Read: Psalm 23
You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. --- Psalm 23:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 15-16
John 12:27-50
When 8-year-old Jacob visited his Grampa in the hospital, he came with his own custom-made "Get Well" card. It was an 8 1/2" x 11" piece of stiff white paper folded in half. On the front he had written, "Hope you feel better soon." On the inside, in large block letters, was this message:
I WILL BE WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO.
There was no Scripture reference, so Jacob added these words: "God said that." He wanted to be sure I didn't expect him to be at my side during my entire hospital stay.
That added note conveyed an unintended and deeper truth that brought a smile to my face and comfort to my heart. A hospital can be a lonely place. It's a world of unfamiliar faces, first-time medical procedures, and uncertain diagnoses. But it's in just such a setting that God can quiet an anxious heart and give assurcance that He'll go with you down every hall, through every new door, into any unknown future --- yes, even through "the valley of the shadow of death" [Psalm 23:4].
Maybe you have had an unexpected setback or loss. Your future is unknown. Trusting Jesus as your Savior and Lord, you can be sure of this: He will go with you wherever you go. You can believe it. God said that! --- Dennis De Haan
Whenever I feel that Christ is near,
All cares and sorrows flee;
He is my strength, my hope, my life,
He's all in all to me. --- Lewis
NO DANGER CAN COME SO NEAR THE CHRISTIAN THAT GOD IS NOT NEARER.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Touched By A Stranger
Read: Romans 12:3-16
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love. --- Romans 12:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 13-14
John 12:1-26
Marsha Burgess was a complete stranger to us, so we were touched by the note seh sent. She knew my husband Carl's mom who had recently died. She had often seen her when visiting her own mother at a local nursing home.
So when Carl lost his mother, Marsha took the time to share her memories with us. She closed her note with these words: "Your mom always had a big smile on her face and was happy to see us. How wonderful to have such precious memories! We just loved your mom. We'll never forget her." Marsha is a Christian, and her words brought comfort in our grief. They reminded us of the joy of being part of Christ's body [Romans 12:5].
Every believer has been given a specific gift or gifts by God to use in building up others --- prophesying, ministering, teaching, exhorting, giving, leading, and showing mercy [vv.6-8]. But all of us are to "be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love" [v.10] and to "rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep" [v.15].
Sometimes we hesitate to reach out to someone we don't know. We wonder if it is appropriate or if it will mean anything to the person. But that note from Marsha reminds us how much it means to be touched by a stranger. --- Anne Cetas
Like refreshing rain in summer
Or the gentle breeze in spring,
Just a little gift of kindness
Joy to someone's heart can bring. --- Hess
OPPORTUNITIES TO BE KIND ARE NEVER HARD TO FIND.
Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love. --- Romans 12:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 13-14
John 12:1-26
Marsha Burgess was a complete stranger to us, so we were touched by the note seh sent. She knew my husband Carl's mom who had recently died. She had often seen her when visiting her own mother at a local nursing home.
So when Carl lost his mother, Marsha took the time to share her memories with us. She closed her note with these words: "Your mom always had a big smile on her face and was happy to see us. How wonderful to have such precious memories! We just loved your mom. We'll never forget her." Marsha is a Christian, and her words brought comfort in our grief. They reminded us of the joy of being part of Christ's body [Romans 12:5].
Every believer has been given a specific gift or gifts by God to use in building up others --- prophesying, ministering, teaching, exhorting, giving, leading, and showing mercy [vv.6-8]. But all of us are to "be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love" [v.10] and to "rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep" [v.15].
Sometimes we hesitate to reach out to someone we don't know. We wonder if it is appropriate or if it will mean anything to the person. But that note from Marsha reminds us how much it means to be touched by a stranger. --- Anne Cetas
Like refreshing rain in summer
Or the gentle breeze in spring,
Just a little gift of kindness
Joy to someone's heart can bring. --- Hess
OPPORTUNITIES TO BE KIND ARE NEVER HARD TO FIND.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Known Unto God
Read: Psalm 77:1-15
Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies? --- Psalm 77:9
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 10-12
John 11:30-57
While visiting a World War I military cemetery in France, I was struck by the number of grave markers bearing only these words:
A SOLDIER OF THE GREAT WAR: KNOWN UNTO GOD
The cemetery was surrounded on three sides by stone panels bearing the names of 20,000 soldiers who fell in nearby battles. Imagining the loneliness of men dying in war and the anguish of families grieving at home was overpowering.
There may be times in life when we feel forgotten and alone. Like the psalmist we cry out: "Will the Lord cast off forever? And will He be favorable no more? ... Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies?" [Psalm 77:7,9].
The psalmist's answer to feeling abandoned came in remembering all that God had done in the past, meditating on His wonderful work, and speaking of it to the others [vv.11-12].
In our darkest moments, we can remember the words of Jesus: "Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins?And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows" [Luke 12:6,7].
We are never forgotten by God. --- David McCasland
When trials loom or death is near,
In Christ we can confide;
We never need to feel alone ---
He's always at our side. --- Sper
IN EVERY DESERT OF TRIAL, GOD HAS AN OASIS OF COMFORT.
Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies? --- Psalm 77:9
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 10-12
John 11:30-57
While visiting a World War I military cemetery in France, I was struck by the number of grave markers bearing only these words:
A SOLDIER OF THE GREAT WAR: KNOWN UNTO GOD
The cemetery was surrounded on three sides by stone panels bearing the names of 20,000 soldiers who fell in nearby battles. Imagining the loneliness of men dying in war and the anguish of families grieving at home was overpowering.
There may be times in life when we feel forgotten and alone. Like the psalmist we cry out: "Will the Lord cast off forever? And will He be favorable no more? ... Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies?" [Psalm 77:7,9].
The psalmist's answer to feeling abandoned came in remembering all that God had done in the past, meditating on His wonderful work, and speaking of it to the others [vv.11-12].
In our darkest moments, we can remember the words of Jesus: "Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins?And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows" [Luke 12:6,7].
We are never forgotten by God. --- David McCasland
When trials loom or death is near,
In Christ we can confide;
We never need to feel alone ---
He's always at our side. --- Sper
IN EVERY DESERT OF TRIAL, GOD HAS AN OASIS OF COMFORT.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Touching Bottom
Read: Revelation 1:10-18
Jesus ... has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. --- 2 Timothy 1:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 7-9
John 11:1-29
Crowds gathered each week to hear the soul-stirring sermons of Joseph Parker, the famous pastor of London's City Temple in the late 19th century. Then a crisis hit him hard. His wife died after an agonizing illness. Parker later said he would not have allowed a dog to suffer as she did. A heartbroken husband whose prayers had gone unanswered, he confessed publicly that for a week he had even denied that God existed.
But Parker's loss of faith was only temporary. From that experience he gained a stronger personal trust in Jesus' death-destroying resurrection and began to testify: "I have touched the bottom, and it is sound."
Listen to this exclamation of triumph from the risen Christ as He proclaims His victory over the grave: "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore." [Revelation 1:17-18].
Death is our most venemous enemy, robbing us of joy and hope --- unless the triumph of Christ's resurrection reverberates in our heart. As we believe in the mighty Victory over death, doubt is banished and light drives the darkness.
Hold fast to that triumphant trust as you struggle through life's worst crises. --- Vernon Grounds.
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrows, but God gives a song
In the night season and all the day long. --- Young
BECAUSE OF CHRIST'S EMPTY TOMB, WE CAN BE FULL OF HOPE.
Jesus ... has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. --- 2 Timothy 1:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 7-9
John 11:1-29
Crowds gathered each week to hear the soul-stirring sermons of Joseph Parker, the famous pastor of London's City Temple in the late 19th century. Then a crisis hit him hard. His wife died after an agonizing illness. Parker later said he would not have allowed a dog to suffer as she did. A heartbroken husband whose prayers had gone unanswered, he confessed publicly that for a week he had even denied that God existed.
But Parker's loss of faith was only temporary. From that experience he gained a stronger personal trust in Jesus' death-destroying resurrection and began to testify: "I have touched the bottom, and it is sound."
Listen to this exclamation of triumph from the risen Christ as He proclaims His victory over the grave: "Do not be afraid; I am the First and the Last. I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore." [Revelation 1:17-18].
Death is our most venemous enemy, robbing us of joy and hope --- unless the triumph of Christ's resurrection reverberates in our heart. As we believe in the mighty Victory over death, doubt is banished and light drives the darkness.
Hold fast to that triumphant trust as you struggle through life's worst crises. --- Vernon Grounds.
Some through the waters, some through the flood,
Some through the fire, but all through the blood;
Some through great sorrows, but God gives a song
In the night season and all the day long. --- Young
BECAUSE OF CHRIST'S EMPTY TOMB, WE CAN BE FULL OF HOPE.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Dangerous Beauty
Read: Job 38:22-30
From whose womb comes the ice? And the frost of heaven, who gives it birth? --- Job 38:29
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 4-6
John 10:24-42
Loud creaking and snapping broke the stillness of the icy morning. Freezing rain had silenced every man-made noisemaker. Power lines were down; homes and businesses had no electricity. Roads were impassable, keeping thousands from daily routines. Nature was calling attention to herself, and she got it. As the sun rose, her stunning beauty was indescribable, her destructive power undeniable.
Ice glistened like crystal against a brilliant blue sky. But the ice that made the branches sparkle in the sunlight also weighed them down, causing them to break under the burden.
The same can happen to those who have glittering lives. They call attention to themselves with stunning beauty, talent, or intelligence. People notice and admire them. But eventually the weight of pride causes people to crack and break. The reality is that God alone is worthy of all praise.
Job's friends called attention to themselves by speaking as if they were experts on suffering. When God had heard enough, He pointed out to Job that no one has knowledge, power, or importance apart from Him. Later, He sharply rebuked Job's friends, and said, "You have not spoken of Me what is right" [Job 42:8].
True worth exalts God, not ourselves. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Lord, pride, that fearful enemy,
So quickly takes control;
I plead this day Your pardoning grace
Will cleanse my heart and soul. --- D. De Haan
THE FLY THAT BUZZES LOUDEST USUALLY GETS SWATTED FIRST.
From whose womb comes the ice? And the frost of heaven, who gives it birth? --- Job 38:29
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 4-6
John 10:24-42
Loud creaking and snapping broke the stillness of the icy morning. Freezing rain had silenced every man-made noisemaker. Power lines were down; homes and businesses had no electricity. Roads were impassable, keeping thousands from daily routines. Nature was calling attention to herself, and she got it. As the sun rose, her stunning beauty was indescribable, her destructive power undeniable.
Ice glistened like crystal against a brilliant blue sky. But the ice that made the branches sparkle in the sunlight also weighed them down, causing them to break under the burden.
The same can happen to those who have glittering lives. They call attention to themselves with stunning beauty, talent, or intelligence. People notice and admire them. But eventually the weight of pride causes people to crack and break. The reality is that God alone is worthy of all praise.
Job's friends called attention to themselves by speaking as if they were experts on suffering. When God had heard enough, He pointed out to Job that no one has knowledge, power, or importance apart from Him. Later, He sharply rebuked Job's friends, and said, "You have not spoken of Me what is right" [Job 42:8].
True worth exalts God, not ourselves. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Lord, pride, that fearful enemy,
So quickly takes control;
I plead this day Your pardoning grace
Will cleanse my heart and soul. --- D. De Haan
THE FLY THAT BUZZES LOUDEST USUALLY GETS SWATTED FIRST.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Tonsilitis Jones
Read: Acts 11:19-26
The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. --- Acts 11:26
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 1-3
John 10:1-23
A psychologist made the observation that children often develop lifelong complexes because of their names. That may have been true in the case of a boy I read about. His parents gave him the name Tonsilitis Jones, and it caused him difficulties in school and again when he tried to enlist in the navy.
I know from personal experience that our names have a definite bearing on how we feel about ourselves and the way we behave. Because my father was a well-known preacher by the name of De Haan, I felt that people had higher expectations of me than any of my peers. But the family name was also a helpful reminder of many positive values that were to guide my behavior.
According to today's Bible reading, the disciples of the Lord Jesus in Antioch were the first to be called Christians. It's a name that could never be improved on because it identifies believers as followers of Jesus Christ. And what an honor to bear a name linking us to God's Son, our Savior and Redeemer! This should shape and mold our manner of living so that it becomes increasingly consistent with the way Jesus spoke and conducted Himself.
If we want to call ourselves Christians, let's live up to our name! --- Richard De Haan
O to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer!
This is my constant longing and prayer;
Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear. --- Chisholm
CHRISTIANS ARE EITHER BIBLES OR LIBELS.
The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. --- Acts 11:26
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 1-3
John 10:1-23
A psychologist made the observation that children often develop lifelong complexes because of their names. That may have been true in the case of a boy I read about. His parents gave him the name Tonsilitis Jones, and it caused him difficulties in school and again when he tried to enlist in the navy.
I know from personal experience that our names have a definite bearing on how we feel about ourselves and the way we behave. Because my father was a well-known preacher by the name of De Haan, I felt that people had higher expectations of me than any of my peers. But the family name was also a helpful reminder of many positive values that were to guide my behavior.
According to today's Bible reading, the disciples of the Lord Jesus in Antioch were the first to be called Christians. It's a name that could never be improved on because it identifies believers as followers of Jesus Christ. And what an honor to bear a name linking us to God's Son, our Savior and Redeemer! This should shape and mold our manner of living so that it becomes increasingly consistent with the way Jesus spoke and conducted Himself.
If we want to call ourselves Christians, let's live up to our name! --- Richard De Haan
O to be like Thee, blessed Redeemer!
This is my constant longing and prayer;
Gladly I'll forfeit all of earth's treasures,
Jesus, Thy perfect likeness to wear. --- Chisholm
CHRISTIANS ARE EITHER BIBLES OR LIBELS.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
For Now And Forever
Read: Ezekiel 33:23-33
Receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save your souls. --- James 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 28-29
John 9:24-41
Cold terror gripped the heart of a soldier as mortar round whistled overhead, rifles cracked, and the enemy closed in. Suddenly he felt ripping pains as a bullet tore into his chest and arm. Yet it wasn't the end for this soldier. According to an article in The New York Times, the bullet was slowed by a New Testament he was carrying in his shirt pocket. Years later, the young man still treasured the blood-stained book with the ragged hole through the middle. He believes it saved his life.
This is a nice story, but it says nothing about the life-saving spiritual help the Bible was designed to give. In Ezekiel 33, we read that the ancient Israelites used the words of the prophets to make them feel good but not to change their lives. They misused God's promises to Abraham to support their own claim to the land [v.24]. They found pleasure in listening to the words of the prophet [v.30], yet the Lord said to Ezekiel, "They hear your words, but they do not do them" [v.31]. The result? They came under divine judgment.
Then as now, God's Word is not to be cherished as a goodluck charm or to soothe the mind by bringing temporary relief from anxiety. It was given to be obeyed so that its help would not be only for this life. --- but forever. --- Mart De Haan
Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path alway,
To guide and to save me from sin
And show me the heavenly way. --- Sellers
WE DON'T REALLY KNOW THE BIBLE UNTIL WE OBEY THE BIBLE.
Receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save your souls. --- James 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 28-29
John 9:24-41
Cold terror gripped the heart of a soldier as mortar round whistled overhead, rifles cracked, and the enemy closed in. Suddenly he felt ripping pains as a bullet tore into his chest and arm. Yet it wasn't the end for this soldier. According to an article in The New York Times, the bullet was slowed by a New Testament he was carrying in his shirt pocket. Years later, the young man still treasured the blood-stained book with the ragged hole through the middle. He believes it saved his life.
This is a nice story, but it says nothing about the life-saving spiritual help the Bible was designed to give. In Ezekiel 33, we read that the ancient Israelites used the words of the prophets to make them feel good but not to change their lives. They misused God's promises to Abraham to support their own claim to the land [v.24]. They found pleasure in listening to the words of the prophet [v.30], yet the Lord said to Ezekiel, "They hear your words, but they do not do them" [v.31]. The result? They came under divine judgment.
Then as now, God's Word is not to be cherished as a goodluck charm or to soothe the mind by bringing temporary relief from anxiety. It was given to be obeyed so that its help would not be only for this life. --- but forever. --- Mart De Haan
Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path alway,
To guide and to save me from sin
And show me the heavenly way. --- Sellers
WE DON'T REALLY KNOW THE BIBLE UNTIL WE OBEY THE BIBLE.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Frustrating Promises
Read: Psalm 37:1-24
Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. --- Psalm 37:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 25-27
John 9:1-23
Do any Bible promises frustrate you? Some people say that Psalm 37:4 is a guarantee that you'll get whatever you want --- a spouse, a job, money. This has made me wonder at times, Why don't I have what I want?
When a promise frustrates us because it seems that God is not fulfilling it, maybe it's because we don't understand what the verse really means. Here are three suggestions to help, using Psalm 37 as an example:
Consider the context. Psalm 37 is telling us not to worry or be envious of the wicked. Our focus is not to be on what they have, nor on what they seem to be getting away with [vv.12-13]. Instead, we are commanded to trust and delight in the Lord [vv.3-4].
Consider other verses. We're taught in 1 John 5:14 that our requests need to be according to God's will for us. Other Scriptures on the same topic can give us a balance.
Consult a Bible commentary. In The Treasury of David, C.H. Spurgeon says this about verse 4: "[Those] who delight in God desire or ask for nothing but what will please God." Doing a little deeper study can help us understand frustrating Bible verses like this one.
As we learn to delight in the Lord, His desires will become our own and He will grant them. --- Anne Cetas
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God. --- Carter
YOU CAN'T BREAK GOD'S PROMISES BY LEANING ON THEM.
Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. --- Psalm 37:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 25-27
John 9:1-23
Do any Bible promises frustrate you? Some people say that Psalm 37:4 is a guarantee that you'll get whatever you want --- a spouse, a job, money. This has made me wonder at times, Why don't I have what I want?
When a promise frustrates us because it seems that God is not fulfilling it, maybe it's because we don't understand what the verse really means. Here are three suggestions to help, using Psalm 37 as an example:
Consider the context. Psalm 37 is telling us not to worry or be envious of the wicked. Our focus is not to be on what they have, nor on what they seem to be getting away with [vv.12-13]. Instead, we are commanded to trust and delight in the Lord [vv.3-4].
Consider other verses. We're taught in 1 John 5:14 that our requests need to be according to God's will for us. Other Scriptures on the same topic can give us a balance.
Consult a Bible commentary. In The Treasury of David, C.H. Spurgeon says this about verse 4: "[Those] who delight in God desire or ask for nothing but what will please God." Doing a little deeper study can help us understand frustrating Bible verses like this one.
As we learn to delight in the Lord, His desires will become our own and He will grant them. --- Anne Cetas
Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God. --- Carter
YOU CAN'T BREAK GOD'S PROMISES BY LEANING ON THEM.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Change The Word?
Read: 2 Timothy 3
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable. --- 2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 22-24
John 8:28-59
The Bible, God's written Word, changes lives. Its messages of salvation makes the most profound change, of course, but Scripture can also change the way we treat others. It can provide a firm foundation for society with its clear teachings on institutions such as marriage, family, and the church.
But what happens when what the Bible clearly says --- as understood for centuries by learned believers and scholars alike --- is rejected? Those who reject its teachings try to change the Word.
Two Greek words can help explain this: eisegesis and exegesis. Eisegesis is the process of reading into a passage something that is not there --- inserting a meaning that flows from a personal agenda. By contrast, exegesis means drawing from the passage the clearly intended meaning, using context, other Scripture passages on the same topic, and legitimate tools of understanding such as Bible commentaries.
Instead of trying to change God's Word to fit our own ideas, let's allow the Word to change us. As we read His Word and obey it, the Holy Spirit will transform us into the kind of people God wants us to be.
Don't change the Word --- let it change you. --- Dave Branon
The Lord has given man His Word,
His will He has made known;
Let man not try to change that Word
With words that are his own. --- D. De Haan
THE BIBLE --- ETERNAL TRUTH AND NEVER-FADING BEAUTY.
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable. --- 2 Timothy 3:16
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 22-24
John 8:28-59
The Bible, God's written Word, changes lives. Its messages of salvation makes the most profound change, of course, but Scripture can also change the way we treat others. It can provide a firm foundation for society with its clear teachings on institutions such as marriage, family, and the church.
But what happens when what the Bible clearly says --- as understood for centuries by learned believers and scholars alike --- is rejected? Those who reject its teachings try to change the Word.
Two Greek words can help explain this: eisegesis and exegesis. Eisegesis is the process of reading into a passage something that is not there --- inserting a meaning that flows from a personal agenda. By contrast, exegesis means drawing from the passage the clearly intended meaning, using context, other Scripture passages on the same topic, and legitimate tools of understanding such as Bible commentaries.
Instead of trying to change God's Word to fit our own ideas, let's allow the Word to change us. As we read His Word and obey it, the Holy Spirit will transform us into the kind of people God wants us to be.
Don't change the Word --- let it change you. --- Dave Branon
The Lord has given man His Word,
His will He has made known;
Let man not try to change that Word
With words that are his own. --- D. De Haan
THE BIBLE --- ETERNAL TRUTH AND NEVER-FADING BEAUTY.
Monday, May 22, 2006
"I Will Be Good"
Read: 1 Samuel 15:10-23
Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD? --- 1 Samuel 15:19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 19-21
John 8:1-27
When Queen Victoria was a child, she didn't realize that she was in line for the throne of England. Her instructors, trying to prepare her for the future, were frustrated because they couldn't motivate her. She just didn't take her studies seriously. Finally, her teachers decided tot ell her that one day she would become the queen of England. Upon hearing this, Victoria quietly said, "Then I will be good." The realization that she had inherited this high calling gave her a sense of responsibility that profoundly affected her conduct from that day forward.
Our Scripture reading for today tells how Saul had been chosen from among the people of Israel as their anointed king [1 Samuel 15:17]. Almighty God has honored him greatly in giving him this position as leader of His special nation. But Saul didn't think about the kind of attitude that should accompany on the loot of battle as if he were the leader of an outlaw band [v.19].
As believers, we are children of God and joint-heirs with Christ [Romans 8:16-17]. We have a noble calling. Let's always keep in mind who we are. This will help us to say, as young Victoria said, "I will be good." --- Herb Vander Lugt
O Lord, you see what's in my heart,
There's nothing hid from You;
So help me live the kind of life
That's honest, good, and true. --- D. De Haan
A CHILD OF THE KING WILL WANT TO DISPLAY THE MANNERS OF THE COURT.
Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD? --- 1 Samuel 15:19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 19-21
John 8:1-27
When Queen Victoria was a child, she didn't realize that she was in line for the throne of England. Her instructors, trying to prepare her for the future, were frustrated because they couldn't motivate her. She just didn't take her studies seriously. Finally, her teachers decided tot ell her that one day she would become the queen of England. Upon hearing this, Victoria quietly said, "Then I will be good." The realization that she had inherited this high calling gave her a sense of responsibility that profoundly affected her conduct from that day forward.
Our Scripture reading for today tells how Saul had been chosen from among the people of Israel as their anointed king [1 Samuel 15:17]. Almighty God has honored him greatly in giving him this position as leader of His special nation. But Saul didn't think about the kind of attitude that should accompany on the loot of battle as if he were the leader of an outlaw band [v.19].
As believers, we are children of God and joint-heirs with Christ [Romans 8:16-17]. We have a noble calling. Let's always keep in mind who we are. This will help us to say, as young Victoria said, "I will be good." --- Herb Vander Lugt
O Lord, you see what's in my heart,
There's nothing hid from You;
So help me live the kind of life
That's honest, good, and true. --- D. De Haan
A CHILD OF THE KING WILL WANT TO DISPLAY THE MANNERS OF THE COURT.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
What Does God Like?
Read: Ephesians 5:15-21
Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. --- Ephesians 5:18-19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 16-18
John 7:28-53
Some churches have become divided over styles of worship. One group may be insisting on a traditional service, while another is agitating for a more contemporary format.
We can all profit from a lesson a man learned on a business trip after attending a church service near his hotel. He talked with the pastor about how he had been blessed by the sermon, even though some of the worship time was not to his liking.
The pastor simply asked, "What was it you think God didn't like?" The man had the grace to reply, "I don't suppose there was anything He didn't like. I was talking about my own reaction. But worship isn't really about me, is it?"
We are entitled to our own preferences, and we must hold firmly to our biblical convictions. But before we voice our fault-finding opinions, let's seriously try to understand God's viewpoint. Consider Ephesians 5 in the light of worship: We are to be filled with the Spirit, speak to each other in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, give thanks to God, and submit to one another [vv.19,21].
Whatever the style of worship, as we express to God our praise for who He is and all He has done, we lift Him up and encourage others. That's what God likes. --- Vernon Grounds
Let us celebrate together,
Lift our voice in one accord,
Singing of God's grace and mercy
And the goodness of the Lord. --- Sper
AT THE HEART OF WORSHIP IS WORSHIP FROM THE HEART.
Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs. --- Ephesians 5:18-19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 16-18
John 7:28-53
Some churches have become divided over styles of worship. One group may be insisting on a traditional service, while another is agitating for a more contemporary format.
We can all profit from a lesson a man learned on a business trip after attending a church service near his hotel. He talked with the pastor about how he had been blessed by the sermon, even though some of the worship time was not to his liking.
The pastor simply asked, "What was it you think God didn't like?" The man had the grace to reply, "I don't suppose there was anything He didn't like. I was talking about my own reaction. But worship isn't really about me, is it?"
We are entitled to our own preferences, and we must hold firmly to our biblical convictions. But before we voice our fault-finding opinions, let's seriously try to understand God's viewpoint. Consider Ephesians 5 in the light of worship: We are to be filled with the Spirit, speak to each other in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, give thanks to God, and submit to one another [vv.19,21].
Whatever the style of worship, as we express to God our praise for who He is and all He has done, we lift Him up and encourage others. That's what God likes. --- Vernon Grounds
Let us celebrate together,
Lift our voice in one accord,
Singing of God's grace and mercy
And the goodness of the Lord. --- Sper
AT THE HEART OF WORSHIP IS WORSHIP FROM THE HEART.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Short And Full Of Trouble
Read: Genesis 47:1-10
Jacob said to Pharaoh, " ... Few and evil have been the days of the years of my life." --- Genesis 47:9
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 13-15
John 7:1-27
Jacob's life was full of trials. And as it was for the old patriarch, so it is for us. Life buffets and restricts us, makes demands on us that we do not want to bear. Yet even the most unjust, undeserved, and pointless suffering is an opportunity for us to respond in a way that our Lord can turn us into His own likeness. We can take joy in our trials, because we know that adversity is working to make us "perfect and complete, lacking nothing" [James 1:3-4]. But this takes time.
We want the quick fix, but there are no shortcuts that can accomplish God's ultimate purpose for us. The only way to grow into Christ's likeness is to submit each day to the conditions God brings into our lives. As we accept His will and submit to His ways, His holiness becomes ours. Gradually but inexorably, God's Spirit begins to turn us into kinder, gentler men and women --- sturdier, stronger, more secure and sensible. The process is mysterious and inexplicable, but it is God's way of endowing us with grace and beauty. Progress is inevitable.
As Ruth Bell Graham puts it, may God give us grace "to bear the heat of cleansing flame, not bitter at our lot, but mete to bear our share of suffering and keep sweet, in Jesus' name." --- David Roper
Give me, Father, a purpose deep,
In joy or sorrow Thy trust to keep;
And so through trouble, care, and strife,
Glorify Thee in my daily life. --- Bell
GOD OFTEN EMPTIES OUR HANDS TO FILL OUR HEART.
Jacob said to Pharaoh, " ... Few and evil have been the days of the years of my life." --- Genesis 47:9
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 13-15
John 7:1-27
Jacob's life was full of trials. And as it was for the old patriarch, so it is for us. Life buffets and restricts us, makes demands on us that we do not want to bear. Yet even the most unjust, undeserved, and pointless suffering is an opportunity for us to respond in a way that our Lord can turn us into His own likeness. We can take joy in our trials, because we know that adversity is working to make us "perfect and complete, lacking nothing" [James 1:3-4]. But this takes time.
We want the quick fix, but there are no shortcuts that can accomplish God's ultimate purpose for us. The only way to grow into Christ's likeness is to submit each day to the conditions God brings into our lives. As we accept His will and submit to His ways, His holiness becomes ours. Gradually but inexorably, God's Spirit begins to turn us into kinder, gentler men and women --- sturdier, stronger, more secure and sensible. The process is mysterious and inexplicable, but it is God's way of endowing us with grace and beauty. Progress is inevitable.
As Ruth Bell Graham puts it, may God give us grace "to bear the heat of cleansing flame, not bitter at our lot, but mete to bear our share of suffering and keep sweet, in Jesus' name." --- David Roper
Give me, Father, a purpose deep,
In joy or sorrow Thy trust to keep;
And so through trouble, care, and strife,
Glorify Thee in my daily life. --- Bell
GOD OFTEN EMPTIES OUR HANDS TO FILL OUR HEART.
Friday, May 19, 2006
Money Matters
Read: Luke 16:1-13
No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. --- Luke 16:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 10-12
John 6:45-71
Godfrey Davis, who wrote a biography of the Duke of Wellington, said, "I found an old account ledger that showed how the Duke spent his money. It was a far better clue to what he thought was really important than the reading of his letters or speeches."
How we handle money reveals much about our priorities. That's why Jesus often talked about money. One-sixth of the Gospels' content, including one out of every three parables, touches on stewardship. Jesus wasn't a fundraiser. He dealt with money matters because money matters. For some of us, though, it mattes too much.
Jesus warned that we can become slaves to money. We may not think that money means more to us than God does. But Jesus did not say we must serve God more than we serve money. The issue isn't what occupies first place in our life, but whether we serve money at all. Pastor and author George Buttrick said, "Of all the masters the soul can choose, there are at last only two --- God and money. All choices, however small, however the alternatives may be disguised, are but variants of this choice."
Does your checkbook show that Jesus is the Master of your life? --- Haddon Robinson
If we pursue mere earthly gain,
We choose a path that ends in pain;
But joy and peace are in our soul
When we pursue a heavenly goal. --- D. De Haan
FOR A QUICK CHECK ON YOUR HEART, CHECK OUT YOUR CHECKBOOK.
No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. --- Luke 16:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 10-12
John 6:45-71
Godfrey Davis, who wrote a biography of the Duke of Wellington, said, "I found an old account ledger that showed how the Duke spent his money. It was a far better clue to what he thought was really important than the reading of his letters or speeches."
How we handle money reveals much about our priorities. That's why Jesus often talked about money. One-sixth of the Gospels' content, including one out of every three parables, touches on stewardship. Jesus wasn't a fundraiser. He dealt with money matters because money matters. For some of us, though, it mattes too much.
Jesus warned that we can become slaves to money. We may not think that money means more to us than God does. But Jesus did not say we must serve God more than we serve money. The issue isn't what occupies first place in our life, but whether we serve money at all. Pastor and author George Buttrick said, "Of all the masters the soul can choose, there are at last only two --- God and money. All choices, however small, however the alternatives may be disguised, are but variants of this choice."
Does your checkbook show that Jesus is the Master of your life? --- Haddon Robinson
If we pursue mere earthly gain,
We choose a path that ends in pain;
But joy and peace are in our soul
When we pursue a heavenly goal. --- D. De Haan
FOR A QUICK CHECK ON YOUR HEART, CHECK OUT YOUR CHECKBOOK.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Doing Our Part
Read: 2 Kings 20:1-7
I have heard your prayer...; surely I will heal you. On the third day you shall go up to the house of the LORD. --- 2 Kings 20:5
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 7-9
John 6:22-44
A runner at a school track meet crossed the finish line just ahead of his nearest rival. A bystander, noticing that the winner's lips were moving during the last couple of laps, wondered what he was saying. So he asked him about it. "I was praying," the runner answered. Pointing to his feet, he said, "I was saying, 'You pick 'em up, Lord, and I'll put 'em down.'" That athlete prayed for God's help, but he also did what he could to answer his own prayer.
When we ask God for help, we must be willing to do whatever we can, using whatever means He gives. When Hezekiah heard that he was going to die, he prayed for a miracle, and God promised to extend his life 15 years. Then Isaiah gave instructions to place a lump of figs on the troublesome boil [2 Kings 20:5-7]. God did the healing, but He used human effort and natural means.
A couple of children were walking to school one morning when it suddenly dawned on them that unless they really hurried they were going to be late. One of them suggested that they stop and pray that they wouldn't be tardy, "No," the other replied, "let's pray while we run as fast as we can."
When we ask the Lord to do something, we must also be ready to do our part. --- Richard De Haan
POINTS TO PONDER
How does the truth of today's article apply to illness?
To receiving a job promotion? To social evils?
To final exams? To increasing faith?
PRAY AS IF EVERYTHING DEPENDS ON GOD; WORK AS IF EVERYTHING DEPENDS ON YOU.
I have heard your prayer...; surely I will heal you. On the third day you shall go up to the house of the LORD. --- 2 Kings 20:5
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 7-9
John 6:22-44
A runner at a school track meet crossed the finish line just ahead of his nearest rival. A bystander, noticing that the winner's lips were moving during the last couple of laps, wondered what he was saying. So he asked him about it. "I was praying," the runner answered. Pointing to his feet, he said, "I was saying, 'You pick 'em up, Lord, and I'll put 'em down.'" That athlete prayed for God's help, but he also did what he could to answer his own prayer.
When we ask God for help, we must be willing to do whatever we can, using whatever means He gives. When Hezekiah heard that he was going to die, he prayed for a miracle, and God promised to extend his life 15 years. Then Isaiah gave instructions to place a lump of figs on the troublesome boil [2 Kings 20:5-7]. God did the healing, but He used human effort and natural means.
A couple of children were walking to school one morning when it suddenly dawned on them that unless they really hurried they were going to be late. One of them suggested that they stop and pray that they wouldn't be tardy, "No," the other replied, "let's pray while we run as fast as we can."
When we ask the Lord to do something, we must also be ready to do our part. --- Richard De Haan
POINTS TO PONDER
How does the truth of today's article apply to illness?
To receiving a job promotion? To social evils?
To final exams? To increasing faith?
PRAY AS IF EVERYTHING DEPENDS ON GOD; WORK AS IF EVERYTHING DEPENDS ON YOU.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Recovery
Read: Jeremiah 33:1-9
I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth. --- Jeremiah 33:6
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 4-6
John 6:1-21
Twenty-six years ago, May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted in one of the greatest natural disasters of modern times. The top of the mountain was blown into the atmosphere and became a dark plume of pulverized rock 11 miles high. At the same time, avalanches of rock, mud, and ice swept down the mountain --- destroying everything in their path, clogging rivers, and stopping ships.
During the past quarter of a century, the US government has spent over $1 billion on Mount St. Helens' recovery and long-term improvements of the area. Much of the engineering and construction work done by the US Army Corps of Engineers is unseen because "it takes the form of floods that will not happen, homes and communities that will not be destroyed, [and] river traffic that will flow smoothly."
In this process of recovery, I see a picture of God's forgiveness and healing for the disastrous results of our disobedience. When God allowed His people to be taken captive by the Chaldeans, He promised: "I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth" [Jeremiah 33:6].
True spiritual recovery often takes time. But as we allow the Lord to clean up our lives, He can safeguard us against future failures. --- David McCasland
Events may sometimes touch our lives
With change and dire destruction,
But God by grace can heal, restore,
And bring us reconstruction. --- Hess
CHRIST'S CLEANSING POWER CAN REMOVE THE MOST STUBBORN STAIN OF SIN.
I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth. --- Jeremiah 33:6
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 4-6
John 6:1-21
Twenty-six years ago, May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted in one of the greatest natural disasters of modern times. The top of the mountain was blown into the atmosphere and became a dark plume of pulverized rock 11 miles high. At the same time, avalanches of rock, mud, and ice swept down the mountain --- destroying everything in their path, clogging rivers, and stopping ships.
During the past quarter of a century, the US government has spent over $1 billion on Mount St. Helens' recovery and long-term improvements of the area. Much of the engineering and construction work done by the US Army Corps of Engineers is unseen because "it takes the form of floods that will not happen, homes and communities that will not be destroyed, [and] river traffic that will flow smoothly."
In this process of recovery, I see a picture of God's forgiveness and healing for the disastrous results of our disobedience. When God allowed His people to be taken captive by the Chaldeans, He promised: "I will heal them and reveal to them the abundance of peace and truth" [Jeremiah 33:6].
True spiritual recovery often takes time. But as we allow the Lord to clean up our lives, He can safeguard us against future failures. --- David McCasland
Events may sometimes touch our lives
With change and dire destruction,
But God by grace can heal, restore,
And bring us reconstruction. --- Hess
CHRIST'S CLEANSING POWER CAN REMOVE THE MOST STUBBORN STAIN OF SIN.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Duff Stuff
Read: Jeremiah 32:16-25
You are ... mighty in work, for Your eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men. --- Jeremiah 32:19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 1-3
John 5:25-47
When something big happens --- a blessing or a tragedy --- we recognize it immediately and respond with praise or pleadings to God. When we find a long-sought-after job, hear of a loved one coming to Christ, or get bad news from the doctor, we think of God and turn to Him. But in the little things --- the routine, the mundane, the details --- it's easy for us to overlook that He is working [Jeremiah 32:19].
God is at work in the big and little things of the forest too. The big stuff, which is visible and colorful, is called duff --- the partly decayed organic matter of leaves and sticks that covers the forest floor. But if you rake back the duff, you will find all sorts of important little things happening. The soil is rich and dark, and smells of life. It is filled with tiny plants, insects, and a variety of fungi. There under the duff they are performing an important function, for with them God is building the future forest.
The Lord works similarly with His people. Of course His eyes are on the big issues of life. But He's also at work "under the duff" through our everyday activities, preparing us for the significant tasks He has planned for us.
So when the mundane gets you down, thank God for what's under the duff. --- Dave Egner
We can give thanks in everything
And say, "Your will be done,"
For God's at work in everything
To make us like His Son. --- D. De Haan
EYES OF FAITH SEE GOD AT WORK IN EVERYTHING.
You are ... mighty in work, for Your eyes are open to all the ways of the sons of men. --- Jeremiah 32:19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 1-3
John 5:25-47
When something big happens --- a blessing or a tragedy --- we recognize it immediately and respond with praise or pleadings to God. When we find a long-sought-after job, hear of a loved one coming to Christ, or get bad news from the doctor, we think of God and turn to Him. But in the little things --- the routine, the mundane, the details --- it's easy for us to overlook that He is working [Jeremiah 32:19].
God is at work in the big and little things of the forest too. The big stuff, which is visible and colorful, is called duff --- the partly decayed organic matter of leaves and sticks that covers the forest floor. But if you rake back the duff, you will find all sorts of important little things happening. The soil is rich and dark, and smells of life. It is filled with tiny plants, insects, and a variety of fungi. There under the duff they are performing an important function, for with them God is building the future forest.
The Lord works similarly with His people. Of course His eyes are on the big issues of life. But He's also at work "under the duff" through our everyday activities, preparing us for the significant tasks He has planned for us.
So when the mundane gets you down, thank God for what's under the duff. --- Dave Egner
We can give thanks in everything
And say, "Your will be done,"
For God's at work in everything
To make us like His Son. --- D. De Haan
EYES OF FAITH SEE GOD AT WORK IN EVERYTHING.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Our Very Best
Read: Ephesians 2:4-10
By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. --- Ephesians 2:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 24-25
John 5:1-24
Chilean poet Pablo Neruda was a lonely and unhappy child, with no siblings or friends. One day he was investigating the backyard of his home and discovered a hole in the fence surrounding the yard. Suddenly a small hand reached out toward him from the other side of the fence. Then just as suddenly the hand was gone. On the ground was as small toy sheep.
Pablo ran inside the house and brought back the best thing he had --- a pinecone. He set it down in the same spot and ran off with the sheep. That toy lamb became his most cherished possession.
The exchange brought home to him a profound yet simple fact: To know that you are cared for by someone is one of life's greatest gifts. "This small and mysterious exchange of gifts remained inside of me," he said, "deep and indestructible."
Reading this story made me think of God's gift to you and me --- His hand reaching out to us with His love that sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins. Salvation is the "deep and indestructible" gift of God, received by grace through faith.
What should our response be to our God's infinite love and grace? Let's give Him in return our very best --- our heart. --- David Roper
Oh, help me, Lord, to take by grace divine
Yet more and more of that great love of Thine;
That day by day my heart may give to Thee
A deeper love, and grow more constantly. --- Mountain
JESUS GAVE HIS ALL FOR US; ARE WE GIVING OUR ALL FOR HIM?
By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. --- Ephesians 2:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 24-25
John 5:1-24
Chilean poet Pablo Neruda was a lonely and unhappy child, with no siblings or friends. One day he was investigating the backyard of his home and discovered a hole in the fence surrounding the yard. Suddenly a small hand reached out toward him from the other side of the fence. Then just as suddenly the hand was gone. On the ground was as small toy sheep.
Pablo ran inside the house and brought back the best thing he had --- a pinecone. He set it down in the same spot and ran off with the sheep. That toy lamb became his most cherished possession.
The exchange brought home to him a profound yet simple fact: To know that you are cared for by someone is one of life's greatest gifts. "This small and mysterious exchange of gifts remained inside of me," he said, "deep and indestructible."
Reading this story made me think of God's gift to you and me --- His hand reaching out to us with His love that sent His Son Jesus to die for our sins. Salvation is the "deep and indestructible" gift of God, received by grace through faith.
What should our response be to our God's infinite love and grace? Let's give Him in return our very best --- our heart. --- David Roper
Oh, help me, Lord, to take by grace divine
Yet more and more of that great love of Thine;
That day by day my heart may give to Thee
A deeper love, and grow more constantly. --- Mountain
JESUS GAVE HIS ALL FOR US; ARE WE GIVING OUR ALL FOR HIM?
Sunday, May 14, 2006
A Noble Request
Read: Acts 9:1-9
So he, trembling and astonished, said, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" --- Acts 9:6
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 22-23
John 4:31-54
As a seminary student I was often impressed by stories of Christians who made a great impact for God. So I asked the Lord to give me the same spiritual insight and power they had. On the surface that looks like a noble request. But one day I realized that it was actually a self-centered prayer. So instead of asking God to make me like someone else, I began asking Him to show me what He wanted me to do.
When Saul of Tarsus was converted on the road to Damascus, he asked two questions. The first was, "Who are You, Lord?" Realizing he was in the presence of the living God, only one other question mattered: "Lord, what do You want me to do?" [Acts 9:5-6]. He recognized that obedience to God's will for him was to be the central focus of the rest of his life.
Requests for health, healing, success, and even spiritual power are not wrong, but they can become selfish prayers if they do not flow from a heart determined to obey God. Jesus said, "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father" [John 14:2]. Obedience expresses our love for God and enables us to experience His love for us.
Have you made that noble request: "Lord, what do You want me to do?" --- Herb Vander Lugt
Master, speak, and make me ready,
When Thy voice is truly heard,
With obedience glad and steady,
Still to follow every word. --- Havergal
THE BEST WAY TO KNOW GOD'S WILL IS TO SAY "I WILL" TO GOD.
So he, trembling and astonished, said, "Lord, what do You want me to do?" --- Acts 9:6
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 22-23
John 4:31-54
As a seminary student I was often impressed by stories of Christians who made a great impact for God. So I asked the Lord to give me the same spiritual insight and power they had. On the surface that looks like a noble request. But one day I realized that it was actually a self-centered prayer. So instead of asking God to make me like someone else, I began asking Him to show me what He wanted me to do.
When Saul of Tarsus was converted on the road to Damascus, he asked two questions. The first was, "Who are You, Lord?" Realizing he was in the presence of the living God, only one other question mattered: "Lord, what do You want me to do?" [Acts 9:5-6]. He recognized that obedience to God's will for him was to be the central focus of the rest of his life.
Requests for health, healing, success, and even spiritual power are not wrong, but they can become selfish prayers if they do not flow from a heart determined to obey God. Jesus said, "He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father" [John 14:2]. Obedience expresses our love for God and enables us to experience His love for us.
Have you made that noble request: "Lord, what do You want me to do?" --- Herb Vander Lugt
Master, speak, and make me ready,
When Thy voice is truly heard,
With obedience glad and steady,
Still to follow every word. --- Havergal
THE BEST WAY TO KNOW GOD'S WILL IS TO SAY "I WILL" TO GOD.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Our Changing World
Read: Psalm 102:25-27
I am the Lord, I do not change. --- Malachi 3:6
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 19-21
John 4:1-30
Change is one thing we can be sure of in this life. Our relationships change as we move to new places, experience illness, and ultimately face death. Even the cells in our bodies are always in the process of change. When cells wear out, most are replaced by new ones. This is especially noticeable with our skin --- we shed and regrow outer skin cells about every 27 days.
Yes, change is the one certainty in our world. Henry Lyte's melancholy line in his hymn "Abide With Me" is true: "Change and decay in all around I see." But the hymn immediately adds, "O Thou who changest not, abide with me!"
By faith in Jesus Christ we can have a relationship with the unchanging God, who says of Himself in Malachi 3:6, "I am the LORD, I do not change." We can depend on God to be the same forever, as the psalmist syas [Psalm 102:27]. Hebrews 13:8 adds this reassuring testimony: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." He is our firm foundation, who can give us confidence and security in this changing world.
We creatures, caught up in the swirling tide of time, can rest our souls on the everlasting arms, which will never let us go [Deuteronomy 33:27]. --- Vernon Grounds
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day,
Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see ---
O Thou who changest not, abide with me! --- Lyte
TO FACE LIFE'S CHANGES, LOOK TO THE UNCHANGING GOD.
I am the Lord, I do not change. --- Malachi 3:6
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 19-21
John 4:1-30
Change is one thing we can be sure of in this life. Our relationships change as we move to new places, experience illness, and ultimately face death. Even the cells in our bodies are always in the process of change. When cells wear out, most are replaced by new ones. This is especially noticeable with our skin --- we shed and regrow outer skin cells about every 27 days.
Yes, change is the one certainty in our world. Henry Lyte's melancholy line in his hymn "Abide With Me" is true: "Change and decay in all around I see." But the hymn immediately adds, "O Thou who changest not, abide with me!"
By faith in Jesus Christ we can have a relationship with the unchanging God, who says of Himself in Malachi 3:6, "I am the LORD, I do not change." We can depend on God to be the same forever, as the psalmist syas [Psalm 102:27]. Hebrews 13:8 adds this reassuring testimony: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever." He is our firm foundation, who can give us confidence and security in this changing world.
We creatures, caught up in the swirling tide of time, can rest our souls on the everlasting arms, which will never let us go [Deuteronomy 33:27]. --- Vernon Grounds
Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day,
Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away;
Change and decay in all around I see ---
O Thou who changest not, abide with me! --- Lyte
TO FACE LIFE'S CHANGES, LOOK TO THE UNCHANGING GOD.
Friday, May 12, 2006
More Than Wishing
Read: Matthew 6:5-15
Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. --- Matthew 6:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 17-18
John 3:19-36
As a child, C.S. Lewis enjoyed reading the books of E. Nesbit, especially Five Children and It.In this book, brothers and sisters on a summer holiday discover an ancient sand fairy who grants them one wish each day. But every wish brings the children more trouble than happiness because they can't foresee the results of getting everything they ask for.
The Bible tells us to make our requests known to God [Philippians 4:6]. But prayer is much more than telling God what we want Him to do for us. When Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, He began by reminding them, "Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him" [Matthew 6:8].
What we call "The Lord's Prayer" is more about living in a growing, trusting relationship with our heavenly Father than about getting what we want from Him. As we grow in faith, our prayers will become less of a wish list and more of an intimate conversation with the Lord.
Toward the end of his life, C.S. Lewis wrote,"If God had granted all the silly prayers I've made in my life, where should I be now?"
Prayer is placing ourselves in the presence of God to receive from Him what we really need. --- David McCasland
We grasp but a thread of the garment of prayer;
We reel at the thought of His infinite care;
We cannot conceive of a God who will say:
"Be careful for nothing; in everything pray." --- Farrell
OUR HIGHEST PRIVILEGE IS TO TALK TO GOD; OUR HIGHEST DUTY IS TO LISTEN TO HIM.
Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. --- Matthew 6:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 17-18
John 3:19-36
As a child, C.S. Lewis enjoyed reading the books of E. Nesbit, especially Five Children and It.In this book, brothers and sisters on a summer holiday discover an ancient sand fairy who grants them one wish each day. But every wish brings the children more trouble than happiness because they can't foresee the results of getting everything they ask for.
The Bible tells us to make our requests known to God [Philippians 4:6]. But prayer is much more than telling God what we want Him to do for us. When Jesus taught His disciples how to pray, He began by reminding them, "Your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him" [Matthew 6:8].
What we call "The Lord's Prayer" is more about living in a growing, trusting relationship with our heavenly Father than about getting what we want from Him. As we grow in faith, our prayers will become less of a wish list and more of an intimate conversation with the Lord.
Toward the end of his life, C.S. Lewis wrote,"If God had granted all the silly prayers I've made in my life, where should I be now?"
Prayer is placing ourselves in the presence of God to receive from Him what we really need. --- David McCasland
We grasp but a thread of the garment of prayer;
We reel at the thought of His infinite care;
We cannot conceive of a God who will say:
"Be careful for nothing; in everything pray." --- Farrell
OUR HIGHEST PRIVILEGE IS TO TALK TO GOD; OUR HIGHEST DUTY IS TO LISTEN TO HIM.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Free-Falling
Read: Deuteronomy 32:1-14
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. --- Deuteronomy 33:27
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 15-16
John 3:1-18
In the tender song of Moses found in today's Bible reading, God is portrayed as a dedicated mother eagle who can be trusted by her young, even in the scary experience of their learning to fly [Deuteronomy 32:11-12].
A mother eagle builds a comfortable nest for her young, padding it with feathers from her own breast. But the God-given instinct that builds that secure nest also forces the eaglets out of it before long. Eagles are made to fly, and the mother eagle will not fail to teach them. Only then will they become what they are meant to be.
So one day the mother eagle will disturb the twigs of the nest, making it an uncomfortable place to stay. Then she will pick up a perplexed eaglet, soar into the sky, and drop it. The little bird will begin to free-fall. Where is Mama now? She is not far away. Quickly she will swoop under and catch the fledgling on one strong wing. She will repeat this exercise until each eaglet is capable of flying on its own.
Are you afraid of free-falling, unsure of where or how hard you will land? Remember, God will fly to your rescue and spread His everlasting arms beneath you. He will also teach you something new and wonderful through it. Falling into God's arms is nothing to be afraid of. --- Joanie Yoder
He will ever keep your soul,
What would harm, He will control;
In the home and by the way
He will keep you day by day. --- Psalter
GOD'S LOVE DOES NOT KEEP US FROM TRIALS BUT SEES US THROUGH THEM.
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. --- Deuteronomy 33:27
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 15-16
John 3:1-18
In the tender song of Moses found in today's Bible reading, God is portrayed as a dedicated mother eagle who can be trusted by her young, even in the scary experience of their learning to fly [Deuteronomy 32:11-12].
A mother eagle builds a comfortable nest for her young, padding it with feathers from her own breast. But the God-given instinct that builds that secure nest also forces the eaglets out of it before long. Eagles are made to fly, and the mother eagle will not fail to teach them. Only then will they become what they are meant to be.
So one day the mother eagle will disturb the twigs of the nest, making it an uncomfortable place to stay. Then she will pick up a perplexed eaglet, soar into the sky, and drop it. The little bird will begin to free-fall. Where is Mama now? She is not far away. Quickly she will swoop under and catch the fledgling on one strong wing. She will repeat this exercise until each eaglet is capable of flying on its own.
Are you afraid of free-falling, unsure of where or how hard you will land? Remember, God will fly to your rescue and spread His everlasting arms beneath you. He will also teach you something new and wonderful through it. Falling into God's arms is nothing to be afraid of. --- Joanie Yoder
He will ever keep your soul,
What would harm, He will control;
In the home and by the way
He will keep you day by day. --- Psalter
GOD'S LOVE DOES NOT KEEP US FROM TRIALS BUT SEES US THROUGH THEM.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
A White Stone
Read: Revelation 2:12-17
I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it. --- Revelation 2:17
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 13-14
John 2
Our Lord's message to the church at Pergamum has a curious reference to "a new name" written on "a white stone" [Revelation 2:17]. What could this mean?
There are two plausible explanations. In an ancient court of law, when defendants were condemned, they received a black stone with their name on it. If they were acquitten, they received a white stone. Similarly, those who have trusted Jesus Christ for salvation will receive an acquital from the judgment of God. What a relief it is to know that our sins are forgiven!
Another explanation comes from the ancient olympic games. When athletes won, they were awarded a white stone, which was a token of honor.
Together, these illustrations show us the wonderful balance of the Christian life. We are saved by grace through faith alone [Ephesians 2:8-9]. Yet obedient Christians often struggle as they seek to serve the One who saved them. One explanation of the white stone is a picture of unearned acquital. The other shows that we will be rewarded for acts of good works [1 Corinthians 3:13-14].
Trusting Christ for salvation gives us a new identity. It's like receiving a new name written on a white stone, which shows that we are forgiven --- completely. --- Dennis Fisher
We're saved by grace through faith alone,
Good works can have no part;
But God rewards each loving deed
That's done with all our heart. --- D. De Haan
JESUS REMOVES OUR SIN AND REWARDS OUR SERVICE.
I will give him a white stone, and on the stone a new name written which no one knows except him who receives it. --- Revelation 2:17
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 13-14
John 2
Our Lord's message to the church at Pergamum has a curious reference to "a new name" written on "a white stone" [Revelation 2:17]. What could this mean?
There are two plausible explanations. In an ancient court of law, when defendants were condemned, they received a black stone with their name on it. If they were acquitten, they received a white stone. Similarly, those who have trusted Jesus Christ for salvation will receive an acquital from the judgment of God. What a relief it is to know that our sins are forgiven!
Another explanation comes from the ancient olympic games. When athletes won, they were awarded a white stone, which was a token of honor.
Together, these illustrations show us the wonderful balance of the Christian life. We are saved by grace through faith alone [Ephesians 2:8-9]. Yet obedient Christians often struggle as they seek to serve the One who saved them. One explanation of the white stone is a picture of unearned acquital. The other shows that we will be rewarded for acts of good works [1 Corinthians 3:13-14].
Trusting Christ for salvation gives us a new identity. It's like receiving a new name written on a white stone, which shows that we are forgiven --- completely. --- Dennis Fisher
We're saved by grace through faith alone,
Good works can have no part;
But God rewards each loving deed
That's done with all our heart. --- D. De Haan
JESUS REMOVES OUR SIN AND REWARDS OUR SERVICE.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
The Answer Is No
Read: 2 Samuel 12:13-23
David arose from the ground, ... and he went into the house of the LORD and worshiped. --- 2 Samuel 12:20
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 10-12
John 1:29-51
Children are so lovable and innocent --- until their parents say no to their demands. When that happens, some kids scream uncontrollably, insisting on what they want.
When our children were little, my wife and I thought it was important for them to learn to accept no for an answer. We felt this would help them to handle the disappointments of life more effectively. We prayed that it would also help them submit to God's will.
Today's Bible reading record King David's admission of guilt when confronted by Nathan. David was forgiven, but God let the consequence of his sin fall on the baby conceived out of wedlock. David fasted and prayed to the Lord day and night for his son's healing. In spite of his sincere petitions, the baby died.
Instead of behaving like a demanding child and being angry with God, David got up, washed, changed his clothes, "went into the house of the LORD, and worshiped" [2 Samuel 12:20]. His actions teach us an important lesson: Sometimes we must accept no from God as the answer to our pleas.
In times of difficulty or loss, we should seek God's help and deliverance. But we must still trust Him if He does not answer our prayers the way we want Him to.
Have we learned to take no for an answer? --- Albert Lee
I do accept Your will, O God,
And all Your ways adore;
And every day I live I'll seek
To please You more and more. --- Anon.
IN HIS WILL IS OUR PEACE. --- Dante
David arose from the ground, ... and he went into the house of the LORD and worshiped. --- 2 Samuel 12:20
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 10-12
John 1:29-51
Children are so lovable and innocent --- until their parents say no to their demands. When that happens, some kids scream uncontrollably, insisting on what they want.
When our children were little, my wife and I thought it was important for them to learn to accept no for an answer. We felt this would help them to handle the disappointments of life more effectively. We prayed that it would also help them submit to God's will.
Today's Bible reading record King David's admission of guilt when confronted by Nathan. David was forgiven, but God let the consequence of his sin fall on the baby conceived out of wedlock. David fasted and prayed to the Lord day and night for his son's healing. In spite of his sincere petitions, the baby died.
Instead of behaving like a demanding child and being angry with God, David got up, washed, changed his clothes, "went into the house of the LORD, and worshiped" [2 Samuel 12:20]. His actions teach us an important lesson: Sometimes we must accept no from God as the answer to our pleas.
In times of difficulty or loss, we should seek God's help and deliverance. But we must still trust Him if He does not answer our prayers the way we want Him to.
Have we learned to take no for an answer? --- Albert Lee
I do accept Your will, O God,
And all Your ways adore;
And every day I live I'll seek
To please You more and more. --- Anon.
IN HIS WILL IS OUR PEACE. --- Dante
Monday, May 08, 2006
He Lights The Way
Read: Psalm 112
Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness. --- Psalm 112:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 7-9
John 1:1-28
A missionary in Peru went to visit a group of believers one evening. She knew that the house where they were meeting was located on a cliff and the path would be treacherous. She took a taxi as far as it could go, and then she began the hazardous ascent to the house on foot. The night was dark and the way was very difficult. As she rounded a bend, she suddenly came upon several believers carrying bright lanterns. They had come out to light the way. Her fears were relieved, and she ascended the paty easily.
In a similar way, God lights our path. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, He who is the Light of the world enters our lives and removes the darkness of our sin and despair. This light continues to comfort us through times of sorrow. In the midst of sadness, trouble, illness, or disappointment, the Lord brightens the way and encourages His children by giving hope.
This may come through a word of exhortation from a fellow believer. It may be the illumination of God's Word by the ministry of the Holy Spirit. It may be calm reassurance in response to heartfelt prayer. Or it may be the miraculous supply of a specific need. Whatever the case, God sends light when we are engulfed in darkness.
Jesus gives light in the darkest night! --- Dave Egner
No darkness have we who in Jesus abide ---
The Light of the world is Jesus;
We walk in the Light when we follow our Guide ---
The Light of the world is Jesus. --- Bliss
GOD SOMETIMES PUTS US IN THE DARK TO SHOW US THAT JESUS IS THE LIGHT.
Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness. --- Psalm 112:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 7-9
John 1:1-28
A missionary in Peru went to visit a group of believers one evening. She knew that the house where they were meeting was located on a cliff and the path would be treacherous. She took a taxi as far as it could go, and then she began the hazardous ascent to the house on foot. The night was dark and the way was very difficult. As she rounded a bend, she suddenly came upon several believers carrying bright lanterns. They had come out to light the way. Her fears were relieved, and she ascended the paty easily.
In a similar way, God lights our path. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, He who is the Light of the world enters our lives and removes the darkness of our sin and despair. This light continues to comfort us through times of sorrow. In the midst of sadness, trouble, illness, or disappointment, the Lord brightens the way and encourages His children by giving hope.
This may come through a word of exhortation from a fellow believer. It may be the illumination of God's Word by the ministry of the Holy Spirit. It may be calm reassurance in response to heartfelt prayer. Or it may be the miraculous supply of a specific need. Whatever the case, God sends light when we are engulfed in darkness.
Jesus gives light in the darkest night! --- Dave Egner
No darkness have we who in Jesus abide ---
The Light of the world is Jesus;
We walk in the Light when we follow our Guide ---
The Light of the world is Jesus. --- Bliss
GOD SOMETIMES PUTS US IN THE DARK TO SHOW US THAT JESUS IS THE LIGHT.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Juggling
Read: Luke 10:38-42
Mary ... sat at Jesus' feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving. --- Luke 10:39-40
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Luke 24:36-53
A woman in North Carolina is a mother who juggles --- literally. In fact, her whole family can perform simultaneous feats of aerial exchange with everyday household items. Imagine the excitement at her dinner parties!
Many of today's women are jugglers too, whether they are business-women or stay-at-home moms. The task of completing the mundane stuff of life usually falls in the laps of women --- especially mothers. The women of the 21st century have all sorts of things in the air at once --- from frying pans and strollers to appointment calendars and mortgage payments. It can all become quite overwhelming.
Society places a premium on those who can maintain a hectic schedule and get it all done. So women who pause to sit "at Jesus' feet" [Luke 10:39-40] are sometimes considered unproductive. But Jesus commended Mary for taking time to be with Him [v.42]. Certainly work had to be done, but Mary made the best choice.
Men, you can help women find the time to be with Jesus by pitching in with the daily activities. Women, choose to stop the daily juggling long enough to spend a few moments with the Lord. --- Dale Beaver
Take time to be holy,
The world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret
With Jesus alone. --- Longstaff
"AS THE DISHES SIT AND SOAK, TAKE YOUR BIBLE AND DO THE SAME." --- Grandma Beaver
Mary ... sat at Jesus' feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving. --- Luke 10:39-40
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Luke 24:36-53
A woman in North Carolina is a mother who juggles --- literally. In fact, her whole family can perform simultaneous feats of aerial exchange with everyday household items. Imagine the excitement at her dinner parties!
Many of today's women are jugglers too, whether they are business-women or stay-at-home moms. The task of completing the mundane stuff of life usually falls in the laps of women --- especially mothers. The women of the 21st century have all sorts of things in the air at once --- from frying pans and strollers to appointment calendars and mortgage payments. It can all become quite overwhelming.
Society places a premium on those who can maintain a hectic schedule and get it all done. So women who pause to sit "at Jesus' feet" [Luke 10:39-40] are sometimes considered unproductive. But Jesus commended Mary for taking time to be with Him [v.42]. Certainly work had to be done, but Mary made the best choice.
Men, you can help women find the time to be with Jesus by pitching in with the daily activities. Women, choose to stop the daily juggling long enough to spend a few moments with the Lord. --- Dale Beaver
Take time to be holy,
The world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret
With Jesus alone. --- Longstaff
"AS THE DISHES SIT AND SOAK, TAKE YOUR BIBLE AND DO THE SAME." --- Grandma Beaver
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Get Off My Back!
Read: Romans 7:14-25
Who will deliver me from this body of death? --- Romans 7:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Luke 24:1-35
Roman emperors saw torture as a legitimate way to put muscle and teeth into their laws. They were known to bind the body of a murder victim to the back of his killer. Under penalty of death, no one was allowed to release the condemned criminal.
This terrible practice calls to mind the words of the apostle Paul in Romans 7. It's as if he felt that something dead was strapped to him and accompanied him wherever he went.
As children of God, we long for purity and holiness, yet at times we feel helplessly bound to the "dead body" of our flesh. Even though we are new creatures in Christ and we know that the physical body itself is not evil, the tendency to sin is always with us. This causes us to cry out with the apostle, "Who will deliver me from this body of death?" [v.24].
Paul answered his own cry in chapter 8. He said that through the forgiveness of Christ we are freed from eternal condemnation [v.1]. Then by the strength of the indwelling Holy Spirit we are empowered to do the will of God [v.9]. And someday in heaven these mortal bodies by the flesh.
Praise God, Christ broke the power of sin! We can serve Him in newness of life. --- Mart De Haan
At times sin's power within grows stronger,
Too strong, it seems, for us to bear;
But Jesus says, "Look unto Me.
I broke sin's power, so don't despair." --- D. De Haan
TO OVERCOME SIN, STARVE THE OLD NATURE AND FEED THE NEW.
Who will deliver me from this body of death? --- Romans 7:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Luke 24:1-35
Roman emperors saw torture as a legitimate way to put muscle and teeth into their laws. They were known to bind the body of a murder victim to the back of his killer. Under penalty of death, no one was allowed to release the condemned criminal.
This terrible practice calls to mind the words of the apostle Paul in Romans 7. It's as if he felt that something dead was strapped to him and accompanied him wherever he went.
As children of God, we long for purity and holiness, yet at times we feel helplessly bound to the "dead body" of our flesh. Even though we are new creatures in Christ and we know that the physical body itself is not evil, the tendency to sin is always with us. This causes us to cry out with the apostle, "Who will deliver me from this body of death?" [v.24].
Paul answered his own cry in chapter 8. He said that through the forgiveness of Christ we are freed from eternal condemnation [v.1]. Then by the strength of the indwelling Holy Spirit we are empowered to do the will of God [v.9]. And someday in heaven these mortal bodies by the flesh.
Praise God, Christ broke the power of sin! We can serve Him in newness of life. --- Mart De Haan
At times sin's power within grows stronger,
Too strong, it seems, for us to bear;
But Jesus says, "Look unto Me.
I broke sin's power, so don't despair." --- D. De Haan
TO OVERCOME SIN, STARVE THE OLD NATURE AND FEED THE NEW.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Don't Be Afraid
Read: Isaiah 12
God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid. --- Isaiah 12:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Luke 23:26-56
I have an ancient leaf blower that I use to clean up our patio. It sputters, rattles, smokes, emits irritating fumes, and is considered by my wife [and probably by my neighbors] to be excessively noisy.
But our old dog is utterly indifferent to the racket. When I start up the blower, she doesn't even raise her head, and only reluctantly moves when I blow leaves or dirt in her direction. That's because she trusts me.
A young man who occasionally mows our yard uses a similar blower, but his is not tolerated by our dog. Years ago, when she was a puppy, he teased her with the machine and she has never forgotten. Now, when the man enters the backyard, we have to put her in the house, because she growls, barks, and snarls at him. Same set of circumstances, but the hands that use the blower make all the difference.
So it is with us. Frightening circumstances are less troublesome if we trust the hands that control them. If our world and our lives were governed by a thoughtless and indifferent force, we would have good reason to fear. But the hands that control the universe --- God's hands --- are wise and compassionate. We can trust them in spite of our circumstances and not be afraid. --- David Roper
When fear and worry test your faith
And anxious thoughts assail,
Remember, God is in control,
And He will never fail. --- Sper
GOD IS IN CONTROL, SO WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR.
God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid. --- Isaiah 12:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Luke 23:26-56
I have an ancient leaf blower that I use to clean up our patio. It sputters, rattles, smokes, emits irritating fumes, and is considered by my wife [and probably by my neighbors] to be excessively noisy.
But our old dog is utterly indifferent to the racket. When I start up the blower, she doesn't even raise her head, and only reluctantly moves when I blow leaves or dirt in her direction. That's because she trusts me.
A young man who occasionally mows our yard uses a similar blower, but his is not tolerated by our dog. Years ago, when she was a puppy, he teased her with the machine and she has never forgotten. Now, when the man enters the backyard, we have to put her in the house, because she growls, barks, and snarls at him. Same set of circumstances, but the hands that use the blower make all the difference.
So it is with us. Frightening circumstances are less troublesome if we trust the hands that control them. If our world and our lives were governed by a thoughtless and indifferent force, we would have good reason to fear. But the hands that control the universe --- God's hands --- are wise and compassionate. We can trust them in spite of our circumstances and not be afraid. --- David Roper
When fear and worry test your faith
And anxious thoughts assail,
Remember, God is in control,
And He will never fail. --- Sper
GOD IS IN CONTROL, SO WE HAVE NOTHING TO FEAR.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Only One Door
Read: John 10:7-10
I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved. --- John 10:9
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Luke 23:1-25
Old Testament scholar Sir George Adam Smith says that when he visited the Holy Land he came upon a shepherd and his sheep standing before a stockade. There was no door in that protective enclosure, only an opening the width of a man's body.
Smith asked the shepherd why there was no door, and he explained: "I am the way in. I stand in the opening, and the sheep pass under me into the stockade. When they are all safely inside, I lie down across that opening. No thief can get in and no sheep can get out except over my body. I am the entrance."
We are like sheep who need a Shepherd [1 Peter 2:25]. For entrance into heaven, a place of eternal bliss, Jesus gave this amazing claim: "I am the door of the sheep .... If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved" [John 10:7-9]. The people listening to Him that day didn't think of a wooden gate swinging on hinges. They understood that He was really saying, "I am the entrance into the homeland of God." He could claim to be the way into that eternal blessedness, the exclusive way into God's glory, because He is the incarnate Son of God.
Jesus is the only way into heaven [John 14:6]. We gain entrance only by putting our faith in Him. --- Vernon Grounds
Come to the Savior, make no delay ---
Here in His Word He's shown us the way;
Here in our midst He's standing today,
Tenderly saying, "Come!" --- Root
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO HELL, BUT ONLY ONE WAY TO HEAVEN.
I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved. --- John 10:9
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Luke 23:1-25
Old Testament scholar Sir George Adam Smith says that when he visited the Holy Land he came upon a shepherd and his sheep standing before a stockade. There was no door in that protective enclosure, only an opening the width of a man's body.
Smith asked the shepherd why there was no door, and he explained: "I am the way in. I stand in the opening, and the sheep pass under me into the stockade. When they are all safely inside, I lie down across that opening. No thief can get in and no sheep can get out except over my body. I am the entrance."
We are like sheep who need a Shepherd [1 Peter 2:25]. For entrance into heaven, a place of eternal bliss, Jesus gave this amazing claim: "I am the door of the sheep .... If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved" [John 10:7-9]. The people listening to Him that day didn't think of a wooden gate swinging on hinges. They understood that He was really saying, "I am the entrance into the homeland of God." He could claim to be the way into that eternal blessedness, the exclusive way into God's glory, because He is the incarnate Son of God.
Jesus is the only way into heaven [John 14:6]. We gain entrance only by putting our faith in Him. --- Vernon Grounds
Come to the Savior, make no delay ---
Here in His Word He's shown us the way;
Here in our midst He's standing today,
Tenderly saying, "Come!" --- Root
THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO HELL, BUT ONLY ONE WAY TO HEAVEN.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Godly Exercise
Read: 1 Timothy 4:6-16
Exercise yourself toward godliness. --- 1 Timothy 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Luke 22:47-71
Fitness advocate Jhannie Tolbert says you don't need a treadmill or specialized equipment to get a great physical workout at home. Tolbert uses a toolbox for stepping exercises, lifts soup cans to work his shoulder muscles, and employs other common household items in his daily training. He says you can stay fit at home using a low-tech approach. Other trainers agree and encourage people to use jump ropes, chairs, brooms, and even bags of groceries in conditioning routines. They see exercise as a matter of will, not wealth.
The same principle holds true with spiritual fitness. While Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and other books are helpful, we can begin spiritual training with nothing more than the Bible and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Paul urged his protege Timothy: "Exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come" [1 Timothy 4:7-8].
It requires no money to take the spiritual truths that we know and put them into practice. We don't need special equipment or materials to pray for a friend, give thanks to God, or sing His praise. We just need to begin where we are, with what we have, right now. --- David McCasland
Just as the body will grow strong
With exercise each day,
So too, we grow more like our Lord
By living life His way. --- D. De Haan
GODLY EXERCISE IS THE KEY TO GODLY CHARACTER.
Exercise yourself toward godliness. --- 1 Timothy 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Luke 22:47-71
Fitness advocate Jhannie Tolbert says you don't need a treadmill or specialized equipment to get a great physical workout at home. Tolbert uses a toolbox for stepping exercises, lifts soup cans to work his shoulder muscles, and employs other common household items in his daily training. He says you can stay fit at home using a low-tech approach. Other trainers agree and encourage people to use jump ropes, chairs, brooms, and even bags of groceries in conditioning routines. They see exercise as a matter of will, not wealth.
The same principle holds true with spiritual fitness. While Bible dictionaries, commentaries, and other books are helpful, we can begin spiritual training with nothing more than the Bible and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Paul urged his protege Timothy: "Exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come" [1 Timothy 4:7-8].
It requires no money to take the spiritual truths that we know and put them into practice. We don't need special equipment or materials to pray for a friend, give thanks to God, or sing His praise. We just need to begin where we are, with what we have, right now. --- David McCasland
Just as the body will grow strong
With exercise each day,
So too, we grow more like our Lord
By living life His way. --- D. De Haan
GODLY EXERCISE IS THE KEY TO GODLY CHARACTER.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Say The Word
Read: Psalm 14
They have all turned aside, they have together become corrupt. --- Psalm 14:3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 14-15
Luke 22:21-46
People seldom use the word sin anymore. When we do something wrong, we say we showed "inappropriate behavior" or made a "tactical error" or "mistake." We may even say, "I have done a bad thing." It seems as if people have come to believer in their own innate goodness.
We do so in spite of overwhelming physical and spiritual evidence to the contrary. As I write, genocide is rampant in Sudan. Unbelievable astrocities have been endured in Bosnia and Rwanda. Who can forget the killing fields of Cambodia? And what about the millions of unborn babies killed in the US in the name of convenience? Evil has not dropped off the face of the earth.
As followers of Jesus, we must steadfastly resist the efforts of our world to minimize the reality of sin. We must agree with God that "there is none who does good, no, not one" [Psalm 14:3].
Recognizing the sins of nations is easier than admitting our own personal sin. But we need to confess the specific sins we commit against our holy God. "If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us" [1 John 1:10].
Call your sin sin and confess it to God. --- Dave Egner
If we would know God's power to heal
And cleanse us from within,
We must acknowledge when we're wrong,
Confessing sin as sin. --- Fasick
JESUS' BLOOD CAN CLEANSE ANY SIN, BUT IS POWERLESS TO FORGIVE AN EXCUSE.
They have all turned aside, they have together become corrupt. --- Psalm 14:3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 14-15
Luke 22:21-46
People seldom use the word sin anymore. When we do something wrong, we say we showed "inappropriate behavior" or made a "tactical error" or "mistake." We may even say, "I have done a bad thing." It seems as if people have come to believer in their own innate goodness.
We do so in spite of overwhelming physical and spiritual evidence to the contrary. As I write, genocide is rampant in Sudan. Unbelievable astrocities have been endured in Bosnia and Rwanda. Who can forget the killing fields of Cambodia? And what about the millions of unborn babies killed in the US in the name of convenience? Evil has not dropped off the face of the earth.
As followers of Jesus, we must steadfastly resist the efforts of our world to minimize the reality of sin. We must agree with God that "there is none who does good, no, not one" [Psalm 14:3].
Recognizing the sins of nations is easier than admitting our own personal sin. But we need to confess the specific sins we commit against our holy God. "If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us" [1 John 1:10].
Call your sin sin and confess it to God. --- Dave Egner
If we would know God's power to heal
And cleanse us from within,
We must acknowledge when we're wrong,
Confessing sin as sin. --- Fasick
JESUS' BLOOD CAN CLEANSE ANY SIN, BUT IS POWERLESS TO FORGIVE AN EXCUSE.
Monday, May 01, 2006
The Devil's Bowl
Read: Matthew 4:1-11
When [the devil] speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. --- John 8:44
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 12-13
Luke 22:1-20
While my sons-in-law and I were hiking in a state park last summer, we noticed a trail marker that pointed toward something called The Devil's Soup Bowl. Intrigued, we took off for this geologic formation. As we went, we joked about the kind of soup we might find in the bowl.
When we arrived, we discovered it to be a large sunken area of land --- something like a deep lake without any water in it. We were rather disappointed to discover that The Devil's Soup Bowl was filled with nothing but trees and weeds.
The Devil's Soup Bowl is the perfect name for a formation that offers something of interest but ends up providing nothing, because the devil is a deceiver. His menu is a bowl of tricks that delivers only empty promises and broken dreams.
Satan began his deceitful work of substituting nothing for something when he tricked Eve in the Garden of Eden, and he had not changed his plan. He tried his deceit on Jesus, but the Lord resisted and "the devil left Him" [Matthew 4:9-11].
So how do you know if you are being offered one of Satan's lies? Test new ideas with Scripture. Consult with people you trust to be godly and wise. And pray.
Don't fall for the devil's bowl of empty lies. --- Dave Branon
Satan's a liar, deceiving all men,
Subtly he causes their fall into sin;
But his sly methods we surely can know;
Looking to Jesus wherever we go. --- D. De Haan
SATAN OFFERS NOTHING BUT TRICKS AND DECEIT.
When [the devil] speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. --- John 8:44
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 12-13
Luke 22:1-20
While my sons-in-law and I were hiking in a state park last summer, we noticed a trail marker that pointed toward something called The Devil's Soup Bowl. Intrigued, we took off for this geologic formation. As we went, we joked about the kind of soup we might find in the bowl.
When we arrived, we discovered it to be a large sunken area of land --- something like a deep lake without any water in it. We were rather disappointed to discover that The Devil's Soup Bowl was filled with nothing but trees and weeds.
The Devil's Soup Bowl is the perfect name for a formation that offers something of interest but ends up providing nothing, because the devil is a deceiver. His menu is a bowl of tricks that delivers only empty promises and broken dreams.
Satan began his deceitful work of substituting nothing for something when he tricked Eve in the Garden of Eden, and he had not changed his plan. He tried his deceit on Jesus, but the Lord resisted and "the devil left Him" [Matthew 4:9-11].
So how do you know if you are being offered one of Satan's lies? Test new ideas with Scripture. Consult with people you trust to be godly and wise. And pray.
Don't fall for the devil's bowl of empty lies. --- Dave Branon
Satan's a liar, deceiving all men,
Subtly he causes their fall into sin;
But his sly methods we surely can know;
Looking to Jesus wherever we go. --- D. De Haan
SATAN OFFERS NOTHING BUT TRICKS AND DECEIT.
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