Read: Hebrews 11:32-12:3
The memory of the righteous is blessed, but the name of the wicked will rot. --- Proverbs 10:7
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 22-23
Titus 1
The word Halloween comes from All Hallow's Eve, which was the evening before a religious holiday in Medieval England that became known as All Saints' Day. It was a time set aside by the church to commemorate its saints.
Today's celebration of Halloween, however, is more closely related to pagan customs that originated in ancient Europe. The Druids believed that the spirits of the dead returned to their former haunts during the night of October 31, so they lit torches and set our food for these unwelcome visitors. They did this out of fear, thinking they would be harmed if they didn't.
The Bible warns against all dabbling in the occult and preoccupation with witches and ghosts. What then can Christians do? One enterprising pastor had a special gathering in which he asked some of the church people to come dressed in the costumes of Bible heroes and the great saints of church history. In a dramatic way they were calling to mind the sufficiency of God's grace in the lives of His people.
Yes, the example set by that great "cloud of witnesses" in Hebrews 12:1 encourages our faith. Remembering them on Halloween can remind us of the triumph of trusting the Lord. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Faith of our fathers, living still
In spite of dungeon, fire, and sword ---
O how our hearts beat high with joy
Whene'er we hear that glorious word! --- Faber
THE GREATEST GIFT ANYONE CAN GIVE US IS A GODLY EXAMPLE.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Saturday, October 29, 2005
You Won't Get Away With It!
Read: Galatians 6:1-9
Our transgressions are multiplied before You, and our sins testify against us. --- Isaiah 59:12
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 20-21
2 Timothy 4
A group of students at Renaissance High School in Detroit decided to cut classes to attend a rock concert in Hart Plaza. They felt they had gotten away with it, but the next day when The Detroit News appeared on the newsstand, it carried a color photo of the concert --- right there on the front page. And who was in that picture? That's right --- the delinquent students of Renaissance High, easily recognizable by anyone.
The Bible teaches that we cannot hide our iniquities. Oh, we may be able to cover them up for a while and even get away with them for an extended period of time. But the day will inevitably come when we must face up to them, either in this world or in the next. Paul told the Galatians, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap" [Galatians 6:7].
Perhaps you have some secret sin that you are hiding. If so, I urge you to confess and forsake it. Or maybe you are gradually being drawn into a situation that you know is wrong and you're tempted to pursue it, thinking you won't get caught. Then I plead with you to go no further. Your picture may not appear on the front page of a newspaper, but the Bible says you won't get away with it! --- Dave Egner
The sinful things that we may do
Are often hid from human view,
But judgment day will bring to light
Those things that we have not made right. --- D. De Haan
THE SEEDS OF WRONGDOING MAY BE SOWN IN SECRET, BUT THE CROP CANNOT BE CONCEALED.
Our transgressions are multiplied before You, and our sins testify against us. --- Isaiah 59:12
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 20-21
2 Timothy 4
A group of students at Renaissance High School in Detroit decided to cut classes to attend a rock concert in Hart Plaza. They felt they had gotten away with it, but the next day when The Detroit News appeared on the newsstand, it carried a color photo of the concert --- right there on the front page. And who was in that picture? That's right --- the delinquent students of Renaissance High, easily recognizable by anyone.
The Bible teaches that we cannot hide our iniquities. Oh, we may be able to cover them up for a while and even get away with them for an extended period of time. But the day will inevitably come when we must face up to them, either in this world or in the next. Paul told the Galatians, "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap" [Galatians 6:7].
Perhaps you have some secret sin that you are hiding. If so, I urge you to confess and forsake it. Or maybe you are gradually being drawn into a situation that you know is wrong and you're tempted to pursue it, thinking you won't get caught. Then I plead with you to go no further. Your picture may not appear on the front page of a newspaper, but the Bible says you won't get away with it! --- Dave Egner
The sinful things that we may do
Are often hid from human view,
But judgment day will bring to light
Those things that we have not made right. --- D. De Haan
THE SEEDS OF WRONGDOING MAY BE SOWN IN SECRET, BUT THE CROP CANNOT BE CONCEALED.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Working In The Harvest
Read: Matthew 9:35-10:4
Pray the Lord of the harvest to sent out laborers into His harvest. --- Matthew 9:38
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 18-19
2 Timothy 3
While D.L. Moody was attending a convention in Indianapolis on mass evangelism, he did more than just talk about it. He asked a friend, who was a gifted musician, to meet him on a street corner at 6 o'clock one evening. The man stood on a box and sang a song. When a crowd gathered, Moody spoke briefly and then invited the people to follow him to the nearby convention hall.
Soon the auditorium was filled with spiritually hungry people, and he preached to them. When the convention attendees began to arrive, Moody stopped preaching and said, "Now we must close, as the brethren of the convention want to discuss the topic, 'How to reach the masses.'"
When Jesus saw the masses, He was "moved with compassion" for them [Matthew 9:36]. He said to His disciples. "The harvest truly is plentiful .... Pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers" [vv. 37-38]. And He sent them out to preach the good news of His kingdom [10:1].
It is estimated that only 10 percent of the world's population of 6.3 bilion are believers in Jesus Christ. And more than 25 percent have never heard of Jesus' love even once.
As His disciples today, let's not just talk about the need --- let's pray and go. --- Anne Cetas
Far, far away, in heathen darkness dwelling,
Millions of souls forever may be lost;
Who, who will go, salvation's story telling,
Looking to Jesus, minding not the cost? --- McGranahan
THE NEXT PERSON YOU MEET MAY BE YOUR MISSION FIELD.
Pray the Lord of the harvest to sent out laborers into His harvest. --- Matthew 9:38
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 18-19
2 Timothy 3
While D.L. Moody was attending a convention in Indianapolis on mass evangelism, he did more than just talk about it. He asked a friend, who was a gifted musician, to meet him on a street corner at 6 o'clock one evening. The man stood on a box and sang a song. When a crowd gathered, Moody spoke briefly and then invited the people to follow him to the nearby convention hall.
Soon the auditorium was filled with spiritually hungry people, and he preached to them. When the convention attendees began to arrive, Moody stopped preaching and said, "Now we must close, as the brethren of the convention want to discuss the topic, 'How to reach the masses.'"
When Jesus saw the masses, He was "moved with compassion" for them [Matthew 9:36]. He said to His disciples. "The harvest truly is plentiful .... Pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers" [vv. 37-38]. And He sent them out to preach the good news of His kingdom [10:1].
It is estimated that only 10 percent of the world's population of 6.3 bilion are believers in Jesus Christ. And more than 25 percent have never heard of Jesus' love even once.
As His disciples today, let's not just talk about the need --- let's pray and go. --- Anne Cetas
Far, far away, in heathen darkness dwelling,
Millions of souls forever may be lost;
Who, who will go, salvation's story telling,
Looking to Jesus, minding not the cost? --- McGranahan
THE NEXT PERSON YOU MEET MAY BE YOUR MISSION FIELD.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
The Frog's "Blackboard"
Read: Psalm 119:33-40
Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way. --- Psalm 119:37
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 15-17
2 Timothy 2
As a young boy, one of my favorite pastimes was hunting frogs along the banks of a pond near our home. I was unaware of their unique visual powers that enabled them to elude me so easily. Later I learned that the frog's optical field is like a blackboard wiped clean, and that the only images it receives are objects that directly concern him. These little amphibians are never distracted by unimportant things, but are aware only of essentials and whatever may be dangerous to them.
In the Christian life we frequently become preoccupied with the vain things of the world. We allow our lives to become so cluttered with materialistic and insignificant concerns that we lose perspective of the things that endure. In our text the psalmist asked God for help in fixing his attention on what is good and lasting [Psalm 119:37].
The words of the Lord should not depart from our eyes, but must be kept in our heart always [Proverbs 4:21]. Then our field of vision will be wiped clean of unnecessary things, and we will see clearly what God wants us to do.
Have you become distracted by sin so that you can no longer discern what is really important? Then take a lesson from the frog's "blackboard" and center your gaze on Christ and His will for your life. --- Mart De Haan
O God, You know my wayward heart,
So prone to choose an earthly part;
From vain affections set me free,
That I may always look to Thee. --- Anon.
THE MORE ATTRACTED WE ARE TO CHRIST, THE LESS WE'LL BE DISTRACTED BY THE WORLD.
Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way. --- Psalm 119:37
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 15-17
2 Timothy 2
As a young boy, one of my favorite pastimes was hunting frogs along the banks of a pond near our home. I was unaware of their unique visual powers that enabled them to elude me so easily. Later I learned that the frog's optical field is like a blackboard wiped clean, and that the only images it receives are objects that directly concern him. These little amphibians are never distracted by unimportant things, but are aware only of essentials and whatever may be dangerous to them.
In the Christian life we frequently become preoccupied with the vain things of the world. We allow our lives to become so cluttered with materialistic and insignificant concerns that we lose perspective of the things that endure. In our text the psalmist asked God for help in fixing his attention on what is good and lasting [Psalm 119:37].
The words of the Lord should not depart from our eyes, but must be kept in our heart always [Proverbs 4:21]. Then our field of vision will be wiped clean of unnecessary things, and we will see clearly what God wants us to do.
Have you become distracted by sin so that you can no longer discern what is really important? Then take a lesson from the frog's "blackboard" and center your gaze on Christ and His will for your life. --- Mart De Haan
O God, You know my wayward heart,
So prone to choose an earthly part;
From vain affections set me free,
That I may always look to Thee. --- Anon.
THE MORE ATTRACTED WE ARE TO CHRIST, THE LESS WE'LL BE DISTRACTED BY THE WORLD.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Letters To God
Read: Psalm 65:1-8
O You who hear prayer, to You all flesh will come. --- Psalm 65:2
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 12-14
2 Timothy 1
Every year thousands of letters addressed to God find their way to a post office in Jerusalem. One lette, addressed to "God of Israel," requested assistance in getting a job as a bulldozer driver. Another said: "Please help me to be happy, to find a nice job and a good wife --- soon." One man asked forgiveness for stealing money from a grocery store when he was a child.
But were those heartfelt requests heard by God? The psalmist said that God is the one who hears prayer [Psalm 65:2]. Whether we say our prayers silently, voice them aloud, or write them on paper, they go directly to God. But He does not answer every request as we would wish. Our petitions may be self-serving [James 4:3], or sin may be blocking our fellowship with Him [Psalm 66:18].
More than giving us what we want, the Lord knows our deepest needs, and He wants us to discover the joy of His presence each day. Because of our faith in Christ, praying becomes our means of communion with God, not just a list of things we want from Him.
In His wisdom, God hears all our prayers. In His grace, He offers forgiveness for all our sins. In His love, He gives us eternal and abundant life through His Son. --- David McCasland
Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray;
This is my heart-cry day unto day.
I long to know Thy will and Thy way;
Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray. --- Reitz
GOD HEARS MORE THAN OUR WORDS --- HE LISTENS TO OUR HEART.
O You who hear prayer, to You all flesh will come. --- Psalm 65:2
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 12-14
2 Timothy 1
Every year thousands of letters addressed to God find their way to a post office in Jerusalem. One lette, addressed to "God of Israel," requested assistance in getting a job as a bulldozer driver. Another said: "Please help me to be happy, to find a nice job and a good wife --- soon." One man asked forgiveness for stealing money from a grocery store when he was a child.
But were those heartfelt requests heard by God? The psalmist said that God is the one who hears prayer [Psalm 65:2]. Whether we say our prayers silently, voice them aloud, or write them on paper, they go directly to God. But He does not answer every request as we would wish. Our petitions may be self-serving [James 4:3], or sin may be blocking our fellowship with Him [Psalm 66:18].
More than giving us what we want, the Lord knows our deepest needs, and He wants us to discover the joy of His presence each day. Because of our faith in Christ, praying becomes our means of communion with God, not just a list of things we want from Him.
In His wisdom, God hears all our prayers. In His grace, He offers forgiveness for all our sins. In His love, He gives us eternal and abundant life through His Son. --- David McCasland
Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray;
This is my heart-cry day unto day.
I long to know Thy will and Thy way;
Teach me to pray, Lord, teach me to pray. --- Reitz
GOD HEARS MORE THAN OUR WORDS --- HE LISTENS TO OUR HEART.
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Lost Treasure
Read: Mark 10:17-27
Sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. --- Mark 10:21
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 9-11
I Timothy 6
Don takes walks on the city's railroad tracks and searches under freeway overpasses. He's not looking for lost treasure; he's looking for homeless people. Don met Jake, who lives in a makeshift underground shack and is mentally ill. He stops by to see Jake occasionally, making sure he's warm and has food. He tells Jake about Jesus because he wants him to find "treasure in heaven."
Jesus talked about this treasure with a rich, young man who asked Him how to inherit eternal life. Jesus said, "Sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you have teh treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me" [Mark 10:21].
Jesus wasn't teaching that we must give up our wealth to be acceptable to Him. We can never earn eternal life by our works. He was showing this man his spiritual bankruptcy. His heart was set on wealth, not Jesus.
That rich young man and our homeless friend have more in common that we might think. In the eyes of God, both are spiritually bankrupt. We all are, unless we have Jesus.
No good deed can earn eternal life --- not helping the homeless or giving away all our money. Jesus wants us to give Him our heart. Then we'll have real treasure --- treasure in heaven --- and we'll seek to help others. --- Anne Cetas
What shall I give Thee, Master?
Giver of gifts divine;
I will not hold time, talents, or gold ---
For everything shall be Thine. --- Grimes
SALVATION IS GIVEN, NOT EARNED.
Sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. --- Mark 10:21
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 9-11
I Timothy 6
Don takes walks on the city's railroad tracks and searches under freeway overpasses. He's not looking for lost treasure; he's looking for homeless people. Don met Jake, who lives in a makeshift underground shack and is mentally ill. He stops by to see Jake occasionally, making sure he's warm and has food. He tells Jake about Jesus because he wants him to find "treasure in heaven."
Jesus talked about this treasure with a rich, young man who asked Him how to inherit eternal life. Jesus said, "Sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you have teh treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me" [Mark 10:21].
Jesus wasn't teaching that we must give up our wealth to be acceptable to Him. We can never earn eternal life by our works. He was showing this man his spiritual bankruptcy. His heart was set on wealth, not Jesus.
That rich young man and our homeless friend have more in common that we might think. In the eyes of God, both are spiritually bankrupt. We all are, unless we have Jesus.
No good deed can earn eternal life --- not helping the homeless or giving away all our money. Jesus wants us to give Him our heart. Then we'll have real treasure --- treasure in heaven --- and we'll seek to help others. --- Anne Cetas
What shall I give Thee, Master?
Giver of gifts divine;
I will not hold time, talents, or gold ---
For everything shall be Thine. --- Grimes
SALVATION IS GIVEN, NOT EARNED.
Monday, October 24, 2005
What Are You Living For
Read: 2 Timothy 4:6-18
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. --- 2 Timothy 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 6-8
I Timothy 5
Many people living in their twilight years suddenly realize how empty and pointless their lives have been. They've made some successful business deals and has ome fun, but in terms of satisfying friendships or lasting accomplishments, their lives have been zero. They have climbed the ladder of success, only to discover that all the while it had been leaning against the wrong wall.
As the apostle Paul looked back on his ministry, he saw that it had been rewarding but not easy. Measured by the world's yardstick of success, his life seems almost insignificant.
Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy while languishing in a cold, damp dungeon awaiting execution. In a matter of weeks, the apostle would stand before Nero, the half-insane emperor of Rome, and his life would end. But he knew that after his death he would receive the crown of life from the King of kings. And we now know that the influence of his life changed the course of history itself.
An ancient historian would have written volumes about the splendor of Nero and probably never even mentioned Paul. Yet today we name our dogs Nero and our sons Paul. I guess what we live for is pretty important after all.
By the way, what are you living for? --- Haddon Robinson
One life to live for Christ my Lord,
One life to do my part,
One life in which to give my all
With fervency of heart. --- Brandt
THERE ARE NO LOSERS WITH JESUS AND NO WINNERS WITH THE DEVIL.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. --- 2 Timothy 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 6-8
I Timothy 5
Many people living in their twilight years suddenly realize how empty and pointless their lives have been. They've made some successful business deals and has ome fun, but in terms of satisfying friendships or lasting accomplishments, their lives have been zero. They have climbed the ladder of success, only to discover that all the while it had been leaning against the wrong wall.
As the apostle Paul looked back on his ministry, he saw that it had been rewarding but not easy. Measured by the world's yardstick of success, his life seems almost insignificant.
Paul wrote his second letter to Timothy while languishing in a cold, damp dungeon awaiting execution. In a matter of weeks, the apostle would stand before Nero, the half-insane emperor of Rome, and his life would end. But he knew that after his death he would receive the crown of life from the King of kings. And we now know that the influence of his life changed the course of history itself.
An ancient historian would have written volumes about the splendor of Nero and probably never even mentioned Paul. Yet today we name our dogs Nero and our sons Paul. I guess what we live for is pretty important after all.
By the way, what are you living for? --- Haddon Robinson
One life to live for Christ my Lord,
One life to do my part,
One life in which to give my all
With fervency of heart. --- Brandt
THERE ARE NO LOSERS WITH JESUS AND NO WINNERS WITH THE DEVIL.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
King Of The Apes
Read: 2 Corinthians 10
He who glories, let him glory in the LORD. --- 2 Corinthians 10:17
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 3-5
I Timothy 4
Studies conducted by the National Geographic Society provide some fascinating insights into the behavior of chimpanzees. Observers noted how the leadership of a chimp community changed because of a dramatic bluff used by one of the lowliest members of the group.
Mike, as he was affectionately known, learned to dominate his chimp establishment with the aid of some empty kerosene cans and a heavy steel box. Hooting loudly, he would bang the metal objects together as he pushed them over the ground. This clamorous behavior frightened the apes so much that the leader surrendered his sovereignty to Mike.
Unfortunately, similar situations may be seen in the church. Those who generate the most activity often receive the greatest attention and honor. But a big program and a flashy personality are not necessarily evidence of divine blessing.
Paul warned against looking "at things according to the outward appearance" [2 Corinthians 10:7]. The real measure of our labor is whether it is in keeping with God's Word and if it reflects His glory rather than our own.
Make sure that whatever you do, you do for the Lord. Then when you glory, it will be in Him! --- Mart De Haan
Help us not to cloud God's glory,
Nor with self His light to dim;
May each thought to Christ be captive,
Emptied to be filled with Him. --- Anon.
YOU CAN'T GLORIFY YOURSELF AND CHRIST AT THE SAME TIME.
He who glories, let him glory in the LORD. --- 2 Corinthians 10:17
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 3-5
I Timothy 4
Studies conducted by the National Geographic Society provide some fascinating insights into the behavior of chimpanzees. Observers noted how the leadership of a chimp community changed because of a dramatic bluff used by one of the lowliest members of the group.
Mike, as he was affectionately known, learned to dominate his chimp establishment with the aid of some empty kerosene cans and a heavy steel box. Hooting loudly, he would bang the metal objects together as he pushed them over the ground. This clamorous behavior frightened the apes so much that the leader surrendered his sovereignty to Mike.
Unfortunately, similar situations may be seen in the church. Those who generate the most activity often receive the greatest attention and honor. But a big program and a flashy personality are not necessarily evidence of divine blessing.
Paul warned against looking "at things according to the outward appearance" [2 Corinthians 10:7]. The real measure of our labor is whether it is in keeping with God's Word and if it reflects His glory rather than our own.
Make sure that whatever you do, you do for the Lord. Then when you glory, it will be in Him! --- Mart De Haan
Help us not to cloud God's glory,
Nor with self His light to dim;
May each thought to Christ be captive,
Emptied to be filled with Him. --- Anon.
YOU CAN'T GLORIFY YOURSELF AND CHRIST AT THE SAME TIME.
Saturday, October 22, 2005
Zealous For God
Read: 2 Kings 13:14-19
Epaphras ... greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers .... I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you. --- Colossians 4:12-13
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 1-2
I Timothy 3
We know little about Epaphras except that he was so concerned about the spiritual welfare of the people in Colosse that he is described as "laboring fervently ... in prayers" for them [Colossians 4:12]. When I was a pastor, I saw this kind of enthusiasm in the way new converts prayed and witnessed. But all too often, many of them gradually lost their zeal.
I believe it was King Joash's lack of enthusiasm that made Elisha so angry [2 Kings 13]. The monarch had obeyed the dying prophet's command to shoot an arrow toward the east. He had heard Elisha's promise that God would bring his nation complete deliverance from Syria. Joash had obeyed the command to strike the ground with a bundle of arrows, which he did three times. So why did the prophet angrily tell him he should have struck the ground five or six times?
I believe it was because he felt Joash was following his instructions in a half-hearted manner. The king should have been far more enthusiastic in his response to God's wonderful message of victory over Israel's enemies.
The king's nonchalance cost him dearly. He won an incomplete victory. I wonder how many spiritual victories we forfeit because of our lack of zeal. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Let us serve the Lord with gladness
And enthusiastic praise,
Telling all who do not know Him
Of His great and wondrous ways. --- Sper
GODLY ZEAL IS LOVE ON FIRE.
Epaphras ... greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers .... I bear him witness that he has a great zeal for you. --- Colossians 4:12-13
The Bible In One Year:
Jeremiah 1-2
I Timothy 3
We know little about Epaphras except that he was so concerned about the spiritual welfare of the people in Colosse that he is described as "laboring fervently ... in prayers" for them [Colossians 4:12]. When I was a pastor, I saw this kind of enthusiasm in the way new converts prayed and witnessed. But all too often, many of them gradually lost their zeal.
I believe it was King Joash's lack of enthusiasm that made Elisha so angry [2 Kings 13]. The monarch had obeyed the dying prophet's command to shoot an arrow toward the east. He had heard Elisha's promise that God would bring his nation complete deliverance from Syria. Joash had obeyed the command to strike the ground with a bundle of arrows, which he did three times. So why did the prophet angrily tell him he should have struck the ground five or six times?
I believe it was because he felt Joash was following his instructions in a half-hearted manner. The king should have been far more enthusiastic in his response to God's wonderful message of victory over Israel's enemies.
The king's nonchalance cost him dearly. He won an incomplete victory. I wonder how many spiritual victories we forfeit because of our lack of zeal. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Let us serve the Lord with gladness
And enthusiastic praise,
Telling all who do not know Him
Of His great and wondrous ways. --- Sper
GODLY ZEAL IS LOVE ON FIRE.
Friday, October 21, 2005
The Lemon Tree
Read: 1 John 4:15-19
God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. --- 1 John 4:16
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 65-66
I Timothy 2
People who have given up on love probably agree with the words to the song "Lemon Tree" by the folk group Peter, Paul, and Mary:
"Don't put your faith in love, my boy," my father said to me,
"I fear you'll find that love is like the lovely lemon tree."
Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.
Many people feel that way. "Love is bitter," they say, because they've been used or abused. But there is a love that is sweet: "God is love" [1 John 4:16].
The world wants to turn John's phrase around. "Love is God," they say, and seek love as the highest good. But John did not say that love is God. "God is love," he said. Author Frederick Buechner wrote, "To say that love is God is romantic idealism. To say that God is love is either the last straw of the ultimate truth."
The last straw? Yes, for some it is. They have looked for love in all the wrong places and have no other place to turn. But when they give themselves to God, as He is made real and personal in Jesus, they find the love they've been looking for all their lives.
God is not indifference, abandonment, and abuse, my friend. God is love. --- David Roper
Loved with everlasting love,
Led by grace that love to know ---
Spirit, breathing from above,
Thou hast taught me it is so. --- Robinson
GOD'S LOVE KNOWS NO LIMITS.
God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. --- 1 John 4:16
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 65-66
I Timothy 2
People who have given up on love probably agree with the words to the song "Lemon Tree" by the folk group Peter, Paul, and Mary:
"Don't put your faith in love, my boy," my father said to me,
"I fear you'll find that love is like the lovely lemon tree."
Lemon tree very pretty and the lemon flower is sweet
but the fruit of the poor lemon is impossible to eat.
Many people feel that way. "Love is bitter," they say, because they've been used or abused. But there is a love that is sweet: "God is love" [1 John 4:16].
The world wants to turn John's phrase around. "Love is God," they say, and seek love as the highest good. But John did not say that love is God. "God is love," he said. Author Frederick Buechner wrote, "To say that love is God is romantic idealism. To say that God is love is either the last straw of the ultimate truth."
The last straw? Yes, for some it is. They have looked for love in all the wrong places and have no other place to turn. But when they give themselves to God, as He is made real and personal in Jesus, they find the love they've been looking for all their lives.
God is not indifference, abandonment, and abuse, my friend. God is love. --- David Roper
Loved with everlasting love,
Led by grace that love to know ---
Spirit, breathing from above,
Thou hast taught me it is so. --- Robinson
GOD'S LOVE KNOWS NO LIMITS.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
No Unkind Words
Read: Ephesians 4:29-32
Let no corrupt word proceed out or your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification. --- Ephesians 4:29
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 62-64
1 Timothy 1
One of the greatest honors ever offered to me came during one of life's saddest times.
I was heartbroken last year when my good friend and co-worker Kurt De Haan died suddenly while out on his regular lunchtime run. Kurt was managing editor of Our Daily Bread from1989 until the time of his death. Losing him was a huge blow to each of us at RBC Ministries, but his wife Mary and their four children were suffering the worst pain.
A couple of days before the funeral, I got a call from Mary, who asked if I would share a eulogy of Kurt. I was overwhelmed with this bittersweet privilege.
As I reflected on Kurt's life, one trait continued to surface. It was a remarkable characteristic, and it was something that I focused on in my eulogy. In the 22 years I had known him, worked with him, and talked with him, I never once heard Kurt say a negative word about any other person.
What a remarkable legacy of a true Christian heart! Kurt lived up to the standard of Ephesians 4:29-32. He sought to build up others, showing kindness and tenderheartedness instead of bitterness and malice.
Will others be able to say the same about you? --- Dave Branon
Instead of hurling angry words
That wound and stir up strife,
Use words of kindness, filled with love,
That heal and nourish life. --- Sper
A KIND WORD IS THE OIL THAT TAKES THE FRICTION OUT OF LIFE.
Let no corrupt word proceed out or your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification. --- Ephesians 4:29
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 62-64
1 Timothy 1
One of the greatest honors ever offered to me came during one of life's saddest times.
I was heartbroken last year when my good friend and co-worker Kurt De Haan died suddenly while out on his regular lunchtime run. Kurt was managing editor of Our Daily Bread from1989 until the time of his death. Losing him was a huge blow to each of us at RBC Ministries, but his wife Mary and their four children were suffering the worst pain.
A couple of days before the funeral, I got a call from Mary, who asked if I would share a eulogy of Kurt. I was overwhelmed with this bittersweet privilege.
As I reflected on Kurt's life, one trait continued to surface. It was a remarkable characteristic, and it was something that I focused on in my eulogy. In the 22 years I had known him, worked with him, and talked with him, I never once heard Kurt say a negative word about any other person.
What a remarkable legacy of a true Christian heart! Kurt lived up to the standard of Ephesians 4:29-32. He sought to build up others, showing kindness and tenderheartedness instead of bitterness and malice.
Will others be able to say the same about you? --- Dave Branon
Instead of hurling angry words
That wound and stir up strife,
Use words of kindness, filled with love,
That heal and nourish life. --- Sper
A KIND WORD IS THE OIL THAT TAKES THE FRICTION OUT OF LIFE.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
A Gift Of Grace
Read: 2 Corinthians 8:7-15
You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor. --- 2 Corinthians 8:9
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 59-61
2 Thessalonians 3
In high schools in the US, being elected homecoming queen is a great honor for any young woman. But when a high school near Houston, Texas, crowned Shannon Jones, it was a special moment for her and for everyone in the community. Nineteen-year-old Shannon, who is an award-winning athlete and an active member of her church youth group, has Down syndrome.
Shannon knew this once-in-a-lifetime experience was a gift from her younger sister Lindsey, who was the catalyst to elect her. Their dad said, "I'm so proud of Lindsey. Probably somewhere in the back of her mind, this is something she'd like to do." But she made it happen for Shannon.
The most inspiring acts of human love are only a shadow of the immeasurable gift our Savior has given us. Paul wrote, "You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich" [2 Corinthians 8:9].
Christ left His glory in heaven and died on the cross for our sin so that we could be forgiven through faith in Him. His sacrifice was based on His love, not on our merit. All we are and all we have are the Savior's loving gifts of grace to us. --- David McCasland
God gives His grace so rich, so free ---
No one will He deny;
For He has promised in His Word
An infinite supply. --- D. De Haan
GRACE IS AN UNEARNED BLESSING TO UNWORTHY SINNERS.
You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor. --- 2 Corinthians 8:9
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 59-61
2 Thessalonians 3
In high schools in the US, being elected homecoming queen is a great honor for any young woman. But when a high school near Houston, Texas, crowned Shannon Jones, it was a special moment for her and for everyone in the community. Nineteen-year-old Shannon, who is an award-winning athlete and an active member of her church youth group, has Down syndrome.
Shannon knew this once-in-a-lifetime experience was a gift from her younger sister Lindsey, who was the catalyst to elect her. Their dad said, "I'm so proud of Lindsey. Probably somewhere in the back of her mind, this is something she'd like to do." But she made it happen for Shannon.
The most inspiring acts of human love are only a shadow of the immeasurable gift our Savior has given us. Paul wrote, "You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich" [2 Corinthians 8:9].
Christ left His glory in heaven and died on the cross for our sin so that we could be forgiven through faith in Him. His sacrifice was based on His love, not on our merit. All we are and all we have are the Savior's loving gifts of grace to us. --- David McCasland
God gives His grace so rich, so free ---
No one will He deny;
For He has promised in His Word
An infinite supply. --- D. De Haan
GRACE IS AN UNEARNED BLESSING TO UNWORTHY SINNERS.
A Good Day To Die
Read: 1 Kings 19:1-18
It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life! --- 1 Kings 19:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 56-58
2 Thessalonians 2
Hopelessness and anger combined to bring death to a young man in my neighborhood. Someone had beaten him up for something he said. To retaliate, he came back with a gun. The police were called. When they arrived he ran, shooting at them. To protect everyone, they shot him. He lost his life at age 21. Later it was reported that he had told a family member that morning: "Today would be a good day to die." I wonder what brought him to such despair.
There was a day when the prophet Elijah felt hopeless and wanted to die. He had just experienced a great victory over the prophets of Baal, but now his life was being threatened by the king's wife Jezebel. In fear, he ran into the wilderness [1 Kings 19:4]. There he "prayed that he might die, and said, 'It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life!'"
We may think that Elijah was overreacting, but hopeless feelings are real. He wisely went to the right source for help --- he cried out to God. The Lord knew Elijah needed restoration, so He provided for his needs [vv.5-7]. He revealed Himself to him [vv.9-13] and renewed Elijah's sense of purpose by giving him work to do [vv.15-17]. God brought him hope by reminding him that he was not alone [v.18].
Look to God. He is your source of hope. --- Anne Cetas
Lord, give us grace to trust You when
Life's burdens seem too much to bear;
Dispel the darkness with new hope
And help us rise above despair. --- Sper
NO ONE IS HOPELESS WHOSE HOPE IS IN GOD.
It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life! --- 1 Kings 19:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 56-58
2 Thessalonians 2
Hopelessness and anger combined to bring death to a young man in my neighborhood. Someone had beaten him up for something he said. To retaliate, he came back with a gun. The police were called. When they arrived he ran, shooting at them. To protect everyone, they shot him. He lost his life at age 21. Later it was reported that he had told a family member that morning: "Today would be a good day to die." I wonder what brought him to such despair.
There was a day when the prophet Elijah felt hopeless and wanted to die. He had just experienced a great victory over the prophets of Baal, but now his life was being threatened by the king's wife Jezebel. In fear, he ran into the wilderness [1 Kings 19:4]. There he "prayed that he might die, and said, 'It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life!'"
We may think that Elijah was overreacting, but hopeless feelings are real. He wisely went to the right source for help --- he cried out to God. The Lord knew Elijah needed restoration, so He provided for his needs [vv.5-7]. He revealed Himself to him [vv.9-13] and renewed Elijah's sense of purpose by giving him work to do [vv.15-17]. God brought him hope by reminding him that he was not alone [v.18].
Look to God. He is your source of hope. --- Anne Cetas
Lord, give us grace to trust You when
Life's burdens seem too much to bear;
Dispel the darkness with new hope
And help us rise above despair. --- Sper
NO ONE IS HOPELESS WHOSE HOPE IS IN GOD.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Free Prayer
Read: Ephesians 6:10-20
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance. --- Ephesians 6:18
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 53-55
2 Thessalonians 1
A pastor was asked to call on a woman ina psychiatric hospital and pray for her. After his visit, he thought how good it would be for somebody to go there regularly and pray for the residents. The "somebody" turned out to be him. On a table in one of the wards, he put up a sign saying "Free Prayer." Later he recalled, "Suddenly I had 15 people standing in line to get prayed for."
People often ask for our prayers, but do we faithfully pray for them? Many times we see others in great need but find it easier to discuss their plight with friends rather than to intercede for them. But people need and want our prayers.
Paul concluded his call to put on "the whole armor of God" [Ephesians 6:13-17] by writing, "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" [v.18].
Oswald Chambers often referred to prayer as "the ministry of the interior" and said, "There is no snare, or any danger of infatuation or pride in intercession; it is a hidden ministry that brings forth fruit whereby the Father is glorified."
Faithful prayer --- whether in public or private --- is one of the greatest gifts we can give others. --- David McCasland
To give to others what they need,
We show no greater care
Than when we give them to the Lord,
Upholding them in prayer. --- D. De Haan
OUR INTERCESSION MAY BE THE KEY TO GOD'S INTERVENTION.
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance. --- Ephesians 6:18
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 53-55
2 Thessalonians 1
A pastor was asked to call on a woman ina psychiatric hospital and pray for her. After his visit, he thought how good it would be for somebody to go there regularly and pray for the residents. The "somebody" turned out to be him. On a table in one of the wards, he put up a sign saying "Free Prayer." Later he recalled, "Suddenly I had 15 people standing in line to get prayed for."
People often ask for our prayers, but do we faithfully pray for them? Many times we see others in great need but find it easier to discuss their plight with friends rather than to intercede for them. But people need and want our prayers.
Paul concluded his call to put on "the whole armor of God" [Ephesians 6:13-17] by writing, "Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints" [v.18].
Oswald Chambers often referred to prayer as "the ministry of the interior" and said, "There is no snare, or any danger of infatuation or pride in intercession; it is a hidden ministry that brings forth fruit whereby the Father is glorified."
Faithful prayer --- whether in public or private --- is one of the greatest gifts we can give others. --- David McCasland
To give to others what they need,
We show no greater care
Than when we give them to the Lord,
Upholding them in prayer. --- D. De Haan
OUR INTERCESSION MAY BE THE KEY TO GOD'S INTERVENTION.
Active Worship
Read: Psalm 100
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. --- Psalm 100:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 50-52
1 Thessalonians 5
In his book Folk Psalms of Faith, Pastor Ray Stedman sayshe wishes that all churchgoers could stand in the pulpit on a Sunday morning and watch the faces in the congregation during the sermon.
Although most people seem to give the minister their attention, many have their minds elsewhere. Stedman writes, "It would be fascinating at the end of a service to know where everybody had been!"
To receive the greatest benefit from a church service, we must prepare our hearts and become active participants. We must become wholeheartedly involved in singing the hymns, silently praying as the pastor leads the congregation in prayer, and worshiping from the heart as the choir sings.
Finally, we need to discipline ourselves to listen intently with a receptive heart to the teaching of God's Word. We must develop a hunger for truth that quiets our spirits, inspires worship, evokes praise to God, and moves us to serve Him.
It's easy to blame the pastor if we leave the service feeling empty and discouraged. But he's jut one participant; we must do our part. Those who get the most our of worship are those who put the most into it. --- Richard De Haan
The house of God should be a place
For praise and reverent prayer,
Where holy thoughts our spirits fill
Each time we enter there. --- Bosch
THE HEART OF WORSHIP IS WORSHIP FROM THE HEART.
Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise. --- Psalm 100:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 50-52
1 Thessalonians 5
In his book Folk Psalms of Faith, Pastor Ray Stedman sayshe wishes that all churchgoers could stand in the pulpit on a Sunday morning and watch the faces in the congregation during the sermon.
Although most people seem to give the minister their attention, many have their minds elsewhere. Stedman writes, "It would be fascinating at the end of a service to know where everybody had been!"
To receive the greatest benefit from a church service, we must prepare our hearts and become active participants. We must become wholeheartedly involved in singing the hymns, silently praying as the pastor leads the congregation in prayer, and worshiping from the heart as the choir sings.
Finally, we need to discipline ourselves to listen intently with a receptive heart to the teaching of God's Word. We must develop a hunger for truth that quiets our spirits, inspires worship, evokes praise to God, and moves us to serve Him.
It's easy to blame the pastor if we leave the service feeling empty and discouraged. But he's jut one participant; we must do our part. Those who get the most our of worship are those who put the most into it. --- Richard De Haan
The house of God should be a place
For praise and reverent prayer,
Where holy thoughts our spirits fill
Each time we enter there. --- Bosch
THE HEART OF WORSHIP IS WORSHIP FROM THE HEART.
Sunday, October 16, 2005
Glad To Get Home
Read: Revelation 21:1-5
Here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. --- Hebrews 13:14
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 47-49
1 Thessalonians 4
In wintertime, a condition known as a "whiteout" sometimes occurs along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The air becomes so filled with powdery snow that you can't see more than a few feet ahead. You feel totally helpless, especially if you're driving, and that's what we were doing on a bitterly cold December day.
Our family had been invited to my sister's house for Christmas dinner. As we headed west toward Lake Michigan, the weather became treacherous, but we made it to our destination. Later, however, as we were driving home after dark, the situation grew even worse. The expressway was covered with ice, traffic slowed to a crawl, and several cars were in the ditch. Then all at once we were enveloped by a brief whiteout. Believe me, it was frightening. After a slow, tedious journey, we finally reached Grand Rapids and pulled into our driveway. I think every member of the family said, "I'm sure glad to get home!"
I wonder if we'll have a similar feeling when we enter heaven. The dangerous "whiteouts" of our earthly journey will be over. The temptations, stresses, and failures will all be in the past. Best of all, we'll be safe with our Savior.
Yes, we'll be so glad to get home! --- Dave Egner
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We'll sing and shout the victory. --- Hewitt
HEAVEN FOR THE CHRISTIAN IS BEST SPELLED H-O-M-E.
Here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. --- Hebrews 13:14
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 47-49
1 Thessalonians 4
In wintertime, a condition known as a "whiteout" sometimes occurs along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The air becomes so filled with powdery snow that you can't see more than a few feet ahead. You feel totally helpless, especially if you're driving, and that's what we were doing on a bitterly cold December day.
Our family had been invited to my sister's house for Christmas dinner. As we headed west toward Lake Michigan, the weather became treacherous, but we made it to our destination. Later, however, as we were driving home after dark, the situation grew even worse. The expressway was covered with ice, traffic slowed to a crawl, and several cars were in the ditch. Then all at once we were enveloped by a brief whiteout. Believe me, it was frightening. After a slow, tedious journey, we finally reached Grand Rapids and pulled into our driveway. I think every member of the family said, "I'm sure glad to get home!"
I wonder if we'll have a similar feeling when we enter heaven. The dangerous "whiteouts" of our earthly journey will be over. The temptations, stresses, and failures will all be in the past. Best of all, we'll be safe with our Savior.
Yes, we'll be so glad to get home! --- Dave Egner
When we all get to heaven,
What a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus,
We'll sing and shout the victory. --- Hewitt
HEAVEN FOR THE CHRISTIAN IS BEST SPELLED H-O-M-E.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Ordinary People
Read: Deuteronomy 4:5-14
Take heed to yourself, ... lest you forget the things your eyes have see .... And teach them to your children. --- Deuteronomy 4:9
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 45-46
1 Thessalonians 3
David Isay, a radio producer, says that in a culture inundated with the stories of celebrities, we need to hear the recorded voices of ordinary people, because their lives and contributions are no less important. Isay is a driving force behind StoryCorps, "a national project to instruct and inspire people to record each other's stories in sound."
It's a great concept, especially for Christians. Think what it would mean for your great-great-grandchildren to hear and see you telling the story of your life --- describing the people and events that shaped you and sharing what Christ means to you.
Just before God's people entered the Promised Land, Moses told them: "Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren" [Deuteronomy 4:9].
That same responsibility of face-to-face communication is still ours. Yet we have the unusual opportunity of leaving a message for future generations. Begin recording your own uniquely important story. Or help a friend or relative record theirs. There is great value in the stories of ordinary people who know and love the Lord. --- David McCasland
Life's truest heroes never carve their name
On marble columns built for their acclaim;
They build instead a legacy that springs
From faithful service to the King of kings. --- Gustafson
A LIFE LIVED FOR GOD LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY.
Take heed to yourself, ... lest you forget the things your eyes have see .... And teach them to your children. --- Deuteronomy 4:9
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 45-46
1 Thessalonians 3
David Isay, a radio producer, says that in a culture inundated with the stories of celebrities, we need to hear the recorded voices of ordinary people, because their lives and contributions are no less important. Isay is a driving force behind StoryCorps, "a national project to instruct and inspire people to record each other's stories in sound."
It's a great concept, especially for Christians. Think what it would mean for your great-great-grandchildren to hear and see you telling the story of your life --- describing the people and events that shaped you and sharing what Christ means to you.
Just before God's people entered the Promised Land, Moses told them: "Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren" [Deuteronomy 4:9].
That same responsibility of face-to-face communication is still ours. Yet we have the unusual opportunity of leaving a message for future generations. Begin recording your own uniquely important story. Or help a friend or relative record theirs. There is great value in the stories of ordinary people who know and love the Lord. --- David McCasland
Life's truest heroes never carve their name
On marble columns built for their acclaim;
They build instead a legacy that springs
From faithful service to the King of kings. --- Gustafson
A LIFE LIVED FOR GOD LEAVES A LASTING LEGACY.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Wholeness Of Life
Read: Mark 2:1-12
Son, your sins are forgiven you... Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house. --- Mark 2:5, 11
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 43-44
1 Thessalonians 2
A social worker told her colleagues about a young boy in an urban ghetto who appeared to be little more than a bit of twisted human flesh. He had been struck by a car several months before and had not received proper medical attention.
Although not part of her caseload, the social worker took the boy to an orthopedist, who performed surgery on his legs. Two years later the boy walked into her office without crutches. His recovery was complete. The two embraced. "If I accomplish nothing else in my life," said the social worker to herself, "I have made a real difference with at least this one!"
She paused, then said to her colleagues, "This was all several years ago now. Where do you think that boy is today?" Some suggested that he might be a school teacher, others a physician or a social worker. With deep emotion, the woman responded, "No, he's in the penitentiary for one of the foulest crimes a human can commit. I was instrumental in teaching him how to walk again, but there was no one to teach him where to walk."
We must point people to Jesus. Through Him, those with broken bodies, broken dreams, broken homes, and broken hearts receive wholeness of life. --- Haddon Robinson
Lord, help us to tell of Your love for mankind ---
A love for the sin-sick, the broken, the blind;
And help them to see by the way that we live
A wholeness of being that You long to give. --- D. De Haan
A PERSON MAY GO WRONG IN MANY DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS BUT RIGHT IN ONLY ONE.
Son, your sins are forgiven you... Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house. --- Mark 2:5, 11
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 43-44
1 Thessalonians 2
A social worker told her colleagues about a young boy in an urban ghetto who appeared to be little more than a bit of twisted human flesh. He had been struck by a car several months before and had not received proper medical attention.
Although not part of her caseload, the social worker took the boy to an orthopedist, who performed surgery on his legs. Two years later the boy walked into her office without crutches. His recovery was complete. The two embraced. "If I accomplish nothing else in my life," said the social worker to herself, "I have made a real difference with at least this one!"
She paused, then said to her colleagues, "This was all several years ago now. Where do you think that boy is today?" Some suggested that he might be a school teacher, others a physician or a social worker. With deep emotion, the woman responded, "No, he's in the penitentiary for one of the foulest crimes a human can commit. I was instrumental in teaching him how to walk again, but there was no one to teach him where to walk."
We must point people to Jesus. Through Him, those with broken bodies, broken dreams, broken homes, and broken hearts receive wholeness of life. --- Haddon Robinson
Lord, help us to tell of Your love for mankind ---
A love for the sin-sick, the broken, the blind;
And help them to see by the way that we live
A wholeness of being that You long to give. --- D. De Haan
A PERSON MAY GO WRONG IN MANY DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS BUT RIGHT IN ONLY ONE.
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Witness From A Wheelchair
Read: Matthew 25:31-40
The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve. --- Matthew 20:28
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 41-42
1 Thessalonians 1
A woman named Nancy put this ad in her local newspaper: "If you are lonely or have a problem, call me. I am in a wheelchair and seldom get out. We can share our problems with each other. Just call. I'd love to talk." The response to that ad was surprising --- 30 calls or more every week.
What motivated this woman to reach out from her wheelchair to help others in need? Nancy explained that before her paralysis she had been perfectly healthy but in deep despair. She had tried to commit suicide by jumping from her apartment window, but her fall left her paralyzed from the waist down.
In the hospital, utterly frustrated, she sensed that Jesus said, "Nancy, you've had a healthy body but a crippled soul. From now on you will have a crippled body but a healthy soul." As a result of that experience, she surrendered her life to Christ. When she was finally allowed to go home, she prayed for a way to share God's grace with others, and the idea of the newspaper ad occured to her.
Every believer can do something to help others. Limited as we may be by sickness, old age, or disability, we can still pray, call, or write. No matter what our condition, we can be effective witnesses for Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
Lord, let me be a shining light
So others then may view
Your mercy and Your love displayed
In all I say and do. --- Sper
ONLY AFTER TALKING TO GOD ABOUT PEOPLE ARE WE READY TO TALK TO PEOPLE ABOUT GOD.
The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve. --- Matthew 20:28
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 41-42
1 Thessalonians 1
A woman named Nancy put this ad in her local newspaper: "If you are lonely or have a problem, call me. I am in a wheelchair and seldom get out. We can share our problems with each other. Just call. I'd love to talk." The response to that ad was surprising --- 30 calls or more every week.
What motivated this woman to reach out from her wheelchair to help others in need? Nancy explained that before her paralysis she had been perfectly healthy but in deep despair. She had tried to commit suicide by jumping from her apartment window, but her fall left her paralyzed from the waist down.
In the hospital, utterly frustrated, she sensed that Jesus said, "Nancy, you've had a healthy body but a crippled soul. From now on you will have a crippled body but a healthy soul." As a result of that experience, she surrendered her life to Christ. When she was finally allowed to go home, she prayed for a way to share God's grace with others, and the idea of the newspaper ad occured to her.
Every believer can do something to help others. Limited as we may be by sickness, old age, or disability, we can still pray, call, or write. No matter what our condition, we can be effective witnesses for Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
Lord, let me be a shining light
So others then may view
Your mercy and Your love displayed
In all I say and do. --- Sper
ONLY AFTER TALKING TO GOD ABOUT PEOPLE ARE WE READY TO TALK TO PEOPLE ABOUT GOD.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Help Wanted!
Read: 2 Timothy 2:1-13
If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. --- Matthew 16:24
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 39-40
Colossians 4
Perhaps the most effective adverstisement ever written appeared in a London newspaper early in the 20th century: "Men wanted for hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger. Safe return doubtful." Those were the words written by Sir Ernest Shackleton, the famous South Pole explorer.
Commenting on the overwhelming response he received. Shackleton said, "It seemed as though all the men in Great Britain were determined to accompany us."
Shackleton's words remind me of Jesus' words in Matthew 16:24, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." The Lord was calling people to go with Him on a hazardous journey --- the way of the cross. He issued that call after telling His disciples that He was going to Jerusalem to suffer and be killed.
Through the centuries, thousands have responded to Jesus' words by forsaking all to follow Him. But unlike Shackleton's expedition that came to an end, the Lord's work goes on and volunteers are still needed. He continues to call for those who will serve Him regardless of the cost.
Have you answered His call? --- Richard De Haan
Never came the call more clear,
Midst the storms of hate and fear,
Jesus' love to show in this world of woe;
For His grace is ever near. --- Loes
A FAITH THAT COSTS NOTHING AND DEMANDS NOTHING IS WORTH NOTHING.
If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. --- Matthew 16:24
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 39-40
Colossians 4
Perhaps the most effective adverstisement ever written appeared in a London newspaper early in the 20th century: "Men wanted for hazardous journey. Small wages, bitter cold, long months of complete darkness, constant danger. Safe return doubtful." Those were the words written by Sir Ernest Shackleton, the famous South Pole explorer.
Commenting on the overwhelming response he received. Shackleton said, "It seemed as though all the men in Great Britain were determined to accompany us."
Shackleton's words remind me of Jesus' words in Matthew 16:24, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." The Lord was calling people to go with Him on a hazardous journey --- the way of the cross. He issued that call after telling His disciples that He was going to Jerusalem to suffer and be killed.
Through the centuries, thousands have responded to Jesus' words by forsaking all to follow Him. But unlike Shackleton's expedition that came to an end, the Lord's work goes on and volunteers are still needed. He continues to call for those who will serve Him regardless of the cost.
Have you answered His call? --- Richard De Haan
Never came the call more clear,
Midst the storms of hate and fear,
Jesus' love to show in this world of woe;
For His grace is ever near. --- Loes
A FAITH THAT COSTS NOTHING AND DEMANDS NOTHING IS WORTH NOTHING.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Hypocritical Request
Read: Matthew 16:1-4
A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. --- Matthew 16:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 37-38
Colossians 3
A group of religious leaders asked Jesus to give them a "sign from heaven" [Matthew 16:1]. They had witnessed many of His miracles, but they had either minimized them or attributed them to Satan. The Pharisees were now demanding that Jesus perform another miracle --- perhaps like Joshua who commanded the sun and moon to stand still [Joshua 10:12-14], or like Elijah who called down fire from heaven [1 Kings 18:30-40]. They did this to test Jesus.
Seeing their hypocrisy, Jesus said that while they could make weather predictions by looking at the sky, they were unable to read the much clearer "signs of the times" revealed in His ministry of teaching and healing [v.3].
Some people have told me they would believe in Jesus if He showed them miracles like thos in the Gospels. But what makes them think they would react any differently than the religious leaders of Jesus' day?
Anyone who sincerely seeks the truth has all the evidence necessary for faith. The resurrection of Jesus is a historically credible event. The power of the risen Christ can be seen in many of His followers. The New Testament speaks to the mind and heart of every sincere, seeking soul. To ask for more is a hypocritical request. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Some say they want a miracle,
And then they will believe;
Yet God already sent His Son ---
The One they must receive. --- Hess
DEMANDING A MIRACLE TO BELIEVE IN JESUS IGNORES THE EVIDENCE OF HIS RESURRECTION.
A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. --- Matthew 16:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 37-38
Colossians 3
A group of religious leaders asked Jesus to give them a "sign from heaven" [Matthew 16:1]. They had witnessed many of His miracles, but they had either minimized them or attributed them to Satan. The Pharisees were now demanding that Jesus perform another miracle --- perhaps like Joshua who commanded the sun and moon to stand still [Joshua 10:12-14], or like Elijah who called down fire from heaven [1 Kings 18:30-40]. They did this to test Jesus.
Seeing their hypocrisy, Jesus said that while they could make weather predictions by looking at the sky, they were unable to read the much clearer "signs of the times" revealed in His ministry of teaching and healing [v.3].
Some people have told me they would believe in Jesus if He showed them miracles like thos in the Gospels. But what makes them think they would react any differently than the religious leaders of Jesus' day?
Anyone who sincerely seeks the truth has all the evidence necessary for faith. The resurrection of Jesus is a historically credible event. The power of the risen Christ can be seen in many of His followers. The New Testament speaks to the mind and heart of every sincere, seeking soul. To ask for more is a hypocritical request. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Some say they want a miracle,
And then they will believe;
Yet God already sent His Son ---
The One they must receive. --- Hess
DEMANDING A MIRACLE TO BELIEVE IN JESUS IGNORES THE EVIDENCE OF HIS RESURRECTION.
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Have A Wonderful Day
Read: Proverbs 11:24-31
Let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or if necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. --- 2 Corinthians 9:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 34-36
Colossians 2
After admiring a painting in a woman's home, I was surprised by her generosity when she took it down and gave it to me.
I've seen many similar acts of kindness. For years, my mother-in-law hung on to her archaic-looking refrigerator so she could give more money to the Lord's work.
A Christian family I know had saved money to buy a new car. But when they heard of a desperate need on a mission field, they kept their old car and gave to missions instead.
I've also heard of a Christian businessman in Ohio who puts something in his pocket every morning to give away --- a pen, a trinket, even a ten-dollar bill. As the day unfolds, he looks for someone who would be blessed by receiving a gift. "By constantly looking for an opportunity to give," he says, "I have a wonderful day."
The old saying "Takers eat well, but givers sleep well" is only partially true. According to Proverbs 11:25, givers also eat well: "The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself."
We must not give grudgingly or merely out of a sense of duty but from the heart. It's the generous, cheerful giver whom God loves [2 Corinthians 9:7]. --- Joadie Yoder
Give as you would to the Master
If you met His searching look;
Give as you would of your substance
If His hand the offering took. --- Anon.
MANY PEOPLE READILY GIVE GOD CREDIT, BUT FEW CHEERFULLY GIVE HIM CASH.
Let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or if necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. --- 2 Corinthians 9:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 34-36
Colossians 2
After admiring a painting in a woman's home, I was surprised by her generosity when she took it down and gave it to me.
I've seen many similar acts of kindness. For years, my mother-in-law hung on to her archaic-looking refrigerator so she could give more money to the Lord's work.
A Christian family I know had saved money to buy a new car. But when they heard of a desperate need on a mission field, they kept their old car and gave to missions instead.
I've also heard of a Christian businessman in Ohio who puts something in his pocket every morning to give away --- a pen, a trinket, even a ten-dollar bill. As the day unfolds, he looks for someone who would be blessed by receiving a gift. "By constantly looking for an opportunity to give," he says, "I have a wonderful day."
The old saying "Takers eat well, but givers sleep well" is only partially true. According to Proverbs 11:25, givers also eat well: "The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself."
We must not give grudgingly or merely out of a sense of duty but from the heart. It's the generous, cheerful giver whom God loves [2 Corinthians 9:7]. --- Joadie Yoder
Give as you would to the Master
If you met His searching look;
Give as you would of your substance
If His hand the offering took. --- Anon.
MANY PEOPLE READILY GIVE GOD CREDIT, BUT FEW CHEERFULLY GIVE HIM CASH.
Sinless Anger
Read: Proverbs 15:1-18
"Be angry, and do not sin": Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. --- Ephesians 4:26
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 32-33
Colossians 1
When Supreme Court Justice Byron White was in Salt Lake City to give a speech, he was attacked by an angry man. The suspect said he assaulted the respected judge because of his High Court decisions. He said, "Justice White is causing four-letter words to come into my living room through the TV set." Rationalizing his attack, he continued, "The only way I know how to stop it is to go to the source."
That's where the man went wrong. Of course, he had a perfect right to voice his strong opinions. He was even justified in becoming angry if he believed a Court decision encouraged immorality. But the manner he chose to express his indignation was as bad as, if not worse than, a wrong court decision.
Today's Scripture text says, "Be angry, and do not sit" [Ephesians 4:26]. What others say and do may arouse our anger and in some cases should make us angry. But we must be careful we don't overreact and lose control. The apostle Paul reminded us that "though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh" [2 Corinthians 10:3-4].
Should Christians ever become angry? Certainly! But we should never allow our anger to erupt in a sinful response. Two wrongs don't make a right. --- Richard De Haan
When anger stirs within our hearts
Because of wrongs we see,
We must with love address the fault
If helpful we would be. --- Branon
IT'S NOT A SIN TO GET ANGRY WHEN YOU GET ANGRY AT SIN.
"Be angry, and do not sin": Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. --- Ephesians 4:26
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 32-33
Colossians 1
When Supreme Court Justice Byron White was in Salt Lake City to give a speech, he was attacked by an angry man. The suspect said he assaulted the respected judge because of his High Court decisions. He said, "Justice White is causing four-letter words to come into my living room through the TV set." Rationalizing his attack, he continued, "The only way I know how to stop it is to go to the source."
That's where the man went wrong. Of course, he had a perfect right to voice his strong opinions. He was even justified in becoming angry if he believed a Court decision encouraged immorality. But the manner he chose to express his indignation was as bad as, if not worse than, a wrong court decision.
Today's Scripture text says, "Be angry, and do not sit" [Ephesians 4:26]. What others say and do may arouse our anger and in some cases should make us angry. But we must be careful we don't overreact and lose control. The apostle Paul reminded us that "though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh" [2 Corinthians 10:3-4].
Should Christians ever become angry? Certainly! But we should never allow our anger to erupt in a sinful response. Two wrongs don't make a right. --- Richard De Haan
When anger stirs within our hearts
Because of wrongs we see,
We must with love address the fault
If helpful we would be. --- Branon
IT'S NOT A SIN TO GET ANGRY WHEN YOU GET ANGRY AT SIN.
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Come To Me
Read: John 6:30-40
I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger. --- John 6:35
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 30-31
Philippians 4
When Jesus lived on this earth, He invited people to come to Him, and He still does today [John 6:35]. But what do He and His Father in heaven have that we need?
Salvation. Jesus is the only way to have forgiveness of sin and the promise of heaven. "Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life" [John 3:15].
Purpose. We are to give all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength to following Jesus. "Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me" [Mark 8:34].
Comfort. In trial or sorrow, the "God of all comfort ... comforts us in all our tribulation" [2 Corinthians 1:3-4].
Wisdom. We need wisdom beyond our own for making decisions. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, ... and it will be given to him" [James 1:5].
Strength. When we're weary, "the LORD will give strength to His people" [Psalm 29:11].
Abundant Life. The fullest life is found in a relationship with Jesus. "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" [John 10:10].
Jesus said, "The one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out" [John 6:37]. Come! --- Anne Cetas
Jesus is calling to those who are weary,
And He is calling the thirsty ones too;
If for the Bread of Life you now hunger,
Hear His sweet voice saying, "Come." --- Hess
JESUS INVITES US TO COME TO HIM FOR LIFE.
I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger. --- John 6:35
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 30-31
Philippians 4
When Jesus lived on this earth, He invited people to come to Him, and He still does today [John 6:35]. But what do He and His Father in heaven have that we need?
Salvation. Jesus is the only way to have forgiveness of sin and the promise of heaven. "Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life" [John 3:15].
Purpose. We are to give all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength to following Jesus. "Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me" [Mark 8:34].
Comfort. In trial or sorrow, the "God of all comfort ... comforts us in all our tribulation" [2 Corinthians 1:3-4].
Wisdom. We need wisdom beyond our own for making decisions. "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, ... and it will be given to him" [James 1:5].
Strength. When we're weary, "the LORD will give strength to His people" [Psalm 29:11].
Abundant Life. The fullest life is found in a relationship with Jesus. "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" [John 10:10].
Jesus said, "The one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out" [John 6:37]. Come! --- Anne Cetas
Jesus is calling to those who are weary,
And He is calling the thirsty ones too;
If for the Bread of Life you now hunger,
Hear His sweet voice saying, "Come." --- Hess
JESUS INVITES US TO COME TO HIM FOR LIFE.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Becoming What We Are
Read: Philippians 3:1-11
The Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. --- 2 Corinthians 3:17
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 28-29
Philippians 3
At a British university, a group of students had raised the question, "What do you want to be?" Different answers were given --- a champion athlete, an influential politician, a noted scholar. Shyly, yet clearly, one student said something that caused thoughtful silence: "You may laugh at me, but I want to be a saint."
Imagine --- a saint! Whatever his concept of sainthood, many in our secular society would view that ambition as eccentric. Yet if we are Christians, it ought to be the highest priority of our life. The essence of sainthood is simply to be like Jesus. Paul said that the overarching purpose of God the Father is to make us like His Son [Romans 8:29].
Of course, every believer is guaranteed perfect conformity to Christ in the world to come. But God does not want us to wait passively until we enter heaven for that supernatural transformation to take place [1 John 3:2]. We are to be cooperating with the Holy Spirit to grow more and more like Christ "in this world" [4:17].
Yes, we are already saints by faith in Christ Jesus [Philippians 1:1]. But each day we face the challenge of becoming what we are --- Christlike in every area of our lives. --- Vernon Grounds
More like the Master I would live and grow,
More of His love to others I would show;
More self-denial, like His in Galilee,
More like the Master I long to ever be. --- Gabriel
TO BELONG TO CHRIST IS TO BE A SAINT; TO LIVE LIKE A SAINT IS TO BE LIKE CHRIST.
The Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. --- 2 Corinthians 3:17
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 28-29
Philippians 3
At a British university, a group of students had raised the question, "What do you want to be?" Different answers were given --- a champion athlete, an influential politician, a noted scholar. Shyly, yet clearly, one student said something that caused thoughtful silence: "You may laugh at me, but I want to be a saint."
Imagine --- a saint! Whatever his concept of sainthood, many in our secular society would view that ambition as eccentric. Yet if we are Christians, it ought to be the highest priority of our life. The essence of sainthood is simply to be like Jesus. Paul said that the overarching purpose of God the Father is to make us like His Son [Romans 8:29].
Of course, every believer is guaranteed perfect conformity to Christ in the world to come. But God does not want us to wait passively until we enter heaven for that supernatural transformation to take place [1 John 3:2]. We are to be cooperating with the Holy Spirit to grow more and more like Christ "in this world" [4:17].
Yes, we are already saints by faith in Christ Jesus [Philippians 1:1]. But each day we face the challenge of becoming what we are --- Christlike in every area of our lives. --- Vernon Grounds
More like the Master I would live and grow,
More of His love to others I would show;
More self-denial, like His in Galilee,
More like the Master I long to ever be. --- Gabriel
TO BELONG TO CHRIST IS TO BE A SAINT; TO LIVE LIKE A SAINT IS TO BE LIKE CHRIST.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
God Of The Hills & Streets
Read: Psalm 121
The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. --- Psalm 121:8
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 26-27
Philippians 2
The 121st Psalm was a favorite of my father. The Scottish people called it "The Traveler's Psalm." Whenever a family member, a guest, or a friend was leaving on a journey, this psalm was read --- or more often sung --- at family prayers. When my father left the "old country" alone as a teenager to come to the United States, he was bidden farewell with this psalm.
Over the years, my father enjoyed many hearty days and endured others that were dark and grim. He carried this psalm's words with him into battle during World War I, and then out of it as he lay in a hospital for almost a year recovering from shrapnel wounds.
In verse 1, the psalmist looked beyond the hills to the God who made them. My father lived in the toughest section of New York City. Although he seldom saw hills, he held to the assurance that the God of the hills was the God of the dangerous streets as well.
How many "goings out" and "comings in" my father made in his 87 years! And when he went out for the last time, I believe he was singing Psalm 121 as he descended into the valley and traveled home to the other side.
How reassuring that the God of the hills and the streets goes before every believer in Christ! --- Haddon Robinson
He will ever keep thy soul,
What would harm He will control;
In the home and by the way
He will keep thee day by day. --- Psalter
BECAUSE GOD IS WITH US, WE NEED NOT FEAR WHAT LIES AHEAD.
The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. --- Psalm 121:8
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 26-27
Philippians 2
The 121st Psalm was a favorite of my father. The Scottish people called it "The Traveler's Psalm." Whenever a family member, a guest, or a friend was leaving on a journey, this psalm was read --- or more often sung --- at family prayers. When my father left the "old country" alone as a teenager to come to the United States, he was bidden farewell with this psalm.
Over the years, my father enjoyed many hearty days and endured others that were dark and grim. He carried this psalm's words with him into battle during World War I, and then out of it as he lay in a hospital for almost a year recovering from shrapnel wounds.
In verse 1, the psalmist looked beyond the hills to the God who made them. My father lived in the toughest section of New York City. Although he seldom saw hills, he held to the assurance that the God of the hills was the God of the dangerous streets as well.
How many "goings out" and "comings in" my father made in his 87 years! And when he went out for the last time, I believe he was singing Psalm 121 as he descended into the valley and traveled home to the other side.
How reassuring that the God of the hills and the streets goes before every believer in Christ! --- Haddon Robinson
He will ever keep thy soul,
What would harm He will control;
In the home and by the way
He will keep thee day by day. --- Psalter
BECAUSE GOD IS WITH US, WE NEED NOT FEAR WHAT LIES AHEAD.
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
Watching The Wind
Read: Acts 8:26-34
He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap. --- Ecclesiastes 11:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 23-25
Philippians 1
When it comes to telling others about Jesus, I'm sometimes like a cautious farmer who keeps his eye on the weather, looking for the perfect day to plant his crops. The season passes and he sows nothing. The opportunity is gone; the harvest is lost [Ecclesiastes 11:4].
I hesitate and wonder, "Is this person ready to listen to the gospel? Is this the time to speak?" You can never tell what's going on int he depths of another person's heart. Some may be dwelling in darkness yet longing for someone to lead them into the light.
The Ethiopian eunuch in his royal chariot seemed to have it all together [Acts 8:27]. He enjoyed prestige, wealth, and power, yet inwardly he was empty and searching. He was reading Isaiah's promise of the suffering Savior and trying to come to grips with his words. Right at that moment, Philip took the opportunity to tell the eunuch about Jesus [v.35].
I have a friend who often leads people to Jesus. I asked him once how he knew they were ready to receive the gospel. "It's easy," he replied. "I ask them."
So I must stop worrying about the wind and the clouds and get on with it --- scattering the seed wherever I go, regardless of the weather. You just never know. --- David Roper
Toiling through the changing seasons
In the sunshine and the rain,
Zealous sowing with compassion
Yields a wealth of golden grain. --- Anon.
SOWING THE SEED OF GOD'S WORD IS NEVER OUT OF SEASON.
He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap. --- Ecclesiastes 11:4
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 23-25
Philippians 1
When it comes to telling others about Jesus, I'm sometimes like a cautious farmer who keeps his eye on the weather, looking for the perfect day to plant his crops. The season passes and he sows nothing. The opportunity is gone; the harvest is lost [Ecclesiastes 11:4].
I hesitate and wonder, "Is this person ready to listen to the gospel? Is this the time to speak?" You can never tell what's going on int he depths of another person's heart. Some may be dwelling in darkness yet longing for someone to lead them into the light.
The Ethiopian eunuch in his royal chariot seemed to have it all together [Acts 8:27]. He enjoyed prestige, wealth, and power, yet inwardly he was empty and searching. He was reading Isaiah's promise of the suffering Savior and trying to come to grips with his words. Right at that moment, Philip took the opportunity to tell the eunuch about Jesus [v.35].
I have a friend who often leads people to Jesus. I asked him once how he knew they were ready to receive the gospel. "It's easy," he replied. "I ask them."
So I must stop worrying about the wind and the clouds and get on with it --- scattering the seed wherever I go, regardless of the weather. You just never know. --- David Roper
Toiling through the changing seasons
In the sunshine and the rain,
Zealous sowing with compassion
Yields a wealth of golden grain. --- Anon.
SOWING THE SEED OF GOD'S WORD IS NEVER OUT OF SEASON.
Monday, October 03, 2005
But If Not...
Read: Daniel 3:1-18
We do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up. --- Daniel 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 20-22
Ephesians 6
I recall a Sunday school lesson from nearly 40 years ago in which we were taught to love God in spite of our circumstances. Loving God is easy when He grants our requests and provides what we desire. Loving Him in difficult circumstances tests our faith.
In Daniel 3, we read of the life-and-death decision Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego had to make. If they chose to worship the golden image, they would live; if they refused, death was certain. They answered King Nebuchadnezzar: "Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace .... But if not, ... we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up" [vv.17-18].
Were Shadrach, Meshach, adn Abed-Nego lacking in faith when they said "but if not"? No. They knew God was fully capable of delivering them from the fiery furnace.
There's a lesson in this for all of us. Is God all-powerful? Yes. Is He able to deliver us from all our problems? Yes. Does God always deliver us from our difficulties? No.
We may not fully comprehend God's purpose in our difficulty and suffering, but we must not cease to love Him. We must trust Him and hope in Him in spite of the trials that threaten to overwhelm us. --- Albert Lee
I have learned to love my Savior,
And I trust Him more each day;
For no matter what the trial,
He will always be my stay. --- Hess
GENUINE FAITH STAYS STRONG WHEN DELIVERANCE SEEMS DISTANT.
We do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up. --- Daniel 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 20-22
Ephesians 6
I recall a Sunday school lesson from nearly 40 years ago in which we were taught to love God in spite of our circumstances. Loving God is easy when He grants our requests and provides what we desire. Loving Him in difficult circumstances tests our faith.
In Daniel 3, we read of the life-and-death decision Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego had to make. If they chose to worship the golden image, they would live; if they refused, death was certain. They answered King Nebuchadnezzar: "Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace .... But if not, ... we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up" [vv.17-18].
Were Shadrach, Meshach, adn Abed-Nego lacking in faith when they said "but if not"? No. They knew God was fully capable of delivering them from the fiery furnace.
There's a lesson in this for all of us. Is God all-powerful? Yes. Is He able to deliver us from all our problems? Yes. Does God always deliver us from our difficulties? No.
We may not fully comprehend God's purpose in our difficulty and suffering, but we must not cease to love Him. We must trust Him and hope in Him in spite of the trials that threaten to overwhelm us. --- Albert Lee
I have learned to love my Savior,
And I trust Him more each day;
For no matter what the trial,
He will always be my stay. --- Hess
GENUINE FAITH STAYS STRONG WHEN DELIVERANCE SEEMS DISTANT.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Don't Despair, Share
Read: 2 Peter 3
Be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless. --- 2 Peter 3:14
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 17-19
Ephesians 5:17-33
During these days of horrific world events, Christians should be appalled but not taken by surprise. Jesus forewarned us of terrible times to come [Luke 21:25-28]. In today's reading, Peter reassured believers by reminding them of God's unfolding purposes and final victory.
The apostle described ungodly scoffers, who in the last days will say, "Where is the promise of His coming?" [2 Peter 3:4]. We too many wonder why Christ doesn't come back and change things now, Peter affirmed that the Lord "is not slack concerning His promise," but delays His return to give people everywhere more time to repent [v.9].
We mustn't forget that "with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day" [v.8]. Eventually the day of the Lord will come, bringing a judgment of consuming fire. This will be followed by a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness and of God's forgiven people [v.13].
As we anticipate that triumphant day, we must live consistent, holy lives [v.14], resist all evil influences [v.17], and grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ [v.18]. Then, instead of despairing over evil, we will be able to share the good news of Jesus with the world. --- Joanie Yoder
We know not when the Lord may come
To right the wrongs of this old earth,
But this we know --- He's left us here
To share good news of second birth. --- Hess
WE DON'T KNOW WHAT THIS WORLD IS COMING TO, BUT WE KNOW THE ONE WHO IS COMING TO THIS WORLD.
Be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless. --- 2 Peter 3:14
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 17-19
Ephesians 5:17-33
During these days of horrific world events, Christians should be appalled but not taken by surprise. Jesus forewarned us of terrible times to come [Luke 21:25-28]. In today's reading, Peter reassured believers by reminding them of God's unfolding purposes and final victory.
The apostle described ungodly scoffers, who in the last days will say, "Where is the promise of His coming?" [2 Peter 3:4]. We too many wonder why Christ doesn't come back and change things now, Peter affirmed that the Lord "is not slack concerning His promise," but delays His return to give people everywhere more time to repent [v.9].
We mustn't forget that "with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day" [v.8]. Eventually the day of the Lord will come, bringing a judgment of consuming fire. This will be followed by a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness and of God's forgiven people [v.13].
As we anticipate that triumphant day, we must live consistent, holy lives [v.14], resist all evil influences [v.17], and grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ [v.18]. Then, instead of despairing over evil, we will be able to share the good news of Jesus with the world. --- Joanie Yoder
We know not when the Lord may come
To right the wrongs of this old earth,
But this we know --- He's left us here
To share good news of second birth. --- Hess
WE DON'T KNOW WHAT THIS WORLD IS COMING TO, BUT WE KNOW THE ONE WHO IS COMING TO THIS WORLD.
"Wreck" A Bible
Read: 2 Timothy 3:10-17
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction. --- 2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 14-16
Ephesians 5:1-16
The Bible is a remarkable book. Millions of copies are bought each year. It has been the number-one bestseller for decades. But tragically, the Bible is said to be the least-read bestseller of all time.
The apostle Paul taught that the Scriptures are given to us by God and are capable of bringing about transformation in those who take it seriously [2 Timothy 3:16]. Evangelist and preacher D.L. Moody said, "The Scriptures were not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives."
So why do we often neglect this source of transforming power? Writer and professor J.I. Packer said, "If I were the devil, one of my first aims would be to stop folk from digging into the Bible."
Do you use your Bible every day until it eventually falls apart? Bible teacher Alan Redpath advised believers to "wreck" a Bible every 10 years. Here's why: God wants to speak to us through the Bible, telling us how to live for Him and answering crucial questions. Through it He warns us about the dangers of sin and provides us with nourishing spiritual food.
Don't neglect your Bible. If you do, you will neglect your own spiritual health. --- Joanie Yoder
The treasures of the Word of God
Are great beyond compare;
But if we do not search them out,
We cannot use what's there. --- Sper
A WELL-WORN BIBLE IS A SIGN OF A WELL-FED SOUL.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction. --- 2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 14-16
Ephesians 5:1-16
The Bible is a remarkable book. Millions of copies are bought each year. It has been the number-one bestseller for decades. But tragically, the Bible is said to be the least-read bestseller of all time.
The apostle Paul taught that the Scriptures are given to us by God and are capable of bringing about transformation in those who take it seriously [2 Timothy 3:16]. Evangelist and preacher D.L. Moody said, "The Scriptures were not given to increase our knowledge but to change our lives."
So why do we often neglect this source of transforming power? Writer and professor J.I. Packer said, "If I were the devil, one of my first aims would be to stop folk from digging into the Bible."
Do you use your Bible every day until it eventually falls apart? Bible teacher Alan Redpath advised believers to "wreck" a Bible every 10 years. Here's why: God wants to speak to us through the Bible, telling us how to live for Him and answering crucial questions. Through it He warns us about the dangers of sin and provides us with nourishing spiritual food.
Don't neglect your Bible. If you do, you will neglect your own spiritual health. --- Joanie Yoder
The treasures of the Word of God
Are great beyond compare;
But if we do not search them out,
We cannot use what's there. --- Sper
A WELL-WORN BIBLE IS A SIGN OF A WELL-FED SOUL.
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