Read: Matthew 4:1-11
God ... will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but ... will also make the way of escape. --- 1 Corinthians 10:13
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 15-16
John 12:27-50
Wanda Johnson, a single mother with five children, was on her way to the pawn shop, where she was hoping to get a loan of $60 for her TV set. Then something bizaare happened. As an armored truck filled with sacks of money drove past her, its rear door flew open, and a bag dropped out. Wanda stopped and picked up the sack. When she counted the cash, she found that is totaled $160,000.
A battle raged in her soul. That money would pay all her bills and provide for the needs of her children. But it wasn't hers to keep.
After a fierce 4-hour struggle with her moral convictions, Wanda called the police and turned in the money. Her sense of doing the right thing won a victory over the temptation to keep what wasn't hers.
How strong is your ethical fiber? Will it break down if you are faced with an enticing chance to do something wrong? Adam and Eve, as well as Jesus, were attacked by Satan on three fronts: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life [1 John 2:16]. Our first parents succumbed to the serpent's solicitation [Genesis 3:1-6]. Jesus did not [Matthew 4:1-11].
No matter what evil is pressuring us, let's follow Jesus' example and do what's right. --- Vernon Grounds
Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin ---
Each victory will help you some other to win;
Fight manfully onward, dark passions subdue,
Look ever to Jesus --- He will carry you through. --- Palmer
TO WITHSTAND TEMPTATION, STAND WITH CHRIST.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Monday, May 30, 2005
Remember
Read: John 19:1-8
When we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. --- Romans 5:6
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 13-14
John 12:1-26
Prime Minister Winston Churchill was honoring members of the Royal Air Force who had defended Britain during World War II. Recounting their brave service, he declared, "Never in the history of mankind have so many owed so much to so few."
A similar sentiment appears on a memorial plaque in Bastogne, Belgium, where raged the famous Battle of the Bulge, one of the bloodiest conflicts of the Second World War. The inscription, in honor of the US 101st Airborne Division, reads: "Seldom has so much American blood been shed in the course of a single action. Oh, Lord, help us to remember!"
Those are fitting and well-deserved tributes to the courageous men and women who sacrificed so much for their country.
As I think about them, I also remember the One whose selfless sacrifice resulted in benefits for people of all nations. Jesus Christ, the sinless One, died on a cross and shed His blood to pay the penalty for our sins. In so doing, He guaranteed our freedom --- freedom from the penalty, power, and someday even the presence of sin. Of Jesus it can be said: Never in the history of mankind have so many owed so much to one Man. Yes, His was the greatest sacrifice.
Lord, help us to remember! --- Richard De Haan
'Twas not a marty's death He died,
The Christ of Calvary;
It was a willing sacrifice
He made for you --- for me. --- Adams
THE MEMORY OF JESUS' DEATH CALLS US TO A LIFE OF PRAISE.
When we were still without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. --- Romans 5:6
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 13-14
John 12:1-26
Prime Minister Winston Churchill was honoring members of the Royal Air Force who had defended Britain during World War II. Recounting their brave service, he declared, "Never in the history of mankind have so many owed so much to so few."
A similar sentiment appears on a memorial plaque in Bastogne, Belgium, where raged the famous Battle of the Bulge, one of the bloodiest conflicts of the Second World War. The inscription, in honor of the US 101st Airborne Division, reads: "Seldom has so much American blood been shed in the course of a single action. Oh, Lord, help us to remember!"
Those are fitting and well-deserved tributes to the courageous men and women who sacrificed so much for their country.
As I think about them, I also remember the One whose selfless sacrifice resulted in benefits for people of all nations. Jesus Christ, the sinless One, died on a cross and shed His blood to pay the penalty for our sins. In so doing, He guaranteed our freedom --- freedom from the penalty, power, and someday even the presence of sin. Of Jesus it can be said: Never in the history of mankind have so many owed so much to one Man. Yes, His was the greatest sacrifice.
Lord, help us to remember! --- Richard De Haan
'Twas not a marty's death He died,
The Christ of Calvary;
It was a willing sacrifice
He made for you --- for me. --- Adams
THE MEMORY OF JESUS' DEATH CALLS US TO A LIFE OF PRAISE.
The Best Consoler
Read: John 14:16-21, 24-27
I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever. --- John 14:16
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 10-12
John 11:30-57
When two uniformed men came to my door on Memorial Day afternoon, I thought they were collecting for charity. Instead, they told me that my sister and her husband had been killed in an accident earlier that day.
Just over a year after that shattering event, our church choir sang "Veni, Sancte Spiritus" ["Come, Holy Spirit"] on Pentecost Sunday [Whitsunday]. It brought a wave of peace over my still-aching soul. One verse says: "Thou best of Consolers, sweet guest of the soul, sweet refreshment. In labor, Thou art rest; in heat, the tempering; in grief, the consolation."
On Pentecost Sunday, many churches celebrate the Holy Spirit's coming in power on the disciples [Acts 2:1-21]. But the Spirit came also as the Comforter promised by Jesus: "I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever" [John 14:16]. The Spirit lives within each Christian, bringing the peace of Christ along with encouragement and alleviation of grief.
Pentecost and Memorial Day seldom fall next to each other as they do in 2004. But the "sweet guest of the soul" is always with us on any day we remember our loved ones who have died. In grief, the Spirit is our consolation, the light of our hearts, the giver of everlasting joy. --- David McCasland
O spread the tidings 'round wherever man is found,
Wherever human hearts and human woes abound;
Let every Christian tongue proclaim the joyful sound:
The Comforter has come! --- Bottome
IN EVERY DESERT OF TRIAL, THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OUR OASIS OF COMFORT.
I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever. --- John 14:16
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 10-12
John 11:30-57
When two uniformed men came to my door on Memorial Day afternoon, I thought they were collecting for charity. Instead, they told me that my sister and her husband had been killed in an accident earlier that day.
Just over a year after that shattering event, our church choir sang "Veni, Sancte Spiritus" ["Come, Holy Spirit"] on Pentecost Sunday [Whitsunday]. It brought a wave of peace over my still-aching soul. One verse says: "Thou best of Consolers, sweet guest of the soul, sweet refreshment. In labor, Thou art rest; in heat, the tempering; in grief, the consolation."
On Pentecost Sunday, many churches celebrate the Holy Spirit's coming in power on the disciples [Acts 2:1-21]. But the Spirit came also as the Comforter promised by Jesus: "I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever" [John 14:16]. The Spirit lives within each Christian, bringing the peace of Christ along with encouragement and alleviation of grief.
Pentecost and Memorial Day seldom fall next to each other as they do in 2004. But the "sweet guest of the soul" is always with us on any day we remember our loved ones who have died. In grief, the Spirit is our consolation, the light of our hearts, the giver of everlasting joy. --- David McCasland
O spread the tidings 'round wherever man is found,
Wherever human hearts and human woes abound;
Let every Christian tongue proclaim the joyful sound:
The Comforter has come! --- Bottome
IN EVERY DESERT OF TRIAL, THE HOLY SPIRIT IS OUR OASIS OF COMFORT.
Saturday, May 28, 2005
True Greatness
Read: Luke 9:28-29, 34-42
Now it happened on the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, that a great multitude met Him. --- Luke 9:37
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 7-9
John 11:1-29
On the 50th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary's status as a hero in Nepal was "not about what he did when he stood on top of the world, but what he did when he came back down." After conquering the world's highest mountain with his climbing companion Tenzing Norgay in 1953, Edmund spent the next five decades helping to build schoold, hospitals, and bridges for the Sherpa community.
The contrast between Edmund Hillary's moment on the mountain and his service in the valley brought to mind Jesus' experience on the Mount of Transfiguration [Luke 9:28-36]. It was a pinnacle of blessing when our Lord's appearance became radiant and the Father said, "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!" [v.35].
But Jesus didn't stay on the mountain. He came down to the crowd, where He freed a boy from an evil spirit. He was determined to go to Jerusalem and fulfill His mission, where He would willingly die on the cross for our sins.
Jesus told His disciples, "He who is least among you all will be great" [v.48]. Our Lord's life shows us that true greatness is found in humbly serving God and others in the valley of need. --- David McCasland
Whether on the mountaintop
Or the valley down below,
True greatness is in serving
Wherever we may go. --- D. De Haan
IN GOD'S EYES, TRUE GREATNESS IS SERVING OTHERS.
Now it happened on the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, that a great multitude met Him. --- Luke 9:37
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 7-9
John 11:1-29
On the 50th anniversary of Sir Edmund Hillary's status as a hero in Nepal was "not about what he did when he stood on top of the world, but what he did when he came back down." After conquering the world's highest mountain with his climbing companion Tenzing Norgay in 1953, Edmund spent the next five decades helping to build schoold, hospitals, and bridges for the Sherpa community.
The contrast between Edmund Hillary's moment on the mountain and his service in the valley brought to mind Jesus' experience on the Mount of Transfiguration [Luke 9:28-36]. It was a pinnacle of blessing when our Lord's appearance became radiant and the Father said, "This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!" [v.35].
But Jesus didn't stay on the mountain. He came down to the crowd, where He freed a boy from an evil spirit. He was determined to go to Jerusalem and fulfill His mission, where He would willingly die on the cross for our sins.
Jesus told His disciples, "He who is least among you all will be great" [v.48]. Our Lord's life shows us that true greatness is found in humbly serving God and others in the valley of need. --- David McCasland
Whether on the mountaintop
Or the valley down below,
True greatness is in serving
Wherever we may go. --- D. De Haan
IN GOD'S EYES, TRUE GREATNESS IS SERVING OTHERS.
Friday, May 27, 2005
Restoring God's Image
Read: Colossians 3:8-17
We all ... are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory. --- 2 Corinthians 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 4-6
John 10:24-42
As a young boy, theologian Alister McGrath enjoyed experimenting with chemicals in his school's laboratory. He liked to drop a tarnished coin into a beaker of diluted nitric acid. He often used an old British penny bearing the image of Queen Victoria. Because of the accumulated grime, Her Majesty's image couldn't be seen clearly. But the acid cleansed away the grime and the Queen's image reappeared in shining glory.
We know, to be sure, that we were created in the image of God [Genesis 1:26], but that image has been defaced by our sin. We are still His image-bearers, however.
Once we invite Jesus to enter our lives as Savior, He goes to work to restore the original image. He transforms us to make us like Himself [2 Corinthians 3:18]. This process is described as putting off some behaviors and putting on others. For example, we are to "put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language" [Colossians 3:8] and to "put on love" [v.14].
Unless and until our sin-tarnished souls are cleansed by Jesus' forgiveness, God's image is obscured in our lives. But when we trust Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, we are forgiven and the restoration begins. --- Vernon Grounds
Restore in me Your image, Lord,
So tarnished by my sin and shame;
And cleanse whatever may conceal
The shining glory of Your name. --- D. De Haan
DRAWING CLOSE TO CHRIST PRODUCES A GROWING CHRISTLIKENESS.
We all ... are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory. --- 2 Corinthians 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 4-6
John 10:24-42
As a young boy, theologian Alister McGrath enjoyed experimenting with chemicals in his school's laboratory. He liked to drop a tarnished coin into a beaker of diluted nitric acid. He often used an old British penny bearing the image of Queen Victoria. Because of the accumulated grime, Her Majesty's image couldn't be seen clearly. But the acid cleansed away the grime and the Queen's image reappeared in shining glory.
We know, to be sure, that we were created in the image of God [Genesis 1:26], but that image has been defaced by our sin. We are still His image-bearers, however.
Once we invite Jesus to enter our lives as Savior, He goes to work to restore the original image. He transforms us to make us like Himself [2 Corinthians 3:18]. This process is described as putting off some behaviors and putting on others. For example, we are to "put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language" [Colossians 3:8] and to "put on love" [v.14].
Unless and until our sin-tarnished souls are cleansed by Jesus' forgiveness, God's image is obscured in our lives. But when we trust Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, we are forgiven and the restoration begins. --- Vernon Grounds
Restore in me Your image, Lord,
So tarnished by my sin and shame;
And cleanse whatever may conceal
The shining glory of Your name. --- D. De Haan
DRAWING CLOSE TO CHRIST PRODUCES A GROWING CHRISTLIKENESS.
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Calamity
Read: Luke 13:1-5
Do you think that they were worse sinners ... ? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. --- Luke 13:4-5
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 1-3
John 10:1-23
Some Christians are quick to declare that a public disaster [such as a terrorist attack, an earthquake, or a flood] is the result of divine judgment. In reality, a complex array of factors lie behind most disasters.
In Luke 13, Jesus was asked about some people who were cruelly murdered, and about 18 people who died when a tower collapsed on them. The people asking the questions were wondering if those who died were worse sinners than others. "I tell you, no," said Jesus, "but unless you repent you will all likewise perish" [vv.3,5].
Instead of reading divine judgment into tragedies, we should see them as a call to personal repentance. This is especially true for unbelievers, but it is also true for Christians. Acts of terrorism, for example, challenge us to learn about the injustices that in part motivate people to commit such horrible atrocities. And we can pray earnestly for the conversion and the good of the desperate people who commit such acts.
Calamities in themselves are never good, but they can fulfill God's purposes when they serve as a wake-up call to believers, and when they bring unbelievers to repentance and faith in Jesus. Let's not ask, "Who's to blame?" but "Lord, what are You saying to me?" --- Herb Vander Lugt
When great calamity befalls,
We wonder why it's sent;
But God says, "Ask not who has sinned ---
Just hear My call, 'Repent!'" --- D. De Haan
IN ALARMING SITUATIONS, LISTEN FOR GOD'S WAKE-UP CALL.
Do you think that they were worse sinners ... ? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. --- Luke 13:4-5
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 1-3
John 10:1-23
Some Christians are quick to declare that a public disaster [such as a terrorist attack, an earthquake, or a flood] is the result of divine judgment. In reality, a complex array of factors lie behind most disasters.
In Luke 13, Jesus was asked about some people who were cruelly murdered, and about 18 people who died when a tower collapsed on them. The people asking the questions were wondering if those who died were worse sinners than others. "I tell you, no," said Jesus, "but unless you repent you will all likewise perish" [vv.3,5].
Instead of reading divine judgment into tragedies, we should see them as a call to personal repentance. This is especially true for unbelievers, but it is also true for Christians. Acts of terrorism, for example, challenge us to learn about the injustices that in part motivate people to commit such horrible atrocities. And we can pray earnestly for the conversion and the good of the desperate people who commit such acts.
Calamities in themselves are never good, but they can fulfill God's purposes when they serve as a wake-up call to believers, and when they bring unbelievers to repentance and faith in Jesus. Let's not ask, "Who's to blame?" but "Lord, what are You saying to me?" --- Herb Vander Lugt
When great calamity befalls,
We wonder why it's sent;
But God says, "Ask not who has sinned ---
Just hear My call, 'Repent!'" --- D. De Haan
IN ALARMING SITUATIONS, LISTEN FOR GOD'S WAKE-UP CALL.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
God Is Alive!
Read: Psalm 30
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever. --- Psalm 30:12
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 28-29
John 9:24-41
The great 16th-century theologian Martin Luther once experienced a long period of worry and despondency. One day his wife dressed in black mourning clothes.
"Who has died?" asked Luther.
"God," said his wife.
"God!" said Luther, horrified. "How can you say such a thing?"
She replied, "I'm only saying what you are living."
Luther realized that he indeed was living as if God were no longer alive and watching over them in love. He changed his outlook from gloom to gratitude.
Occasionally we too live as if God were dead. When we are discouraged, we can turn to the Psalms. Some of the writers faced bleak and barren times, but they had one habit in common that kept them from being soured: giving thanks to God. For example, David wrote, "You have turned for me my mourning into dancing .... O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever" [Psalm 30:11-12].
Meeting every situation with thanksgiving isn't a denial of trouble. It helps us see those situations from God's perspective --- as opportunities to discover His power and love.
Every time you express gratitude to God in a difficult situation, you're declaring, "God is alive!" --- Joanie Yoder
When things go wrong, I would not be a grumbler,
Complaining, seeing everything as grim;
For when I think of how the Lord had blessed me,
I cannot help but give my praise to Him. --- Hess
INSTEAD OF COMPLAINING ABOUT THE THORNS ON ROSES, BE THANKFUL FOR THE ROSES AMONG THE THORNS.
O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever. --- Psalm 30:12
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 28-29
John 9:24-41
The great 16th-century theologian Martin Luther once experienced a long period of worry and despondency. One day his wife dressed in black mourning clothes.
"Who has died?" asked Luther.
"God," said his wife.
"God!" said Luther, horrified. "How can you say such a thing?"
She replied, "I'm only saying what you are living."
Luther realized that he indeed was living as if God were no longer alive and watching over them in love. He changed his outlook from gloom to gratitude.
Occasionally we too live as if God were dead. When we are discouraged, we can turn to the Psalms. Some of the writers faced bleak and barren times, but they had one habit in common that kept them from being soured: giving thanks to God. For example, David wrote, "You have turned for me my mourning into dancing .... O Lord my God, I will give thanks to You forever" [Psalm 30:11-12].
Meeting every situation with thanksgiving isn't a denial of trouble. It helps us see those situations from God's perspective --- as opportunities to discover His power and love.
Every time you express gratitude to God in a difficult situation, you're declaring, "God is alive!" --- Joanie Yoder
When things go wrong, I would not be a grumbler,
Complaining, seeing everything as grim;
For when I think of how the Lord had blessed me,
I cannot help but give my praise to Him. --- Hess
INSTEAD OF COMPLAINING ABOUT THE THORNS ON ROSES, BE THANKFUL FOR THE ROSES AMONG THE THORNS.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
Who Calls The Game?
Read: Job 40:1-14
Shall the one who contends with the Almighty correct Him? --- Job 40:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 25-27
John 9:1-23
During an afternoon baseball game when American League umpire Bill Guthrie was working behind home plate, the catcher for the visiting team repeatedly protested his calls.
According to a story in the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Guthrie endured this for three innings. But in the fourth inning, when the catcher started to complain again, Guthrie stopped him. "Son," he said gently, "you've been a big help to me calling balls and strikes, and I appreciate it. But I think I've got the hang of it now. So I'm going to ask you to go to the clubhouse and show them how to take a shower."
Job also had been complaining about calls he didn't think were fair. In his case, the umpire was God. After listening to Job's objections, the Lord finally spoke out of a violent storm. Suddenly things came into perspective for Job. God was gentle, but He was also firm and direct. The Lord asked him the kind of questions that bring finite man back down to size. Job listened, gave up his complaining, and found peace in surrendering to God.
Father, we don't make sense when we complain about Your fairness. Help us to be like Your Son Jesus, who trusted You without complaining, even to the point of dying on the cross. --- Mart De Haan
When troubles come and we complain
Because we do not understand,
The problem is our narrow view
That fails to see God's loving hand. --- K. De Haan
WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE COMPLAINING, THINK OF ALL THAT JESUS ENDURED.
Shall the one who contends with the Almighty correct Him? --- Job 40:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 25-27
John 9:1-23
During an afternoon baseball game when American League umpire Bill Guthrie was working behind home plate, the catcher for the visiting team repeatedly protested his calls.
According to a story in the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Guthrie endured this for three innings. But in the fourth inning, when the catcher started to complain again, Guthrie stopped him. "Son," he said gently, "you've been a big help to me calling balls and strikes, and I appreciate it. But I think I've got the hang of it now. So I'm going to ask you to go to the clubhouse and show them how to take a shower."
Job also had been complaining about calls he didn't think were fair. In his case, the umpire was God. After listening to Job's objections, the Lord finally spoke out of a violent storm. Suddenly things came into perspective for Job. God was gentle, but He was also firm and direct. The Lord asked him the kind of questions that bring finite man back down to size. Job listened, gave up his complaining, and found peace in surrendering to God.
Father, we don't make sense when we complain about Your fairness. Help us to be like Your Son Jesus, who trusted You without complaining, even to the point of dying on the cross. --- Mart De Haan
When troubles come and we complain
Because we do not understand,
The problem is our narrow view
That fails to see God's loving hand. --- K. De Haan
WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE COMPLAINING, THINK OF ALL THAT JESUS ENDURED.
Monday, May 23, 2005
Too Much To Do?
Read: Luke 10:38-42
One thing I have desired of the LORD, ... that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life. --- Psalm 27:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 22-24
John 8:28-59
I'm usually a happy person. Most of the time I can take on as muc work as anyone can give me. But some days there just seems to be too much to do. The schedule may be so full of meetings, appointments, and deadlines that there's no room to breathe. Life often contains too much work, parenting, home improvement, and other responsibilities for one person to handle.
When that happens to me --- as it may happen to you --- I have some options. I can retreat into a shell of inactivity and leave everyone who is depending on me out in the cold. I can slug my way through, moaning as I go and making everyone wish I had chosen option one. Or I can get my perspective realigned by reminding myself what Jesus said to Martha [Luke 10:38-42].
Jesus told Martha that she had become "distracted with much serving" [v.40]. He reminded her that her sister Mary had chosen the one thing that would never be taken away [v.42]. Like many of us, Martha got so wrapped up in her service that she forgot the most important thing --- fellowship with her Lord.
Are you overwhelmed? Don't lose sight of your priorities. Spend time with the Lord. He will lift your load and give you the right perspective. --- Dave Branon
The many tasks we face each day
Can burden and oppress,
But spending time with God each day
Can bring relief from stress. --- Sper
TO KEEP YOUR LIFE IN BALANCE, LEAN ON THE LORD.
One thing I have desired of the LORD, ... that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life. --- Psalm 27:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 22-24
John 8:28-59
I'm usually a happy person. Most of the time I can take on as muc work as anyone can give me. But some days there just seems to be too much to do. The schedule may be so full of meetings, appointments, and deadlines that there's no room to breathe. Life often contains too much work, parenting, home improvement, and other responsibilities for one person to handle.
When that happens to me --- as it may happen to you --- I have some options. I can retreat into a shell of inactivity and leave everyone who is depending on me out in the cold. I can slug my way through, moaning as I go and making everyone wish I had chosen option one. Or I can get my perspective realigned by reminding myself what Jesus said to Martha [Luke 10:38-42].
Jesus told Martha that she had become "distracted with much serving" [v.40]. He reminded her that her sister Mary had chosen the one thing that would never be taken away [v.42]. Like many of us, Martha got so wrapped up in her service that she forgot the most important thing --- fellowship with her Lord.
Are you overwhelmed? Don't lose sight of your priorities. Spend time with the Lord. He will lift your load and give you the right perspective. --- Dave Branon
The many tasks we face each day
Can burden and oppress,
But spending time with God each day
Can bring relief from stress. --- Sper
TO KEEP YOUR LIFE IN BALANCE, LEAN ON THE LORD.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
The Upside Of Dying
Read: John 17:20-26
Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory. --- John 17:24
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 19-21
John 8:1-27
A Sunday school teacher asked some 5-year-olds a series of questions to help realize that trusting in Jesus is the only way to get to heaven. He asked, "If I sell everything I have and give the money to the church, would that get me into heaven?" "No," they answered. "How about if I keep everything clean in and around the church?" Another "No." "If I love my family, am kind to animals, and give candy to every child I meet, will that get me to heaven? Another unanimous "No!" Then he asked, "What will get me into heaven?" A little boy shouted, "You have to be dead!"
This was hardly the answer the teacher expected, but the youngster was right. The Bible tells us that we all must leave our flesh-and-blood bodies [1 Corinthians 15:50-52]. Unless we are alive when Jesus returns, we all must die before entering His presence.
British preacher Charles Haddon Spurgeon captured this truth in a sermon titled "Why They Leave Us." He pointed out that Jesus' prayer in John 17:24 is answered every time a Christian dies. The person leaves his body and enters the presence of his Savior, where he beholds His glory. What a comfort for the believer! It reveals the upside of dying. Is that your confidence? --- Herb Vander Lugt
The death of people whom we love
Brings sorrow and deep pain;
But if our loved ones know the Lord,
Our loss becomes their gain. --- Sper
WHEN CHRISTIANS DIE, THEY HAVE JUST BEGUN TO LIVE.
Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory. --- John 17:24
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 19-21
John 8:1-27
A Sunday school teacher asked some 5-year-olds a series of questions to help realize that trusting in Jesus is the only way to get to heaven. He asked, "If I sell everything I have and give the money to the church, would that get me into heaven?" "No," they answered. "How about if I keep everything clean in and around the church?" Another "No." "If I love my family, am kind to animals, and give candy to every child I meet, will that get me to heaven? Another unanimous "No!" Then he asked, "What will get me into heaven?" A little boy shouted, "You have to be dead!"
This was hardly the answer the teacher expected, but the youngster was right. The Bible tells us that we all must leave our flesh-and-blood bodies [1 Corinthians 15:50-52]. Unless we are alive when Jesus returns, we all must die before entering His presence.
British preacher Charles Haddon Spurgeon captured this truth in a sermon titled "Why They Leave Us." He pointed out that Jesus' prayer in John 17:24 is answered every time a Christian dies. The person leaves his body and enters the presence of his Savior, where he beholds His glory. What a comfort for the believer! It reveals the upside of dying. Is that your confidence? --- Herb Vander Lugt
The death of people whom we love
Brings sorrow and deep pain;
But if our loved ones know the Lord,
Our loss becomes their gain. --- Sper
WHEN CHRISTIANS DIE, THEY HAVE JUST BEGUN TO LIVE.
Master Of Redemption
Read: 1 Samuel 21:10-22:2
Everyone who was in distress ... gathered to [David]. So he became captain over them. --- 1 Samuel 22:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 16-18
John 7:28-53
As I glanced through the mail, some words on a card from a charitable organization caught my eye: WE NEED YOUR DISCARDS! The meaning was straightforward and simple: Whatever you don't want, we'll take. Those household items you call rubbish, rejects, throwaways, and junk, we'll use to help people in need.
While thinking about such a collection of castoffs, I recalled something I had read in the book of 1 Samuel. A company of desperate men gathered around an uncrowned king who was running for his life. The 400 men who joined David at the cave of Adullam were in distress, in debt, and discontented. Each one faced difficulty and discouragement. "So [David] became captain over them" [1 Samuel 22:2].
In many ways, Christians are a collection of desperate people who have answered the invitation of Jesus: "Come to Me" [Matthew 11:28]. By faith, we acknowledge Christ as our Captain, Savior, Leader, and Lord. We come as we are so that we can become what He wants us to be.
If you feel like a moral or spiritual discard, come to Jesus. Loners and losers are welcome at the door. The crucified and risen Christ is the master of redemption for all who turn to Him. --- David McCasland
Christ asks thee for nothing ---
Come just as thou art;
Come sinful, come guilty,
Come give Him thy heart. --- Anon.
JESUS CAME TO SAVE THE LOST, THE LAST, AND THE LEAST.
Everyone who was in distress ... gathered to [David]. So he became captain over them. --- 1 Samuel 22:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 16-18
John 7:28-53
As I glanced through the mail, some words on a card from a charitable organization caught my eye: WE NEED YOUR DISCARDS! The meaning was straightforward and simple: Whatever you don't want, we'll take. Those household items you call rubbish, rejects, throwaways, and junk, we'll use to help people in need.
While thinking about such a collection of castoffs, I recalled something I had read in the book of 1 Samuel. A company of desperate men gathered around an uncrowned king who was running for his life. The 400 men who joined David at the cave of Adullam were in distress, in debt, and discontented. Each one faced difficulty and discouragement. "So [David] became captain over them" [1 Samuel 22:2].
In many ways, Christians are a collection of desperate people who have answered the invitation of Jesus: "Come to Me" [Matthew 11:28]. By faith, we acknowledge Christ as our Captain, Savior, Leader, and Lord. We come as we are so that we can become what He wants us to be.
If you feel like a moral or spiritual discard, come to Jesus. Loners and losers are welcome at the door. The crucified and risen Christ is the master of redemption for all who turn to Him. --- David McCasland
Christ asks thee for nothing ---
Come just as thou art;
Come sinful, come guilty,
Come give Him thy heart. --- Anon.
JESUS CAME TO SAVE THE LOST, THE LAST, AND THE LEAST.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
New Hope
Read: Romans 15:5-13
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. --- Romans 15:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 13-15
John 7:1-27
Grant Murphy of Seattle was the active type, a man who ran at full throttle. Idling and coasting were not in his nature. "One might even call him hyperactive," recalled a dear friend.
Then multiple sclerosis began to slow Grant down. First he needed crutches to get around. Then he was limited to sitting in a chair. Finally he was confined to a bed.
Near the end, he was hardly strong enough to talk. His friend recalls, however, that "he expressed only joy and thankfulness with a constant anticipation of being in the Lord's presence." Not long before he died, Grant whispered Romans 15:13 to a friend. He repeated the words "in believing," then added, "I can't do anything now."
It's when we can't do anything that God does everything. And herein lies a profound paradox of the Christian's experience. Faith is simultaneously an exercise of our will and the impartation of divine strength. And from that marvelous mixture spring joy and peace and an abundance of hope.
Are you in a totally helpless situation? Strength gone? All options exhausted? If you have trusted Jesus as your Savior, God will strengthen you to keep on believing. As you trust Him, He'll give you not only joy and peace, but also hope when all hope is gone. --- Dennis De Haan
When we are weak and in despair,
Our mighty God is near;
He'll give us strength and joy and hope,
And calm our inner fear. --- Sper
NO ONE IS HOPELESS WHOSE HOPE IS IN GOD.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. --- Romans 15:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 13-15
John 7:1-27
Grant Murphy of Seattle was the active type, a man who ran at full throttle. Idling and coasting were not in his nature. "One might even call him hyperactive," recalled a dear friend.
Then multiple sclerosis began to slow Grant down. First he needed crutches to get around. Then he was limited to sitting in a chair. Finally he was confined to a bed.
Near the end, he was hardly strong enough to talk. His friend recalls, however, that "he expressed only joy and thankfulness with a constant anticipation of being in the Lord's presence." Not long before he died, Grant whispered Romans 15:13 to a friend. He repeated the words "in believing," then added, "I can't do anything now."
It's when we can't do anything that God does everything. And herein lies a profound paradox of the Christian's experience. Faith is simultaneously an exercise of our will and the impartation of divine strength. And from that marvelous mixture spring joy and peace and an abundance of hope.
Are you in a totally helpless situation? Strength gone? All options exhausted? If you have trusted Jesus as your Savior, God will strengthen you to keep on believing. As you trust Him, He'll give you not only joy and peace, but also hope when all hope is gone. --- Dennis De Haan
When we are weak and in despair,
Our mighty God is near;
He'll give us strength and joy and hope,
And calm our inner fear. --- Sper
NO ONE IS HOPELESS WHOSE HOPE IS IN GOD.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Headline Event
Read: John 13:33-14:3
Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him. --- Revelation 1:7
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 10-12
John 6:45-71
Did you know that the largest type used by most newspapers for headlines of astounding events has been called "second coming" type? These heavy, black letters are reserved for only the most amazing frong-page news stories. This dramatic type has been used to announce the beginning and end of wars, moon landings, presidential election winners, natural disasters, and other significant events.
One day mankind will witness the great event for which the "second coming" type was named --- the return of Jesus Christ. And what a day that will be! The One who ascended to heaven long ago will return to this earth. When our Lord comes back, it will be such a phenomenal occurrence that it will command worldwide attention.
The day Jesus told His disciples that He would be leaving them, Peter was filled with questions [John 13:36-37]. Jesus didn't explain when He would return, but He reassured His disciples that He was going to prepare a place for them and one day "come again" [14:2-3].
When the Savior comes back, His return will command the attention of all earth's inhabitants. It will be a headline event! --- Dave Egner
When Christ the Lord returns to reign,
The world will know of that event,
For everyone shall see His face
And know the reason He was sent. --- Hess
EVEN SO, COME, LORD JESUS! - Revelation 22:20
Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him. --- Revelation 1:7
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 10-12
John 6:45-71
Did you know that the largest type used by most newspapers for headlines of astounding events has been called "second coming" type? These heavy, black letters are reserved for only the most amazing frong-page news stories. This dramatic type has been used to announce the beginning and end of wars, moon landings, presidential election winners, natural disasters, and other significant events.
One day mankind will witness the great event for which the "second coming" type was named --- the return of Jesus Christ. And what a day that will be! The One who ascended to heaven long ago will return to this earth. When our Lord comes back, it will be such a phenomenal occurrence that it will command worldwide attention.
The day Jesus told His disciples that He would be leaving them, Peter was filled with questions [John 13:36-37]. Jesus didn't explain when He would return, but He reassured His disciples that He was going to prepare a place for them and one day "come again" [14:2-3].
When the Savior comes back, His return will command the attention of all earth's inhabitants. It will be a headline event! --- Dave Egner
When Christ the Lord returns to reign,
The world will know of that event,
For everyone shall see His face
And know the reason He was sent. --- Hess
EVEN SO, COME, LORD JESUS! - Revelation 22:20
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
See You Next Time?
Read: 1 Chronicles 16:23-36
Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. --- 1 Chronicles 16:23
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 7-9
John 6:22-44
It was a Sunday afternoon several years ago. The whole family was gathered around the table for dinner. Our 4-year-old son Stevie led off our pre-meal prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, thank You for this nice day. Thank You that we could go to church and Sunday school today." Then, to our surprise, he said, "And we'll see You again next week."
What Stevie said in his prayer is how we often view the Christian life, I'm afraid. We easily fall into a see-you-next-time attitude about God. We forget about Him as we fulfill our daily responsibilities. We go for days at a time trying to pay the bills, keep the boss happy, and give attention to each family member. But we neglect to give God the time He deserves.
First Chronicles 16 gives us some facts about God's power and majesty that we can think and talk about "from day to day" [v.23]. We can "declare His glory" [v.24] and recognize His band of creation in the heavens [v.26]. We can talk of His honor and majesty, the strength He possesses, and the gladness He give us [v.27].
Each day brings new reasons to pray to God, to praise His name, and to proclaim His love. Let's make our worship of Him something we do "from day to day." --- Dave Branon
Worship, praise, and adoration
Render now to Jesus' name;
Freely give your heart's devotion,
Constantly His love proclaim. --- Anon.
NO DAY IS COMPLETE WITHOUT WORSHIP.
Sing to the LORD, all the earth; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. --- 1 Chronicles 16:23
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 7-9
John 6:22-44
It was a Sunday afternoon several years ago. The whole family was gathered around the table for dinner. Our 4-year-old son Stevie led off our pre-meal prayer: "Dear heavenly Father, thank You for this nice day. Thank You that we could go to church and Sunday school today." Then, to our surprise, he said, "And we'll see You again next week."
What Stevie said in his prayer is how we often view the Christian life, I'm afraid. We easily fall into a see-you-next-time attitude about God. We forget about Him as we fulfill our daily responsibilities. We go for days at a time trying to pay the bills, keep the boss happy, and give attention to each family member. But we neglect to give God the time He deserves.
First Chronicles 16 gives us some facts about God's power and majesty that we can think and talk about "from day to day" [v.23]. We can "declare His glory" [v.24] and recognize His band of creation in the heavens [v.26]. We can talk of His honor and majesty, the strength He possesses, and the gladness He give us [v.27].
Each day brings new reasons to pray to God, to praise His name, and to proclaim His love. Let's make our worship of Him something we do "from day to day." --- Dave Branon
Worship, praise, and adoration
Render now to Jesus' name;
Freely give your heart's devotion,
Constantly His love proclaim. --- Anon.
NO DAY IS COMPLETE WITHOUT WORSHIP.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Unexpected Alligators
Read: Matthew 13:18-23
When tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. --- Matthew 13:21
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 4-6
John 6:1-21
A friend of actress and comedienne Gracie Allen once sent a small, live alligator to her as a gag. Not knowing what to do with it, Gracie put it in the bathtub and then left for an appointment. When she returned home, she found a note from her maid. "Dear Miss Allen: Sorry, but I have to quit. I don't work in houses where there is an alligator. I would have told you this when I started, but I never thought it would come up."
Some people who say they'll serve Christ are quick to leave when trouble comes. In Jesus' parable of the soils, He pictured the various responses that people have to the gospel. For example, a person may seem to accept God's truth, but he stumbles in his faith when difficulties arise [Matthew 13:20-21]. Such trouble test the sincerity of one's faith and expose the weakness of one's commitment to Christ.
But someone may say, "Shouldn't our Lord tell us up front what is involved in following Him?" He does. He appeals to us with one invitation: "Trust Me." If we let trouble or disillusionment shake our faith, we are breaking the spirit of the trust the brought us to Christ in the final place.
Father, when life brings us the unexpected and we feel like quitting, help us to be faithful to You. --- Mart De Haan
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for fear. --- Berg
TOUGH TIMES CAN TEACH US TO TRUST.
When tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. --- Matthew 13:21
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 4-6
John 6:1-21
A friend of actress and comedienne Gracie Allen once sent a small, live alligator to her as a gag. Not knowing what to do with it, Gracie put it in the bathtub and then left for an appointment. When she returned home, she found a note from her maid. "Dear Miss Allen: Sorry, but I have to quit. I don't work in houses where there is an alligator. I would have told you this when I started, but I never thought it would come up."
Some people who say they'll serve Christ are quick to leave when trouble comes. In Jesus' parable of the soils, He pictured the various responses that people have to the gospel. For example, a person may seem to accept God's truth, but he stumbles in his faith when difficulties arise [Matthew 13:20-21]. Such trouble test the sincerity of one's faith and expose the weakness of one's commitment to Christ.
But someone may say, "Shouldn't our Lord tell us up front what is involved in following Him?" He does. He appeals to us with one invitation: "Trust Me." If we let trouble or disillusionment shake our faith, we are breaking the spirit of the trust the brought us to Christ in the final place.
Father, when life brings us the unexpected and we feel like quitting, help us to be faithful to You. --- Mart De Haan
Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father's wise bestowment,
I've no cause for worry or for fear. --- Berg
TOUGH TIMES CAN TEACH US TO TRUST.
Monday, May 16, 2005
Putting Love Into Practice
Read: Matthew 5:11-16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. --- Matthew 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 1-3
John 5:25-47
In his book Christians in the Marketplace, Bill Hybels says that people outside the faith often say, "Show me" before they say, "Tell me."
I knew a young man in Germany named Wolfgang who modeled Hybels' principle at a building site where he worked. As an enthusiastic believer, Wolfgang always read his Bible during lunch. Though his fellow workers jeered, he didn't stop his daily reading. He simply prayed for a way to demonstrate Christ's love to them.
When the workers went home at night, they always left their muddy boots behind. Wolfgang began staying late after work to clean their boots. The men were puzzled at first but then realized that Wolfgang was the only one among them who would perform this humble service. Not only did they come to respect him, but sometimes they even asked him to read the Bible to them. Only eternity will reveal the full effect of Wolfgang's shining life. But this we know: When his co-workers saw his good works, they started listening to his God.
Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may ... glorify your Father in heaven" [Matthew 5:16]. If you long to lead the people around you to Jesus, radiate His love by doing practical deeds for God's glory alone. --- Joanie Yoder
My life was dark until the Light shone in,
That Light was Christ, who saved me from my sin;
His light that I've received I long to share
In loving deeds for people everywhere. --- Hess
A CHRISTIAN'S LIFE IS A WINDOW THROUGH WHICH OTHERS CAN SEE JESUS.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. --- Matthew 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 1-3
John 5:25-47
In his book Christians in the Marketplace, Bill Hybels says that people outside the faith often say, "Show me" before they say, "Tell me."
I knew a young man in Germany named Wolfgang who modeled Hybels' principle at a building site where he worked. As an enthusiastic believer, Wolfgang always read his Bible during lunch. Though his fellow workers jeered, he didn't stop his daily reading. He simply prayed for a way to demonstrate Christ's love to them.
When the workers went home at night, they always left their muddy boots behind. Wolfgang began staying late after work to clean their boots. The men were puzzled at first but then realized that Wolfgang was the only one among them who would perform this humble service. Not only did they come to respect him, but sometimes they even asked him to read the Bible to them. Only eternity will reveal the full effect of Wolfgang's shining life. But this we know: When his co-workers saw his good works, they started listening to his God.
Jesus said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may ... glorify your Father in heaven" [Matthew 5:16]. If you long to lead the people around you to Jesus, radiate His love by doing practical deeds for God's glory alone. --- Joanie Yoder
My life was dark until the Light shone in,
That Light was Christ, who saved me from my sin;
His light that I've received I long to share
In loving deeds for people everywhere. --- Hess
A CHRISTIAN'S LIFE IS A WINDOW THROUGH WHICH OTHERS CAN SEE JESUS.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
Fine Crystal
Read: Psalm 127
Children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. --- Psalm 127:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 24-25
John 5:1-24
I have a friend --- call her "Mary" --- who tells me that her fondest memory is of the morning she broke her mother's "priceless" crystal.
Mary's mother was having a party. She had taken her fine crystal from the cupboard and carefully washed it and placed it on the table. The crystal represented the only valuable material possession her mother owned, and it was used only on special occasions.
In her rush to get things ready for her guests, Mary's mother said to her young daughter, "Would you please find some place that's not underfoot?" So Mary crawled underneath the table. Unfortunately, she kicked the leg of the table and the crystal crashed to the floor. "Crystal exploded like shrapnel," she recalls. She had destroyed the most elegant thing her mother possessed.
"I'm so sorry," the little girl sobbed. Her mother gathered her in her arms and whispered, "Don't cry, honey. You are far more valuable to me than mere crystal."
Children are indeed our most valuable possession, more precious than anything we could ever buy or earn. They are "a heritage from the LORD" and "a reward" [Psalm 127:3].
Do your children know how precious they are to you? Why not tell tehm today. --- David Roper
Our children are a heritage,
A blessig from the Lord;
They bring a richness to our lives ---
In each, a treasure stored. --- Fasick
LITTLE CHILDREN ARE OF GREAT VALUE TO GOD.
Children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. --- Psalm 127:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 24-25
John 5:1-24
I have a friend --- call her "Mary" --- who tells me that her fondest memory is of the morning she broke her mother's "priceless" crystal.
Mary's mother was having a party. She had taken her fine crystal from the cupboard and carefully washed it and placed it on the table. The crystal represented the only valuable material possession her mother owned, and it was used only on special occasions.
In her rush to get things ready for her guests, Mary's mother said to her young daughter, "Would you please find some place that's not underfoot?" So Mary crawled underneath the table. Unfortunately, she kicked the leg of the table and the crystal crashed to the floor. "Crystal exploded like shrapnel," she recalls. She had destroyed the most elegant thing her mother possessed.
"I'm so sorry," the little girl sobbed. Her mother gathered her in her arms and whispered, "Don't cry, honey. You are far more valuable to me than mere crystal."
Children are indeed our most valuable possession, more precious than anything we could ever buy or earn. They are "a heritage from the LORD" and "a reward" [Psalm 127:3].
Do your children know how precious they are to you? Why not tell tehm today. --- David Roper
Our children are a heritage,
A blessig from the Lord;
They bring a richness to our lives ---
In each, a treasure stored. --- Fasick
LITTLE CHILDREN ARE OF GREAT VALUE TO GOD.
The Lost Book
Read: 2 Kings 22:8-13
I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD. --- 2 Kings 22:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 22-23
John 4:31-54
Two US Senate staffers were cleaning out a storeroom underneath the Capitol when they spotted a partially opened door nearby. Curious, they stepped inside and found a small room jammed with dusty old brochures and payroll records. A leatherbound book with gold lettering caught their attention: Senators' Compensation and Mileage. It bore to dates 1790-1881.
What a find! It was a one-of-a-kind record of every dollar paid to senators during the Senate's first 90 years. Plus, the book contains the hand-written signatures of founding fathers Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. "The book speaks volumes," says historian Richard Baker. "There is nothing that comes remotely close to it in the archives of the Senate."
I imagine that Hilkiah the high priest felt even more excitement when he discovered the long-lost "Book of the Law" in some hidden cranny in the temple [2 Kings 22:8]. King Josiah recognized its value and ordered it to be read aloud to all the people of Judah [23:1-2].
Maybe it has been a while since you've read portions of the Bible such as Leviticus, Zechariah, or Philemon. Dust them off and try reading them. They speak volumes --- and their message may be just what you need. --- Dave Egner
I entered the world's great library doors;
I crossed their acres of polished floors;
I searched and searched their stacks and nooks,
And settled at last on the Book of books. --- Anon.
THE BIBLE IS OLD, BUT ITS TRUTHS ARE ALWAYS NEW.
I have found the Book of the Law in the house of the LORD. --- 2 Kings 22:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 22-23
John 4:31-54
Two US Senate staffers were cleaning out a storeroom underneath the Capitol when they spotted a partially opened door nearby. Curious, they stepped inside and found a small room jammed with dusty old brochures and payroll records. A leatherbound book with gold lettering caught their attention: Senators' Compensation and Mileage. It bore to dates 1790-1881.
What a find! It was a one-of-a-kind record of every dollar paid to senators during the Senate's first 90 years. Plus, the book contains the hand-written signatures of founding fathers Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. "The book speaks volumes," says historian Richard Baker. "There is nothing that comes remotely close to it in the archives of the Senate."
I imagine that Hilkiah the high priest felt even more excitement when he discovered the long-lost "Book of the Law" in some hidden cranny in the temple [2 Kings 22:8]. King Josiah recognized its value and ordered it to be read aloud to all the people of Judah [23:1-2].
Maybe it has been a while since you've read portions of the Bible such as Leviticus, Zechariah, or Philemon. Dust them off and try reading them. They speak volumes --- and their message may be just what you need. --- Dave Egner
I entered the world's great library doors;
I crossed their acres of polished floors;
I searched and searched their stacks and nooks,
And settled at last on the Book of books. --- Anon.
THE BIBLE IS OLD, BUT ITS TRUTHS ARE ALWAYS NEW.
Saturday, May 14, 2005
He Is A Fire
Read: Hebrews 12:25-29
Let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire. --- Hebrews 12:28-29
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 19-21
John 4:1-30
On December 5, 2002, the headline announced:
RING OF FIRE ENCIRCLES SYDNEY
A firestorm was raging outside the Australian city. Many people feared that this bushfire would prove to be Sydney's worst in decades. Fanned by strong winds, high temperatures, and low humidity, the fire jumped across roads and rivers, consuming everything in its path.
When we think about the destructive power of that kind of inferno, we gain a better understanding of the startling words of Hebrews 12:29, "Our God is a consuming fire."
Why did the author of Hebrews use such graphic imagery to describe the Lord? In his letter he was dealing with spiritual life-and-death issues --- what his readers believed and the reality of their faith. Their response would reveal whether they were investing their lives in the kingdom that will last forever, or in the one destined for destruction.
We too need to remember that this world and all we possess are only temporary. If our faith and hope are in Jesus Christ, we are part of a kingdom that cannot be destroyed [v.28]. Knowing that our days on earth are numbered and that "our God is a consuming fire," let us serve Him and invest in things that are imperishable. --- Albert Lee
Our God is a consuming fire
And will destroy earth's temporal things;
He seeks to purify our lives
For service to the King of kings. --- D. De Haan
HOLD TIGHTLY TO WHAT IS ETERNAL AND LOOSELY TO WHAT IS TEMPORAL.
Let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire. --- Hebrews 12:28-29
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 19-21
John 4:1-30
On December 5, 2002, the headline announced:
RING OF FIRE ENCIRCLES SYDNEY
A firestorm was raging outside the Australian city. Many people feared that this bushfire would prove to be Sydney's worst in decades. Fanned by strong winds, high temperatures, and low humidity, the fire jumped across roads and rivers, consuming everything in its path.
When we think about the destructive power of that kind of inferno, we gain a better understanding of the startling words of Hebrews 12:29, "Our God is a consuming fire."
Why did the author of Hebrews use such graphic imagery to describe the Lord? In his letter he was dealing with spiritual life-and-death issues --- what his readers believed and the reality of their faith. Their response would reveal whether they were investing their lives in the kingdom that will last forever, or in the one destined for destruction.
We too need to remember that this world and all we possess are only temporary. If our faith and hope are in Jesus Christ, we are part of a kingdom that cannot be destroyed [v.28]. Knowing that our days on earth are numbered and that "our God is a consuming fire," let us serve Him and invest in things that are imperishable. --- Albert Lee
Our God is a consuming fire
And will destroy earth's temporal things;
He seeks to purify our lives
For service to the King of kings. --- D. De Haan
HOLD TIGHTLY TO WHAT IS ETERNAL AND LOOSELY TO WHAT IS TEMPORAL.
Friday, May 13, 2005
Bearing A Grudge
Read: Genesis 27:35-41
You shall not ... bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself. --- Leviticus 19:18
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 17-18
John 3:19-36
English essayist and critic Charles Lamb [1775-1834] had this to say about a person he did not want to meet: "Don't introduce me to that man! I want to go on hating him, and I can't hate someone I know."
Harboring malice robs us of close relationships with others. Jacob cheated his brother and stole his birthright. Understandably, Esau was angry. But what he did with his anger became a serious problem, not only for Jacob but for Esau himself. For years he harbored a deep resentment that robbed him of a warm relationship with his brother.
Grudges can also create a cold, icy environment in churches, and this often keeps people away. Pastor George Gardiner asked the members of a congregation he visited why their church wasn't growing. He received this reply: "There's an elder in this church who holds a grudge."
Instead of bearing a grudge, we must bare it before God in confession and ask for deliverance. We must begin praying for the person toward whom we have negative feelings and, if possible, take practical steps to resolve our differences. We must find ways to show love.
Resentment will fade when the object of our ill will becomes tht special object of our goodwill. --- Dennis De Haan
When anger lingers in our heart,
It poisons all we think and do;
But faith seeks ways to show God's love
And keeps our spirit strong and true. --- D. De Haan
A GRUDGE IS ONE THING THAT DOES NOT GET BETTER WHEN IT IS NURSED.
You shall not ... bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself. --- Leviticus 19:18
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 17-18
John 3:19-36
English essayist and critic Charles Lamb [1775-1834] had this to say about a person he did not want to meet: "Don't introduce me to that man! I want to go on hating him, and I can't hate someone I know."
Harboring malice robs us of close relationships with others. Jacob cheated his brother and stole his birthright. Understandably, Esau was angry. But what he did with his anger became a serious problem, not only for Jacob but for Esau himself. For years he harbored a deep resentment that robbed him of a warm relationship with his brother.
Grudges can also create a cold, icy environment in churches, and this often keeps people away. Pastor George Gardiner asked the members of a congregation he visited why their church wasn't growing. He received this reply: "There's an elder in this church who holds a grudge."
Instead of bearing a grudge, we must bare it before God in confession and ask for deliverance. We must begin praying for the person toward whom we have negative feelings and, if possible, take practical steps to resolve our differences. We must find ways to show love.
Resentment will fade when the object of our ill will becomes tht special object of our goodwill. --- Dennis De Haan
When anger lingers in our heart,
It poisons all we think and do;
But faith seeks ways to show God's love
And keeps our spirit strong and true. --- D. De Haan
A GRUDGE IS ONE THING THAT DOES NOT GET BETTER WHEN IT IS NURSED.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Running For Others
Read: Philippians 2:1-11
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but ... let each esteem others better than himself. --- Philippians 2:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 15-16
John 3:1-18
Tom Knapp never won a race during his entire high school track career. Tom was a "pusher." It was his task to set the pace for his fellow team members, who would then beat him to the finish line. When he ran a successful race, he was enabling a fellow teammate to win. Even though Tom never had enough reserve energy for the final sprint to victory, the coach considered him a valuable member of the team.
In a similar way, the New Testament tells us to run our race of faith with the success of others in mind. "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others" [Philippians 2:3-4]. Our example of such living is Jesus Christ, who left the glory of heaven to share our humanity and die on the cross so that we can have eternal life [vv.5-8].
If the encouragement of our example helps another person to flourish and be successful, we should rejoice. When the eternal prizes are awarded for faithful service to God, a lot of "pushers" will be wearing blue ribbons. Until then, let's keep running so that others can win. --- David McCasland
Oh, to see the needs of others
More important than our own,
Following our Lord's example
When He left His heavenly throne. --- Sper
YOU CAN'T LOSE WHEN YOU HELP OTHERS TO WIN.
Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but ... let each esteem others better than himself. --- Philippians 2:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 15-16
John 3:1-18
Tom Knapp never won a race during his entire high school track career. Tom was a "pusher." It was his task to set the pace for his fellow team members, who would then beat him to the finish line. When he ran a successful race, he was enabling a fellow teammate to win. Even though Tom never had enough reserve energy for the final sprint to victory, the coach considered him a valuable member of the team.
In a similar way, the New Testament tells us to run our race of faith with the success of others in mind. "Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others" [Philippians 2:3-4]. Our example of such living is Jesus Christ, who left the glory of heaven to share our humanity and die on the cross so that we can have eternal life [vv.5-8].
If the encouragement of our example helps another person to flourish and be successful, we should rejoice. When the eternal prizes are awarded for faithful service to God, a lot of "pushers" will be wearing blue ribbons. Until then, let's keep running so that others can win. --- David McCasland
Oh, to see the needs of others
More important than our own,
Following our Lord's example
When He left His heavenly throne. --- Sper
YOU CAN'T LOSE WHEN YOU HELP OTHERS TO WIN.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
When You're Down
Read: Psalm 6
Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity; for the LORD has heard the voice of my weeping. --- Psalm 6:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 13-14
John 2
Sometimes it doesn't take much to get us down, does it? An unkind remark from a friend, bad news from the auto mechanic, a financial setback, or a misbehaving child can put a cloud of gloom over everything, even on the sunniest day. You know you should be joyful, but everything seems to be against you, making simple tasks a struggle.
David must have been feeling that way when he wrote Psalm 6. He felt weak and sickly [v.2], troubled [v.3], forsaken [v.4], weary [v.6], and grief-stricken [v.7]. But he knew what to do when he was down. He looked up and trusted God to take care of him and to see him through.
When we look up and focus on God, something good happens. We get our eyes off ourselves and gain a new appreciation of Him.
Next time you're down, try looking up to God. He is sovereign [Psalm 47:8]; He loves you [1 John 4:9-10]; He considers you special [Matthew 6:26]; He has a purpose for your trials [James 1:2-4].
Yes, life can seem unbearable at times. But don't let it keep you down. Meditate to God's goodness, talk to Him, and know that He hears you [Psalm 6:9]. That will giv eyou strength to get up when you're down. --- Dave Branon
Come, ye disconsolate, where'er ye languish ---
Come to the mercy seat, fervently kneel;
Here bring your wounded hearts, here tell your anguish:
Earth has no sorrow that heav'n cannot heal. --- Moore
WHEN LIFE KNOCKS YOU TO YOUR KNEES, YOU'RE IN A GOOD POSITION TO PRAY.
Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity; for the LORD has heard the voice of my weeping. --- Psalm 6:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 13-14
John 2
Sometimes it doesn't take much to get us down, does it? An unkind remark from a friend, bad news from the auto mechanic, a financial setback, or a misbehaving child can put a cloud of gloom over everything, even on the sunniest day. You know you should be joyful, but everything seems to be against you, making simple tasks a struggle.
David must have been feeling that way when he wrote Psalm 6. He felt weak and sickly [v.2], troubled [v.3], forsaken [v.4], weary [v.6], and grief-stricken [v.7]. But he knew what to do when he was down. He looked up and trusted God to take care of him and to see him through.
When we look up and focus on God, something good happens. We get our eyes off ourselves and gain a new appreciation of Him.
Next time you're down, try looking up to God. He is sovereign [Psalm 47:8]; He loves you [1 John 4:9-10]; He considers you special [Matthew 6:26]; He has a purpose for your trials [James 1:2-4].
Yes, life can seem unbearable at times. But don't let it keep you down. Meditate to God's goodness, talk to Him, and know that He hears you [Psalm 6:9]. That will giv eyou strength to get up when you're down. --- Dave Branon
Come, ye disconsolate, where'er ye languish ---
Come to the mercy seat, fervently kneel;
Here bring your wounded hearts, here tell your anguish:
Earth has no sorrow that heav'n cannot heal. --- Moore
WHEN LIFE KNOCKS YOU TO YOUR KNEES, YOU'RE IN A GOOD POSITION TO PRAY.
Monday, May 09, 2005
Postcard Christianity
Read: Psalm 13
How long will You hide Your face from me? --- Psalm 13:1
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 10-12
John 1:29-51
When my husband and I visited Mt. Rainier, the highest point in the continental United States, I expected to see some spectacular sights. But for 2 days the mountain remained shrouded in clouds. So instead of taking pictures, I bought postcards.
Our vacation caused me to question the way I portray my faith to people around me. Do I present a "postcard" view of Christianity? Do I give the false impression that my life is always sunny --- that my view of God is always clear?
That's not what David did. In the passion-filled poetry of Psalm 13, he admitted that he couldn't see God and didn't understand what He was doing [v.1]. But by the end of his prayer, he was certain that what he coulnd't see was nevertheless there because he had seen it before in God's bountiful care [vv.5-6].
Christians are like people living at the foot of Mt. Rainier. They've seen the mountain before, so they know it exists even when clouds are covering it.
When suffering or confusion obscures our view of God, we can be honest with others about our doubts. But we can also express our confidence that the Lord is still there by recalling times we've witnessed His grandeur and goodness. That's better than postcard Christianity. --- Julie Ackerman Link
God, give us wings to rise above
The clouds of trial that block the sun,
To soar above gray skies and see
The love and goodness of Your Son. --- Sper
WHEN LIVING UNDER CLOUDS OF ADVERSITY, REMEMBER THAT THE SUN IS STILL SHINING.
How long will You hide Your face from me? --- Psalm 13:1
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 10-12
John 1:29-51
When my husband and I visited Mt. Rainier, the highest point in the continental United States, I expected to see some spectacular sights. But for 2 days the mountain remained shrouded in clouds. So instead of taking pictures, I bought postcards.
Our vacation caused me to question the way I portray my faith to people around me. Do I present a "postcard" view of Christianity? Do I give the false impression that my life is always sunny --- that my view of God is always clear?
That's not what David did. In the passion-filled poetry of Psalm 13, he admitted that he couldn't see God and didn't understand what He was doing [v.1]. But by the end of his prayer, he was certain that what he coulnd't see was nevertheless there because he had seen it before in God's bountiful care [vv.5-6].
Christians are like people living at the foot of Mt. Rainier. They've seen the mountain before, so they know it exists even when clouds are covering it.
When suffering or confusion obscures our view of God, we can be honest with others about our doubts. But we can also express our confidence that the Lord is still there by recalling times we've witnessed His grandeur and goodness. That's better than postcard Christianity. --- Julie Ackerman Link
God, give us wings to rise above
The clouds of trial that block the sun,
To soar above gray skies and see
The love and goodness of Your Son. --- Sper
WHEN LIVING UNDER CLOUDS OF ADVERSITY, REMEMBER THAT THE SUN IS STILL SHINING.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Indispensable
Read: 2 Timothy 1:1-5
I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice. --- 2 Timothy 1:5
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 7-9
Luke 1:1-28
A talented stay-at-home mother wrote a delightful essay in which she vividly describes [without complaining] the frustrations, sacrifices, and loneliness that accompany her chosen lifestyle. It's not glamorous to deal with a fussy 18-month-old who is teething, to settle quarrels between an irrational 3-year-old and a pushy 5-year-old, and to listen to the incesant chatter of small children. Yet she concluded that her role is indispensable for the total well-being of her children. How true!
The importance of a godly mother's role in the life of a child cannot be overemphasized. Think of Timothy, for example, the young man the apostle Paul considered his spiritual son and a valuable partner in ministry. In his second letter to him, Paul recalled how Timothy had been influenced by "the genuine faith" of his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice [2 Timothy 1:5]. God used two generations of loving mothers to prepare Timothy for the crucial work he would have in spreading the gospel and establishing congregations of believers in Christ.
Let's praise the Lord for mothers who not only care for their children physically but also nurture them spiritually. Mothers like that are indispensable! --- Herb Vander Lugt
God has conferred on motherhood
A true nobility,
And she who gladly fills that role
Can shape man's destiny. --- D. De Haan
NO MAN IS POOR WHO HAS HAD A GODLY MOTHER. --- Abraham Lincoln
I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice. --- 2 Timothy 1:5
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 7-9
Luke 1:1-28
A talented stay-at-home mother wrote a delightful essay in which she vividly describes [without complaining] the frustrations, sacrifices, and loneliness that accompany her chosen lifestyle. It's not glamorous to deal with a fussy 18-month-old who is teething, to settle quarrels between an irrational 3-year-old and a pushy 5-year-old, and to listen to the incesant chatter of small children. Yet she concluded that her role is indispensable for the total well-being of her children. How true!
The importance of a godly mother's role in the life of a child cannot be overemphasized. Think of Timothy, for example, the young man the apostle Paul considered his spiritual son and a valuable partner in ministry. In his second letter to him, Paul recalled how Timothy had been influenced by "the genuine faith" of his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice [2 Timothy 1:5]. God used two generations of loving mothers to prepare Timothy for the crucial work he would have in spreading the gospel and establishing congregations of believers in Christ.
Let's praise the Lord for mothers who not only care for their children physically but also nurture them spiritually. Mothers like that are indispensable! --- Herb Vander Lugt
God has conferred on motherhood
A true nobility,
And she who gladly fills that role
Can shape man's destiny. --- D. De Haan
NO MAN IS POOR WHO HAS HAD A GODLY MOTHER. --- Abraham Lincoln
Saturday, May 07, 2005
A Winning Combination
Read: 1 Timothy 1:18-20
... having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck. --- 1 Timothy 1:19
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Luke 24:36-53
A new believer slipped into his old ways by attending a party and getting drunk. When he arrived home, his wife would not let him in. Instead, she called their pastor, who found the man sleeping in his car.
The pastor took him to a motel to sleep off his drunkenness. He knew him well and was confident that a strong rebuke would not be needed. Instead, he asked God to convict the man and bring him to repentance. In this case, the pastor chose the right course. The young man later said that he had learned a valuable lesson through this experience and that the Lord had "taken all the fun out of sin."
A "good conscience" wil disturb us when we do something we know is wrong. We keep it "good" by heeding it and turning it away from sin. Paul said the faith of Hymenaeus and Alexander "suffered shipwreck" because they rejected the voice of their good conscience [1 Timothy 1:19-20]. By doing so, they had deadened their conscience and then apparently twisted the truth to justify their conduct.
True faith and a sensitive conscience will take all the fun out of sinning and remove the desire to twist the truth to justify what is wrong. Faith and a good conscience are a winning combination. Let's keep them strong. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Our conscience is a gift from God,
It is a guiding light;
And when aligned with faith and truth,
It tells us wrong from right. --- Sper
CONSCIENCE IS A SAFE GUIDE WHEN GUIDED BY GOD'S WORD.
... having faith and a good conscience, which some having rejected, concerning the faith have suffered shipwreck. --- 1 Timothy 1:19
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Luke 24:36-53
A new believer slipped into his old ways by attending a party and getting drunk. When he arrived home, his wife would not let him in. Instead, she called their pastor, who found the man sleeping in his car.
The pastor took him to a motel to sleep off his drunkenness. He knew him well and was confident that a strong rebuke would not be needed. Instead, he asked God to convict the man and bring him to repentance. In this case, the pastor chose the right course. The young man later said that he had learned a valuable lesson through this experience and that the Lord had "taken all the fun out of sin."
A "good conscience" wil disturb us when we do something we know is wrong. We keep it "good" by heeding it and turning it away from sin. Paul said the faith of Hymenaeus and Alexander "suffered shipwreck" because they rejected the voice of their good conscience [1 Timothy 1:19-20]. By doing so, they had deadened their conscience and then apparently twisted the truth to justify their conduct.
True faith and a sensitive conscience will take all the fun out of sinning and remove the desire to twist the truth to justify what is wrong. Faith and a good conscience are a winning combination. Let's keep them strong. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Our conscience is a gift from God,
It is a guiding light;
And when aligned with faith and truth,
It tells us wrong from right. --- Sper
CONSCIENCE IS A SAFE GUIDE WHEN GUIDED BY GOD'S WORD.
Friday, May 06, 2005
Wake-Up Calls
Read: Daniel 4:28-34
I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. --- Daniel 4:37
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Luke 24:1-35
A strong, young brute often swaggered around town boasting that he could walk a barbed wire fence in his bare feet with a wildcat under each arm. So goes the story according to the Iron County Miner. The braggart got a rude awakening, however, when he married a strong-willed little lady who made him wash the dishes twice a day.
Another rude awakening occured when a platoon sergeant roused a new recruit after his first night in an army barracks. "It's four-thirty!" bellowed the sergeant. "Four-thirty!" gasped the rookie. "Man, you'd better go to bed. We have a big day tomorrow!"
We are all inclined to dream our way through life until someone or something confronts us with the real world. For Nebuchadnezzar, king of ancient Babylon, the wake-up call lacked humor. Before his encounter with God, he thought he had life well in hand. Suddenly he found himself on his hands and knees eating grass like an animal [Daniel 4:33]. After 7 long years [v.32] he learned that in the real world everyone must live under authority, everyone is on God's time, and everything we possess is a gift from His gracious hand.
Father, wake us up today. Make us aware of what it means to live under Your wise and lovign authority. --- Mart De Haan
When life is all sunshine and days are bright,
Our thoughts of the Lord may take wings of flight;
But God is still ruler, His kingdom stands,
And we all are subject to His commands. --- K. De Haan
A PERSON WHO THINKS TOO MUCH OF HIMSELF THINKS TOO LITTLE OF GOD.
I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. --- Daniel 4:37
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Luke 24:1-35
A strong, young brute often swaggered around town boasting that he could walk a barbed wire fence in his bare feet with a wildcat under each arm. So goes the story according to the Iron County Miner. The braggart got a rude awakening, however, when he married a strong-willed little lady who made him wash the dishes twice a day.
Another rude awakening occured when a platoon sergeant roused a new recruit after his first night in an army barracks. "It's four-thirty!" bellowed the sergeant. "Four-thirty!" gasped the rookie. "Man, you'd better go to bed. We have a big day tomorrow!"
We are all inclined to dream our way through life until someone or something confronts us with the real world. For Nebuchadnezzar, king of ancient Babylon, the wake-up call lacked humor. Before his encounter with God, he thought he had life well in hand. Suddenly he found himself on his hands and knees eating grass like an animal [Daniel 4:33]. After 7 long years [v.32] he learned that in the real world everyone must live under authority, everyone is on God's time, and everything we possess is a gift from His gracious hand.
Father, wake us up today. Make us aware of what it means to live under Your wise and lovign authority. --- Mart De Haan
When life is all sunshine and days are bright,
Our thoughts of the Lord may take wings of flight;
But God is still ruler, His kingdom stands,
And we all are subject to His commands. --- K. De Haan
A PERSON WHO THINKS TOO MUCH OF HIMSELF THINKS TOO LITTLE OF GOD.
Mountains Can Move!
Read: Mark 11:20-24
Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God." --- Mark 11:22
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Luke 23:26-56
A familiar slogan about prayer is, "Prayer changes things." But prayer doesn't do this --- God does. Some people think that prayer itself is the source of power, so they "try prayer," hoping "it will work" for them. In Mark 11, Jesus disclosed one of the secrets behind all true prayer: "Have faith in God." Not faith in faith, not faith in prayer, but "faith in God" [v.22].
Jesus told His disciples they could command a mountain to be cast into the sea, and if they believed it would happen, it would. Jesus then gave them His meaning behind that astonishing promise. He said, "Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will" [v.24]. Jesus was speaking about answered prayer. We can ask and receive answers only if our asking is directed to God in faith and according to His will [1 John 5:14].
I've often wished that I could move mountains by faith. Having once lived in Switzerland, I'd like God to move the Alps into my backyard in England. But He has done something much more important: He has removed mountains of worry, fear, and resentment from my heart and cast them into oblivion through my faith in Him. He is still in the mountain-moving business! Have faith in God and pray! --- Joanie Yoder
When the Spirit prompts the asking,
When the waiting heart believes,
Then we know of each petition ---
Everyone who asks receives. --- Anon.
FAITH IS THE KEY TO ANSWERED PRAYER.
Jesus answered and said to them, "Have faith in God." --- Mark 11:22
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Luke 23:26-56
A familiar slogan about prayer is, "Prayer changes things." But prayer doesn't do this --- God does. Some people think that prayer itself is the source of power, so they "try prayer," hoping "it will work" for them. In Mark 11, Jesus disclosed one of the secrets behind all true prayer: "Have faith in God." Not faith in faith, not faith in prayer, but "faith in God" [v.22].
Jesus told His disciples they could command a mountain to be cast into the sea, and if they believed it would happen, it would. Jesus then gave them His meaning behind that astonishing promise. He said, "Whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will" [v.24]. Jesus was speaking about answered prayer. We can ask and receive answers only if our asking is directed to God in faith and according to His will [1 John 5:14].
I've often wished that I could move mountains by faith. Having once lived in Switzerland, I'd like God to move the Alps into my backyard in England. But He has done something much more important: He has removed mountains of worry, fear, and resentment from my heart and cast them into oblivion through my faith in Him. He is still in the mountain-moving business! Have faith in God and pray! --- Joanie Yoder
When the Spirit prompts the asking,
When the waiting heart believes,
Then we know of each petition ---
Everyone who asks receives. --- Anon.
FAITH IS THE KEY TO ANSWERED PRAYER.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
The Miracle Goes On
Read: 2 Chronicles 30:21-27
Their voice was heard; and their prayer came up to His holy dwelling place, to heaven. --- 2 Chronicles 30:27
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Luke 23:1-25
Did you ever think of a prayer meeting as a miracle? That thought came to my mind one evening at church after we divided into small prayer groups. As someone in each group prayed, I heard several people talking to God at the same time. It sounded like a jumble of words. But that's the miracle. God was hearing each prayer --- along with millions of others being lifted to Him around the world in many different languages.
For those of us who reach frustration levels when two children are talking to us at the same time, it is indeed a miracle that God can hear so many of His children simultaneously.
Consider the story of Hezekiah's Passover celebration. He called for the Israelites to join him in Jerusalem for praise and prayer [2 Chronicles 30:1]. Multitudes came for what turned into a 2-week-long worship service. Huge numbers of people rejoiced and praised God at the same time [v.25]. As the religious leaders prayed, "their voice was heard; and their prayer came up ... to heaven" [v.27].
The miracle goes on. Today, throughout the world, millions of people are praying to God. Let's rejoice in knowing that He hears each prayer. --- Dave Branon
God hears us when we call to Him,
He does not miss one voice;
The knowledge that He always hears
Should cause us to rejoice. --- Sper
YOU'LL NEVER GET A BUSY SIGNAL ON THE PRAYER LINE TO HEAVEN.
Their voice was heard; and their prayer came up to His holy dwelling place, to heaven. --- 2 Chronicles 30:27
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Luke 23:1-25
Did you ever think of a prayer meeting as a miracle? That thought came to my mind one evening at church after we divided into small prayer groups. As someone in each group prayed, I heard several people talking to God at the same time. It sounded like a jumble of words. But that's the miracle. God was hearing each prayer --- along with millions of others being lifted to Him around the world in many different languages.
For those of us who reach frustration levels when two children are talking to us at the same time, it is indeed a miracle that God can hear so many of His children simultaneously.
Consider the story of Hezekiah's Passover celebration. He called for the Israelites to join him in Jerusalem for praise and prayer [2 Chronicles 30:1]. Multitudes came for what turned into a 2-week-long worship service. Huge numbers of people rejoiced and praised God at the same time [v.25]. As the religious leaders prayed, "their voice was heard; and their prayer came up ... to heaven" [v.27].
The miracle goes on. Today, throughout the world, millions of people are praying to God. Let's rejoice in knowing that He hears each prayer. --- Dave Branon
God hears us when we call to Him,
He does not miss one voice;
The knowledge that He always hears
Should cause us to rejoice. --- Sper
YOU'LL NEVER GET A BUSY SIGNAL ON THE PRAYER LINE TO HEAVEN.
The Discus Thrower
Read: 1 Peter 5:6-10
May the God of all grace, ... after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. --- 1 Peter 5:10
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Luke 22:47-71
A Scottish athlete in the 19th century made an iron discus based on a description he read in a book. What he didn't know was that the discus used in official competition was made of wood with only an outer rim of iron. His was solid metal and weighed three or four times as much as those being used by other discus throwers.
According to author John Eldredge, the man marked out the record distance in a field near his home and trained day and night to match it. For years he labored until he could break the record. Then he took his iron discus to England for his first competition.
When he arrived at the games, he was handed the official discus. He easily set a new record, a distance far beyond those of his competitors. He remained the uncontested champion for many years. This man trained under a heavy burden and became better for it.
When we are given a heavy burden to bear, we need to learn to bear it in Jesus' strength and for His sake. Whatever the burden or suffering, God will use to "perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle" us, as 1 Peter 5:10 says.
Our burdens can make us better than we ever imagined --- stronger, more patient, more courageous, more gentle, and more loving than we could otherwise be. --- David Roper
Without my trials and hardships
I would never know the way
That You turn burdens into blessings
With every passing day. --- Oglesby
TODAY'S BURDENS CAN STRENGTHEN YOU FOR TOMORROW.
May the God of all grace, ... after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you. --- 1 Peter 5:10
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Luke 22:47-71
A Scottish athlete in the 19th century made an iron discus based on a description he read in a book. What he didn't know was that the discus used in official competition was made of wood with only an outer rim of iron. His was solid metal and weighed three or four times as much as those being used by other discus throwers.
According to author John Eldredge, the man marked out the record distance in a field near his home and trained day and night to match it. For years he labored until he could break the record. Then he took his iron discus to England for his first competition.
When he arrived at the games, he was handed the official discus. He easily set a new record, a distance far beyond those of his competitors. He remained the uncontested champion for many years. This man trained under a heavy burden and became better for it.
When we are given a heavy burden to bear, we need to learn to bear it in Jesus' strength and for His sake. Whatever the burden or suffering, God will use to "perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle" us, as 1 Peter 5:10 says.
Our burdens can make us better than we ever imagined --- stronger, more patient, more courageous, more gentle, and more loving than we could otherwise be. --- David Roper
Without my trials and hardships
I would never know the way
That You turn burdens into blessings
With every passing day. --- Oglesby
TODAY'S BURDENS CAN STRENGTHEN YOU FOR TOMORROW.
Monday, May 02, 2005
The Power Of Two
Read: 1 Samuel 20:12-17, 41-42
Jonathan again caused David to vow, because ... he loved him as he loved his own soul. --- 1 Samuel 20:17
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 14-15
Luke 22:21-46
In G.K. Chesterton's novel The Man Who Was Thursday, an undercover policeman infiltrates a lawless group that is dedicated to throwing the world into chaos. He is gripped with fear until he discovers an ally within the group.
Chesterton writes of the policeman's feelings at finding a friend: "Through all this ordeal his root horror had been isolation, and there are no words to express the abyss between isolation and having one ally. It may be conceded to the mathematicians that four is twice two. But two is not twice one; two is two thousand times one."
When David was being pursued by the jealous and irrational King Saul, he had a friend who risked great danger to stand with him. Jonathan, Saul's own son, pledged his loyalty to David and warned him of his father's intention to kill him [1 Samuel 20:31-42]. Later, when Saul pursued David into the wilderness, Jonathan "arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God" [23:16].
What a wonderful gift we give by standing faithfully with a friend in need! There is incredible encouragement and power when two people are allied in life. Whose hand can you strengthen by being a friend today? --- David McCasland
Lord, help me be the kind of friend
That makes my friend secure;
So he can find new strength and hope
His trials to endure. --- D. De Haan
A TRUE FRIEND HELPS YOU KEEP GOING WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE GIVING UP.
Jonathan again caused David to vow, because ... he loved him as he loved his own soul. --- 1 Samuel 20:17
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 14-15
Luke 22:21-46
In G.K. Chesterton's novel The Man Who Was Thursday, an undercover policeman infiltrates a lawless group that is dedicated to throwing the world into chaos. He is gripped with fear until he discovers an ally within the group.
Chesterton writes of the policeman's feelings at finding a friend: "Through all this ordeal his root horror had been isolation, and there are no words to express the abyss between isolation and having one ally. It may be conceded to the mathematicians that four is twice two. But two is not twice one; two is two thousand times one."
When David was being pursued by the jealous and irrational King Saul, he had a friend who risked great danger to stand with him. Jonathan, Saul's own son, pledged his loyalty to David and warned him of his father's intention to kill him [1 Samuel 20:31-42]. Later, when Saul pursued David into the wilderness, Jonathan "arose and went to David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God" [23:16].
What a wonderful gift we give by standing faithfully with a friend in need! There is incredible encouragement and power when two people are allied in life. Whose hand can you strengthen by being a friend today? --- David McCasland
Lord, help me be the kind of friend
That makes my friend secure;
So he can find new strength and hope
His trials to endure. --- D. De Haan
A TRUE FRIEND HELPS YOU KEEP GOING WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE GIVING UP.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
So Near And Yet So Far
Read: Numbers 14:26-35
Whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved. --- Romans 10:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 12-13
Luke 22:1-20
Back in Canada's early days, pioneers were taking shelter in Fort Babine. When supplies were nearly exhausted, Victor Clark and a young guide left the fort and walked to the town of Hazelton to get food.
On their way back to the fort, snow began to fall. Soon the two travelers were chilled to the bone by a stinging wind and were unable to follow the trail in the darkness. Forced to stop, they built a fire and spend a miserable night. Then as light slowly dawned, they saw the fort with its warmth and comfort --- only a few hundred yards away from where they had stopped. So near and yet so far!
The Israelites were at the very border of the Promised Land [Numbers 13]. Caleb and Joshua, the two courageous spies, had brought back the lush foods of Canaan and encouraged the people to take possession of the land [vv.26,30]. But the people doubted and condemned themselves to 40 years of wandering and death in the desert [14:28-30]. They too were so near and yet so far away!
Have you heard many times about Jesus' love for you but remain uncommitted to Him? Are you near yet so far away? Choose now to cross over into the "promised land" of salvation found in Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
A PRAYER
Dear Jesus, I admit that I am a sinner, and I ask for
Your forgiveness. I believe that You died and took my punishment. I trust You as my Savior and Lord.
NOW IS THE TIME TO CHOOSE THE LORD --- LATER MAY NEVER COME.
Whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved. --- Romans 10:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 12-13
Luke 22:1-20
Back in Canada's early days, pioneers were taking shelter in Fort Babine. When supplies were nearly exhausted, Victor Clark and a young guide left the fort and walked to the town of Hazelton to get food.
On their way back to the fort, snow began to fall. Soon the two travelers were chilled to the bone by a stinging wind and were unable to follow the trail in the darkness. Forced to stop, they built a fire and spend a miserable night. Then as light slowly dawned, they saw the fort with its warmth and comfort --- only a few hundred yards away from where they had stopped. So near and yet so far!
The Israelites were at the very border of the Promised Land [Numbers 13]. Caleb and Joshua, the two courageous spies, had brought back the lush foods of Canaan and encouraged the people to take possession of the land [vv.26,30]. But the people doubted and condemned themselves to 40 years of wandering and death in the desert [14:28-30]. They too were so near and yet so far away!
Have you heard many times about Jesus' love for you but remain uncommitted to Him? Are you near yet so far away? Choose now to cross over into the "promised land" of salvation found in Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
A PRAYER
Dear Jesus, I admit that I am a sinner, and I ask for
Your forgiveness. I believe that You died and took my punishment. I trust You as my Savior and Lord.
NOW IS THE TIME TO CHOOSE THE LORD --- LATER MAY NEVER COME.
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