Read: Revelation 5:6-14
Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth. --- Psalm 96:9
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 57-59
Romans 4
We all love to have someone tell us, "Hey, great job. I appreciate you." And if several people tell us we are doing something right, that's even better.
God loves the praise of His people too, and He truly deserves it. Our most important work on earth is to exalt Him [Psalm 96:9], "that in all things God may be glorified" [1 Peter 4:11]. It's our responsibility and privilege to worship, love, exalt, and serve the Lord.
Revelation 5:9-13 tells of a future day in heaven when believers from "every tribe and tongue and people and nation" who have been redeemed by Jesus' blood will surround His throne with praises. All of those individuals --- multiplied over the millennia --- add up to a mind-boggling congregation of God-glorifying people.
God's greatness is so overwhelming, so unfathomable, and so indescribable that millions and millions of people --- all praising Him and bowing before Him in worship --- will give Him the glory He deserves.
Even now, each of us can participate in celebrating God's majesty by glorifying Him with our lives. And one day we will join with people from every nation in that massive heavenly celebration. --- Dave Branon
Sing praise to God who reigns above,
The God of all creation,
The God of power, the God of love,
The God of our salvation. --- Schutz
WE HAVE ALL ETERNITY TO PRAISE GOD --- BEGIN TODAY.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Already, But Not Yet
Read: Luke 10:1-12; 17-20
[Jesus] said to them, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." --- Luke 10:18
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 54-56
Romans 3
If Jesus has won the victory over sin, suffering, and death, why is it that we still sin, suffer, and die? To understand this seeming contradiction, we must recognize the "already, but not yet" tension of the gospel.
On the one hand, God's kingdom has already come in the person of Jesus. As the incarnate God-man, He died on the cross so that through His death and resurrection He might destroy the devil [Hebrews 2:14].
On the other hand, the perfect kingdom toward which He pointed awaits His personal return to earth. We experience the tension of living between the "already, but not yet" aspects of God's kingdom.
Luke 10 illustrates this tension. Upon returning from preaching, the disciples were jubilant. "Even the demons are subject to us in Your name," they told Jesus [Luke 10:17]. He replied that He had seen Satan "fall like lightning from heaven" [v.18]. He also assured them that nothing would hurt them [v.19]. Yet many of them suffered and died as martyrs, and evil is still rampant today.
Even so, we can face whatever comes, for someday we'll enter fully into the victory Jesus has won. In the meantime, we can take comfort in knowing that nothing shall separate us from God's love [Romans 8:35-39]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
God's kingdom has come in Jesus the king,
He died and He rose, redemption to bring;
Yet still we await the glorious day
When Satan and sin no longer hold sway. --- D. De Haan
SATAN MAY WIN SOME BATTLES, BUT HE HAS ALREADY LOST THE WAR.
[Jesus] said to them, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven." --- Luke 10:18
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 54-56
Romans 3
If Jesus has won the victory over sin, suffering, and death, why is it that we still sin, suffer, and die? To understand this seeming contradiction, we must recognize the "already, but not yet" tension of the gospel.
On the one hand, God's kingdom has already come in the person of Jesus. As the incarnate God-man, He died on the cross so that through His death and resurrection He might destroy the devil [Hebrews 2:14].
On the other hand, the perfect kingdom toward which He pointed awaits His personal return to earth. We experience the tension of living between the "already, but not yet" aspects of God's kingdom.
Luke 10 illustrates this tension. Upon returning from preaching, the disciples were jubilant. "Even the demons are subject to us in Your name," they told Jesus [Luke 10:17]. He replied that He had seen Satan "fall like lightning from heaven" [v.18]. He also assured them that nothing would hurt them [v.19]. Yet many of them suffered and died as martyrs, and evil is still rampant today.
Even so, we can face whatever comes, for someday we'll enter fully into the victory Jesus has won. In the meantime, we can take comfort in knowing that nothing shall separate us from God's love [Romans 8:35-39]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
God's kingdom has come in Jesus the king,
He died and He rose, redemption to bring;
Yet still we await the glorious day
When Satan and sin no longer hold sway. --- D. De Haan
SATAN MAY WIN SOME BATTLES, BUT HE HAS ALREADY LOST THE WAR.
Friday, July 29, 2005
Keep At It!
Read: Isaiah 55:6-13
My word ... shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please. --- Isaiah 55:11
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 51-53
Romans 2
They know Tom Dotson pretty well in the prisons of Michigan. They ought to. He spent more than a decade behind bars.
Tom gave his testimony at the annual banquet for prison chaplains in Muskegon, Michigan. He said he had grown up in a Christian home but had rebelled and rejected the gospel. His wife, who sang at the banquet, stayed with him in spite of his repeated failures. A prison chaplain faithfully worked with him, Tom genuinely surrendered to Jesus Christ, and his life was changed.
Dotson urged Christian workers, "Continue on in your ministry with people like me, no matter how frustrating. We may have lots of setbacks. But don't give up. There's power for change in even the most frustrating person through the sacrifice of Christ, the One who really sets us free." Then, looking right at the chaplain who had patiently witnessed to him, Tom said tenderly, "Thank you for not giving up on me."
God will "abundantly pardon" all who com to Him [Isaiah 55:7]. His powerful Word can bring change [v.11], freeing men and women from the prison of sin [John 8:32].
Are you about to give up on someone you think will never change? Don't! Keep at it! --- Dave Egner
Be not weary in well-doing,
Though your labors cause you pain ---
There could never be a harvest
Without sowing of the grain. --- Anon.
INSTEAD OF GIVING UP ON A PERSON, GIVE THAT PERSON TO GOD.
My word ... shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please. --- Isaiah 55:11
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 51-53
Romans 2
They know Tom Dotson pretty well in the prisons of Michigan. They ought to. He spent more than a decade behind bars.
Tom gave his testimony at the annual banquet for prison chaplains in Muskegon, Michigan. He said he had grown up in a Christian home but had rebelled and rejected the gospel. His wife, who sang at the banquet, stayed with him in spite of his repeated failures. A prison chaplain faithfully worked with him, Tom genuinely surrendered to Jesus Christ, and his life was changed.
Dotson urged Christian workers, "Continue on in your ministry with people like me, no matter how frustrating. We may have lots of setbacks. But don't give up. There's power for change in even the most frustrating person through the sacrifice of Christ, the One who really sets us free." Then, looking right at the chaplain who had patiently witnessed to him, Tom said tenderly, "Thank you for not giving up on me."
God will "abundantly pardon" all who com to Him [Isaiah 55:7]. His powerful Word can bring change [v.11], freeing men and women from the prison of sin [John 8:32].
Are you about to give up on someone you think will never change? Don't! Keep at it! --- Dave Egner
Be not weary in well-doing,
Though your labors cause you pain ---
There could never be a harvest
Without sowing of the grain. --- Anon.
INSTEAD OF GIVING UP ON A PERSON, GIVE THAT PERSON TO GOD.
Power Outage
Read: 2 Timothy 1:6-12
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. --- 2 Timothy 1:7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 49-50
Romans 1
The silence awakened me at 5:30 one morning. There was no gentle whir of fan blades, no reassuring hum from the refrigerator downstairs. A glance out the window confirmed that a power outage had left everyone in our neighborhood without electricity just as they would be preparing for work.
I realized that alarm clocks would not sound, and there would be no TV news. Coffee makers, toasters, hair dryers, and many telephones would be useless. Beginning a day without power was simply an inconvenience and a disruption of routine --- but it felt like a disaster.
Then I thought of how often I rush into the day without spiritual power. I spend more time reading the newspaper than the Bible. Talk radio replaces listening to the Spirit. I react to difficult people and circumstances in a spirit of fear rather than the spirit of "power and of love and of a sound mind" that God has given us [2 Timothy 1:7]. I must appear as spiritually unkempt as a person who dressed and groomed in the dark.
Our power outage was short-lived, but the lesson remains of my need to begin each day by seeking the Lord. His strength is not for my success or well-being, but so that I will glorify Christ by living in His power. --- David McCasland
There's never a lack of God's power
In prayer and reading His Word,
For Jesus in heaven is listening ---
Your prayer will always be heard. --- Hess
THE HUMAN SPIRIT FAILS US UNLESS THE HOLY SPIRIT FILLS US.
God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. --- 2 Timothy 1:7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 49-50
Romans 1
The silence awakened me at 5:30 one morning. There was no gentle whir of fan blades, no reassuring hum from the refrigerator downstairs. A glance out the window confirmed that a power outage had left everyone in our neighborhood without electricity just as they would be preparing for work.
I realized that alarm clocks would not sound, and there would be no TV news. Coffee makers, toasters, hair dryers, and many telephones would be useless. Beginning a day without power was simply an inconvenience and a disruption of routine --- but it felt like a disaster.
Then I thought of how often I rush into the day without spiritual power. I spend more time reading the newspaper than the Bible. Talk radio replaces listening to the Spirit. I react to difficult people and circumstances in a spirit of fear rather than the spirit of "power and of love and of a sound mind" that God has given us [2 Timothy 1:7]. I must appear as spiritually unkempt as a person who dressed and groomed in the dark.
Our power outage was short-lived, but the lesson remains of my need to begin each day by seeking the Lord. His strength is not for my success or well-being, but so that I will glorify Christ by living in His power. --- David McCasland
There's never a lack of God's power
In prayer and reading His Word,
For Jesus in heaven is listening ---
Your prayer will always be heard. --- Hess
THE HUMAN SPIRIT FAILS US UNLESS THE HOLY SPIRIT FILLS US.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
A Matter Of Taste
Read: 2 Corinthians 6:1-7:1
Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. --- 2 Corinthians 7:1
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 46-48
Acts 28
Two cockroaches decided to visit their favorite restaurant. While the larger of the two was enjoying his meal, the smaller one said, "You wouldn't believe the house I just left. It was spotless. The lady had to be a cleanaholic. Everything was immaculate --- the sink, the counter, the floors. You couldn't find a crumb anywhere." The other cockroach stopped his munching, looked with some annoyance at his companion, and said, "Do you have to talk like that while I'm eating?"
This story about roaches can apply to human nature as well. The second letter to the Corinthians shows that Paul's readers had much to learn about clean living. They needed to develop a stronger hunger and thirst for righteousness. So the apostle pleaded with them to turn away from all filthiness [7:1]. He reminded them that God wants His people to separate themselves from spiritual garbage.
If "cleanness" of heart sounds unappealing, perhaps we've been satisfied with the crumbs of our earthly desires. We need to learn to savor the flavor of godliness.
Father, forgive us for feeding the cravings of our sinful flesh. Help us to cultivate instead the tastes that Your Holy Spirit wants to produce in us. --- Mart De Haan
If we desire to taste what's good
And lose our taste for sin,
We must with ruthless honesty
Expose the dirt within. --- D. De Haan
SIN CANNOT FLOURISH WHERE GODLINESS IS CULTIVATED.
Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. --- 2 Corinthians 7:1
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 46-48
Acts 28
Two cockroaches decided to visit their favorite restaurant. While the larger of the two was enjoying his meal, the smaller one said, "You wouldn't believe the house I just left. It was spotless. The lady had to be a cleanaholic. Everything was immaculate --- the sink, the counter, the floors. You couldn't find a crumb anywhere." The other cockroach stopped his munching, looked with some annoyance at his companion, and said, "Do you have to talk like that while I'm eating?"
This story about roaches can apply to human nature as well. The second letter to the Corinthians shows that Paul's readers had much to learn about clean living. They needed to develop a stronger hunger and thirst for righteousness. So the apostle pleaded with them to turn away from all filthiness [7:1]. He reminded them that God wants His people to separate themselves from spiritual garbage.
If "cleanness" of heart sounds unappealing, perhaps we've been satisfied with the crumbs of our earthly desires. We need to learn to savor the flavor of godliness.
Father, forgive us for feeding the cravings of our sinful flesh. Help us to cultivate instead the tastes that Your Holy Spirit wants to produce in us. --- Mart De Haan
If we desire to taste what's good
And lose our taste for sin,
We must with ruthless honesty
Expose the dirt within. --- D. De Haan
SIN CANNOT FLOURISH WHERE GODLINESS IS CULTIVATED.
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Both Glad And Sad
Read: Luke 12:16-21
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, ... but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven. --- Matthew 6:19-20
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 43-45
Acts 27:27-44
There's an old legend about three men who were crossing a desert on horseback at night. As they approached a dry creek bed, they heard a voice commanding them to dismount, pick up some pebbles, put them in their pockets, and not look at them till the next morning. The men were promised that if they obeyed they would be both glad and sad. After they did as they were told, the three mounted their horses and went on their way.
As the first streaks of dawn began to spread across the sky, the men reached into their pockets to pull out the pebbles. To their great surprise, they had been transformed into diamonds, rubies and other precious gems. It was then that they realized the significance of the promise that they would be both glad and sad. They were happy that they had picked up as many pebbles as they did, but sorry --- so sorry --- that they had not collected more.
I wonder if we will have a similar feeling when we get to heaven. We will be happy for the treasure we laid up in heaven while on earth, and joyful for the rewards Christ will give us. But we will also experience regret for not having done more to serve Him.
Let's make the most of our opportunities so that we'll be more glad than sad. --- Richard De Haan
The day will come when we will stand
Before our Judge, God's Son;
Have we so lived that He will say,
"Well done, My child, well done"? --- Sper
THE CROWNS WE WEAR IN HEAVEN MUST BE WON ON EARTH.
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, ... but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven. --- Matthew 6:19-20
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 43-45
Acts 27:27-44
There's an old legend about three men who were crossing a desert on horseback at night. As they approached a dry creek bed, they heard a voice commanding them to dismount, pick up some pebbles, put them in their pockets, and not look at them till the next morning. The men were promised that if they obeyed they would be both glad and sad. After they did as they were told, the three mounted their horses and went on their way.
As the first streaks of dawn began to spread across the sky, the men reached into their pockets to pull out the pebbles. To their great surprise, they had been transformed into diamonds, rubies and other precious gems. It was then that they realized the significance of the promise that they would be both glad and sad. They were happy that they had picked up as many pebbles as they did, but sorry --- so sorry --- that they had not collected more.
I wonder if we will have a similar feeling when we get to heaven. We will be happy for the treasure we laid up in heaven while on earth, and joyful for the rewards Christ will give us. But we will also experience regret for not having done more to serve Him.
Let's make the most of our opportunities so that we'll be more glad than sad. --- Richard De Haan
The day will come when we will stand
Before our Judge, God's Son;
Have we so lived that He will say,
"Well done, My child, well done"? --- Sper
THE CROWNS WE WEAR IN HEAVEN MUST BE WON ON EARTH.
Monday, July 25, 2005
The Pursuit Of Happiness
Read: Psalm 34
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him! --- Psalm 34:8
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 40-42
Acts 27:1-26
In 1948, Life magazine brought together a group of labor-union representatives, industrial leaders, university scholars, and clergy to discuss what the framers of the United States Constitution had in mind when they referred to "the pursuit of happiness." They agreed that steady work under good conditions at a living wage was absolutely essential. Some included the values of racial fairness, unselfishness, and integrity.
This led one participant, a brilliant young woman who had been crippled by polio, to say, "It is my experience that suffering and pain are, unfortunately, great character builders --- not that suffering is good in itself, but because it often helps to shift our expectation of happiness from without to a search for it from within." True, but we can find inner happiness only by knowing God personally and walking the path of trust and obedience.
Happiness isn't found by pursuing it. It's a by-product of seeking an ever-closer walk with God. When we do, we will find a depth of happiness no person or thing can give. That's what David referred to when he said, "Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!" [Psalm 34:8]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Happiness is never found
When happiness is sought;
It's found instead in Jesus
And what His blood has brought. --- D. De Haan
TO KNOW HAPPINESS, KNOW GOD.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him! --- Psalm 34:8
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 40-42
Acts 27:1-26
In 1948, Life magazine brought together a group of labor-union representatives, industrial leaders, university scholars, and clergy to discuss what the framers of the United States Constitution had in mind when they referred to "the pursuit of happiness." They agreed that steady work under good conditions at a living wage was absolutely essential. Some included the values of racial fairness, unselfishness, and integrity.
This led one participant, a brilliant young woman who had been crippled by polio, to say, "It is my experience that suffering and pain are, unfortunately, great character builders --- not that suffering is good in itself, but because it often helps to shift our expectation of happiness from without to a search for it from within." True, but we can find inner happiness only by knowing God personally and walking the path of trust and obedience.
Happiness isn't found by pursuing it. It's a by-product of seeking an ever-closer walk with God. When we do, we will find a depth of happiness no person or thing can give. That's what David referred to when he said, "Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!" [Psalm 34:8]. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Happiness is never found
When happiness is sought;
It's found instead in Jesus
And what His blood has brought. --- D. De Haan
TO KNOW HAPPINESS, KNOW GOD.
Sunday, July 24, 2005
Saving Dylan
Read: John 9:1-12
Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. --- John 9:3
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 37-39
Acts 26
The baby lay criticially ill in the hospital, fighting to breathe. He had pneumonia, which made staying alive a struggle for his 8-month-old body. Doctors, nurses, and his family fought to save this weak baby boy.
Some people say he should never have made it to 8 months of age. Others say this precious child should not have been allowed to be born, or that he should have been left to die after he was born.
Why would anyone say this? For one simple: Dylan has Down syndrome. Through no fault of his own or of his parents, my great-nephe has an extra chromosome, and he will face some added struggles in his life.
But isn't his life worth as much as the life of a sick baby without an extra chromosome? Are we not all of equal value in the eyes of our Creator? Aren't we all deficient in some way? Our lack of perfection should remind us that no one has the right to judge another's worth.
Our imperfections are opportunities for God to work in our lives. That's what Jesus told His disciples when they asked why a man had been born blind. He said it happened so that "the works of God should revealed in him" [John 9:3].
We're seeing God work in Dylan's life. That's what he's here for --- just like the rest of us. --- Dave Branon
People in whom the world sees no value,
But only as burdens to bear,
Teach us great lessons of God's sovereign power ---
He loves them as treasures so rare. --- Carbaugh
IF GOD DIDN'T HAVE A PURPOSE FOR US, WE WOULDN'T BE HERE.
Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. --- John 9:3
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 37-39
Acts 26
The baby lay criticially ill in the hospital, fighting to breathe. He had pneumonia, which made staying alive a struggle for his 8-month-old body. Doctors, nurses, and his family fought to save this weak baby boy.
Some people say he should never have made it to 8 months of age. Others say this precious child should not have been allowed to be born, or that he should have been left to die after he was born.
Why would anyone say this? For one simple: Dylan has Down syndrome. Through no fault of his own or of his parents, my great-nephe has an extra chromosome, and he will face some added struggles in his life.
But isn't his life worth as much as the life of a sick baby without an extra chromosome? Are we not all of equal value in the eyes of our Creator? Aren't we all deficient in some way? Our lack of perfection should remind us that no one has the right to judge another's worth.
Our imperfections are opportunities for God to work in our lives. That's what Jesus told His disciples when they asked why a man had been born blind. He said it happened so that "the works of God should revealed in him" [John 9:3].
We're seeing God work in Dylan's life. That's what he's here for --- just like the rest of us. --- Dave Branon
People in whom the world sees no value,
But only as burdens to bear,
Teach us great lessons of God's sovereign power ---
He loves them as treasures so rare. --- Carbaugh
IF GOD DIDN'T HAVE A PURPOSE FOR US, WE WOULDN'T BE HERE.
God Forgives Disobedience
Read: Hosea 14
I will heal their back-sliding. I will love them freely. --- Hosea 14:4
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 35-36
Acts 25
I'll never forget the painful lesson I learned in early childhood about disobedience. My father, who had been mowing our lawn, interrupted his work to go shopping. He left the push mower standing near some flowers and ordered me not to touch it while he was gone. But I disobeyed him and gave it a push. To my shock, the mower veered and knocked over several flowers.
When Dad returned, I blubbered, "I didn't mean to do it!" Wisely, he replied, "Why di you do it then?" I knew the truth --- I did mean to push the mower. My sin wasn't that I mowed the flowers down, it was that I disobeyed my father.
This childhood lesson is a reminder to be sorry for disobedience and not just the consequences. Rather than blubber to God, "I didn't mean to do it," I do what Hosea told wayward Israel to do: "Take words [of repentance] with you, and return to the LORD" [Hosea 14:2]. I tell the Lord honestly that I knew His will but chose to disobey, and I cry out for His mercy. Praise God, He forgives!
Are you grieved that you chose to disobey, and not merely sorry about the consequences? Then "take words with you, and return to the LORD" today. He promises to forgive you of your sin, for He loves you freely [v.4]. --- Joanie Yoder
I've strayed, O Lord, and turned aside,
I've disobeyed Your voice;
But now with contrite heart I turn
And make Your will my choice. --- D. De Haan
REPENTANCE KEEPS THE WAY CLEAR IN OUR WALK WITH GOD.
I will heal their back-sliding. I will love them freely. --- Hosea 14:4
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 35-36
Acts 25
I'll never forget the painful lesson I learned in early childhood about disobedience. My father, who had been mowing our lawn, interrupted his work to go shopping. He left the push mower standing near some flowers and ordered me not to touch it while he was gone. But I disobeyed him and gave it a push. To my shock, the mower veered and knocked over several flowers.
When Dad returned, I blubbered, "I didn't mean to do it!" Wisely, he replied, "Why di you do it then?" I knew the truth --- I did mean to push the mower. My sin wasn't that I mowed the flowers down, it was that I disobeyed my father.
This childhood lesson is a reminder to be sorry for disobedience and not just the consequences. Rather than blubber to God, "I didn't mean to do it," I do what Hosea told wayward Israel to do: "Take words [of repentance] with you, and return to the LORD" [Hosea 14:2]. I tell the Lord honestly that I knew His will but chose to disobey, and I cry out for His mercy. Praise God, He forgives!
Are you grieved that you chose to disobey, and not merely sorry about the consequences? Then "take words with you, and return to the LORD" today. He promises to forgive you of your sin, for He loves you freely [v.4]. --- Joanie Yoder
I've strayed, O Lord, and turned aside,
I've disobeyed Your voice;
But now with contrite heart I turn
And make Your will my choice. --- D. De Haan
REPENTANCE KEEPS THE WAY CLEAR IN OUR WALK WITH GOD.
Friday, July 22, 2005
Dying Daily
Read: 2 Corinthians 4:7-12
We are hard-pressed on every side, ... always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus. --- 2 Corinthians 4:8,10
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 33-34
Acts 24
Are you in a situation where you are often misunderstood for your faith in Christ? Are you surrounded by people with a carping, critical spirit? Do you get little or no credit for the work you do in your church or for your family?
The proper response is a willingness to have a humble and submissive spirit --- to die as Jesus did throughout His life. Yes, our Lord died once on the cross; but in another sense He also died every day. The cross was the culmination of an entire lifetime of dying. He was willing to be misunderstood and maligned, to give up home and comforts, to take the role of a servant. That was His "death." We must be willing to die in that way as well.
When we die with Him, God's gift to us is "the life of Jesus" [2 Corinthians 4:10], the most attractive life ever lived. His beauty will gradually grow in us and become our beauty as well.
Remember this saying: "A picture is worth a thousand words." The portrait you draw of Jesus with your humble, tranquil presence in the face of grievous wrong is worth many words on the subject. Some may see the life of Jesus revealed in you and long to enter into that life. That's how dying daily can help bring life to another. --- David Roper
Dear Jesus, take my heart and hand,
And grant me this, I pray;
That I thought Your sweet love may grow
More like You day by day. --- Garrison
LIVING DAILY FOR CHRIST REQUIRES DYING DAILY TO SELF.
We are hard-pressed on every side, ... always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus. --- 2 Corinthians 4:8,10
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 33-34
Acts 24
Are you in a situation where you are often misunderstood for your faith in Christ? Are you surrounded by people with a carping, critical spirit? Do you get little or no credit for the work you do in your church or for your family?
The proper response is a willingness to have a humble and submissive spirit --- to die as Jesus did throughout His life. Yes, our Lord died once on the cross; but in another sense He also died every day. The cross was the culmination of an entire lifetime of dying. He was willing to be misunderstood and maligned, to give up home and comforts, to take the role of a servant. That was His "death." We must be willing to die in that way as well.
When we die with Him, God's gift to us is "the life of Jesus" [2 Corinthians 4:10], the most attractive life ever lived. His beauty will gradually grow in us and become our beauty as well.
Remember this saying: "A picture is worth a thousand words." The portrait you draw of Jesus with your humble, tranquil presence in the face of grievous wrong is worth many words on the subject. Some may see the life of Jesus revealed in you and long to enter into that life. That's how dying daily can help bring life to another. --- David Roper
Dear Jesus, take my heart and hand,
And grant me this, I pray;
That I thought Your sweet love may grow
More like You day by day. --- Garrison
LIVING DAILY FOR CHRIST REQUIRES DYING DAILY TO SELF.
Thursday, July 21, 2005
No Sale
Read: Acts 8:9-25
Peter said to him, "Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!" --- Acts 8:20
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 31-32
Acts 23:16-35
Police officers in St. Louis have had at least one easy arrest. It occured at the back door of the police station when a drunk driver pulled his car right up to the booking window, thinking he was at Burger King. After attempting to place his order at what he thought was a drive-up window, the surprised driver was arrested by the booking officer and charged with drunk driving.
A man named Simon also got the surprise of his life. According to Acts 8, he was a former sorcerer in Samaria before becoming a follower of Christ. His surprise came when he walked up to the apostles and offered them money. He wanted them to give him the power to lay hands on people and impart to them the Holy Spirity. The apostle Peter emphatically refused, and accused him of being under the influence of something worse than alcohol.
Peter wasn't overreacting. It's dangerous to think that the power of the Holy Spirit is like a product that can be bought and sold. The Spirit's work is a gift of God that is freely given on the basis of faith, and faith alone. He has given us His Spirit to accomplish His purposes, not ours. The Spirit cannot be bought or bargained for.
Thank You, Lord, for the gift of Your Spirit. --- Mart De Haan
Holy Spirit, all divine,
Dwell within this heart of mine;
Cast down every idol throne,
Reign supreme and reign alone. --- Reed
WE DON'T NEED MORE OF THE SPIRIT; THE SPIRIT NEEDS MORE OF US.
Peter said to him, "Your money perish with you, because you thought that the gift of God could be purchased with money!" --- Acts 8:20
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 31-32
Acts 23:16-35
Police officers in St. Louis have had at least one easy arrest. It occured at the back door of the police station when a drunk driver pulled his car right up to the booking window, thinking he was at Burger King. After attempting to place his order at what he thought was a drive-up window, the surprised driver was arrested by the booking officer and charged with drunk driving.
A man named Simon also got the surprise of his life. According to Acts 8, he was a former sorcerer in Samaria before becoming a follower of Christ. His surprise came when he walked up to the apostles and offered them money. He wanted them to give him the power to lay hands on people and impart to them the Holy Spirity. The apostle Peter emphatically refused, and accused him of being under the influence of something worse than alcohol.
Peter wasn't overreacting. It's dangerous to think that the power of the Holy Spirit is like a product that can be bought and sold. The Spirit's work is a gift of God that is freely given on the basis of faith, and faith alone. He has given us His Spirit to accomplish His purposes, not ours. The Spirit cannot be bought or bargained for.
Thank You, Lord, for the gift of Your Spirit. --- Mart De Haan
Holy Spirit, all divine,
Dwell within this heart of mine;
Cast down every idol throne,
Reign supreme and reign alone. --- Reed
WE DON'T NEED MORE OF THE SPIRIT; THE SPIRIT NEEDS MORE OF US.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
Truth Seekers
Read: Psalm 119:89-96
I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have given me life. --- Psalm 119:93
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 29-30
Acts 23:1-15
The young woman's quest for God began when she was 11 years old, living under atheistic communism in the former Soviet Union. That's when she saw some artwork that depicted the baby Jesus. When she heard that this represented what authorities called a "myth" about God sending His Son to earth, she began to seek the truth.
She also heard that God had written a book on His truth, and she searched for a copy. It wasn't until she was almost 30 that she finally found a Bible she was permitted to read. At last she had the information she needed to trust Jesus as Savior.
From 1971 to 1989, this young woman risked her own safety t search for the truth of God's Word. Today she is a lawyer who works to protect her fellow Russian citizens from religious persecution. The message of God's love in Christ is spreading because this one woman was a truth seeker.
God's truth can have an impact on us and on the people with whom we interact. The psalmist wrote, "Unless Your law had been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction .... By them You have given me life" [Psalm 119:92-93].
Let's make the Bible our delight. God will give us passion for His eternal Word if we are truth seekers. --- Dave Branon
The Word of God is truth;
So when my faith grows dim;
I look into His Word
And trust my life to Him. --- Hess
IF YOU'RE SEARCHING FOR NUGGETS OF TRUTH, THE BIBLE IS A GOLD MINE.
I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have given me life. --- Psalm 119:93
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 29-30
Acts 23:1-15
The young woman's quest for God began when she was 11 years old, living under atheistic communism in the former Soviet Union. That's when she saw some artwork that depicted the baby Jesus. When she heard that this represented what authorities called a "myth" about God sending His Son to earth, she began to seek the truth.
She also heard that God had written a book on His truth, and she searched for a copy. It wasn't until she was almost 30 that she finally found a Bible she was permitted to read. At last she had the information she needed to trust Jesus as Savior.
From 1971 to 1989, this young woman risked her own safety t search for the truth of God's Word. Today she is a lawyer who works to protect her fellow Russian citizens from religious persecution. The message of God's love in Christ is spreading because this one woman was a truth seeker.
God's truth can have an impact on us and on the people with whom we interact. The psalmist wrote, "Unless Your law had been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction .... By them You have given me life" [Psalm 119:92-93].
Let's make the Bible our delight. God will give us passion for His eternal Word if we are truth seekers. --- Dave Branon
The Word of God is truth;
So when my faith grows dim;
I look into His Word
And trust my life to Him. --- Hess
IF YOU'RE SEARCHING FOR NUGGETS OF TRUTH, THE BIBLE IS A GOLD MINE.
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Does God Love Me?
Read: Romans 5:6-11
We love Him because He first loved us. --- 1 John 4:19
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 26-28
Acts 22
It's not easy to understand the depth of God's love for us. Because of our pride and fear, we fail to grasp how underserving we are and how free His love is.
At times I struggle with pride, so I tend to believe that I have earned any love I receive. Pride tells me that I am loved only when I am lovable, respectable, and worthy.
At other times I feel the tug of fear. Deep down inside, I know that I don't deserve the love I get. My motives are never pure, and I fear I will be rejected if they are exposed. So even while I am basking in acceptance, I live with the fear of being unmasked, revealing that I am much less than what others think me to be.
When I consider my relationship with God, therefore, I tend to feel that His affection for me is based on my performance. When I do well, He loves me; but if I fould up, then I expect only His scorn.
Yet God does not love us because we deserve it. He loves us in spite of what we are. In 1 John 4:10 we read, "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and send His Son." Because of what Jesus Christ has done for us, we know we are always loved by God. That simple truth shatters our pride and dispels our fear. --- Haddon Robinson
Oh, such love, my soul, still ponder ---
Love so great, so rich, so free!
Say, while lost in holy wonder,
"Why, O Lord, such love to me?" --- Kent
NO ONE IS BEYOND THE REACH OF GOD'S LOVE.
We love Him because He first loved us. --- 1 John 4:19
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 26-28
Acts 22
It's not easy to understand the depth of God's love for us. Because of our pride and fear, we fail to grasp how underserving we are and how free His love is.
At times I struggle with pride, so I tend to believe that I have earned any love I receive. Pride tells me that I am loved only when I am lovable, respectable, and worthy.
At other times I feel the tug of fear. Deep down inside, I know that I don't deserve the love I get. My motives are never pure, and I fear I will be rejected if they are exposed. So even while I am basking in acceptance, I live with the fear of being unmasked, revealing that I am much less than what others think me to be.
When I consider my relationship with God, therefore, I tend to feel that His affection for me is based on my performance. When I do well, He loves me; but if I fould up, then I expect only His scorn.
Yet God does not love us because we deserve it. He loves us in spite of what we are. In 1 John 4:10 we read, "In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and send His Son." Because of what Jesus Christ has done for us, we know we are always loved by God. That simple truth shatters our pride and dispels our fear. --- Haddon Robinson
Oh, such love, my soul, still ponder ---
Love so great, so rich, so free!
Say, while lost in holy wonder,
"Why, O Lord, such love to me?" --- Kent
NO ONE IS BEYOND THE REACH OF GOD'S LOVE.
Monday, July 18, 2005
Family Tie
Read: Ephesians 2:11-22
The whole building , being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. --- Ephesians 2:21
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 23-25
Acts 21:18-40
An elderly man who visited an art gallery was deeply moved by a painting that portrayed Christ on the cross. It was so realistic in depicting the suffering of the Savior that his heart was filled with gratitude for the great price the Lord Jesus paid for his redemption. With tears trickling down his cheeks, he exclaimed, "Bless Him! I love Him! I love Him!"
Other visitors standing nearby wondered what the man was talking about. One person walked over and looked at the painting. Soon he too felt deep emotion welling up in his heart. Turning to the old man, he gave him a firm handshake and said, "So do I! I love Him too!" The scene was repeated as a third man and then a fourth walked over, gazed at the painting, and exclaimed, "I love Him too!" Although these men were from different churches, they felt a common bond because of their faith in Christ.
As believers, we need an awareness of our spiritual unity with other Christians. We need to focus on the fundamentals on which we agree --- such as our love for the Savior who died for us --- rather than bicker about lesser issues.
Regardless of sincere disagreements, we as blood-bought believers should recognize that we have a strong family tie in Christ. --- Richard De Haan
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love!
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above. --- Fawcett
AS WE DRAW NEAR TO CHRIST WE ARE DRAWN NEAR TO EACH OTHER.
The whole building , being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. --- Ephesians 2:21
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 23-25
Acts 21:18-40
An elderly man who visited an art gallery was deeply moved by a painting that portrayed Christ on the cross. It was so realistic in depicting the suffering of the Savior that his heart was filled with gratitude for the great price the Lord Jesus paid for his redemption. With tears trickling down his cheeks, he exclaimed, "Bless Him! I love Him! I love Him!"
Other visitors standing nearby wondered what the man was talking about. One person walked over and looked at the painting. Soon he too felt deep emotion welling up in his heart. Turning to the old man, he gave him a firm handshake and said, "So do I! I love Him too!" The scene was repeated as a third man and then a fourth walked over, gazed at the painting, and exclaimed, "I love Him too!" Although these men were from different churches, they felt a common bond because of their faith in Christ.
As believers, we need an awareness of our spiritual unity with other Christians. We need to focus on the fundamentals on which we agree --- such as our love for the Savior who died for us --- rather than bicker about lesser issues.
Regardless of sincere disagreements, we as blood-bought believers should recognize that we have a strong family tie in Christ. --- Richard De Haan
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love!
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above. --- Fawcett
AS WE DRAW NEAR TO CHRIST WE ARE DRAWN NEAR TO EACH OTHER.
Sunday, July 17, 2005
New Songs
Read: Psalms 40:1-10
He has put a new song in my mouth --- praise to our God. --- Psalm 40:3
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 20-22
Acts 21:1-17
The song of the humpback whale is one of the strangest in nature. It is a weird combination of high- and low-pitched groanings. Those who have studied the humpback whale say their songs are noteworthy because these giants of the deep are continually changing them. New patterns are added and old ones eliminated so that over a period of time the whale actually sings a whole new song.
There's a sense in which a Christian should be continually composing new songs of praise around the fresh mercies of God. Unfortunately, many of us just keep singing "the same old song."
We must repeatedly affirm the fundamentals of our faith. But as the psalmist tells us, the works of God's deliverance in the lives of His people are many. His works, which are more than we can count, give us reasons to express our praise to Him in numerous ways [Psalm 40:5].
So why do we express our testimony of God's saving grace in the same old way year after year? A fresh experience of the mercies of the cross and of Christ's resurrection power should continually fill our hearts and minds with new songs.
The gospel story never changes --- thank God for that. But our songs of praise should be ever new. --- Mart De Haan
God's blessings are too numerous
To count them all at night;
That's why we can give praise to Him
As fresh as morning's light. --- Sper
SEEING GOD'S WORK IN OUR LIVES PUTS A NEW SONG ON OUR LIPS.
He has put a new song in my mouth --- praise to our God. --- Psalm 40:3
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 20-22
Acts 21:1-17
The song of the humpback whale is one of the strangest in nature. It is a weird combination of high- and low-pitched groanings. Those who have studied the humpback whale say their songs are noteworthy because these giants of the deep are continually changing them. New patterns are added and old ones eliminated so that over a period of time the whale actually sings a whole new song.
There's a sense in which a Christian should be continually composing new songs of praise around the fresh mercies of God. Unfortunately, many of us just keep singing "the same old song."
We must repeatedly affirm the fundamentals of our faith. But as the psalmist tells us, the works of God's deliverance in the lives of His people are many. His works, which are more than we can count, give us reasons to express our praise to Him in numerous ways [Psalm 40:5].
So why do we express our testimony of God's saving grace in the same old way year after year? A fresh experience of the mercies of the cross and of Christ's resurrection power should continually fill our hearts and minds with new songs.
The gospel story never changes --- thank God for that. But our songs of praise should be ever new. --- Mart De Haan
God's blessings are too numerous
To count them all at night;
That's why we can give praise to Him
As fresh as morning's light. --- Sper
SEEING GOD'S WORK IN OUR LIVES PUTS A NEW SONG ON OUR LIPS.
Saturday, July 16, 2005
The Adam Legacy
Read: Romans 5:12-21
By one Man's obedience many will be made righteous. --- Romans 5:19
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 18-19
Acts 20:17-38
Our new grandson Jackson had fine features, soft blemish-free skin, and ten tiny fingers and toes on two little hands and feet. How could any proud Grampa not see him as a "perfect" baby? He certainly was a miracle of divine formation [Psalm 139:13-14].
The apostle Paul gave us a broader view of such "perfect" little infants when he wrote, "Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin .... Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam" [Romans 5:12-14]. In other words, every child is born with a tendency to sin. But that's not Paul's final word. He also wrote about Jesus, the "last Adam," who became a "life-giving spirit" [1 Corinthians 15:45].
Long after man's first sin, a baby was born who was God incarnate [John 1:14]. God made Christ, "who knew no sin to be sin for us" [2 Corinthians 5:21]. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, the Holy Spirit creates within us a new desire to do what is pleasing to God. The flesh still has its pull, but the pull of the Spirit is stronger.
In the "first Adam" we're all sinners. But let's concentrate on who we are in the "last Adam." --- Dennis De Haan
One with Adam are we all,
One with Adam in his fall;
But another Adam came ---
Fallen sinners to reclaim. --- D. De Haan
IF ANYONE IS IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATION; OLD THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY. --- 2 Corinthians 5:17
By one Man's obedience many will be made righteous. --- Romans 5:19
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 18-19
Acts 20:17-38
Our new grandson Jackson had fine features, soft blemish-free skin, and ten tiny fingers and toes on two little hands and feet. How could any proud Grampa not see him as a "perfect" baby? He certainly was a miracle of divine formation [Psalm 139:13-14].
The apostle Paul gave us a broader view of such "perfect" little infants when he wrote, "Through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin .... Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who had not sinned according to the likeness of the transgression of Adam" [Romans 5:12-14]. In other words, every child is born with a tendency to sin. But that's not Paul's final word. He also wrote about Jesus, the "last Adam," who became a "life-giving spirit" [1 Corinthians 15:45].
Long after man's first sin, a baby was born who was God incarnate [John 1:14]. God made Christ, "who knew no sin to be sin for us" [2 Corinthians 5:21]. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, the Holy Spirit creates within us a new desire to do what is pleasing to God. The flesh still has its pull, but the pull of the Spirit is stronger.
In the "first Adam" we're all sinners. But let's concentrate on who we are in the "last Adam." --- Dennis De Haan
One with Adam are we all,
One with Adam in his fall;
But another Adam came ---
Fallen sinners to reclaim. --- D. De Haan
IF ANYONE IS IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATION; OLD THINGS HAVE PASSED AWAY. --- 2 Corinthians 5:17
Without A Bumper Sticker
Read: Acts 4:5-22
They saw the boldness of Peter and John .... And they realized that they had been with Jesus. --- Acts 4:13
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 16-17
Acts 20:1-16
While driving in rush-hour traffic one day, I found myself behind a car with a bumper sticker. It had a yellow smiley face on it with these words: SMILE --- JESUS LOVES YOU.
Suddenly another car squeezed in front of the "smiley" car, forcing the driver to hit the brakes. With that, he shook his fist angrily, displaying anything but a smiley face. I felt ashamed, until I remembered my own impatience as a driver. The incident reminded me that our actions and reactions, more than the display of a sticker on our car, show whether we really know the Lord Jesus.
Acts 4 tells us that Peter and John faced opposition from local rulers, elders, and scribes as they proclaimed the good news of Christ. But their reaction caused their opponents to start thinking. Even though Peter and John were not highly educated, the people marveled at their bold witness and realized that these two men had been with Jesus. There was no need for a bumper sticker on the apostles' donkey. Their words and actions said it all.
Do you feel too untrained or timid to be a witness for God? If you'll spend time getting to know Jesus, He will empower you to impress others with Himself. You'll have boldness --- without a bumper sticker. --- Joanie Yoder
For me 'twas not the truth you taught,
To you so clear, to me so dim;
But when you came to me, you brought
A deeper sense of Him. --- Clelland
ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN BUMPER STICKERS.
They saw the boldness of Peter and John .... And they realized that they had been with Jesus. --- Acts 4:13
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 16-17
Acts 20:1-16
While driving in rush-hour traffic one day, I found myself behind a car with a bumper sticker. It had a yellow smiley face on it with these words: SMILE --- JESUS LOVES YOU.
Suddenly another car squeezed in front of the "smiley" car, forcing the driver to hit the brakes. With that, he shook his fist angrily, displaying anything but a smiley face. I felt ashamed, until I remembered my own impatience as a driver. The incident reminded me that our actions and reactions, more than the display of a sticker on our car, show whether we really know the Lord Jesus.
Acts 4 tells us that Peter and John faced opposition from local rulers, elders, and scribes as they proclaimed the good news of Christ. But their reaction caused their opponents to start thinking. Even though Peter and John were not highly educated, the people marveled at their bold witness and realized that these two men had been with Jesus. There was no need for a bumper sticker on the apostles' donkey. Their words and actions said it all.
Do you feel too untrained or timid to be a witness for God? If you'll spend time getting to know Jesus, He will empower you to impress others with Himself. You'll have boldness --- without a bumper sticker. --- Joanie Yoder
For me 'twas not the truth you taught,
To you so clear, to me so dim;
But when you came to me, you brought
A deeper sense of Him. --- Clelland
ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN BUMPER STICKERS.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
The Truth About Truth
Read: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
... always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. --- 2 Timothy 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 13-15
Acts 19:21-41
In 1692, Harvard College adopted as its motto Veritas Christo et Ecclesiae --- "Truth for Christ and the Church." Its crest showed three books, one face down to symbolize the limitation of human knowledge. But in recent decades that book has been turned face up to represent the unlimited capacity of the human mind. And the motto has been changed to Veritas --- "Truth."
The pursuit of knowledge is praise-worthy, yet learning can quickly lead to pride and a refusal to acknowledge any limits on our mental abilities. When that happens, biblical truth is ignored or rejected.
What, then, is the truth about truth? A wise king wrote centuries ago, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge" [Proverbs 1:7]. We must recognize the relationship between God and truth. Without the help of the Holy Spirit and the instruction of God's Word, man will be ever "learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" [2 Timothy 3:7]. When we acknowledge and obey His truth, however, we will be set free from spiritual ignorance and error [John 8:32; 17:17].
That's why we must be diligent in our study of the Bible [2 Timothy 2:15]. It is the only book that tells us the truth about truth. --- Vernon Grounds
For Your holy Book we thank You;
May its message be our guide,
May we understand the wisdom
Of the truth Your laws provide. --- Carter
STUDY GOD'S WRITTEN WORD TO KNOW CHRIST THE LIVING WORD.
... always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. --- 2 Timothy 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 13-15
Acts 19:21-41
In 1692, Harvard College adopted as its motto Veritas Christo et Ecclesiae --- "Truth for Christ and the Church." Its crest showed three books, one face down to symbolize the limitation of human knowledge. But in recent decades that book has been turned face up to represent the unlimited capacity of the human mind. And the motto has been changed to Veritas --- "Truth."
The pursuit of knowledge is praise-worthy, yet learning can quickly lead to pride and a refusal to acknowledge any limits on our mental abilities. When that happens, biblical truth is ignored or rejected.
What, then, is the truth about truth? A wise king wrote centuries ago, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge" [Proverbs 1:7]. We must recognize the relationship between God and truth. Without the help of the Holy Spirit and the instruction of God's Word, man will be ever "learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" [2 Timothy 3:7]. When we acknowledge and obey His truth, however, we will be set free from spiritual ignorance and error [John 8:32; 17:17].
That's why we must be diligent in our study of the Bible [2 Timothy 2:15]. It is the only book that tells us the truth about truth. --- Vernon Grounds
For Your holy Book we thank You;
May its message be our guide,
May we understand the wisdom
Of the truth Your laws provide. --- Carter
STUDY GOD'S WRITTEN WORD TO KNOW CHRIST THE LIVING WORD.
The Clue Of Silence
Read: Isaiah 53
The chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. --- Mark 15:3
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 10-12
Acts 19:1-20
The story Silver Blaze by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle centers around a clue of silence. Detective Sherlock Holmes investigates the theft of a prized racehorse, which had been guarded by a watchdog. In gathering evidence, Holmes learns that the dog didn't bark during the intrusion. The detective deduces that the dog knew the culprit, and this leads to solving the crime.
For anyone investigating the identity of Jesus, the Bible holds many clues. One of them is His silence. Centuries before Jesus lived, the prophet Isaiah wrote of Him: "As a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth" [53:7]. The significance of this remained obscure until Jesus was brought before His accusers and "answered nothing" [Mark 15:3].
It's a small but important piece of evidence, especially when combined with other clues: His birth in Bethlehem [Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4], His Davidic lineage [Isaiah 11:10; Luke 3:31], and the casting of lots for His clothes [Psalm 22:18; John 19:23-24]. These and more than 200 other fulfilled prophecies provide overwhelming evidence of the identity of Jesus.
He is the Messiah, the Son of God, the Savior of all who put their faith in Him. --- Dave Egner
THINK ABOUT IT
Are you convinced that Jesus is the promised Savior?
Have you accepted the forgiveness and eternal life He
offers? If you have doubts, read the gospel of John.
BELIEVING CHRIST DIED --- THAT'S HISTORY; BELIEVING CHRIST DIED FOR ME --- THAT'S SALVATION.
The chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. --- Mark 15:3
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 10-12
Acts 19:1-20
The story Silver Blaze by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle centers around a clue of silence. Detective Sherlock Holmes investigates the theft of a prized racehorse, which had been guarded by a watchdog. In gathering evidence, Holmes learns that the dog didn't bark during the intrusion. The detective deduces that the dog knew the culprit, and this leads to solving the crime.
For anyone investigating the identity of Jesus, the Bible holds many clues. One of them is His silence. Centuries before Jesus lived, the prophet Isaiah wrote of Him: "As a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He opened not His mouth" [53:7]. The significance of this remained obscure until Jesus was brought before His accusers and "answered nothing" [Mark 15:3].
It's a small but important piece of evidence, especially when combined with other clues: His birth in Bethlehem [Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4], His Davidic lineage [Isaiah 11:10; Luke 3:31], and the casting of lots for His clothes [Psalm 22:18; John 19:23-24]. These and more than 200 other fulfilled prophecies provide overwhelming evidence of the identity of Jesus.
He is the Messiah, the Son of God, the Savior of all who put their faith in Him. --- Dave Egner
THINK ABOUT IT
Are you convinced that Jesus is the promised Savior?
Have you accepted the forgiveness and eternal life He
offers? If you have doubts, read the gospel of John.
BELIEVING CHRIST DIED --- THAT'S HISTORY; BELIEVING CHRIST DIED FOR ME --- THAT'S SALVATION.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
No Greater Love
Read: 1 John 4:7-11
In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. --- 1 John 4:10
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 7-9
Acts 18
On our family-room wall, in a small shadowbox, hangs a "treasure" that belongs to my wife Carolyn. Oh, we have things more intrinsically valuable on the walls of our home --- a handmade quilt from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Kentucky, antique mirrors, oil paintings, and a magnificent dulcimer from an artisan in the back-country of Idaho.
Carolyn's treasure, though, is far more valuable to her than any other possession, for it contains a gift from our granddaughter Julia. It was a present to her "Nana" on Valentine's Day several years ago when Julia was only 6 years old --- a small, red, clay heart. Inscribed on it in childish scrawl are the words "I Luv U."
The little heart is crudely made, ragged on the edges, and bears a number of thumbprints and smudges, but Carolyn has enshrined it in a frame made especially for that heart. Each day it reminds her of Julia's love.
Is God's love more valuable to you than silver or gold or any other possession? He "sent His only begotten Son into the world, that [you] might live through Him" [1 John 4:9]. He did that because He loves you, not because you loved Him. And because of His love, one day you will be with Him in heaven. There is no greater love! --- David Roper
Love sent my Savior to die in my stead,
Why should He love me so?
Meekly to Calvary's cross He was led,
Why should He love me so? --- Harkness
GOD'S ETERNAL LOVE IS THE SOURCE OF OUR ETERNAL LIFE.
In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. --- 1 John 4:10
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 7-9
Acts 18
On our family-room wall, in a small shadowbox, hangs a "treasure" that belongs to my wife Carolyn. Oh, we have things more intrinsically valuable on the walls of our home --- a handmade quilt from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Kentucky, antique mirrors, oil paintings, and a magnificent dulcimer from an artisan in the back-country of Idaho.
Carolyn's treasure, though, is far more valuable to her than any other possession, for it contains a gift from our granddaughter Julia. It was a present to her "Nana" on Valentine's Day several years ago when Julia was only 6 years old --- a small, red, clay heart. Inscribed on it in childish scrawl are the words "I Luv U."
The little heart is crudely made, ragged on the edges, and bears a number of thumbprints and smudges, but Carolyn has enshrined it in a frame made especially for that heart. Each day it reminds her of Julia's love.
Is God's love more valuable to you than silver or gold or any other possession? He "sent His only begotten Son into the world, that [you] might live through Him" [1 John 4:9]. He did that because He loves you, not because you loved Him. And because of His love, one day you will be with Him in heaven. There is no greater love! --- David Roper
Love sent my Savior to die in my stead,
Why should He love me so?
Meekly to Calvary's cross He was led,
Why should He love me so? --- Harkness
GOD'S ETERNAL LOVE IS THE SOURCE OF OUR ETERNAL LIFE.
Monday, July 11, 2005
Overcoming Greed
Read: 1 Timothy 6:6-19
Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share. --- 1 Timothy 6:18
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 4-6
Acts 17:16-34
Greed --- it has toppled highly paid executives, brought down giant corporations, and cost thousands of workers their jobs and retirement funds. One columnist has written that unrestrained corporate greed is a greater threat than terrorism.
Greed whispers in our ear that we would be happier if we had more money, more things, and more power. It creates discontent and a growing desire to do whatever it takes to gain position and possessions. But the Bible commands us to trust in God, not in "uncertain riches" [1 Timothy 6:17].
Paul told Timothy that the way to overcome greed is to flee from it and to "pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness" [1 Timothy 6:11]. And those "who are rich in this present age," who have more than is needed, should "be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share" [vv.17-18].
Contentment and generosity are the opposite of greed [vv.6-8]. As we learn to thank God for what we have and freely share it with others, we stop trying to fill the spiritual vacuum in our heart with things. And when we love Jesus more than money and possessions, we find that He is the greatest treasure of our lives. We discover that knowing Him is the source of genuine satisfaction. --- David McCasland
God's riches fill up our supply,
Whatever we may need,
So we can then be generous
And not controlled by greed. --- Sper
THE BEST REMEDY FOR GREED IS GENEROSITY.
Let them do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share. --- 1 Timothy 6:18
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 4-6
Acts 17:16-34
Greed --- it has toppled highly paid executives, brought down giant corporations, and cost thousands of workers their jobs and retirement funds. One columnist has written that unrestrained corporate greed is a greater threat than terrorism.
Greed whispers in our ear that we would be happier if we had more money, more things, and more power. It creates discontent and a growing desire to do whatever it takes to gain position and possessions. But the Bible commands us to trust in God, not in "uncertain riches" [1 Timothy 6:17].
Paul told Timothy that the way to overcome greed is to flee from it and to "pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness" [1 Timothy 6:11]. And those "who are rich in this present age," who have more than is needed, should "be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share" [vv.17-18].
Contentment and generosity are the opposite of greed [vv.6-8]. As we learn to thank God for what we have and freely share it with others, we stop trying to fill the spiritual vacuum in our heart with things. And when we love Jesus more than money and possessions, we find that He is the greatest treasure of our lives. We discover that knowing Him is the source of genuine satisfaction. --- David McCasland
God's riches fill up our supply,
Whatever we may need,
So we can then be generous
And not controlled by greed. --- Sper
THE BEST REMEDY FOR GREED IS GENEROSITY.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
The Tree
Read: Matthew 27:27-35
[Jesus] bore our sins in His own body on the tree. --- 1 Peter 2:24
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 1-3
Acts 17:1-15
The corkscrew willow tree stood vigil over our backyard for more than 20 years. It shaded all four or our children as they played in the yard, and it provided shelter for the neighborhood squirrels. But when springtime came and the tree didn't awaken from its winter slumber, it was time to bring it down.
Every day for a week I worked on that tree --- first to fell it and then to chop two decades of growth into manageable pieces. It gave me a lot of time to think about trees.
I thought about the first tree --- the one on which hung the forbidden fruit that Adam and Eve just couldn't resist [Genesis 3:6]. God used that tree to test their loyalty and trust. Then there's the tree in Psalm 1 that reminds us of the fruitfulness of godly living. And in Proverbs 3:18, wisdom is personified as a tree of life.
But it is a transplanted tree that is most important --- the crude cross of Calvary that was hewn from a sturdy tree. There our Savior hung between heaven and earth to bear every sin of every generation on His shoulders. It stands above all trees as a symbol of love, sacrifice, and salvation.
At Calvary, God's only Son suffered a horrible death on a cross. That's the tree of life for us. --- Dave Branon
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain. --- Bennard
THE CROSS OF CHRIST REVEALS MAN'S SIN AT ITS WORST AND GOD'S LOVE AT ITS BEST.
[Jesus] bore our sins in His own body on the tree. --- 1 Peter 2:24
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 1-3
Acts 17:1-15
The corkscrew willow tree stood vigil over our backyard for more than 20 years. It shaded all four or our children as they played in the yard, and it provided shelter for the neighborhood squirrels. But when springtime came and the tree didn't awaken from its winter slumber, it was time to bring it down.
Every day for a week I worked on that tree --- first to fell it and then to chop two decades of growth into manageable pieces. It gave me a lot of time to think about trees.
I thought about the first tree --- the one on which hung the forbidden fruit that Adam and Eve just couldn't resist [Genesis 3:6]. God used that tree to test their loyalty and trust. Then there's the tree in Psalm 1 that reminds us of the fruitfulness of godly living. And in Proverbs 3:18, wisdom is personified as a tree of life.
But it is a transplanted tree that is most important --- the crude cross of Calvary that was hewn from a sturdy tree. There our Savior hung between heaven and earth to bear every sin of every generation on His shoulders. It stands above all trees as a symbol of love, sacrifice, and salvation.
At Calvary, God's only Son suffered a horrible death on a cross. That's the tree of life for us. --- Dave Branon
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain. --- Bennard
THE CROSS OF CHRIST REVEALS MAN'S SIN AT ITS WORST AND GOD'S LOVE AT ITS BEST.
Marriage In Heaven
Read: Mark 12:18-27
When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. --- Mark 12:25
The Bible In One Year:
Job 41-42
Acts 16:22-40
When I was a student at Moody Bible Institute, I knew a professor whose wife had died. Later he married the widow of his best friend. One day a student asked him, "Will your first wife know about your second marriage when you see her in heaven, and if so, how do you think she'll react?" The professor smiled and said, "Of course she will, and because she will be perfect she will not be jealous. Even though we will not live as marriage partners, I believe we will know each other. We will all be the best of friends forever."
In Mark 12, we read about some enemies of Jesus who invented a story about a woman whose husband died and left no son. Under Jewish law, the brother of the deceased had to marry the widow ofor the purpos of having a son [Deuteronomy 25:5]. According to their story, this happened with seven brothers. Jesus' detractors asked, "When they rise, whose wife will she be?" He said they neither understood the Scriptures nor God's power to raise the dead to a glorious new existense without marriage.
I believe that in heaven we will have special feelings for one another. We will love perfectly and enjoy complete healing from all the hurts of our earthly relationships. That will be more fulfilling than any marriage. --- Herb Vander Lugt
The love we've known while here below
In heaven will find its highest joy,
For we will know Christ's perfect love
That memories cannot destroy. --- D. De Haan
THE PLEASURES OF EARTH CANNOT COMPARE TO THE JOYS OF HEAVEN.
When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. --- Mark 12:25
The Bible In One Year:
Job 41-42
Acts 16:22-40
When I was a student at Moody Bible Institute, I knew a professor whose wife had died. Later he married the widow of his best friend. One day a student asked him, "Will your first wife know about your second marriage when you see her in heaven, and if so, how do you think she'll react?" The professor smiled and said, "Of course she will, and because she will be perfect she will not be jealous. Even though we will not live as marriage partners, I believe we will know each other. We will all be the best of friends forever."
In Mark 12, we read about some enemies of Jesus who invented a story about a woman whose husband died and left no son. Under Jewish law, the brother of the deceased had to marry the widow ofor the purpos of having a son [Deuteronomy 25:5]. According to their story, this happened with seven brothers. Jesus' detractors asked, "When they rise, whose wife will she be?" He said they neither understood the Scriptures nor God's power to raise the dead to a glorious new existense without marriage.
I believe that in heaven we will have special feelings for one another. We will love perfectly and enjoy complete healing from all the hurts of our earthly relationships. That will be more fulfilling than any marriage. --- Herb Vander Lugt
The love we've known while here below
In heaven will find its highest joy,
For we will know Christ's perfect love
That memories cannot destroy. --- D. De Haan
THE PLEASURES OF EARTH CANNOT COMPARE TO THE JOYS OF HEAVEN.
Saturday, July 09, 2005
"Piggies"
Read: 1 Peter 5:5-7
[Cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. --- 1 Peter 5:7
The Bible In One Year:
Job 38-40
Acts 16:1-21
I recall walking along a Texas creek many years ago with my brother-in-law Ed and his 3-year-old son David. David had been collecting smooth, round stones from the stream while we walked. He called them "piggies," because their rounded shape reminded him of little pigs.
David had stuffed a number of "piggies" in his pockets, and after running out of pockets he began carrying them in his arms. After a while he began to stagger under the load and lag behind. It was obvious he would never make it back to the house without help, so Ed said, "Here, David, let me carry your piggies."
Reluctance clouded David's face for a moment, and then it lit up. "I know," he said. "You carry me and I'll carry my piggies."
I've often thought of that incident and my own childish insistence that I must carry my own load. Jesus offers to take all of my burdens but I resist out of stubbornness and pride. "You carry me," I say, "but I'll carry my 'piggies.'"
How foolish it is to try to carry all your burdens on your own when Jesus asks you to cast "all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." [1 Peter 5:7].
Have you put all of your "piggies" in Jesus' strong arms today? --- David Roper
I would tell the Lord my longings,
Roll on Him my every care,
Cast upon Him all my burdens,
Burdens that I cannot bear. --- Weigle
GOD CARES.
[Cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. --- 1 Peter 5:7
The Bible In One Year:
Job 38-40
Acts 16:1-21
I recall walking along a Texas creek many years ago with my brother-in-law Ed and his 3-year-old son David. David had been collecting smooth, round stones from the stream while we walked. He called them "piggies," because their rounded shape reminded him of little pigs.
David had stuffed a number of "piggies" in his pockets, and after running out of pockets he began carrying them in his arms. After a while he began to stagger under the load and lag behind. It was obvious he would never make it back to the house without help, so Ed said, "Here, David, let me carry your piggies."
Reluctance clouded David's face for a moment, and then it lit up. "I know," he said. "You carry me and I'll carry my piggies."
I've often thought of that incident and my own childish insistence that I must carry my own load. Jesus offers to take all of my burdens but I resist out of stubbornness and pride. "You carry me," I say, "but I'll carry my 'piggies.'"
How foolish it is to try to carry all your burdens on your own when Jesus asks you to cast "all your care upon Him, for He cares for you." [1 Peter 5:7].
Have you put all of your "piggies" in Jesus' strong arms today? --- David Roper
I would tell the Lord my longings,
Roll on Him my every care,
Cast upon Him all my burdens,
Burdens that I cannot bear. --- Weigle
GOD CARES.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Inner Strength
Read: Ephesians 3:14-21
[I pray] that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man. --- Ephesians 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
Job 36-37
Acts 15:22-41
A large company uses suction to extract contaminating substances from steel drums. Powerful pumps draw the materials out of the barrels, but the workers must carefully regulate the force of these pumps. If they take out too much air, the drums will collapse like paper cups, because the outer pressure will exceed the inner pressure.
Likewise, when adversity and hardship come into our lives, God must empower us from within or we will be unable to withstand the pressures from without. True, we get solid support from loved ones and Christian friends, but it is our spiritual inner man, "strengthened with might through His Spirit" [Ephesians 3:16], that sustains us and keeps us from crumpling.
The Holy Spirit works to strengthen us and renew our minds as we read the Bible and pray. If we neglect the Scriptures, seldom talk with the Lord, and stop fellowshiping with other believers, we'll grow weak and vulnerable. Then we will be unable to withstand the pressures of temptation or trouble.
Let's ask the Lord to develop our inner strength so that when life's blows and burdens press upon us we will not cave in. --- Dave Egner
Help us, O Lord, when trouble come
To trust Your Word and not succumb,
And help us not to turn aside
But in Your strength and love abide. --- D. De Haan
THE POWER OF CHRIST WITHIN YOU IS GREATER THAN THE PRESSURE OF TROUBLES AROUND YOU.
[I pray] that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man. --- Ephesians 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
Job 36-37
Acts 15:22-41
A large company uses suction to extract contaminating substances from steel drums. Powerful pumps draw the materials out of the barrels, but the workers must carefully regulate the force of these pumps. If they take out too much air, the drums will collapse like paper cups, because the outer pressure will exceed the inner pressure.
Likewise, when adversity and hardship come into our lives, God must empower us from within or we will be unable to withstand the pressures from without. True, we get solid support from loved ones and Christian friends, but it is our spiritual inner man, "strengthened with might through His Spirit" [Ephesians 3:16], that sustains us and keeps us from crumpling.
The Holy Spirit works to strengthen us and renew our minds as we read the Bible and pray. If we neglect the Scriptures, seldom talk with the Lord, and stop fellowshiping with other believers, we'll grow weak and vulnerable. Then we will be unable to withstand the pressures of temptation or trouble.
Let's ask the Lord to develop our inner strength so that when life's blows and burdens press upon us we will not cave in. --- Dave Egner
Help us, O Lord, when trouble come
To trust Your Word and not succumb,
And help us not to turn aside
But in Your strength and love abide. --- D. De Haan
THE POWER OF CHRIST WITHIN YOU IS GREATER THAN THE PRESSURE OF TROUBLES AROUND YOU.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Make A Difference
Read: Luke 3:1-20
While Annas and Caiaphas were high priests, the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. --- Luke 3:2
The Bible In One Year:
Job 34-35
Acts 15:1-21
Seven men are mentioned in Luke 3, who had political, economic, and religious control over Israel: Roman Emperor Tiberias Caesar, Governor Pontius Pilate, the tetrarchs Herod, Philip, and Lysanias, along with high priests Annas and Caiaphas. While they were in power, "The word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins" [vv.2-3].
What possible difference could it make for a person with no money and power to respond to God's word when it seemed that others were so firmly in control? How could the actions of one insignificant person change anything? The answer is revealed in John the Baptist's message of repentance, his announcement of the coming Messiah [vv.16-17], and his bold confronting of Herod [v.19]. John's role was to prepare the way for Jesus the Messiah, and the world was blessed by his obedience.
Today our task as Christians is to reflect the crucified and risen Savior in everything we do, and to tell others about Him. God calls each of us to live according to His instructions in the Bible. Our response will make all the difference in the world. --- David McCasland
The laws of God are true and right;
They stand as firm today
As when He put them in His Word
And told us to obey. --- Fasick
OBEDIENCE TO GOD IS THE KEY TO A LASTING INFLUENCE.
While Annas and Caiaphas were high priests, the word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. --- Luke 3:2
The Bible In One Year:
Job 34-35
Acts 15:1-21
Seven men are mentioned in Luke 3, who had political, economic, and religious control over Israel: Roman Emperor Tiberias Caesar, Governor Pontius Pilate, the tetrarchs Herod, Philip, and Lysanias, along with high priests Annas and Caiaphas. While they were in power, "The word of God came to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he went into all the region around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins" [vv.2-3].
What possible difference could it make for a person with no money and power to respond to God's word when it seemed that others were so firmly in control? How could the actions of one insignificant person change anything? The answer is revealed in John the Baptist's message of repentance, his announcement of the coming Messiah [vv.16-17], and his bold confronting of Herod [v.19]. John's role was to prepare the way for Jesus the Messiah, and the world was blessed by his obedience.
Today our task as Christians is to reflect the crucified and risen Savior in everything we do, and to tell others about Him. God calls each of us to live according to His instructions in the Bible. Our response will make all the difference in the world. --- David McCasland
The laws of God are true and right;
They stand as firm today
As when He put them in His Word
And told us to obey. --- Fasick
OBEDIENCE TO GOD IS THE KEY TO A LASTING INFLUENCE.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
The "What Then?" Test
Read: Matthew 6:19-24
Riches are not forever. --- Proverbs 27:24
The Bible In One Year:
Job 32-33
Acts 14
From the 16th century comes a story of a probing conversation between an ambitious young man and a devout Christian named St. Philip Neri. The youth said to him excitedly, "My parents finally agreed to my studying law!" Philip asked simply, "What then?"
He replied, "Then I shall become a lawyer!" "And then?" pursued Philip. "Then I shall earn lots of money, buy a country house, get a carriage and horses, marry a beautiful woman, and lead a delightful life!" he responded.
Again Philip asked, "And then?" "Then ... " The young man began reflecting for the first time on death and eternity. He realized that he had not acknowledged God in his plans and was building his life on temporal values.
The point of this story is not that riches are wrong. But if they become our central goal, we are ignoring eternity and trusting money, not God. Jesus said it's impossible to love both money and God [Matthew 6:24], and He warned, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, ... but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven" [vv.19-20].
Young and old alike must make important life-plans. But let's keep eternity in mind by always subjecting them to the "what then?" test. --- Joanie Yoder
Shall the great Judge say, when my task is through,
That my soul had gathered some riches too?
Or shall at the last it be mine to find
That all I had worked for I had left behind? --- Anon.
THE TRUE MEASURE OF OUR WEALTH IS THE TREASURE WE HAVE IN HEAVEN.
Riches are not forever. --- Proverbs 27:24
The Bible In One Year:
Job 32-33
Acts 14
From the 16th century comes a story of a probing conversation between an ambitious young man and a devout Christian named St. Philip Neri. The youth said to him excitedly, "My parents finally agreed to my studying law!" Philip asked simply, "What then?"
He replied, "Then I shall become a lawyer!" "And then?" pursued Philip. "Then I shall earn lots of money, buy a country house, get a carriage and horses, marry a beautiful woman, and lead a delightful life!" he responded.
Again Philip asked, "And then?" "Then ... " The young man began reflecting for the first time on death and eternity. He realized that he had not acknowledged God in his plans and was building his life on temporal values.
The point of this story is not that riches are wrong. But if they become our central goal, we are ignoring eternity and trusting money, not God. Jesus said it's impossible to love both money and God [Matthew 6:24], and He warned, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, ... but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven" [vv.19-20].
Young and old alike must make important life-plans. But let's keep eternity in mind by always subjecting them to the "what then?" test. --- Joanie Yoder
Shall the great Judge say, when my task is through,
That my soul had gathered some riches too?
Or shall at the last it be mine to find
That all I had worked for I had left behind? --- Anon.
THE TRUE MEASURE OF OUR WEALTH IS THE TREASURE WE HAVE IN HEAVEN.
Monday, July 04, 2005
Frozen Snowball
Read: Hebrews 12:25-13:6
We are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken. --- Hebrews 12:28
The Bible In One Year:
Job 30-31
Acts 13:26-52
Baseball pitcher Tug McGraw had a wonderful philosophy of pitchin. He called it his "frozen snowball" theory. "If I come in to pitch with the bases loaded," Tug explained, "and heavy hitter Willie Stargell is at bat, there's no readon I want to throw the ball. But eventually I have to pitch. So I remind myself that in a few billion years the earth will become a frozen snowball hurtling through space, and nobody's going to care what Willie Stargell did with the bases loaded!"
The Bible tells us the earth will someday "melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up" [2 Peter 3:10]. Yet McGraw's point is valid: We need to keep life in perspective. Most of the things we sorry about have no eternal significance.
The writer of Hebrews was concerned about our perspective. Throughout the book, he keeps our eyes focused on heaven and away from earth. Unless our minds are on heaven, we will have little eternal influence on earth.
There will come a time when the earth will be shaken, and things that once seemed permanent will be gone [Hebrews 12:27]. What you fear most today will be forgotten like yesterday's headlines. What really matters is what you do today that has a touch of eternity about it. --- Haddon Robinson
O for a heart that is willing to serve,
Laboring while it is day!
Nothing is lost that is done for the Lord,
He will reward and repay. --- Anon.
THE ONE WHO LIVES FOR THIS LIFE ONLY WILL HAVE ETERNITY TO REGRET IT.
We are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken. --- Hebrews 12:28
The Bible In One Year:
Job 30-31
Acts 13:26-52
Baseball pitcher Tug McGraw had a wonderful philosophy of pitchin. He called it his "frozen snowball" theory. "If I come in to pitch with the bases loaded," Tug explained, "and heavy hitter Willie Stargell is at bat, there's no readon I want to throw the ball. But eventually I have to pitch. So I remind myself that in a few billion years the earth will become a frozen snowball hurtling through space, and nobody's going to care what Willie Stargell did with the bases loaded!"
The Bible tells us the earth will someday "melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up" [2 Peter 3:10]. Yet McGraw's point is valid: We need to keep life in perspective. Most of the things we sorry about have no eternal significance.
The writer of Hebrews was concerned about our perspective. Throughout the book, he keeps our eyes focused on heaven and away from earth. Unless our minds are on heaven, we will have little eternal influence on earth.
There will come a time when the earth will be shaken, and things that once seemed permanent will be gone [Hebrews 12:27]. What you fear most today will be forgotten like yesterday's headlines. What really matters is what you do today that has a touch of eternity about it. --- Haddon Robinson
O for a heart that is willing to serve,
Laboring while it is day!
Nothing is lost that is done for the Lord,
He will reward and repay. --- Anon.
THE ONE WHO LIVES FOR THIS LIFE ONLY WILL HAVE ETERNITY TO REGRET IT.
Sunday, July 03, 2005
A Strong Constitution
Read: 1 Peter 2:1-10
Yes are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people. --- 1 Peter 2:9
The Bible In One Year:
Job 28-29
Acts 13:1-25
The Declaration of Independence of the United States speaks of all people being "created equal" and that we are endowed with certain "unalienable rights." The Constitution guarantees that the government will protect those rights for all its citizens. These two documents clearly reveal that the nation's freedom depends largely on a strong constitution.
The Bible is a more far-reaching "bill of rights" than either of these documents. It originated with God, who backs it with His justice, His concern for all people, and His sovereignty. And it is the only charter that guarantees freedom from sin's penalty and power.
A man went to a clergyman to get some advice about religious virtue and the freedom it brings. "What must I do to attain holiness?" he asked. The pastor replied, "Follow your heart." Then he added, "To follow your heart you are going to need a strong constitution." "Which constitution?" asked the man. "The Bible!" said the pastor.
Peter said that Christians, as "a holy nation," are to "proclaim the praises of Him who called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light" [1 Peter 2:9]. There we find true freedom. When we live by our "constitution," we will be able to enjoy our rights and fulfill our calling. --- Dennis De Haan
God's changeless Word will change our lives,
But we must do our part;
When we live our its principles,
We'll keep it in our heart. --- Sper
THE BEST CONSTITUTION IN THE WORLD IS THE BIBLE.
Yes are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people. --- 1 Peter 2:9
The Bible In One Year:
Job 28-29
Acts 13:1-25
The Declaration of Independence of the United States speaks of all people being "created equal" and that we are endowed with certain "unalienable rights." The Constitution guarantees that the government will protect those rights for all its citizens. These two documents clearly reveal that the nation's freedom depends largely on a strong constitution.
The Bible is a more far-reaching "bill of rights" than either of these documents. It originated with God, who backs it with His justice, His concern for all people, and His sovereignty. And it is the only charter that guarantees freedom from sin's penalty and power.
A man went to a clergyman to get some advice about religious virtue and the freedom it brings. "What must I do to attain holiness?" he asked. The pastor replied, "Follow your heart." Then he added, "To follow your heart you are going to need a strong constitution." "Which constitution?" asked the man. "The Bible!" said the pastor.
Peter said that Christians, as "a holy nation," are to "proclaim the praises of Him who called [us] out of darkness into His marvelous light" [1 Peter 2:9]. There we find true freedom. When we live by our "constitution," we will be able to enjoy our rights and fulfill our calling. --- Dennis De Haan
God's changeless Word will change our lives,
But we must do our part;
When we live our its principles,
We'll keep it in our heart. --- Sper
THE BEST CONSTITUTION IN THE WORLD IS THE BIBLE.
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Good Medicine
Read: Proverbs 17:17-22
A merry heart does good, like medicine. --- Proverbs 17:22
The Bible In One Year:
Job 25-27
Acts 12
In a Better Homes and Gardens article titled "Laugh Your Way to Good Health," Nick Gallo made an observation that echoes what Solomon wrote thousands of years ago: "A merry heart does good, like medicine" [Proverbs 17:22]. Gallo said, "Humor is good medicine --- and can actually help keep you in good health." He quoted William F. Fry, M.D., who describes laughter as "inner jogging" and says that it's good for a person's cardiovascular system.
Comparing laughter to exercise, Gallo pointed otu that when a person laughs heartily several physical benefits occur. There's a temporary lowering of blood pressure, a decreased rate of breathing, and a reduction in muscle tension. He said that many people experience a "relaxed afterglow." He concluded, "An enduring sense of humor, especially combined with other inner resources such as faith and optimism, appears to be a potent force for better health."
Christians, above all others, should benefit from laughter because we have the greatest reason to be joyful. Our faith is firmly rooted in God, and our optimism is based on the assurance that our lives are under His wise control.
Don't be afraid to enjoy a good laugh --- it's good medicine. --- Richard De Haan
Laughter is a remedy
For sorrow and for care;
It brings joy to troubled souls,
To damaged hearts, repair. --- Sper.
HE WHO LAUGHS, LASTS.
A merry heart does good, like medicine. --- Proverbs 17:22
The Bible In One Year:
Job 25-27
Acts 12
In a Better Homes and Gardens article titled "Laugh Your Way to Good Health," Nick Gallo made an observation that echoes what Solomon wrote thousands of years ago: "A merry heart does good, like medicine" [Proverbs 17:22]. Gallo said, "Humor is good medicine --- and can actually help keep you in good health." He quoted William F. Fry, M.D., who describes laughter as "inner jogging" and says that it's good for a person's cardiovascular system.
Comparing laughter to exercise, Gallo pointed otu that when a person laughs heartily several physical benefits occur. There's a temporary lowering of blood pressure, a decreased rate of breathing, and a reduction in muscle tension. He said that many people experience a "relaxed afterglow." He concluded, "An enduring sense of humor, especially combined with other inner resources such as faith and optimism, appears to be a potent force for better health."
Christians, above all others, should benefit from laughter because we have the greatest reason to be joyful. Our faith is firmly rooted in God, and our optimism is based on the assurance that our lives are under His wise control.
Don't be afraid to enjoy a good laugh --- it's good medicine. --- Richard De Haan
Laughter is a remedy
For sorrow and for care;
It brings joy to troubled souls,
To damaged hearts, repair. --- Sper.
HE WHO LAUGHS, LASTS.
Friday, July 01, 2005
Love Is Vulnerable
Read: Hosea 11:1-11
How can I give you up, Ephraim? ... My heart churns within Me; My sympathy is stirred. --- Hosea 11:8
The Bible In One Year:
Job 22-24
Acts 11
The experience of a heartbroken Christian woman [I'll call her Mary] illustrates how love makes the lover vulnerable. Mary was a devoted wife who deeply loved her husband, but after 8 years and two children he left her for another woman. Her faith in God and her love for her children kept her gong.
Today, her son is living a sinful lifestyle, and her daughter has abandoned her husband and children. Neither of them will have anything to do with their mother.
The prophet Hosea suffered a similar heartbreak because of his adulterous wife Gomer. What he experienced mirrors how God must hvae felt when His people turned to pagan idolatry and all the wickedness associated with it. God had been a loving husband and father to them, but they had spurned His love. Although His holy character demanded that He chasten them, He also felt deep anguish.
Centuries later, God came to earth in the person of Jesus, who endured the agony of Calvary to bear the sins of the whole world. Yet many people still reject Him.
Yes, love is vulnerable, and there are no guarantees that it will be returned! But God continues to love, and in His strength we can do the same. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Your love, O God, would spare no pain
To conquer death and win;
You sent Your only Son to die
To rescue us from sin. --- Gustafson
NOTHING COSTS AS MUCH AS LOVING --- EXCEPT NOT LOVING.
How can I give you up, Ephraim? ... My heart churns within Me; My sympathy is stirred. --- Hosea 11:8
The Bible In One Year:
Job 22-24
Acts 11
The experience of a heartbroken Christian woman [I'll call her Mary] illustrates how love makes the lover vulnerable. Mary was a devoted wife who deeply loved her husband, but after 8 years and two children he left her for another woman. Her faith in God and her love for her children kept her gong.
Today, her son is living a sinful lifestyle, and her daughter has abandoned her husband and children. Neither of them will have anything to do with their mother.
The prophet Hosea suffered a similar heartbreak because of his adulterous wife Gomer. What he experienced mirrors how God must hvae felt when His people turned to pagan idolatry and all the wickedness associated with it. God had been a loving husband and father to them, but they had spurned His love. Although His holy character demanded that He chasten them, He also felt deep anguish.
Centuries later, God came to earth in the person of Jesus, who endured the agony of Calvary to bear the sins of the whole world. Yet many people still reject Him.
Yes, love is vulnerable, and there are no guarantees that it will be returned! But God continues to love, and in His strength we can do the same. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Your love, O God, would spare no pain
To conquer death and win;
You sent Your only Son to die
To rescue us from sin. --- Gustafson
NOTHING COSTS AS MUCH AS LOVING --- EXCEPT NOT LOVING.
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