Read: Luke 19:41-44
As [Jesus] drew near, He saw the city and wept over it. --- Luke 19:41
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 11-12
Luke 6:1-26
It took years before she finally said yes. A Welshman had fallen in love with one of his neighbors and wanted to marry her. But they had quarreled, and she refused to forgive. Shy and reluctant to face the offended woman, the persistent suitor slipped a love letter under her door every week.
At last, after 42 years, he summoned up courage, knocked on her door, and asked her to become his wife. To his delight, she consented. So they were married at the age of 74!
God is also a persistent lover. Century after century He sent prophets, seeking the stubborn people of Israel. Then God sent His Son. In Luke 19, we read that Jesus looked out over the city of Jerusalem and wept because of their hardness of heart [vv.41-44].
Yet Jesus persisted in His loving pursuit. He opened the way for reconciliation by His redeeming sacrifice at Calvary. Today He is still asking sinners to come to Him, personally accept Him as Savior, and enjoy close fellowship with Him [Matthew 11:28].
If you have come to Him, rejoice that you are His. If you have not, however, you must realize that time may run out. Don't remain forever alienated from the Lover of your soul. Trust Him today. --- Vernon Grounds
Why trade the hope of heaven's light
For things that please the prince of night?
Eternal glories wait for all
Who turn and trust God's loving call. --- Branon
GOD ALWAYS KNOCKS LOUD ENOUGH FOR THE SEEKING SOUL TO HEAR.
Thursday, March 31, 2005
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Wake-Up Call
Read: Revelation 3:1-6
Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, ... for I have not found your works perfect before God. --- Revelation 3:2
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 9-10
Luke 5:17-39
On February 26, 1993, a powerful bomb exploded in the underground parking garage of the World Trade Center in New York City, killing six people and injuring more than a thousand. It sparked an aggressive investigation with many arrests. But few law enforcement authorities recognized it as part of an international terrorist plot. When the Trade Center towers were destroyed by terrorists in 2001, police commissioner Raymond Kelly looked back on the first attack and said, "It should have been a wake-up call for America."
The Lord told the church at Sardis that although they had a reputation for being spiritually alive, they were dead. He told them to wake up: "Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent" [Revelation 3:2:3].
The call to every believers is to be vigilant toward the Lord rather than lax and indifferent. If the fire has gone out in our hearts, He pleads with us to stir the embers into flame again.
Ask yourself: Has there been a wake-up call in my life recently that I've missed? Is God trying to tell me something? Will I answer His wake-up call today? --- David McCasland
Lord, grant to us a holy zeal
That burns within our heart;
A zeal like Yours for truth and right
From which we'll not depart. --- D. De Haan
TO KEEP YOUR HEART FROM GROWING COLD, STAY ON FIRE FOR GOD.
Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, ... for I have not found your works perfect before God. --- Revelation 3:2
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 9-10
Luke 5:17-39
On February 26, 1993, a powerful bomb exploded in the underground parking garage of the World Trade Center in New York City, killing six people and injuring more than a thousand. It sparked an aggressive investigation with many arrests. But few law enforcement authorities recognized it as part of an international terrorist plot. When the Trade Center towers were destroyed by terrorists in 2001, police commissioner Raymond Kelly looked back on the first attack and said, "It should have been a wake-up call for America."
The Lord told the church at Sardis that although they had a reputation for being spiritually alive, they were dead. He told them to wake up: "Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die, for I have not found your works perfect before God. Remember therefore how you have received and heard; hold fast and repent" [Revelation 3:2:3].
The call to every believers is to be vigilant toward the Lord rather than lax and indifferent. If the fire has gone out in our hearts, He pleads with us to stir the embers into flame again.
Ask yourself: Has there been a wake-up call in my life recently that I've missed? Is God trying to tell me something? Will I answer His wake-up call today? --- David McCasland
Lord, grant to us a holy zeal
That burns within our heart;
A zeal like Yours for truth and right
From which we'll not depart. --- D. De Haan
TO KEEP YOUR HEART FROM GROWING COLD, STAY ON FIRE FOR GOD.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Where Will It All End?
Read: 1 Peter 2:18-25
When [Jesus] suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously. --- 1 Peter 2:23
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 7-8
Luke 5:1-16
Four-year-old Angelo wakes up and discovers that his new beagle puppy has chewed up his plastic guitar. The little fellow has a fit of grief. Mom's nerves tighten. She snaps at husband Tony as he leaves for the office.
Still feeling the unhappy send-off, Tony greets his secretary with some cold and unreasonable instructions. She picks up the mood, and at coffee-break tells off a fellow secretary. At closing time the second secretary tells her boss she's ready to quit.
An hour-and-a-half later, after fighting heave traffic, the boss walks into his house and blurts out an angry word to little Nelson, who had left his bike in the driveway. Nelson runs to his room, slams the door, and kicks his Scottish terrier.
Where does it all end? Each person may think he or she had reason to be upset. But what was needed in this imaginary situation was one person who would absorb unjust treatment without lashing out.
This is when Christians have a unique opportunity. By knowing the Father's will, by heeding the Son's example, and by relying on the Spirit's help, we can endure bad treatment and show others a better way. In a chain reactions of frustration and anger, we can be where it all ends. --- Mart De Haan
It was a hasty, thoughtless word,
Sarcastic and unkind,
That chilled the day and dimmed its light
And left a sting behind. --- Anon.
WHEN YOU'RE WRONGED, DON'T DO WHAT COMES NATURALLY; DO WHAT COMES SUPERNATURALLY.
When [Jesus] suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously. --- 1 Peter 2:23
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 7-8
Luke 5:1-16
Four-year-old Angelo wakes up and discovers that his new beagle puppy has chewed up his plastic guitar. The little fellow has a fit of grief. Mom's nerves tighten. She snaps at husband Tony as he leaves for the office.
Still feeling the unhappy send-off, Tony greets his secretary with some cold and unreasonable instructions. She picks up the mood, and at coffee-break tells off a fellow secretary. At closing time the second secretary tells her boss she's ready to quit.
An hour-and-a-half later, after fighting heave traffic, the boss walks into his house and blurts out an angry word to little Nelson, who had left his bike in the driveway. Nelson runs to his room, slams the door, and kicks his Scottish terrier.
Where does it all end? Each person may think he or she had reason to be upset. But what was needed in this imaginary situation was one person who would absorb unjust treatment without lashing out.
This is when Christians have a unique opportunity. By knowing the Father's will, by heeding the Son's example, and by relying on the Spirit's help, we can endure bad treatment and show others a better way. In a chain reactions of frustration and anger, we can be where it all ends. --- Mart De Haan
It was a hasty, thoughtless word,
Sarcastic and unkind,
That chilled the day and dimmed its light
And left a sting behind. --- Anon.
WHEN YOU'RE WRONGED, DON'T DO WHAT COMES NATURALLY; DO WHAT COMES SUPERNATURALLY.
Sunday, March 27, 2005
Two Daughters
Read: Luke 8:40-42, 49-56
Someone came from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, "Your daughter is dead." --- Luke 8:49
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 4-6
Luke 4:31-44
I had never thought much about Jairus before. Oh, I had heard the story about this synagogue ruler, and I knew he had begged Jesus to come to his house and heal his dying daughter. But I never understood the depth of his sorrow. I never understood how his heart must have shattered in pain when a messenger came to him and announced, "You daughter is dead."
No, I never comprehended his grief and anguish --- until I heard those same words from a police officer who came to our house on June 6, 2002.
Jairus' daughter was 12, and she died from an illness. Our daughter was 17, and it was an auto accident that broke our family's heart.
Jairus' daughter was restored to life by Jesus' touch. My daughter Melissa --- though we ache to know she wasn't healed physically --- was healed spiritually by Jesus' sacrifice of love when she trusted Him as Savior early in her life. Now our comfort come from knowing that her eternal existence with the Lord has already begun.
Two daughters. The same Jesus. Two different results. His loving and compassionated touch is a miracle that can bring peace to grieving hearts --- like Jarius', like mine, like yours. --- Dave Branon
God took that one. And in my lonely heart
He poured His special peace, His tender love;
I cannot doubt that God has drawn me near
To trust Him more until I'm drawn above. --- Morris
IN EVERY DESERT OF TRIAL, GOD HAD AN OASIS OF COMFORT.
Someone came from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, "Your daughter is dead." --- Luke 8:49
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 4-6
Luke 4:31-44
I had never thought much about Jairus before. Oh, I had heard the story about this synagogue ruler, and I knew he had begged Jesus to come to his house and heal his dying daughter. But I never understood the depth of his sorrow. I never understood how his heart must have shattered in pain when a messenger came to him and announced, "You daughter is dead."
No, I never comprehended his grief and anguish --- until I heard those same words from a police officer who came to our house on June 6, 2002.
Jairus' daughter was 12, and she died from an illness. Our daughter was 17, and it was an auto accident that broke our family's heart.
Jairus' daughter was restored to life by Jesus' touch. My daughter Melissa --- though we ache to know she wasn't healed physically --- was healed spiritually by Jesus' sacrifice of love when she trusted Him as Savior early in her life. Now our comfort come from knowing that her eternal existence with the Lord has already begun.
Two daughters. The same Jesus. Two different results. His loving and compassionated touch is a miracle that can bring peace to grieving hearts --- like Jarius', like mine, like yours. --- Dave Branon
God took that one. And in my lonely heart
He poured His special peace, His tender love;
I cannot doubt that God has drawn me near
To trust Him more until I'm drawn above. --- Morris
IN EVERY DESERT OF TRIAL, GOD HAD AN OASIS OF COMFORT.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Living With Expectation
Read: John 20:1-10
Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. So they both ran together. --- John 20:3-4
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 1-3
Luke 4:1-30
When the dark day of Jesus' crucifixion drew to a close, it seemed that the most wonderful of all lives had come to an end. For a few brief years, Christ has astounded the crowds and His followers with the wisdom of His teaching and the wonder of His miracles. But Jesus chose not to save Himself from the cross, and now His life was over. It seemed that nothing more could be expected of Him.
Hope returned, however, on that first resurrection morning. A painting by Eugene Burnand portrays Peter and John running to the tombe. Shortly after dawn, Mary Magdalene had told them that she and her friends had found the tomb empty. In Burnand's painting, the faces of Peter and John show contending emotions of anguish and relief, of sorrow and surprise, of despair and wonder as they race toward the tomb. Their gaze is eagerly fixed forward, turning the viewer's attention to the sepulcher. What did they find? An empty tomb --- the Savior was alive!
Christ still lives. But many of us go from day to day as if He were still in the grave. How much better to look beyond the empty tomb to the One who can fill our lives with the power of His resurrection! --- Dave Egner
Christ left the grave one glorious day
And vanquished death and sin;
He opened wide the gates of heaven
That we might enter in. --- Anon.
THE VICTIM OF GOOD FRIDAY BECAME THE VICTOR OF EASTER.
Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. So they both ran together. --- John 20:3-4
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 1-3
Luke 4:1-30
When the dark day of Jesus' crucifixion drew to a close, it seemed that the most wonderful of all lives had come to an end. For a few brief years, Christ has astounded the crowds and His followers with the wisdom of His teaching and the wonder of His miracles. But Jesus chose not to save Himself from the cross, and now His life was over. It seemed that nothing more could be expected of Him.
Hope returned, however, on that first resurrection morning. A painting by Eugene Burnand portrays Peter and John running to the tombe. Shortly after dawn, Mary Magdalene had told them that she and her friends had found the tomb empty. In Burnand's painting, the faces of Peter and John show contending emotions of anguish and relief, of sorrow and surprise, of despair and wonder as they race toward the tomb. Their gaze is eagerly fixed forward, turning the viewer's attention to the sepulcher. What did they find? An empty tomb --- the Savior was alive!
Christ still lives. But many of us go from day to day as if He were still in the grave. How much better to look beyond the empty tomb to the One who can fill our lives with the power of His resurrection! --- Dave Egner
Christ left the grave one glorious day
And vanquished death and sin;
He opened wide the gates of heaven
That we might enter in. --- Anon.
THE VICTIM OF GOOD FRIDAY BECAME THE VICTOR OF EASTER.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Being Useful
Read: Luke 3:21-22
A voice came from heaven which said, "You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased." --- Luke 3:22
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 22-24
Luke 3
Jesus emerged from obscurity and was baptized by John the Baptist. When He came out of the water, He heard His Father say, "You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased" [Luke 3:22].
What had Jesus been doing that merited such unqualified acceptance? He had not yet performed one miracle; He had not preached a single sermon; He had not cleansed one leper. In fact, He had not yet done anything that we normally associate with greatness. What had He been doing in Nazareth during those 30 silent years? He was growing "in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men" [2:52].
What's done in the silent place with God is what matters. It's in the quiet hours of fellowship with God that we're shaped and molded and made into men and women He can use --- people with whom He can be well-pleased.
You might be thinking, I'm in a place where I can't be useful. You may feel limited and frustrated by the cramping restrictions of age, an illness, a difficult child, an uncooperative spouse. But your place, wherever it is, is a place to grow. Spend time in God's Word and in prayer. Grow and bloom where you are, and your Father will be pleased with you. --- David Roper
You'll go forth a little stronger
With a fresh supply of grace,
If each day you meet the Savior
In a secret, quiet place. --- Adams
FRUITFUL SERVICE GROWS IN THE SOIL OF FAITHFUL WORSHIP.
A voice came from heaven which said, "You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased." --- Luke 3:22
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 22-24
Luke 3
Jesus emerged from obscurity and was baptized by John the Baptist. When He came out of the water, He heard His Father say, "You are My beloved Son; in You I am well pleased" [Luke 3:22].
What had Jesus been doing that merited such unqualified acceptance? He had not yet performed one miracle; He had not preached a single sermon; He had not cleansed one leper. In fact, He had not yet done anything that we normally associate with greatness. What had He been doing in Nazareth during those 30 silent years? He was growing "in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men" [2:52].
What's done in the silent place with God is what matters. It's in the quiet hours of fellowship with God that we're shaped and molded and made into men and women He can use --- people with whom He can be well-pleased.
You might be thinking, I'm in a place where I can't be useful. You may feel limited and frustrated by the cramping restrictions of age, an illness, a difficult child, an uncooperative spouse. But your place, wherever it is, is a place to grow. Spend time in God's Word and in prayer. Grow and bloom where you are, and your Father will be pleased with you. --- David Roper
You'll go forth a little stronger
With a fresh supply of grace,
If each day you meet the Savior
In a secret, quiet place. --- Adams
FRUITFUL SERVICE GROWS IN THE SOIL OF FAITHFUL WORSHIP.
Thursday, March 24, 2005
The Cross Speaks
Read: Acts 2:22-39
Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and ... rose again the third day. --- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 19-21
Luke 2:25-52
Crosses decorate church steeples and designate burial places. Sometimes in highway accidents. And they are often worn as jewelry.
Crosses remind people of Jesus Christ. I was made aware of this when a businessman, seeing a small gold cross on the lapel of my jacket,asked me, "Why are you a believer in Christ?" I was glad for the opportunity to share my faith with him.
Jesus died on the cross for us, but we don't worship a dead Savior. Our Lord's body was taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb, and tehn on the third day He emerged in a glorified body.
The cross speaks to us of the total picture --- our Lord's atoning death to pay the price for our sins, as well as His glorious resurrection to deliver us from the power of death.
If it were not for what Christ did on the cross, we would all stand guilty before God and hopeless in the face of death. But through faith in Him, we receive the forgiveness of all our sins and the assurance that death cannot hold us.
Have you looked at the cross and placed your trust in the One who died there? It's the only sure and perfect remedy for guilt and fear. --- Herb Vander Lugt
The cross upon which Jesus died
Is a shelter in which we can hide;
And its grace so free is sufficient for me,
And deep is its fountain --- as wide as the sea. --- Stanphill
THE CROSS OF CHRIST --- THE CROSSROADS TO HEAVEN OR HELL.
Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and ... rose again the third day. --- 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 19-21
Luke 2:25-52
Crosses decorate church steeples and designate burial places. Sometimes in highway accidents. And they are often worn as jewelry.
Crosses remind people of Jesus Christ. I was made aware of this when a businessman, seeing a small gold cross on the lapel of my jacket,asked me, "Why are you a believer in Christ?" I was glad for the opportunity to share my faith with him.
Jesus died on the cross for us, but we don't worship a dead Savior. Our Lord's body was taken down from the cross and placed in a tomb, and tehn on the third day He emerged in a glorified body.
The cross speaks to us of the total picture --- our Lord's atoning death to pay the price for our sins, as well as His glorious resurrection to deliver us from the power of death.
If it were not for what Christ did on the cross, we would all stand guilty before God and hopeless in the face of death. But through faith in Him, we receive the forgiveness of all our sins and the assurance that death cannot hold us.
Have you looked at the cross and placed your trust in the One who died there? It's the only sure and perfect remedy for guilt and fear. --- Herb Vander Lugt
The cross upon which Jesus died
Is a shelter in which we can hide;
And its grace so free is sufficient for me,
And deep is its fountain --- as wide as the sea. --- Stanphill
THE CROSS OF CHRIST --- THE CROSSROADS TO HEAVEN OR HELL.
The Feet Of Judas
Read: John 13:1-20
I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. --- John 13:15
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 16-18
Luke 2:1-24
When we read the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet, we may think we understand why He was doing that for them. John, for instance, was a close friend. Then there were Peter and Andrew, who had been so faithful in following the Master.
Each of the disciples must have had something that endeared him to Jesus. But why did He wash the feet of Judas? Jesus knew that He was stooping down to serve the one who would soon stoop to perform history's worst act of treachery.
Jesus was performing the most menial of tasks for a person who treated the Creator of the universe as being someone worth no more than 30 pieces of silver. Knowingly, the One whose name is associated with giving life got His hands dirty to serve the one whose name would stand for betrayal and death for the rest of time.
Doesn't Jesus' example tell us something special about service? Doesn't it remind us that we are not called to serve only those who are like us, or even those who care for us? We are called to serve all people --- the lovely and the unlovely, the friendly and the not-so-friendly.
When was the last time you "washed the feet" of someone like Judas? --- Dave Branon
When Jesus took a servant's towel ---
His honor set aside ---
He humbly showed us how to serve,
And how to conquer pride. --- Sper
IT'S DIFFICULT TO STAND ON A PEDESTAL AND WASH THE FEET OF THOSE BELOW. --- Colson
I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. --- John 13:15
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 16-18
Luke 2:1-24
When we read the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet, we may think we understand why He was doing that for them. John, for instance, was a close friend. Then there were Peter and Andrew, who had been so faithful in following the Master.
Each of the disciples must have had something that endeared him to Jesus. But why did He wash the feet of Judas? Jesus knew that He was stooping down to serve the one who would soon stoop to perform history's worst act of treachery.
Jesus was performing the most menial of tasks for a person who treated the Creator of the universe as being someone worth no more than 30 pieces of silver. Knowingly, the One whose name is associated with giving life got His hands dirty to serve the one whose name would stand for betrayal and death for the rest of time.
Doesn't Jesus' example tell us something special about service? Doesn't it remind us that we are not called to serve only those who are like us, or even those who care for us? We are called to serve all people --- the lovely and the unlovely, the friendly and the not-so-friendly.
When was the last time you "washed the feet" of someone like Judas? --- Dave Branon
When Jesus took a servant's towel ---
His honor set aside ---
He humbly showed us how to serve,
And how to conquer pride. --- Sper
IT'S DIFFICULT TO STAND ON A PEDESTAL AND WASH THE FEET OF THOSE BELOW. --- Colson
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Facing My Fears
Read: Psalm 138
In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul. --- Psalm 138:3
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 13-15
Luke 1:57-80
After Bill and I married, I became overly dependent on him, rather than depending on God for my security and strength. Feeling very inadequate and fearful, secretly I worried, "What if one day I don't have Bill anymore?"
When our missionary work took Bill from home for weeks at a time, I began to depend on myself instead of Bill. Feeling even more inadequate, I reduced the risks of life whenever possible and lived within a cocoon of anxiety, even being afraid to go out in public.
Finally, at rock bottom, I followed David's example in Psalm 138:3. He said, "In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul." I too cried out and God answered me. His answer gave me the understanding and strength my wings in dependence on God. Slowly but surely He made me a bold servant at Bill's side.
Years later, when Bill died, I recognized how compassionately God had dealt with my earlier fear: "What if one day I don't have Bill anymore?" Instead of removing my fear, God gave me the strength and ability to face it. And He will enable you as you depend on Him. --- Joanie Yoder
I know not, but God knows;
Oh, blessed rest from fear!
All my unfolding days
To Him are plain and clear. --- Flint
TO CONQUER YOUR FEARS, SURRENDER THEM TO THE LORD.
In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul. --- Psalm 138:3
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 13-15
Luke 1:57-80
After Bill and I married, I became overly dependent on him, rather than depending on God for my security and strength. Feeling very inadequate and fearful, secretly I worried, "What if one day I don't have Bill anymore?"
When our missionary work took Bill from home for weeks at a time, I began to depend on myself instead of Bill. Feeling even more inadequate, I reduced the risks of life whenever possible and lived within a cocoon of anxiety, even being afraid to go out in public.
Finally, at rock bottom, I followed David's example in Psalm 138:3. He said, "In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul." I too cried out and God answered me. His answer gave me the understanding and strength my wings in dependence on God. Slowly but surely He made me a bold servant at Bill's side.
Years later, when Bill died, I recognized how compassionately God had dealt with my earlier fear: "What if one day I don't have Bill anymore?" Instead of removing my fear, God gave me the strength and ability to face it. And He will enable you as you depend on Him. --- Joanie Yoder
I know not, but God knows;
Oh, blessed rest from fear!
All my unfolding days
To Him are plain and clear. --- Flint
TO CONQUER YOUR FEARS, SURRENDER THEM TO THE LORD.
Making A Name
Read: Proverbs 10:1-17
The memory of the righteous in blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot. --- Proverbs 10:7
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 10-12
Luke 1:39-56
In the mid-1800s, Texas rancher Samuel Augustus Maverick refused to brand his cattle. When neighboring cowboys came upon a calf without a brand, they called it a "maverick." The word entered the English language and came to refer to a person who takes an independent stand and refuses to conform.
Other names have become words that describe a person's character and behavior: Judas and Benedict Arnold both mean "traitor." An Einstein is a genius, while a Solomon is a wise man.
Few of our names will become part of a language, but they signify who we are and how we have lived --- today and for generations to come. Solomon said, "The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot....He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known" [Proverbs 10:7,9].
When we think of someone we know and admire, the words we associate with that person's name are usually the character traits we'd like to have as well. Honesty, generosity, and love often head the list. We see these in our Lord Jesus Christ, who allows us as Christians to bear His name.
Today, the Lord wants to work in us to make our name one that points to Him. --- David McCasland
I'd rather die than bring disgrace
Upon my Lord, His name debase;
So I will live my life each day
To honor Christ and walk His way. --- Hess
WHEN OTHERS THINK OF YOU, DO THEY THINK OF JESUS?
The memory of the righteous in blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot. --- Proverbs 10:7
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 10-12
Luke 1:39-56
In the mid-1800s, Texas rancher Samuel Augustus Maverick refused to brand his cattle. When neighboring cowboys came upon a calf without a brand, they called it a "maverick." The word entered the English language and came to refer to a person who takes an independent stand and refuses to conform.
Other names have become words that describe a person's character and behavior: Judas and Benedict Arnold both mean "traitor." An Einstein is a genius, while a Solomon is a wise man.
Few of our names will become part of a language, but they signify who we are and how we have lived --- today and for generations to come. Solomon said, "The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot....He who walks with integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will become known" [Proverbs 10:7,9].
When we think of someone we know and admire, the words we associate with that person's name are usually the character traits we'd like to have as well. Honesty, generosity, and love often head the list. We see these in our Lord Jesus Christ, who allows us as Christians to bear His name.
Today, the Lord wants to work in us to make our name one that points to Him. --- David McCasland
I'd rather die than bring disgrace
Upon my Lord, His name debase;
So I will live my life each day
To honor Christ and walk His way. --- Hess
WHEN OTHERS THINK OF YOU, DO THEY THINK OF JESUS?
Monday, March 21, 2005
Thorns Or Roses?
Read: Numbers 14:1-11
When the people complained, it displeased the LORD. --- Numbers 11:1
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 7-9
Luke 1:21-38
Two boys were eating some grapes. One of them remarked, "Aren't they sweet!" "I guess so," the other replied, "but they're full of seeds." Wandering into a garden, the first boy exclaimed, "Look at those big, beautiful red roses!" The other commented, "They're full of thorns!" It was a warm day, so they stopped at the store for a soft drink. After several swallows, the second youngster complained, "My bottle's half-empty already." The first quickly responded, "Mine's still half-full!"
Many people are like the negative-thinking boy in this story. They always look at the life through dark glasses. Like the children of Israel in today's Scripture, they complain and grumble when they should be praising the Lord for His gracious provision. But thank God, not everyone is like that. There are people who concentrate on the bright side and are radiant, happy, and grateful. They are realistic about the somber side of life, but they don't pout and fret.
You can overcome negative thinking. No matter who you are or what your circumstances, there's always much to be grateful for. Think about God's love for you. Praise Him for His providential care. Then, instead of complaining about thorns, you'll be thankful for the roses. --- Richard De Haan
Some folks see so many thorns,
They scarce can see one rose,
While others count two blossoms
For every thorn that grows. --- Garrison
INSTEAD OF GRUMBLING BECAUSE YOU DON'T GET WHAT YOU WANT, BE THANKFUL YOU DON'T GET WHAT YOU DESERVE.
When the people complained, it displeased the LORD. --- Numbers 11:1
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 7-9
Luke 1:21-38
Two boys were eating some grapes. One of them remarked, "Aren't they sweet!" "I guess so," the other replied, "but they're full of seeds." Wandering into a garden, the first boy exclaimed, "Look at those big, beautiful red roses!" The other commented, "They're full of thorns!" It was a warm day, so they stopped at the store for a soft drink. After several swallows, the second youngster complained, "My bottle's half-empty already." The first quickly responded, "Mine's still half-full!"
Many people are like the negative-thinking boy in this story. They always look at the life through dark glasses. Like the children of Israel in today's Scripture, they complain and grumble when they should be praising the Lord for His gracious provision. But thank God, not everyone is like that. There are people who concentrate on the bright side and are radiant, happy, and grateful. They are realistic about the somber side of life, but they don't pout and fret.
You can overcome negative thinking. No matter who you are or what your circumstances, there's always much to be grateful for. Think about God's love for you. Praise Him for His providential care. Then, instead of complaining about thorns, you'll be thankful for the roses. --- Richard De Haan
Some folks see so many thorns,
They scarce can see one rose,
While others count two blossoms
For every thorn that grows. --- Garrison
INSTEAD OF GRUMBLING BECAUSE YOU DON'T GET WHAT YOU WANT, BE THANKFUL YOU DON'T GET WHAT YOU DESERVE.
Sunday, March 20, 2005
Listen To The Children
Read: Matthew 21:1-17
Have you never read, "Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise"? --- Matthew 21:16
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 4-6
Luke 1:1-20
The religious leaders were wrong about Jesus as He rode into Jerusalem [Matthew 21:15-16]. They couldn't have been more off-base if they had tried. True, they knew a lot of theology, but they were dead wrong about who Jesus was.
The children, however, were right. They were the ones in the temple who shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" [v.15]. They believed that the Person riding that unbroken colt was the promised Son of David. They fulfilled the prophecy of Psalm 8:2 by giving praise to the Lamb who was about to die for the sins of the world. It was the children who responded with wholehearted joy, even though they may not have fully understood Jesus' mission to redeem mankind.
Yes, children can teach us a vital lesson about faith. In their openness and innocence, it's easy for them to trust the One whose pure character touches a responsive chord in their tender hearts.
As adults, we think we know so much. We try to be so mature, so correct, so religious. I wonder if we would even recognize the Savior if He walked among us, working the kind of miracles He performed long ago.
Lord, give us the faith of little children. --- Dave Egner
A child is blind to prejudice
But quick to see what's good and true;
Oh, how we need that childlike faith
In all we say and all we do! --- D. De Haan
BIG LESSONS CAN BE LEARNED FROM LITTLE CHILDREN.
Have you never read, "Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise"? --- Matthew 21:16
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 4-6
Luke 1:1-20
The religious leaders were wrong about Jesus as He rode into Jerusalem [Matthew 21:15-16]. They couldn't have been more off-base if they had tried. True, they knew a lot of theology, but they were dead wrong about who Jesus was.
The children, however, were right. They were the ones in the temple who shouted, "Hosanna to the Son of David!" [v.15]. They believed that the Person riding that unbroken colt was the promised Son of David. They fulfilled the prophecy of Psalm 8:2 by giving praise to the Lamb who was about to die for the sins of the world. It was the children who responded with wholehearted joy, even though they may not have fully understood Jesus' mission to redeem mankind.
Yes, children can teach us a vital lesson about faith. In their openness and innocence, it's easy for them to trust the One whose pure character touches a responsive chord in their tender hearts.
As adults, we think we know so much. We try to be so mature, so correct, so religious. I wonder if we would even recognize the Savior if He walked among us, working the kind of miracles He performed long ago.
Lord, give us the faith of little children. --- Dave Egner
A child is blind to prejudice
But quick to see what's good and true;
Oh, how we need that childlike faith
In all we say and all we do! --- D. De Haan
BIG LESSONS CAN BE LEARNED FROM LITTLE CHILDREN.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Butterfly Man
Read: Galatians 5:13-26
Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. --- Galatians 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 1-3
Mark 16
The Internet is one of the most remarkable developments of our time. How astounding that with a few keystrokes you can find out the address of Uncle Frank in Schenectady, New York, or the recipe for a Brazilian fish dish, or the statistics for your favorite athlete.
Of course, the Internet opens up a whole world of sinful choices as well. That's why many Internet providers offer a service to protect a family's computer from sites that promote immorality. One company used a comical-looking man dressed as a butterfly to represent the service, and in an advertisement showed him shielding children from various immoral activities.
Christians already have a similar resource, and it doesn't cost us a monthly fee. It's not the butterfly man --- it's the Holy Spirit, who lives in the heart of each believer. As we seek guidance from God's Word and pray, He will enable us to detect and filter out the immoral. He can help us to keep from going where we shouldn't go, doing what we shouldn't do, and saying what we shouldn't say.
The world, like the Internet, has much we need to avoid. As we daily seek to "walk in the Spirit," relying on His wisdom and power, we can stay clean. --- Dave Branon
The Spirit gives us power to live
A life that's pleasing to the Lord;
He also guides us and provides
Direction in God's holy Word. - Sper
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OUR EVER-PRESENT PROTECTOR.
Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh. --- Galatians 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 1-3
Mark 16
The Internet is one of the most remarkable developments of our time. How astounding that with a few keystrokes you can find out the address of Uncle Frank in Schenectady, New York, or the recipe for a Brazilian fish dish, or the statistics for your favorite athlete.
Of course, the Internet opens up a whole world of sinful choices as well. That's why many Internet providers offer a service to protect a family's computer from sites that promote immorality. One company used a comical-looking man dressed as a butterfly to represent the service, and in an advertisement showed him shielding children from various immoral activities.
Christians already have a similar resource, and it doesn't cost us a monthly fee. It's not the butterfly man --- it's the Holy Spirit, who lives in the heart of each believer. As we seek guidance from God's Word and pray, He will enable us to detect and filter out the immoral. He can help us to keep from going where we shouldn't go, doing what we shouldn't do, and saying what we shouldn't say.
The world, like the Internet, has much we need to avoid. As we daily seek to "walk in the Spirit," relying on His wisdom and power, we can stay clean. --- Dave Branon
The Spirit gives us power to live
A life that's pleasing to the Lord;
He also guides us and provides
Direction in God's holy Word. - Sper
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OUR EVER-PRESENT PROTECTOR.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Friends Listen
Read: Job 13:1-9
Oh, that you would be silent, and it would be your wisdom! --- Job 13:5
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 32-34
Mark 15:26-47
It is about 9 in the evening. My wife Ginny and I are sitting in our living room. I'm reading a book. Suddenly she says, "Honey, I want to talk with you for a few minutes." She begins to talk --- then she abruptly asks, "Are you listening?"
I'm tempted to reply, "Of course, I am. I'm only 2 feet away from you." But actually my mind is still on what I'm reading. I need to close the book and give my full attention to what Ginny is saying. She deserves that from me.
Job too was frustrated because his friends weren't paying attention to what he was saying to them. He sensed that while he was talking they were planning their next response. They were bent on trying to convince him that his suffering was punishment for sin in his life. They were not listening to the deep cry of Job's heart.
Many of us are poor listeners too. Teenagers can be frustrated because their parents always have a quick answer, when actually they just want someone to listen to their struggles and accept them. One teen said, "Sometimes I would just like to talk until I know what I want to say."
Deep relationships are built on acceptance, understanding, and being a good listener. --- Herb Vander Lugt
When our friends encounter suffering,
We can help them if we're near;
Some may need a word of comfort,
Others just a listening ear. --- Sper
LISTENING MAY BE THE MOST LOVING THING YOU DO TODAY.
Oh, that you would be silent, and it would be your wisdom! --- Job 13:5
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 32-34
Mark 15:26-47
It is about 9 in the evening. My wife Ginny and I are sitting in our living room. I'm reading a book. Suddenly she says, "Honey, I want to talk with you for a few minutes." She begins to talk --- then she abruptly asks, "Are you listening?"
I'm tempted to reply, "Of course, I am. I'm only 2 feet away from you." But actually my mind is still on what I'm reading. I need to close the book and give my full attention to what Ginny is saying. She deserves that from me.
Job too was frustrated because his friends weren't paying attention to what he was saying to them. He sensed that while he was talking they were planning their next response. They were bent on trying to convince him that his suffering was punishment for sin in his life. They were not listening to the deep cry of Job's heart.
Many of us are poor listeners too. Teenagers can be frustrated because their parents always have a quick answer, when actually they just want someone to listen to their struggles and accept them. One teen said, "Sometimes I would just like to talk until I know what I want to say."
Deep relationships are built on acceptance, understanding, and being a good listener. --- Herb Vander Lugt
When our friends encounter suffering,
We can help them if we're near;
Some may need a word of comfort,
Others just a listening ear. --- Sper
LISTENING MAY BE THE MOST LOVING THING YOU DO TODAY.
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Life's Seasons
Read: Psalm 71:1-21
By You I have been upheld from birth .... My praise shall be continually of You. --- Psalm 71:6
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 30-31
Mark 15:1-25
When we are young, we can't wait to grow up. When we are old, we look back longingly to former years. But God intends that we joyfully take each season of life as it comes. Whatever our age, He imparts what we need to be all that we can be. He asks us to commit our way to Him and accept the struggles He allows and the strength He provides.
A woman who was facing the difficulties of aging asked Bible teacher J. Robertson McQuilkin, "Why does God let us get old and weak?" McQuilkin replied, "I think God has planned the strength and beauty of youth to be physical. But the strength and beauty of old age is spiritual. We gradually lose the strength and beauty that is temporary so we'll be sure to concentrate on the strength and beauty that is forever. And so we'll be eager to leave the temporary, deteriorating part of us and be truly homesick for our eternal home. If we stayed young and strong and beautiful, we might never want to leave."
Are you in life's springtime? Trust God's timing to fulfill your dreams. Are you in life's summer or autumn? Face your daily challenges head-on. And if you feel winter's chill, draw close to the Lord. His presence can make every season of life one of strength and beauty. --- Dennis De Haan
Only this hour is mine, Lord ---
May it be used for Thee;
May every passing moment
Count for eternity. --- Christiansen
WHATEVER THE SEASON OF LIFE, ATTITUDE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.
By You I have been upheld from birth .... My praise shall be continually of You. --- Psalm 71:6
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 30-31
Mark 15:1-25
When we are young, we can't wait to grow up. When we are old, we look back longingly to former years. But God intends that we joyfully take each season of life as it comes. Whatever our age, He imparts what we need to be all that we can be. He asks us to commit our way to Him and accept the struggles He allows and the strength He provides.
A woman who was facing the difficulties of aging asked Bible teacher J. Robertson McQuilkin, "Why does God let us get old and weak?" McQuilkin replied, "I think God has planned the strength and beauty of youth to be physical. But the strength and beauty of old age is spiritual. We gradually lose the strength and beauty that is temporary so we'll be sure to concentrate on the strength and beauty that is forever. And so we'll be eager to leave the temporary, deteriorating part of us and be truly homesick for our eternal home. If we stayed young and strong and beautiful, we might never want to leave."
Are you in life's springtime? Trust God's timing to fulfill your dreams. Are you in life's summer or autumn? Face your daily challenges head-on. And if you feel winter's chill, draw close to the Lord. His presence can make every season of life one of strength and beauty. --- Dennis De Haan
Only this hour is mine, Lord ---
May it be used for Thee;
May every passing moment
Count for eternity. --- Christiansen
WHATEVER THE SEASON OF LIFE, ATTITUDE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Seek And You Will Find
Read: Proverbs 2:1-6
If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will ... find the knowledge of God. --- Proverbs 2:4-5
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 28-29
Mark 14:54-72
Justin Martyr wa a second-century man who eagerly sought for truth. He read the Greek classical writers, examining and analyzing every philosophy from all sides. He sought insight, especially the answer to his longings for sexual purity. But every effort was in vain. He wrote, "All at last did faithless prove, and late or soon betrayed love."
One day, aimlessly wandering on the seashore, he met an elderly man who spoke to his heart as no one had ever spoken before. He pointed him to God through Jesus Christ, and in that simple witness Justin found the knowledge he had sought all his life --- "the knowledge of God" [Proverbs 2:4-5].
Perhaps you, like Justin Martyr, are searching for insight, looking everywehre for the answer to your longing for truth. You've read widely and thought earnestly about life, but you can find no answers that satisfy the deep needs of your soul. If so, read the Gospels, the first four books of the New Testament. As you read, cry out to God for understanding. He will hear you, and you too will find the knowledge of God through Jesus Christ [John 17:3].
God doesn't force truth on those who don't want it, but He hears the earnest cries of those who request it. As Jesus said, "Ask, and you will receive" [John 16:24]. --- David Roper
Look not to reason arguments
If God you seek to find;
Look only to His holy Word,
For sin has made us blind. --- D. De Haan
TO FIND TRUTH, LOOK TO CHRIST.
If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will ... find the knowledge of God. --- Proverbs 2:4-5
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 28-29
Mark 14:54-72
Justin Martyr wa a second-century man who eagerly sought for truth. He read the Greek classical writers, examining and analyzing every philosophy from all sides. He sought insight, especially the answer to his longings for sexual purity. But every effort was in vain. He wrote, "All at last did faithless prove, and late or soon betrayed love."
One day, aimlessly wandering on the seashore, he met an elderly man who spoke to his heart as no one had ever spoken before. He pointed him to God through Jesus Christ, and in that simple witness Justin found the knowledge he had sought all his life --- "the knowledge of God" [Proverbs 2:4-5].
Perhaps you, like Justin Martyr, are searching for insight, looking everywehre for the answer to your longing for truth. You've read widely and thought earnestly about life, but you can find no answers that satisfy the deep needs of your soul. If so, read the Gospels, the first four books of the New Testament. As you read, cry out to God for understanding. He will hear you, and you too will find the knowledge of God through Jesus Christ [John 17:3].
God doesn't force truth on those who don't want it, but He hears the earnest cries of those who request it. As Jesus said, "Ask, and you will receive" [John 16:24]. --- David Roper
Look not to reason arguments
If God you seek to find;
Look only to His holy Word,
For sin has made us blind. --- D. De Haan
TO FIND TRUTH, LOOK TO CHRIST.
Monday, March 14, 2005
Healthcare For The Heart
Read: Proverbs 4:20-27
Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life. --- Proverbs 4:23
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 26-27
Mark 14:27-53
If you're over 40 years old, your heard has already beat more than 1.5 billion times. I know that when my heart stops, it will be too late to change my ways. So I've been trying to control my weight, get exercise, and watch not only what I eat but also what's eating me.
This last point relates to another vital organ called "the heart" --- our spiritual heart. It too has throbbed millions of times with thoughts, affections, and choices. In the heart we determine how we will speak, behave, and respond to life's circumstances [Proverbs 4:23]. Will we trust the Lord and choose to be gracious, patient, and loving? Or will we yield to pride, greed, and bitterness?
Today's Scripture reading emphasizes the importance of caring for our heart. Are we keeping spiritually fit?
Weight: Do we need to lose the weight of unnecessary burdens and cares? Pulse: Are we maintaining a steady rhythm of gratitude and praise? Blood Pressure: Is our trust greater than our anxiety? Diet: Are we enjoying the life-giving nutrients of the Word of God?
Have you checked your heart lately? --- Mart De Haan
O Lord, You see what's in the heart ---
There's nothing hid from You;
So help us live the kind of life
That's filled with love for You. --- D. De Haan
TO KEEP SPIRITUALLY FIT, CONSULT THE GREAT PHYSICIAN.
Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life. --- Proverbs 4:23
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 26-27
Mark 14:27-53
If you're over 40 years old, your heard has already beat more than 1.5 billion times. I know that when my heart stops, it will be too late to change my ways. So I've been trying to control my weight, get exercise, and watch not only what I eat but also what's eating me.
This last point relates to another vital organ called "the heart" --- our spiritual heart. It too has throbbed millions of times with thoughts, affections, and choices. In the heart we determine how we will speak, behave, and respond to life's circumstances [Proverbs 4:23]. Will we trust the Lord and choose to be gracious, patient, and loving? Or will we yield to pride, greed, and bitterness?
Today's Scripture reading emphasizes the importance of caring for our heart. Are we keeping spiritually fit?
Have you checked your heart lately? --- Mart De Haan
O Lord, You see what's in the heart ---
There's nothing hid from You;
So help us live the kind of life
That's filled with love for You. --- D. De Haan
TO KEEP SPIRITUALLY FIT, CONSULT THE GREAT PHYSICIAN.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
Costly Consequences
Read: 1 Samuel 13:1-15
You have not kept the commandment of the LORD .... Now your kingdom shall not continue. --- 1 Samuel 13:13-14
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 23-25
Mark 14:1-26
I always knew that disobedience has consequences, but it came home to forcibly in basic training during World War II. I had traveled beyond the distance allowed on my weekend pass to be with my wife Ginny, and I returned to camp late because the train had broken down. I paid for my rule-breaking --- 20 hours of extra duty of washing pots and pans!
King Saul also learned the high cost of disobedience. He faced the prospect of fighting a huge well-equipped Philistine army with his small band of frightened and untrained followers. While waiting for Samuel to come and offer a sacrifice before going to battle, Saul became impatient and offered the sacrifice himself, even though he knew that God had given that right only to the priests. It was costly mistake.
Saul had begun his reign with humility and compassion, and he gave God the credit [1 Samuel 11]. And the prophet Samuel told him that God would have kept the kingship in his family if he had obeyed God's command [13:13-14]. But that one act of disobedience changed the course of his life. From that point on, it was a sad downhill journey.
Never forget that disobedience has consequences. And some of them may be very costly. --- Herb Vander Lugt
O help me, Lord, to be afraid
Of disobedient ways;
And may I seek what pleases You,
What gives You highest praise. --- Sper
THE WAY OF OBEDIENCE IS THE ONLY WAY OF BLESSING.
You have not kept the commandment of the LORD .... Now your kingdom shall not continue. --- 1 Samuel 13:13-14
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 23-25
Mark 14:1-26
I always knew that disobedience has consequences, but it came home to forcibly in basic training during World War II. I had traveled beyond the distance allowed on my weekend pass to be with my wife Ginny, and I returned to camp late because the train had broken down. I paid for my rule-breaking --- 20 hours of extra duty of washing pots and pans!
King Saul also learned the high cost of disobedience. He faced the prospect of fighting a huge well-equipped Philistine army with his small band of frightened and untrained followers. While waiting for Samuel to come and offer a sacrifice before going to battle, Saul became impatient and offered the sacrifice himself, even though he knew that God had given that right only to the priests. It was costly mistake.
Saul had begun his reign with humility and compassion, and he gave God the credit [1 Samuel 11]. And the prophet Samuel told him that God would have kept the kingship in his family if he had obeyed God's command [13:13-14]. But that one act of disobedience changed the course of his life. From that point on, it was a sad downhill journey.
Never forget that disobedience has consequences. And some of them may be very costly. --- Herb Vander Lugt
O help me, Lord, to be afraid
Of disobedient ways;
And may I seek what pleases You,
What gives You highest praise. --- Sper
THE WAY OF OBEDIENCE IS THE ONLY WAY OF BLESSING.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Message For All Seasons
Read: Acts 5:31-42
Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! --- John 4:35
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 20-22
Mark 13:21-37
I'm a novice at growing flowers. But I've learned to appreciate the difference between annuals and perennials. Every spring I usually buy trays of annual bedding plants . Once in the ground, they immediately take root. Their brief life always ends with the autumn frosts, and the soil lies barren until my next annual spring planting. I prefer to plant perennial flowers. They go on living from year to year, and regularly bloom, flower, and reproduce.
Writer Eugene Harrison describes the evangelistic efforts of New Testament believers as "perennial" in nature. They didn't pour all their energies into once-a-year evangelistic efforts. Instead, according to Harrison, sharing the good news of Christ was "the supreme concern of every believer, every day in the year, in every place." In Acts 5:42 and 8:4, the scope of their witness is clear: They shared Christ and the gospel in the temple, in their homes, and in the marketplace, using the Spirit-given methods of preaching, teaching, and personal testimony.
Jesus taught that the season for spiritual harvest is always today [John 4:35]. And the apostle Paul said that "now is the day of salvation" [2 Corinthians 6:2].
Be assured, there's never a time when the harvest is out of season. The fields are white today. --- Joanie Yoder
Help us, Lord, to be a lifeline
To a dying world today,
Bringing hope to hopeless people
As we share salvation's way. --- Sper
WITNESSING FOR CHRIST IS NEVER OUT OF SEASON.
Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! --- John 4:35
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 20-22
Mark 13:21-37
I'm a novice at growing flowers. But I've learned to appreciate the difference between annuals and perennials. Every spring I usually buy trays of annual bedding plants . Once in the ground, they immediately take root. Their brief life always ends with the autumn frosts, and the soil lies barren until my next annual spring planting. I prefer to plant perennial flowers. They go on living from year to year, and regularly bloom, flower, and reproduce.
Writer Eugene Harrison describes the evangelistic efforts of New Testament believers as "perennial" in nature. They didn't pour all their energies into once-a-year evangelistic efforts. Instead, according to Harrison, sharing the good news of Christ was "the supreme concern of every believer, every day in the year, in every place." In Acts 5:42 and 8:4, the scope of their witness is clear: They shared Christ and the gospel in the temple, in their homes, and in the marketplace, using the Spirit-given methods of preaching, teaching, and personal testimony.
Jesus taught that the season for spiritual harvest is always today [John 4:35]. And the apostle Paul said that "now is the day of salvation" [2 Corinthians 6:2].
Be assured, there's never a time when the harvest is out of season. The fields are white today. --- Joanie Yoder
Help us, Lord, to be a lifeline
To a dying world today,
Bringing hope to hopeless people
As we share salvation's way. --- Sper
WITNESSING FOR CHRIST IS NEVER OUT OF SEASON.
Friday, March 11, 2005
Only One Option
Read: Habakkuk 1:1-2:4
Behold the proud, his soul is not upright in him; but the just shall live by his faith. --- Habakkuk 2:4
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 17-19
Mark 13:1-20
If you were to ask several people to draw a crooked line on a piece of paper, no two lines would be identical. There is a lesson in this: There are many ways to be crooked, but only one way to be straight.
The Lord tells us that the righteous person has only one option --- to "live by his faith" [Habakkuk 2:4]. In the chapter prior to this declaration from the Lord, the prophet Habakkuk had complained about the violence and injustice around him. It seemed as if the wicked were swallowing up the righteous [1:13].
God responded to Habakkuk by saying that His people were to be "just" and were to live by faith. They were not to be like the one who is "proud" and "not upright" [2:4]. A proud and self-sufficient person will rationalize his faults and imperfections. He doesn't want to admit that he needs God. His ways are crooked.
Wickedness seems to prevail in our world. God urges us to live our lives in faith, taking to heart His assurance to Habakkuk that there will be a day of reckoning for the wicked.
The only way to please God now and to be ready for that day of reckoning is to live by faith. --- Albert Lee
Lord, grant me grace throughout this day
To walk the straight and narrow way,
To do whatever in Thy sight
Is good and perfect, just and right. --- Huisman
THE ONLY RIGHT WAY IS THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW WAY.
Behold the proud, his soul is not upright in him; but the just shall live by his faith. --- Habakkuk 2:4
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 17-19
Mark 13:1-20
If you were to ask several people to draw a crooked line on a piece of paper, no two lines would be identical. There is a lesson in this: There are many ways to be crooked, but only one way to be straight.
The Lord tells us that the righteous person has only one option --- to "live by his faith" [Habakkuk 2:4]. In the chapter prior to this declaration from the Lord, the prophet Habakkuk had complained about the violence and injustice around him. It seemed as if the wicked were swallowing up the righteous [1:13].
God responded to Habakkuk by saying that His people were to be "just" and were to live by faith. They were not to be like the one who is "proud" and "not upright" [2:4]. A proud and self-sufficient person will rationalize his faults and imperfections. He doesn't want to admit that he needs God. His ways are crooked.
Wickedness seems to prevail in our world. God urges us to live our lives in faith, taking to heart His assurance to Habakkuk that there will be a day of reckoning for the wicked.
The only way to please God now and to be ready for that day of reckoning is to live by faith. --- Albert Lee
Lord, grant me grace throughout this day
To walk the straight and narrow way,
To do whatever in Thy sight
Is good and perfect, just and right. --- Huisman
THE ONLY RIGHT WAY IS THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW WAY.
Thursday, March 10, 2005
The Beacon
Read: Mark 6:45-52
He came to them, walking on the sea. --- Mark 6:48
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 14-16
Mark 12:28-44
When a helicopter crashed in a cold, mountainous wilderness, the pilots survived but were seriously injured. The frozen afternoon stretched toward an even more freezing night. The situation seemed hopeless --- until a rescue helicopter appeared, its searchlights illuminating the darkness. It spotted the wreckage, landed nearby, and carried them off to safety.
"How did you know where we were?" an injured man asked.
"The homing device on your aircraft," the rescuers told him. "It went off automatically when you went down. All we had to do was follow it."
The disciples of Jesus also experienced the joy of being rescued. They had been struggling as they rowed their boat against wind and waves in the darkness of night on the Sea of Galilee [Mark 6:45-47]. Then Jesus came to them, walking on the water, and calmed the sea [vv.48-51].
We may experience similar times when all is dark and foreboding. We can't help ourselves, and it seems that no one else can either. No one knows how terrified and exhausted we are. No one, that is, except Jesus.
When we're trapped, hurt, lonely, or discouraged, Jesus knows it. Our cries of grief are beacons that bring Him to our side --- right when we need Him most. --- Dave Egner
There is only One who knows
All the answers to my woes;
He will all my needs supply
When in faith to Him I cry. --- Morgan
JESUS HEARS EVEN THE FAINTEST CRY FOR HELP.
He came to them, walking on the sea. --- Mark 6:48
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 14-16
Mark 12:28-44
When a helicopter crashed in a cold, mountainous wilderness, the pilots survived but were seriously injured. The frozen afternoon stretched toward an even more freezing night. The situation seemed hopeless --- until a rescue helicopter appeared, its searchlights illuminating the darkness. It spotted the wreckage, landed nearby, and carried them off to safety.
"How did you know where we were?" an injured man asked.
"The homing device on your aircraft," the rescuers told him. "It went off automatically when you went down. All we had to do was follow it."
The disciples of Jesus also experienced the joy of being rescued. They had been struggling as they rowed their boat against wind and waves in the darkness of night on the Sea of Galilee [Mark 6:45-47]. Then Jesus came to them, walking on the water, and calmed the sea [vv.48-51].
We may experience similar times when all is dark and foreboding. We can't help ourselves, and it seems that no one else can either. No one knows how terrified and exhausted we are. No one, that is, except Jesus.
When we're trapped, hurt, lonely, or discouraged, Jesus knows it. Our cries of grief are beacons that bring Him to our side --- right when we need Him most. --- Dave Egner
There is only One who knows
All the answers to my woes;
He will all my needs supply
When in faith to Him I cry. --- Morgan
JESUS HEARS EVEN THE FAINTEST CRY FOR HELP.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
The Hiding Place
Read: Psalm 34:4-8
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him! --- Psalm 34:8
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 11-13
Mark 12:1-27
In this world's misery there is only one sure refuge: God Himself. "He is a shield to all who trust in Him" [Psalm 18:30].
To "trust in" comes from a Hebrew word that means "to take refuge in" or "to hide in" or "to hide with." It suggests a secret place of concealment, a "hidey hole," as we used to say in Texas.
When we're exhausted by our efforts, when we're bewildered by our problems, when we're wounded by our friends, when we're surrounded by our foes, we can hide ourselves in God. There is no safety here, we would never know the joy of God's love and protection. We would miss the happiness for which we were made.
The only safe place is God Himself. When storm clouds gather and calamities loom, we must run into His presence in prayer and remain there [Psalm 57:1].
George MacDonald said, "That man is perfect in faith who can come to God in the utter dearth of his feelings and desires, without a glow or an aspiration, with the weight of low thoughts, failures, neglects, and wandering forgetfulness, and say to Him, 'Thou art my refuge.'"
How safe and blessed we are! --- David Roper
O the sweet unfailing refuge
Of the everlasting arms;
In their loving clasp enfolded,
Nothing worries or alarms. --- Hennessay
SAFETY IS NOT FOUND IN THE ABSENCE OF DANGER BUT IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him! --- Psalm 34:8
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 11-13
Mark 12:1-27
In this world's misery there is only one sure refuge: God Himself. "He is a shield to all who trust in Him" [Psalm 18:30].
To "trust in" comes from a Hebrew word that means "to take refuge in" or "to hide in" or "to hide with." It suggests a secret place of concealment, a "hidey hole," as we used to say in Texas.
When we're exhausted by our efforts, when we're bewildered by our problems, when we're wounded by our friends, when we're surrounded by our foes, we can hide ourselves in God. There is no safety here, we would never know the joy of God's love and protection. We would miss the happiness for which we were made.
The only safe place is God Himself. When storm clouds gather and calamities loom, we must run into His presence in prayer and remain there [Psalm 57:1].
George MacDonald said, "That man is perfect in faith who can come to God in the utter dearth of his feelings and desires, without a glow or an aspiration, with the weight of low thoughts, failures, neglects, and wandering forgetfulness, and say to Him, 'Thou art my refuge.'"
How safe and blessed we are! --- David Roper
O the sweet unfailing refuge
Of the everlasting arms;
In their loving clasp enfolded,
Nothing worries or alarms. --- Hennessay
SAFETY IS NOT FOUND IN THE ABSENCE OF DANGER BUT IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Money And Time
Read: Mark 12:13-17,28-31
Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. --- Mark 12:17
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 8-10
Mark 11:19-33
During a trip to London, I visited the Bank of England Museum, then made my way to The Clockmakers' Museum. At some point, it struck me that both money and time have been very important commodities as far back as anyone can remember. Yet they present one of the great dilemmas of life. We trade our valuable time working for money, and then we spend our money tomake the most of our time off. We seldom possess the two with any degree of balance.
In contrast, our Lord never seemed perplexed by money or time. When asked if it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus answered: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" [Mark 12:17]. With great demands on His time, Jesus spent early mornings and late nights in prayer, seeking to know and do His Father's will.
Hymnwriter Frances Havergal wrote:
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
We can properly balance time and money when we offer ourselves without reservation to God. --- David McCasland
SPEND TIME AND MONEY WISELY --- THEY BOTH BELONG TO GOD.
Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. --- Mark 12:17
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 8-10
Mark 11:19-33
During a trip to London, I visited the Bank of England Museum, then made my way to The Clockmakers' Museum. At some point, it struck me that both money and time have been very important commodities as far back as anyone can remember. Yet they present one of the great dilemmas of life. We trade our valuable time working for money, and then we spend our money tomake the most of our time off. We seldom possess the two with any degree of balance.
In contrast, our Lord never seemed perplexed by money or time. When asked if it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus answered: "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" [Mark 12:17]. With great demands on His time, Jesus spent early mornings and late nights in prayer, seeking to know and do His Father's will.
Hymnwriter Frances Havergal wrote:
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold;
Take my intellect and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.
We can properly balance time and money when we offer ourselves without reservation to God. --- David McCasland
SPEND TIME AND MONEY WISELY --- THEY BOTH BELONG TO GOD.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Too Much Ambition
Read: Mark 10:35-45
The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. --- Mark 10:45
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 5-7
Mark 11:1-18
If you are familiar with the works of William Shakespeare, you know that Macbeth was one of his characters. Macbeth wanted so much to be king that he resorted to murder --- and he paid for it with his life.
We are like that tragic character when we let our ambitions cloud our thinking and forget who is really in control of our lives. We don't use evil methods to achieve our goal, but we do allow ambition to cloud our thinking about the sovereignty of God. Instead of leaving matters in His hands, we take them into our own.
Another example of too much ambition is found in the conversation James and John had with Jesus in Mark 10. Their goal was to sit in the positions of greatest prestige and power in the kingdom. And because they weren't content to wait and see if Jesus would bestow that honor on them, they boldly requested it. They were too impatient to leave the whole matter in His hands.
Ambition is not always wrong. But when it consumes us so that we can't wait for God, we display a lack of faith as the disciples did.
When we submit our goals and desires to the Lord, we can be sure that He will give us what is best. --- Dave Branon
Lord, grant us now the grace to wait,
To trust alone in You,
Lest we set goals outside Your will
That we with zeal pursue. --- Anon.
BE AMBITIOUS FOR THE LORD, BUT BE CAUTIOUS ABOUT YOUR MOTIVES.
The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many. --- Mark 10:45
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 5-7
Mark 11:1-18
If you are familiar with the works of William Shakespeare, you know that Macbeth was one of his characters. Macbeth wanted so much to be king that he resorted to murder --- and he paid for it with his life.
We are like that tragic character when we let our ambitions cloud our thinking and forget who is really in control of our lives. We don't use evil methods to achieve our goal, but we do allow ambition to cloud our thinking about the sovereignty of God. Instead of leaving matters in His hands, we take them into our own.
Another example of too much ambition is found in the conversation James and John had with Jesus in Mark 10. Their goal was to sit in the positions of greatest prestige and power in the kingdom. And because they weren't content to wait and see if Jesus would bestow that honor on them, they boldly requested it. They were too impatient to leave the whole matter in His hands.
Ambition is not always wrong. But when it consumes us so that we can't wait for God, we display a lack of faith as the disciples did.
When we submit our goals and desires to the Lord, we can be sure that He will give us what is best. --- Dave Branon
Lord, grant us now the grace to wait,
To trust alone in You,
Lest we set goals outside Your will
That we with zeal pursue. --- Anon.
BE AMBITIOUS FOR THE LORD, BUT BE CAUTIOUS ABOUT YOUR MOTIVES.
Sunday, March 06, 2005
Behind The Throne
Read: Esther 1
[God] changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings. --- Daniel 2:21
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 3-4
Mark 10:32-52
During my lifetime I have seen evil men rise to political and military power, make colossal blunders, and pass off the scene. Even good leaders leave a record that includes mistakes and weaknesses.
The first chapter of Esther shows us the pride of King Ahasuerus, head of the mighty Persian Empire. He hosted an elaborate festival designed to display his riches and splendor. After 7 days of partying, the king gave orders to his servants to bring Vashti, his queen, before the revelers so they could see her great beauty. But Queen Vashti refused to come, humiliating the great king of Persia [vv.12-18].
Ahasuerus was furious and sought counsel from the wise men of his kingdom. They advised him to remove Vashti as queen and "give her royal position to another who is better than she" [v.19]. God used these unusual events to place a Jewish girl in a strategic position to preserve His people from destruction.
God's name is not mentioned in the entire book of Esther, but the message in chapter 1 comes through loud and clear: God can bring good out of everything, even when flawed and mistake-prone humans are involved. He is the real power behind the throne. --- Herb Vander Lugt
We comprehend Him not,
Yet earth and heaven tell,
God sits as sovereign on the throne,
And ruleth all things well. --- Gerhardt
THE MOST POWERFUL RULER IS BUT A PAWN IN THE HAND OF THE KINGS OF KINGS.
[God] changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and raises up kings. --- Daniel 2:21
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 3-4
Mark 10:32-52
During my lifetime I have seen evil men rise to political and military power, make colossal blunders, and pass off the scene. Even good leaders leave a record that includes mistakes and weaknesses.
The first chapter of Esther shows us the pride of King Ahasuerus, head of the mighty Persian Empire. He hosted an elaborate festival designed to display his riches and splendor. After 7 days of partying, the king gave orders to his servants to bring Vashti, his queen, before the revelers so they could see her great beauty. But Queen Vashti refused to come, humiliating the great king of Persia [vv.12-18].
Ahasuerus was furious and sought counsel from the wise men of his kingdom. They advised him to remove Vashti as queen and "give her royal position to another who is better than she" [v.19]. God used these unusual events to place a Jewish girl in a strategic position to preserve His people from destruction.
God's name is not mentioned in the entire book of Esther, but the message in chapter 1 comes through loud and clear: God can bring good out of everything, even when flawed and mistake-prone humans are involved. He is the real power behind the throne. --- Herb Vander Lugt
We comprehend Him not,
Yet earth and heaven tell,
God sits as sovereign on the throne,
And ruleth all things well. --- Gerhardt
THE MOST POWERFUL RULER IS BUT A PAWN IN THE HAND OF THE KINGS OF KINGS.
Saturday, March 05, 2005
A Wasted Life
Read: Ephesians 4:17-29
You should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, int eh futility of their mind. --- Ephesians 4:17
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 1-2
Mark 10:1-31
It's frustrating to talk to some people about God, Jesus, and salvation. They shrug you off by saying, "You have your belief and I have mine." Or, "I won't tell you how to live if you won't tell me how to live."
How do we respond to that? By telling them and showing them that our belief in Christ makes sense. It gives life meaning now and for eternity.
In the book Papillon, the main character dreams that he is on trial. The judge says he is being charged with the most terrible crime that a person can possibly commit. When Papillon asks what it is, he is told, "The tragedy of a wasted life." "Guilty!" says Papillon, weeping. "Guilty."
There are people all around us whose lives have no meaning or hope. They're caught in the web of sin, living "in the futility of their mind" [Ephesians 4:17]. Our role, as followers of the Lord Jesus, is to demonstrate that the life of faith does make sense. In the midst of a world of aimlessness and despair, we are to live with purpose and hope.
When we show people the difference Jesus has made in our lives, they will see that life can have meaning and purpose. Then, if they turn to Jesus, they too will avoid the tragedy of a wasted life. --- Dave Egner
People searching for an answer,
Looking for a better way,
Can discover truth and meaning
If God's love we will display. --- Sper
A CHRISTLIKE LIFE CAN BE THE WORLD'S BIBLE.
You should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, int eh futility of their mind. --- Ephesians 4:17
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 1-2
Mark 10:1-31
It's frustrating to talk to some people about God, Jesus, and salvation. They shrug you off by saying, "You have your belief and I have mine." Or, "I won't tell you how to live if you won't tell me how to live."
How do we respond to that? By telling them and showing them that our belief in Christ makes sense. It gives life meaning now and for eternity.
In the book Papillon, the main character dreams that he is on trial. The judge says he is being charged with the most terrible crime that a person can possibly commit. When Papillon asks what it is, he is told, "The tragedy of a wasted life." "Guilty!" says Papillon, weeping. "Guilty."
There are people all around us whose lives have no meaning or hope. They're caught in the web of sin, living "in the futility of their mind" [Ephesians 4:17]. Our role, as followers of the Lord Jesus, is to demonstrate that the life of faith does make sense. In the midst of a world of aimlessness and despair, we are to live with purpose and hope.
When we show people the difference Jesus has made in our lives, they will see that life can have meaning and purpose. Then, if they turn to Jesus, they too will avoid the tragedy of a wasted life. --- Dave Egner
People searching for an answer,
Looking for a better way,
Can discover truth and meaning
If God's love we will display. --- Sper
A CHRISTLIKE LIFE CAN BE THE WORLD'S BIBLE.
Friday, March 04, 2005
Pressuring God
Read: Matthew 26:36-46
O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done. --- Matthew 26:42
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 34-36
Mark 9:30-50
Under General George Patton's command in World War II, the Third Army had been driving back the Nazis until fog and rain forced the troops to stop. Patton telephoned a chaplain to ask, "Do you have a good prayer for weather?" Immediately the chaplain complied with the general's request. He wrote a prayer, which Patton ordered to be printed and distributed to the 250,000 soldiers under his command, directing them to pray for clear weather.
The Scriptures teach us that God wants us to bring our requests to Him, and we can be confident that He cares and will answer [Philippians 4:6; 1 John 5:14-15]. But He is neve obligated to answer in the way we want or just because many people are praying.
When the Son of God was agonizing in Gethsemane, He made His request in humble submission to His Father by saying, "Your will be done" [Matthew 26:42]. That Gethsemane principle ought to govern all our praying.
The Father's will is always infused with infinite love and wisdom. So instead of trying to pressure God because we think He's obligated to us, we as trustful children gladly commit to Him our desires. Whatever He grants will prove in the end to be the best of blessings. --- Vernon Grounds
So lift up your heart to the heavens;
There's a loving and kind Father there
Who offers release and comfort and peace
In the silent communion of prayer. --- Anon.
INSTEAD OF TRYING TO TWIST GOD'S ARM, PUT YOURSELF IN HIS HANDS.
O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done. --- Matthew 26:42
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 34-36
Mark 9:30-50
Under General George Patton's command in World War II, the Third Army had been driving back the Nazis until fog and rain forced the troops to stop. Patton telephoned a chaplain to ask, "Do you have a good prayer for weather?" Immediately the chaplain complied with the general's request. He wrote a prayer, which Patton ordered to be printed and distributed to the 250,000 soldiers under his command, directing them to pray for clear weather.
The Scriptures teach us that God wants us to bring our requests to Him, and we can be confident that He cares and will answer [Philippians 4:6; 1 John 5:14-15]. But He is neve obligated to answer in the way we want or just because many people are praying.
When the Son of God was agonizing in Gethsemane, He made His request in humble submission to His Father by saying, "Your will be done" [Matthew 26:42]. That Gethsemane principle ought to govern all our praying.
The Father's will is always infused with infinite love and wisdom. So instead of trying to pressure God because we think He's obligated to us, we as trustful children gladly commit to Him our desires. Whatever He grants will prove in the end to be the best of blessings. --- Vernon Grounds
So lift up your heart to the heavens;
There's a loving and kind Father there
Who offers release and comfort and peace
In the silent communion of prayer. --- Anon.
INSTEAD OF TRYING TO TWIST GOD'S ARM, PUT YOURSELF IN HIS HANDS.
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Happy Adversity?
Read: James 1:1-12
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials. --- James 1:2
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Mark 9:1-29
On the back of a wedding anniversary card were some wiggly lines drawn by our 3-year-old grandson. Alongside was a note from our daughter explaining that Trevor told her what he had written: "I'm writing a letter for your love and happy adversity."
Trevor's "mistake" has become our watchword, because "happy adversity" embodies the biblical principle of facing difficulties with joy: "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience" [James 1:2-3].
From our perspective, adversity is anything but happy. We have the idea that the Christian life is supposed to be trouble-free, and we see little value in hardship. But God sees it differently.
J.B. Phillips' translation of James 1:2-3 reads: "When all kinds of trials and temptations crown into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance."
Affliction does not come as a thief to steal our happiness, but as a friend bringing the gift of staying power. Through it all, God promises us His wisdom and strength.
So don't be offended if I wish you "Happy Adversity" today --- David McCasland
Be assured beyond all doubting,
In the trial you're passing through,
That the Lord's great love and mercy
Is at work for good in you. --- Anon.
LIFE'S BURDENS ARE DESIGNED NOT TO BREAK US BUT TO BEND US TOWARD GOD.
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials. --- James 1:2
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Mark 9:1-29
On the back of a wedding anniversary card were some wiggly lines drawn by our 3-year-old grandson. Alongside was a note from our daughter explaining that Trevor told her what he had written: "I'm writing a letter for your love and happy adversity."
Trevor's "mistake" has become our watchword, because "happy adversity" embodies the biblical principle of facing difficulties with joy: "Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience" [James 1:2-3].
From our perspective, adversity is anything but happy. We have the idea that the Christian life is supposed to be trouble-free, and we see little value in hardship. But God sees it differently.
J.B. Phillips' translation of James 1:2-3 reads: "When all kinds of trials and temptations crown into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends! Realize that they come to test your faith and to produce in you the quality of endurance."
Affliction does not come as a thief to steal our happiness, but as a friend bringing the gift of staying power. Through it all, God promises us His wisdom and strength.
So don't be offended if I wish you "Happy Adversity" today --- David McCasland
Be assured beyond all doubting,
In the trial you're passing through,
That the Lord's great love and mercy
Is at work for good in you. --- Anon.
LIFE'S BURDENS ARE DESIGNED NOT TO BREAK US BUT TO BEND US TOWARD GOD.
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Unexpected Kindness
Read: 1 Samuel 26:1-25
If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. --- Romans 12:20
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 28-30
Mark 8:22-38
A missionary was teaching a class of young girls about kindness. She told them about Jesus, who said that a person who gives a cup of water in His name "will by no means lose his reward" [Mark 9:41].
The next day the missionary watched as a group of weary men walked into the village square, removed their heavy backpacks, and sat down to rest. A few minutes later, several little girls shyly approached the surprised men and gave them all a drink. Then they ran to the missionary. "Teacher!" they shouted. "We gave those men a drink in Jesus' name."
Although Mark 9:41 applies primarily to showing kindness to believers in Christ, we know that we are to "do good to all" [Galatians 6:10] and even give our enemy a drink [Romans 12:20].
In today's Bible reading, David had the chance for revenge against King Saul [1 Samuel 26:9]. But because David revered God, he showed kindness to the king.
Showing unexpected kindness to strangers or enemies will not always change their hearts. But sooner or later someone will wonder why we were kind, and we will have an opportunity to tell about our Lord, who was kind even to His enemies [Romans 5:10]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Do a deed of simple kindness,
Though its end you may not see;
It may reach, like widening ripples,
Down a long eternity. --- Norris
ONE ACT OF KINDNESS MAY TEACH MORE ABOUT THE LOVE OF GOD THAN MANY SERMONS.
If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. --- Romans 12:20
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 28-30
Mark 8:22-38
A missionary was teaching a class of young girls about kindness. She told them about Jesus, who said that a person who gives a cup of water in His name "will by no means lose his reward" [Mark 9:41].
The next day the missionary watched as a group of weary men walked into the village square, removed their heavy backpacks, and sat down to rest. A few minutes later, several little girls shyly approached the surprised men and gave them all a drink. Then they ran to the missionary. "Teacher!" they shouted. "We gave those men a drink in Jesus' name."
Although Mark 9:41 applies primarily to showing kindness to believers in Christ, we know that we are to "do good to all" [Galatians 6:10] and even give our enemy a drink [Romans 12:20].
In today's Bible reading, David had the chance for revenge against King Saul [1 Samuel 26:9]. But because David revered God, he showed kindness to the king.
Showing unexpected kindness to strangers or enemies will not always change their hearts. But sooner or later someone will wonder why we were kind, and we will have an opportunity to tell about our Lord, who was kind even to His enemies [Romans 5:10]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Do a deed of simple kindness,
Though its end you may not see;
It may reach, like widening ripples,
Down a long eternity. --- Norris
ONE ACT OF KINDNESS MAY TEACH MORE ABOUT THE LOVE OF GOD THAN MANY SERMONS.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Going Out & Coming In
Read: Numbers 27:15-23
At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in. --- Numbers 27:21
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 26-27
Mark 8:1-21
The phrase "at his word" is used twice in Numbers 27:21 to emphasize how God would guide Israel. Joshua was to direct Israel to "go out" and "come in" based on what God told Eleazer the priest.
How often do we make a decision to go somewhere or do something based on our pride, personal ambition, or merely to keep busy? How often do we go only because someone we long to please asked us to go, rather than because we want to please the Lord? When we "go out" to pursue our own desires instead of following God's leading, we will be frustrated in our efforts and left empty and disappointed.
But when we go out at the Lord's prompting and direction, "at His word," He is responsible for the outcome. The result will be fruitful labor, whether we know it or not.
The time to "come in" is also ordered by the Lord. There are times to retreat --- to pray, to fill our hearts with His Word, to rest our bodies.
We must come daily before our great High Priest, the Lord Jesus, and receive His instruction. If we bow before Him and ask for His guidance, He will help us to know what to do and when to do it. --- David Roper
We need to take the time each day
To read God's Word and pray,
And listen for what He might say
To guide us on our way. --- Sper
YOU CAN'T GO WRONG IF YOU FOLLOW GOD'S LEAD.
At his word they shall go out, and at his word they shall come in. --- Numbers 27:21
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 26-27
Mark 8:1-21
The phrase "at his word" is used twice in Numbers 27:21 to emphasize how God would guide Israel. Joshua was to direct Israel to "go out" and "come in" based on what God told Eleazer the priest.
How often do we make a decision to go somewhere or do something based on our pride, personal ambition, or merely to keep busy? How often do we go only because someone we long to please asked us to go, rather than because we want to please the Lord? When we "go out" to pursue our own desires instead of following God's leading, we will be frustrated in our efforts and left empty and disappointed.
But when we go out at the Lord's prompting and direction, "at His word," He is responsible for the outcome. The result will be fruitful labor, whether we know it or not.
The time to "come in" is also ordered by the Lord. There are times to retreat --- to pray, to fill our hearts with His Word, to rest our bodies.
We must come daily before our great High Priest, the Lord Jesus, and receive His instruction. If we bow before Him and ask for His guidance, He will help us to know what to do and when to do it. --- David Roper
We need to take the time each day
To read God's Word and pray,
And listen for what He might say
To guide us on our way. --- Sper
YOU CAN'T GO WRONG IF YOU FOLLOW GOD'S LEAD.
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