia had detained him [10:13]. This "prince" was an evil spirit who sought to influence the rulers of Persia to oppose God's plan. He had detained God's messenger, until the archangel Michael came to his aid.
A cosmic conflict between good and evil is continually being fought in the invisible spirit world. Paul reminded us that it involves Christians. He listed the spiritual armor and weaponry we need for these battles [Ephesians 6:13-17], and then he added "praying always" [v.18].
Our prayers can hav a significant impact on the outcome of those spiritual battles. May we, therefore, faithfully pray as we fight the good fight [1 Timothy 1:18]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Something happens when we pray,
Powers of evil lose their sway,
We gain strength and fear gives way ---
Therefore, let us pray. --- Anon.
SATAN TREMBLES WHEN HE SEES THE WEAKEST SAINT UPON HIS KNEES.
We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against ... the rulers of the darkness of this age. --- Ephesians 6:12
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 11-12
Matthew 26:1-25
John Wesley was convinced that the prayers of God's people rather than his preaching accounted for the thousands who came to Christ through his ministry. That's why he said, "God will do nothing except in answer to prayer." An overstatement? Yes. But the fact is that our praying is a powerful weapon in the war between God and Satan.
In today's Scripture reading, Daniel was so disturbed by a revelation about Israel's future that he could do nothing except fast and pray. Three weeks later a heavenly messenger appeared, saying that God had sent him when Daniel prayed, but that the prince of Persia had detained him [10:13]. This "prince" was an evil spirit who sought to influence the rulers of Persia to oppose God's plan. He had detained God's messenger, until the archangel Michael came to his aid.
A cosmic conflict between good and evil is continually being fought in the invisible spirit world. Paul reminded us that it involves Christians. He listed the spiritual armor and weaponry we need for these battles [Ephesians 6:13-17], and then he added "praying always" [v.18].
Our prayers can hav a significant impact on the outcome of those spiritual battles. May we, therefore, faithfully pray as we fight the good fight [1 Timothy 1:18]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Something happens when we pray,
Powers of evil lose their sway,
We gain strength and fear gives way ---
Therefore, let us pray. --- Anon.
SATAN TREMBLES WHEN HE SEES THE WEAKEST SAINT UPON HIS KNEES.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
In God's Hands
Read: 2 Samuel 16:5-14
It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good. --- 2 Samuel 16:12
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 8-10
Matthew 25:31-46
In 2 Samuel 16:5-14 we read of King David being cursed by Shimei. This happened while David was fleeing from his son Absalom, who wanted to kill him.
Unlike David, we often want to silence our critics, insist on fairness, and defend ourselves. But as we grow in our awareness of God's protective love, we become less concerned with what others say about us and more willing to entrust ourselves to our Father. Like David, we can say of each critic, "Let him alone, and let him curse" [2 Samuel 16:11]. This is humble submission to God's will.
We may ask our opponents to justify their charges, or we may counter them with steadfast denial. Or, like David [v.12], we can wait patiently until God vindicates us.
It is good to look beyond those who oppose us and look to the One who loves us with infinite love. It is good to be able to believe that whatever God permits is for our ultimate good --- good, though we're exposed to the curses of a Shimei; good, though our hearts break and we shed bitter tears.
You are in God's hands, no matter what others are saying about you. He has seen your distress, and in time He'll repay you for the cursing you have received. So trust Him and abide in His love. --- David Roper
THINKING IT OVER
Read 1 Peter 2:20-23. How did Jesus respond to words
spoken against Him? What did He do and not do?
In what situations can you follow His example?
WE CAN ENDURE LIFE'S WRONGS BECAUSE WE KNOW THAT GOD WILL MAKE ALL THINGS RIGHT.
It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good. --- 2 Samuel 16:12
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 8-10
Matthew 25:31-46
In 2 Samuel 16:5-14 we read of King David being cursed by Shimei. This happened while David was fleeing from his son Absalom, who wanted to kill him.
Unlike David, we often want to silence our critics, insist on fairness, and defend ourselves. But as we grow in our awareness of God's protective love, we become less concerned with what others say about us and more willing to entrust ourselves to our Father. Like David, we can say of each critic, "Let him alone, and let him curse" [2 Samuel 16:11]. This is humble submission to God's will.
We may ask our opponents to justify their charges, or we may counter them with steadfast denial. Or, like David [v.12], we can wait patiently until God vindicates us.
It is good to look beyond those who oppose us and look to the One who loves us with infinite love. It is good to be able to believe that whatever God permits is for our ultimate good --- good, though we're exposed to the curses of a Shimei; good, though our hearts break and we shed bitter tears.
You are in God's hands, no matter what others are saying about you. He has seen your distress, and in time He'll repay you for the cursing you have received. So trust Him and abide in His love. --- David Roper
THINKING IT OVER
Read 1 Peter 2:20-23. How did Jesus respond to words
spoken against Him? What did He do and not do?
In what situations can you follow His example?
WE CAN ENDURE LIFE'S WRONGS BECAUSE WE KNOW THAT GOD WILL MAKE ALL THINGS RIGHT.
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Work : A Narcotic
Read: Ecclesiastes 2:1-11
My heart rejoiced in all my labor .... And indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. --- Ecclesiastes 2:10-11
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 6-7
Matthew 25:1-30
A friend told me that he feels closest to God when he's the busiest. He explained that when demands are the greatest, he finds himself most reliant on the Lord's strength. He pointed out, however, that unless he takes time for daily worship, his work can quickly become an escape.
Many people engage in activity for activity's sake and use busyness as a device to avoid facing reality. Just as alcohol can deaden the senses to personal relationships, family obligations, and community responsibilities, so also constant work can be a narcotic. It dulls our sensitivity to the deeper issues of life.
About 3,000 years ago, the author of Ecclesiastes discovered this. He sought satisfaction by busying himself with building houses and planting vineyards. But then as he thougth about the work he had done, he realized it was full of emptiness [2:10-11].
We can make the same mistake, even in the name of the Lord. Could this be the reason some of us try to keep the church running by our own efforts but forget that fulfillment comes only from hearts full of God? Are we laboring without those vital times of worship and reflection? If so, it's time now to worship before we get caught again in the trap of working merely for work's sake. --- Mart De Haan
Lord, teach me how to work each day,
That every deed I do
May not be driven by false pride
But render service true. --- Anon.
NEVER TAKE ON MORE WORK THAN YOU HAVE TIME TO PRAY OVER.
My heart rejoiced in all my labor .... And indeed all was vanity and grasping for the wind. --- Ecclesiastes 2:10-11
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 6-7
Matthew 25:1-30
A friend told me that he feels closest to God when he's the busiest. He explained that when demands are the greatest, he finds himself most reliant on the Lord's strength. He pointed out, however, that unless he takes time for daily worship, his work can quickly become an escape.
Many people engage in activity for activity's sake and use busyness as a device to avoid facing reality. Just as alcohol can deaden the senses to personal relationships, family obligations, and community responsibilities, so also constant work can be a narcotic. It dulls our sensitivity to the deeper issues of life.
About 3,000 years ago, the author of Ecclesiastes discovered this. He sought satisfaction by busying himself with building houses and planting vineyards. But then as he thougth about the work he had done, he realized it was full of emptiness [2:10-11].
We can make the same mistake, even in the name of the Lord. Could this be the reason some of us try to keep the church running by our own efforts but forget that fulfillment comes only from hearts full of God? Are we laboring without those vital times of worship and reflection? If so, it's time now to worship before we get caught again in the trap of working merely for work's sake. --- Mart De Haan
Lord, teach me how to work each day,
That every deed I do
May not be driven by false pride
But render service true. --- Anon.
NEVER TAKE ON MORE WORK THAN YOU HAVE TIME TO PRAY OVER.
Monday, February 07, 2005
Hearts Lifted Up
Read: 2 Chronicles 26
As long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper. --- 2 Chronicles 26:5
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 4-5
Matthew 24:29-51
It's tragic to witness someone starting out well in life and then finishing poorly. That's the life story of Uzziah. He had been appointed king at the tender age of 16. Despite being so young, we read thta "he did what was right in the sight of the LORD .... He sought God in teh days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper" [2 Chronicles 26:4-5].
Uzziah's fame spread and his army grew stronger [v.8]. He had 2,600 chief officers and 307,500 soldiers who helped him defeat his enemies [vv.12-13].
Sadly, we then read, "When he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction" [v.16]. Uzziah had failed to remember the One who had given him success and those who had given godly counsel. He sinned against the LORD when he burned incense in the temple, and God struck him with leprosy [vv.16-19]. He remained "a leper until the day of his death" [v.21].
To finish well, we need to avoid having a heart that is "lifted up." Let's remind ourselves often of the warning in Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." And let's keep seeking the Lord, obeying Him, and thanking Him for all He had done. --- Albert Lee
Blessed Savior, make me humble,
Take away my sinful pride;
In myself I'm sure to stumble,
Help me stay close by Your side. --- D. De Haan
YOU WON'T GET INDIGESTION BY SWALLOWING YOUR PRIDE.
As long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper. --- 2 Chronicles 26:5
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 4-5
Matthew 24:29-51
It's tragic to witness someone starting out well in life and then finishing poorly. That's the life story of Uzziah. He had been appointed king at the tender age of 16. Despite being so young, we read thta "he did what was right in the sight of the LORD .... He sought God in teh days of Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God; and as long as he sought the LORD, God made him prosper" [2 Chronicles 26:4-5].
Uzziah's fame spread and his army grew stronger [v.8]. He had 2,600 chief officers and 307,500 soldiers who helped him defeat his enemies [vv.12-13].
Sadly, we then read, "When he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction" [v.16]. Uzziah had failed to remember the One who had given him success and those who had given godly counsel. He sinned against the LORD when he burned incense in the temple, and God struck him with leprosy [vv.16-19]. He remained "a leper until the day of his death" [v.21].
To finish well, we need to avoid having a heart that is "lifted up." Let's remind ourselves often of the warning in Proverbs 16:18, "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." And let's keep seeking the Lord, obeying Him, and thanking Him for all He had done. --- Albert Lee
Blessed Savior, make me humble,
Take away my sinful pride;
In myself I'm sure to stumble,
Help me stay close by Your side. --- D. De Haan
YOU WON'T GET INDIGESTION BY SWALLOWING YOUR PRIDE.
Sunday, February 06, 2005
With God All The Time
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
If our earthly house ... is destroyed, we have a building from God, ... eternal in the heavens. --- 2 Corinthians 5:1
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 1-3
Matthew 24:1-28
It was the summer between Melissa's sophomore and junior years of high school. She and her friend Mandy were in Spain on a trip with their Spanish class, and they stayed up one night in their hotel room for a serious discussion. They had just seen a report on the BBC about some teens who had died in an accident, and they started talking about death.
Melissa told Mandy that she could not figure out why Christians were afraid to die. After all, she told her, when a Christian dies, he or she gets to be "with God all the time." What could be better than that? Melissa wondered.
How do I know about his conversation? Mandy shared this story with me and my wife shortly after we lost our precious 17-year-old daughter in a car accident in 2002. We have been comforted by this story, because it reminds us that Melissa knew she was saved, and she was confident that she would spend eternity with her Savior. We just never expected that she would be "with God all the time" so suddenly and so early in her life.
Do you have the assurance that Melissa had, that if you were to die you would be in God's presence forever? [2 Corinthians 5:6-8]. Make sure of your salvation today. Then you won't need to be afraid to die. --- Dave Branon
MAKING SURE
Admit that you are a sinner [Romans 3:23; 7:23].
Believe in Jesus for forgiveness [John 1:12; 3:16].
Confess that Jesus is Lord [Romans 10:9].
IF YOU MAKE ROOM FOR JESUS IN YOUR HEART, HE WILL MAKE ROOM FOR YOU IN HEAVEN.
If our earthly house ... is destroyed, we have a building from God, ... eternal in the heavens. --- 2 Corinthians 5:1
The Bible In One Year:
Leviticus 1-3
Matthew 24:1-28
It was the summer between Melissa's sophomore and junior years of high school. She and her friend Mandy were in Spain on a trip with their Spanish class, and they stayed up one night in their hotel room for a serious discussion. They had just seen a report on the BBC about some teens who had died in an accident, and they started talking about death.
Melissa told Mandy that she could not figure out why Christians were afraid to die. After all, she told her, when a Christian dies, he or she gets to be "with God all the time." What could be better than that? Melissa wondered.
How do I know about his conversation? Mandy shared this story with me and my wife shortly after we lost our precious 17-year-old daughter in a car accident in 2002. We have been comforted by this story, because it reminds us that Melissa knew she was saved, and she was confident that she would spend eternity with her Savior. We just never expected that she would be "with God all the time" so suddenly and so early in her life.
Do you have the assurance that Melissa had, that if you were to die you would be in God's presence forever? [2 Corinthians 5:6-8]. Make sure of your salvation today. Then you won't need to be afraid to die. --- Dave Branon
MAKING SURE
Admit that you are a sinner [Romans 3:23; 7:23].
Believe in Jesus for forgiveness [John 1:12; 3:16].
Confess that Jesus is Lord [Romans 10:9].
IF YOU MAKE ROOM FOR JESUS IN YOUR HEART, HE WILL MAKE ROOM FOR YOU IN HEAVEN.
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Focus
Read: Colossians 3:1-11
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. --- Colossians 3:2
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 39-40
Matthew 23:23-39
Missionary pilot Bernie May writes, "One of the most difficult lessons to teach new pilots about landing on short, hazardous airstrips is to keep their eyes on the good part of the strip rather than on the hazard. The natural tendency is to concentrate on the obstacle, the danger, the thing he is trying to avoid. But experience teaches us that a pilot who keeps his eye on the hazard will sooner or later hit it dead center."
This makes me think of a spiritual principle in the Bible. Instead of concentrating on the sins we want to avoid, we are told to focus on the positive actions Christ desires for us. Paul told the Christians at Colosse: "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth" [Colossians 3:2]. We are to discard old ways of thinking and acting [vv.5-9] and "put on" new ways of living [vv.10-17].
Bernie May sums it up by saying that experienced pilots focus their attention solidly on the track they want the plane to follow, keeping the hazards in their peripheral vision only.
When Christ and His interests are the focus of our lives, the lure of the old life remains in the corner of our eye, while we aim to land squarely in the center of God's will. --- David McCasland
THINKING IT OVER
What "hazards" sometimes divert your attention from
Jesus? What positive, God-honoring actions can you
concentrate on doing instead?
THOSE WHO FIX THEIR EYES ON HEAVEN WILL NOT BE DISTRACTED BY THE THINGS ON EARTH.
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. --- Colossians 3:2
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 39-40
Matthew 23:23-39
Missionary pilot Bernie May writes, "One of the most difficult lessons to teach new pilots about landing on short, hazardous airstrips is to keep their eyes on the good part of the strip rather than on the hazard. The natural tendency is to concentrate on the obstacle, the danger, the thing he is trying to avoid. But experience teaches us that a pilot who keeps his eye on the hazard will sooner or later hit it dead center."
This makes me think of a spiritual principle in the Bible. Instead of concentrating on the sins we want to avoid, we are told to focus on the positive actions Christ desires for us. Paul told the Christians at Colosse: "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth" [Colossians 3:2]. We are to discard old ways of thinking and acting [vv.5-9] and "put on" new ways of living [vv.10-17].
Bernie May sums it up by saying that experienced pilots focus their attention solidly on the track they want the plane to follow, keeping the hazards in their peripheral vision only.
When Christ and His interests are the focus of our lives, the lure of the old life remains in the corner of our eye, while we aim to land squarely in the center of God's will. --- David McCasland
THINKING IT OVER
What "hazards" sometimes divert your attention from
Jesus? What positive, God-honoring actions can you
concentrate on doing instead?
THOSE WHO FIX THEIR EYES ON HEAVEN WILL NOT BE DISTRACTED BY THE THINGS ON EARTH.
Friday, February 04, 2005
Does He Care?
Read: Matthew 6:25-34
I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. --- Galatians 2:20
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 36-38
Matthew 23:1-22
If you are ever tempted to write yourself off as insignificant among the billions of people on earth, consider this: You are a one-of-a-kind creation of God [Psalm 139:13-14]. That's true even of identical twins. There never has been and never will be another person exactly like you.
Even more important, God values you [Matthew 6:26-30] and has gone to great lengths to show His love. The Bible says that His Son Jesus loves you so much that He gave His life for you [Galatians 2:20].
If you were to ask a loving mother of a large family which child she would be willing to give up, I'm sure she would think your question was absurd. Susannah Wesley, for example, had 19 sons and daughters. Among them were John and Charles, who spearheaded the evangelical revival in 18th-century England. Yet if you were to read the letters she wrote to each of her children, you would marvel at her concern for their unique personalities and problems. It was as if each child was her one and only offspring.
That's a picture of how much God cares about you. If you are ever tempted to wonder if He knows you exist or cares what happens to you, remember what Jesus did for you on the cross. That's how much He loves you. --- Vernon Grounds
Not the nails, but His wondrous love for me,
Kept my Lord on the cross of Calvary;
Oh, what power could hold Him there ---
All my sin and shame to bear! --- Keller
GOD LOVES YOU AS MUCH AS IF YOU WERE HIS ONLY CHILD.
I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. --- Galatians 2:20
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 36-38
Matthew 23:1-22
If you are ever tempted to write yourself off as insignificant among the billions of people on earth, consider this: You are a one-of-a-kind creation of God [Psalm 139:13-14]. That's true even of identical twins. There never has been and never will be another person exactly like you.
Even more important, God values you [Matthew 6:26-30] and has gone to great lengths to show His love. The Bible says that His Son Jesus loves you so much that He gave His life for you [Galatians 2:20].
If you were to ask a loving mother of a large family which child she would be willing to give up, I'm sure she would think your question was absurd. Susannah Wesley, for example, had 19 sons and daughters. Among them were John and Charles, who spearheaded the evangelical revival in 18th-century England. Yet if you were to read the letters she wrote to each of her children, you would marvel at her concern for their unique personalities and problems. It was as if each child was her one and only offspring.
That's a picture of how much God cares about you. If you are ever tempted to wonder if He knows you exist or cares what happens to you, remember what Jesus did for you on the cross. That's how much He loves you. --- Vernon Grounds
Not the nails, but His wondrous love for me,
Kept my Lord on the cross of Calvary;
Oh, what power could hold Him there ---
All my sin and shame to bear! --- Keller
GOD LOVES YOU AS MUCH AS IF YOU WERE HIS ONLY CHILD.
Thursday, February 03, 2005
"I Spy!"
Read: John 21:1-7
That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" --- John 21:7
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 34-35
Matthew 22:23-46
My wife and I have some friends who used to play a game with their children called "I Spy." If a family member saw what appeared to be God at work in their surroundings, he or she would call out, "I spy!" It might be a beautiful sunset or some special blessing. These experiences reminded them of God's presence in the world and in their lives.
That game reminds me of Jesus' disciples and their futile fishing endeavor recorded in John 21:1-7. Early in the morning they saw through the mist a man standing on the shore, but they didn't know it was Jesus. "Children, have you any food?" He asked. "No," they replied. "Cast the net on the right side of the boat," He said, "and you will find some." The disciples obeyed and their net was filled with so many fish they couldn't draw it in. "It is the Lord!" exclaimed John. It was an "I spy" moment, and it was John, "the disciple whom Jesus loved," who was the first to recognize Him.
Ask God to give you eyes to "see" Jesus, whether in the extraordinary events or the everyday affairs of your life. If you pay attention, you will see His hand at work where others see nothing. Try playing "I spy" today and let the Lord's presence reassure you of His love and care. --- David Roper
We cannot fully know God's greatness,
Wisdom, power, and care;
But it's enough to know that He
Is with us everywhere. --- Hess
EYES OF FAITH CAN SEE GOD AT WORK.
That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" --- John 21:7
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 34-35
Matthew 22:23-46
My wife and I have some friends who used to play a game with their children called "I Spy." If a family member saw what appeared to be God at work in their surroundings, he or she would call out, "I spy!" It might be a beautiful sunset or some special blessing. These experiences reminded them of God's presence in the world and in their lives.
That game reminds me of Jesus' disciples and their futile fishing endeavor recorded in John 21:1-7. Early in the morning they saw through the mist a man standing on the shore, but they didn't know it was Jesus. "Children, have you any food?" He asked. "No," they replied. "Cast the net on the right side of the boat," He said, "and you will find some." The disciples obeyed and their net was filled with so many fish they couldn't draw it in. "It is the Lord!" exclaimed John. It was an "I spy" moment, and it was John, "the disciple whom Jesus loved," who was the first to recognize Him.
Ask God to give you eyes to "see" Jesus, whether in the extraordinary events or the everyday affairs of your life. If you pay attention, you will see His hand at work where others see nothing. Try playing "I spy" today and let the Lord's presence reassure you of His love and care. --- David Roper
We cannot fully know God's greatness,
Wisdom, power, and care;
But it's enough to know that He
Is with us everywhere. --- Hess
EYES OF FAITH CAN SEE GOD AT WORK.
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Aging Gracefully
Read: Psalm 139:13-18
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.--- Psalm 139:14
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 31-33
Matthew 22:1-22
Many people try to reverse the aging process. Those with wrinkles get facelifts, while others have injections to remove unwanted facial lines. Behind this current trend is the notion that an aging face is unacceptable.
But not everyone feels that way. An elderly woman being interviewed on television was asked, "Do you like your face?" She responded with conviction, "I love my face! It's the face God gave me, and I accept it happily."
In Psalm 139, David expressed the conviction that his entire being was fashioned by God and therefore is worthy of acceptance. He prayed, "I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" [v.14]. He also believed that God fashioned all the days of his life [v.16].
Instead of fighting a losing battle against our waning youthful appearance, we should concentrate on cultivating inner qualities that last forever. One key attribute is a lifelong faith in God, who reassures His people: "Even to your old age ... and even to gray hairs I will carry you!" [Isaiah 46:4].
Myron Taylor wrote: "Time may wrinkle the skin, but worry, doubt, hate, and the loss of ideals wrinkle the soul." As we gracefully accept the passing of years, God will smooth out the wrinkles of our souls. --- Joanie Yoder
The wrinkles on a time-worn face
Can be symbols of God's grace,
It through out laughter and our tears
His love has freed us from our fears. --- D. De Haan
WHEN YOU LET GOD'S LOVE FILL YOUR HEART, IT WILL SHOW ON YOUR FACE.
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.--- Psalm 139:14
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 31-33
Matthew 22:1-22
Many people try to reverse the aging process. Those with wrinkles get facelifts, while others have injections to remove unwanted facial lines. Behind this current trend is the notion that an aging face is unacceptable.
But not everyone feels that way. An elderly woman being interviewed on television was asked, "Do you like your face?" She responded with conviction, "I love my face! It's the face God gave me, and I accept it happily."
In Psalm 139, David expressed the conviction that his entire being was fashioned by God and therefore is worthy of acceptance. He prayed, "I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" [v.14]. He also believed that God fashioned all the days of his life [v.16].
Instead of fighting a losing battle against our waning youthful appearance, we should concentrate on cultivating inner qualities that last forever. One key attribute is a lifelong faith in God, who reassures His people: "Even to your old age ... and even to gray hairs I will carry you!" [Isaiah 46:4].
Myron Taylor wrote: "Time may wrinkle the skin, but worry, doubt, hate, and the loss of ideals wrinkle the soul." As we gracefully accept the passing of years, God will smooth out the wrinkles of our souls. --- Joanie Yoder
The wrinkles on a time-worn face
Can be symbols of God's grace,
It through out laughter and our tears
His love has freed us from our fears. --- D. De Haan
WHEN YOU LET GOD'S LOVE FILL YOUR HEART, IT WILL SHOW ON YOUR FACE.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Freely Forgive
Read: Colossians 3:12-17
If anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. --- Colossians 3:13
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 29-30
Matthew 21:23-46
Studies by a number of psychologists show that it is not great riches taht make people happy, but friends and forgiveness. Commenting on these findings in a USA Today article, Marilyn Elias says, "The happiest people surround themselves with family and friends, don't care about keeping up with the Joneses next door, lose themselves in daily activities, and most important, forgive easily."
University of Michigan psychologist Christopher Peterson says that the ability to forgive others is the trait most strongly linked to happiness. He calls it "the queen of all virtues, and probably the hardest to come by."
An unforgiving spirit is often the last emotional fortress we yield to the power of God. Even as Christians, we may cling to anger and bitterness, feeling that those who have wronged us should suffer for their offenses. But when we realize how much God has forgiven us, we are compelled to extend mercy to others. The Bible urges us to "put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; ... even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do" [Colossians 3:12-13].
Forgiveness is God's command to us and is part of a life of love, peace, thankfulness, and praise [vv.14-16]. Freely we have been forgiven; let us freely forgive. --- David McCasland
Lord, help me be kind and forgiving ---
Your loving forgiveness You've shown
To me for the sins I've committed;
Lord, grant me a love like Your own. --- Anon.
WHEN IT SEEMS YOU CAN'T FORGIVE, REMEMBER HOW MUCH YOU'VE BEEN FORGIVEN.
If anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. --- Colossians 3:13
The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 29-30
Matthew 21:23-46
Studies by a number of psychologists show that it is not great riches taht make people happy, but friends and forgiveness. Commenting on these findings in a USA Today article, Marilyn Elias says, "The happiest people surround themselves with family and friends, don't care about keeping up with the Joneses next door, lose themselves in daily activities, and most important, forgive easily."
University of Michigan psychologist Christopher Peterson says that the ability to forgive others is the trait most strongly linked to happiness. He calls it "the queen of all virtues, and probably the hardest to come by."
An unforgiving spirit is often the last emotional fortress we yield to the power of God. Even as Christians, we may cling to anger and bitterness, feeling that those who have wronged us should suffer for their offenses. But when we realize how much God has forgiven us, we are compelled to extend mercy to others. The Bible urges us to "put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; ... even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do" [Colossians 3:12-13].
Forgiveness is God's command to us and is part of a life of love, peace, thankfulness, and praise [vv.14-16]. Freely we have been forgiven; let us freely forgive. --- David McCasland
Lord, help me be kind and forgiving ---
Your loving forgiveness You've shown
To me for the sins I've committed;
Lord, grant me a love like Your own. --- Anon.
WHEN IT SEEMS YOU CAN'T FORGIVE, REMEMBER HOW MUCH YOU'VE BEEN FORGIVEN.
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