Read: Habakkuk 3:14-19
Though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; ... yet I will rejoice in the LORD. --- Habakkuk 3:17-18
The Bible In One Year:
Job 20-21
Acts 10:24-48
In the book 450 Stories for Life, Gust Anderson tells about visiting a church in a farming community of eastern Alberta, Canada, where there had been 8 years of drought. The farmers' economic situation looked hopeless. But in spite of their poverty, many of them continued to meet together to worship and praise God.
Anderson was especially impressed by the testimony of a farmer who stood up and quoted Habakkuk 3:17-18. With deep feeling, he said, "Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls --- yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation." Anderson thought, That dear saint has found the secret of real joy!
It's not wrong to find pleasure in the good things money can buy, be we should never rely on them for happiness. If our fulfillment depends on material possessions, we are crushed when we lose them. But if our joy is found in the Lord, nothing can disrupt it, not even economic distress.
Yes, those who know and trust the Lord can rejoice --- even in poverty! --- Richard De Haan
Pleasures of earth, so seemingly sweet,
Fail at the last my longings to meet:
Only in Thee my bliss is complete;
Only, blest Lord, in Thee. --- Anon.
HAPPINESS DEPENDS ON HAPPENINGS; JOY DEPENDS ON JESUS!
Friday, June 30, 2006
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Working Wisely
Read: John 9:1-11
I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day. --- John 9:4
The Bible In One Year:
Nehemiah 1-3
Acts 2:1-21
In a photo on my wall, a rusted rake leans againts a post in a vegetable garden overgrown with weeds. I took the picture several months after my father-in-law died and there was no one to care for his usually well-tended garden. One afternoon, he had leaned his rake against a post, walked to the house, and never returned.
The photo says two things to me about work: First, I must do it while I can. Second, I must keep it in perspective and not make it more important that it is. Because my days are numbered, I need God's wisdom to spend each one as I should.
When Jesus healed a man born blind, He told His disciples, "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world" [John 9:4-5].
As Jesus labored in His Father's "garden" on earth, He demonstrated how to work wisely by having a balance between work and rest. He never valued productivity more than prayer, and He never became so preoccupied with a program that He failed to help people in need.
Lord, give us the wisdom to work faithfully while it is still day. --- David McCasland
Lord, help me know from day to day
The good I should pursue;
And grant me wisdom to discern
The things I should not do. --- D. De Haan
WORK IS A BLESSING WHEN IT BLESSES OTHERS.
I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day. --- John 9:4
The Bible In One Year:
Nehemiah 1-3
Acts 2:1-21
In a photo on my wall, a rusted rake leans againts a post in a vegetable garden overgrown with weeds. I took the picture several months after my father-in-law died and there was no one to care for his usually well-tended garden. One afternoon, he had leaned his rake against a post, walked to the house, and never returned.
The photo says two things to me about work: First, I must do it while I can. Second, I must keep it in perspective and not make it more important that it is. Because my days are numbered, I need God's wisdom to spend each one as I should.
When Jesus healed a man born blind, He told His disciples, "I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world" [John 9:4-5].
As Jesus labored in His Father's "garden" on earth, He demonstrated how to work wisely by having a balance between work and rest. He never valued productivity more than prayer, and He never became so preoccupied with a program that He failed to help people in need.
Lord, give us the wisdom to work faithfully while it is still day. --- David McCasland
Lord, help me know from day to day
The good I should pursue;
And grant me wisdom to discern
The things I should not do. --- D. De Haan
WORK IS A BLESSING WHEN IT BLESSES OTHERS.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
He's Always On The Bridge
Read: Joshua 1:1-9
I will not leave you nor forsake you. --- Joshua 1:5
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 9-10
Acts 1
My friend Ralph had the thrilling experience of going on a short cruise on the aircraft carrier USS Kennedy. He saw jet fighters take off, land, and demonstrate maneuvers. He was told that whenever the planes are taking off or landing --- dangerous operations --- the captain watches from the bridge. Even if the planes are flying continually, he stays on the bridge, cat-napping between runs if necessary. So each time a pilot takes off or lands on the deck, he knows that his captain is always on duty.
In today's Scripture reading, when it was time for Joshua to take over as leader of Israel, he needed reassurance that God would be with him as He had been with Moses. The Israelites knew that Moses had divine direction during their wilderness journey because God led them by a pillar of fire and a cloud.
But what about Joshua? God promised him, "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you" [Joshua 1:5]. Joshua could lead Israel with the absolute confidence that God was always watching over him.
Wherever we are, whatever bold endeavor we are involved in, or whatever spiritual battle we may face, we have the confidence that God is with us. What's more, He guides, protects, and leads us. He's always on the bridge! --- Dave Egner
I trust in God --- I know He cares for me,
On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;
Though billows roll, He keeps my soul ---
My heavenly Father watches over me. --- Martin
THE CHRISTIAN FINDS SAFETY NOT IN THE ABSENCE OF DANGER BUT IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD.
I will not leave you nor forsake you. --- Joshua 1:5
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 9-10
Acts 1
My friend Ralph had the thrilling experience of going on a short cruise on the aircraft carrier USS Kennedy. He saw jet fighters take off, land, and demonstrate maneuvers. He was told that whenever the planes are taking off or landing --- dangerous operations --- the captain watches from the bridge. Even if the planes are flying continually, he stays on the bridge, cat-napping between runs if necessary. So each time a pilot takes off or lands on the deck, he knows that his captain is always on duty.
In today's Scripture reading, when it was time for Joshua to take over as leader of Israel, he needed reassurance that God would be with him as He had been with Moses. The Israelites knew that Moses had divine direction during their wilderness journey because God led them by a pillar of fire and a cloud.
But what about Joshua? God promised him, "As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you" [Joshua 1:5]. Joshua could lead Israel with the absolute confidence that God was always watching over him.
Wherever we are, whatever bold endeavor we are involved in, or whatever spiritual battle we may face, we have the confidence that God is with us. What's more, He guides, protects, and leads us. He's always on the bridge! --- Dave Egner
I trust in God --- I know He cares for me,
On mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;
Though billows roll, He keeps my soul ---
My heavenly Father watches over me. --- Martin
THE CHRISTIAN FINDS SAFETY NOT IN THE ABSENCE OF DANGER BUT IN THE PRESENCE OF GOD.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Spiritual Deafness
Read: 1 Corinthians 2
The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him. --- 1 Corinthians 2:14
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 6-8
John 21
Some people suffer from a strange hearing disorder --- they can hear sounds but can't understand words. They have no trouble hearing a bird sing or a watch tick, but words are as unintelligible as if they were a foreign language. The source of the problem is not in the ears. It stems from an injury to the brain.
There is also a spiritual deafness that affects many people. Because of a sinful heart, those without faith in Christ can read the Bible and hear the teachings of God's Word, but its spiritual message is foolishness to them [1 Corinthians 2:14].
That explains why some people can appreciate the Bible as literature, as reliable history, and as a source of high moral standards, but they fail to understand its spiritual message. They don't grasp the significance of what it says about Christ --- His death on the cross for our sins, His resurrection, and His ministry of intercession for us in heaven today. These truths make no sense to them.
As you read the Bible, do you "hear" what it says? If not, ask the Lord to open your understanding to what it says about Jesus. Put your trust in Him as your personal Savior and experience a spiritual birth. That's the cure for spiritual deafness. --- Richard De Haan
We cannot understand God's truth
Until we know the Lord;
It's when our heart is home to Him
We understand His Word. --- Anon.
THEY KEY TO UNDERSTANDING THE WRITTEN WORD IS KNOWING THE LIVING WORD.
The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him. --- 1 Corinthians 2:14
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 6-8
John 21
Some people suffer from a strange hearing disorder --- they can hear sounds but can't understand words. They have no trouble hearing a bird sing or a watch tick, but words are as unintelligible as if they were a foreign language. The source of the problem is not in the ears. It stems from an injury to the brain.
There is also a spiritual deafness that affects many people. Because of a sinful heart, those without faith in Christ can read the Bible and hear the teachings of God's Word, but its spiritual message is foolishness to them [1 Corinthians 2:14].
That explains why some people can appreciate the Bible as literature, as reliable history, and as a source of high moral standards, but they fail to understand its spiritual message. They don't grasp the significance of what it says about Christ --- His death on the cross for our sins, His resurrection, and His ministry of intercession for us in heaven today. These truths make no sense to them.
As you read the Bible, do you "hear" what it says? If not, ask the Lord to open your understanding to what it says about Jesus. Put your trust in Him as your personal Savior and experience a spiritual birth. That's the cure for spiritual deafness. --- Richard De Haan
We cannot understand God's truth
Until we know the Lord;
It's when our heart is home to Him
We understand His Word. --- Anon.
THEY KEY TO UNDERSTANDING THE WRITTEN WORD IS KNOWING THE LIVING WORD.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Have A Heart
Read: Exodus 22:21-27
You shall neither mistreat a straner nor oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. --- Exodus 22:21
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 3-5
John 20
People who lack feeling for others are like cold fronts on the weather map in winter --- you'd rather see them going than coming. An example is the homeowner who treats the paperboy like the neighborhood pest. He acts as if the youngster were behind the bad news that lands on his porch day after day. I'm not saying that sometimes there isn't cause for frustration. There may be legitimate reasons for dissatisfaction with his service. But being unkind to those who are weaker or in a lower socio-economic position is never right.
God made this very clear to ancient Israel when He told them to treat those of lesser social rank as they themselves would want to be treated. He reminded His chosen people that because they had once been strangers in a foreign landf, they should know how it feels to work under those who show no sympathy [Exodus 22:21].
Christians have the same responsibility to the poor and downtrodded as Israel had. We may argue that if we don't look out for ourselves no one else will. But God has told us to love our neighbors. He also reminds us that if we forget what it's like to be on the bottom we are no longer fit to be on top. --- Mart De Haan
If you once bore a heavy load
That drove you to despair,
You'll have a heart for those who bend
Beneath their load of care. --- D. De Haan
WHEN JESUS CHANGES YOUR HEART, HE GIVES YOU A HEART FOR OTHERS.
You shall neither mistreat a straner nor oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. --- Exodus 22:21
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 3-5
John 20
People who lack feeling for others are like cold fronts on the weather map in winter --- you'd rather see them going than coming. An example is the homeowner who treats the paperboy like the neighborhood pest. He acts as if the youngster were behind the bad news that lands on his porch day after day. I'm not saying that sometimes there isn't cause for frustration. There may be legitimate reasons for dissatisfaction with his service. But being unkind to those who are weaker or in a lower socio-economic position is never right.
God made this very clear to ancient Israel when He told them to treat those of lesser social rank as they themselves would want to be treated. He reminded His chosen people that because they had once been strangers in a foreign landf, they should know how it feels to work under those who show no sympathy [Exodus 22:21].
Christians have the same responsibility to the poor and downtrodded as Israel had. We may argue that if we don't look out for ourselves no one else will. But God has told us to love our neighbors. He also reminds us that if we forget what it's like to be on the bottom we are no longer fit to be on top. --- Mart De Haan
If you once bore a heavy load
That drove you to despair,
You'll have a heart for those who bend
Beneath their load of care. --- D. De Haan
WHEN JESUS CHANGES YOUR HEART, HE GIVES YOU A HEART FOR OTHERS.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Heaven's Asphalt
Read: Revelation 21:14-21
The street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. --- Revelation 21:21
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 1-2
John 19:23-42
The story is told about a miner who struck gold and carried his bag of nuggets with him everywhere. One day he died and went to heaven, still carrying his precious nuggets. When he arrived, an angel asked him why he was carrying asphalt. "This isn't asphalt," he explained, "it's gold." To which the angel replied, "On earth it's called gold, but here in heaven we use it to pave our streets."
Granted, this is just a funny story. But it prompts us to think about what we consider valuable --- and what is truly valuable to God.
What impresses me most about Revelation 21 is the description of heaven's street: It is "pure gold, like transparent glass" [v.21]. We value gold as being the most precious of metals, and we use it to make our most prized possessions. In heaven it will be what we walk on. What a reversal!
The things we prize here on earth will not be so highly valued in heaven --- the unnecessary things we buy and collect, stock portfolios and bank accounts, admiration and fame. When the time comes to bid earth goodbye, what value will they have?
Earthly possessions are temporary. Remember, our true wealth is in heaven. --- Vernon Grounds
Nor silver nor gold hath obtained my redemption,
The way into heaven could not thus be bought;
The blood of the cross is my only foundation,
The death of my Savior redemption hath wrought. --- Gray
THOSE WHO LAY UP TREASURES IN HEAVEN ARE THE RICHEST PEOPLE ON EARTH.
The street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass. --- Revelation 21:21
The Bible In One Year:
Ezra 1-2
John 19:23-42
The story is told about a miner who struck gold and carried his bag of nuggets with him everywhere. One day he died and went to heaven, still carrying his precious nuggets. When he arrived, an angel asked him why he was carrying asphalt. "This isn't asphalt," he explained, "it's gold." To which the angel replied, "On earth it's called gold, but here in heaven we use it to pave our streets."
Granted, this is just a funny story. But it prompts us to think about what we consider valuable --- and what is truly valuable to God.
What impresses me most about Revelation 21 is the description of heaven's street: It is "pure gold, like transparent glass" [v.21]. We value gold as being the most precious of metals, and we use it to make our most prized possessions. In heaven it will be what we walk on. What a reversal!
The things we prize here on earth will not be so highly valued in heaven --- the unnecessary things we buy and collect, stock portfolios and bank accounts, admiration and fame. When the time comes to bid earth goodbye, what value will they have?
Earthly possessions are temporary. Remember, our true wealth is in heaven. --- Vernon Grounds
Nor silver nor gold hath obtained my redemption,
The way into heaven could not thus be bought;
The blood of the cross is my only foundation,
The death of my Savior redemption hath wrought. --- Gray
THOSE WHO LAY UP TREASURES IN HEAVEN ARE THE RICHEST PEOPLE ON EARTH.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Eyewitness
Read: 1 John 1:1-7
That which we have seen and heard we declare to you. --- 1 John 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 34-36
John 19:1-22
You don't want to interview me for your television program," the man told me. "You need someone who is young and photogenic, and I'm neither." I replied that we indeed wanted him because he had known C.S. Lewis, the noted author and the subject of our documentary. "Sir," I said, "when it comes to telling the story of a person's life, there is not substitute for an eyewitness."
As Christians, we often refer to sharing our faith in Christ as "witnessing" or "giving our testimony." It's an accurate concept taken directly from the Bible. John, a companion and disciple of Jesus, wrote: "We have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us --- that which we have seen and heard we declare to you" [1 John 1:2-3].
If you know Jesus as your Savior and have experienced His love, grace, and forgiveness, you can tell someone else about Him. Youth, beauty, and theological training are not required. Reality and enthusiasm are more valuable than a training course in how to share your faith.
When it comes to telling someone the wonderful story of how Jesus Christ can transform a person's life, there is no substitute for a firsthand witness like you. --- David McCasland
Let us go forth, as called of God,
Redeemed by Jesus' precious blood,
His love to show, His life to live,
His message speak, His mercy give. --- Whittle
JESUS DOESN'T NEED LAWYERS, HE NEEDS WITNESSES.
That which we have seen and heard we declare to you. --- 1 John 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 34-36
John 19:1-22
You don't want to interview me for your television program," the man told me. "You need someone who is young and photogenic, and I'm neither." I replied that we indeed wanted him because he had known C.S. Lewis, the noted author and the subject of our documentary. "Sir," I said, "when it comes to telling the story of a person's life, there is not substitute for an eyewitness."
As Christians, we often refer to sharing our faith in Christ as "witnessing" or "giving our testimony." It's an accurate concept taken directly from the Bible. John, a companion and disciple of Jesus, wrote: "We have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us --- that which we have seen and heard we declare to you" [1 John 1:2-3].
If you know Jesus as your Savior and have experienced His love, grace, and forgiveness, you can tell someone else about Him. Youth, beauty, and theological training are not required. Reality and enthusiasm are more valuable than a training course in how to share your faith.
When it comes to telling someone the wonderful story of how Jesus Christ can transform a person's life, there is no substitute for a firsthand witness like you. --- David McCasland
Let us go forth, as called of God,
Redeemed by Jesus' precious blood,
His love to show, His life to live,
His message speak, His mercy give. --- Whittle
JESUS DOESN'T NEED LAWYERS, HE NEEDS WITNESSES.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
"Dumb Ox"
Read: 1 Samuel 16:1-7
Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. --- 1 Samuel 16:7
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 32-33
John 18:19-40
When Thomas Aquinas began to attend classes at the University of Paris in the 13th century, he seldom spoke up in class. His fellow students thought that his silence meant he wasn't very smart, so they nicknamed him "the dumb ox."
His peers must have been surprised when he excelled in his studies and went on to write great works of theology still in use today. Thomas Aquinas was a misjudged genius.
How could his classmates have been so wrong? They judged him only by his outward appearance. They didn't really know what he was like on the inside.
God had told the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king to rule His people Israel. David the shepherd boy did not appear to be kingly material. His youthfulness did not measure up to the age and stature of his older brother Eliab [1 Samuel 16:6]. Yet the Lord corrected Samuel's original perception [1 Samuel 16:7]. David would go on to become a great warrior and the Lord's chosen ruler of His people [1 Samuel 13:14; 18:8; 2 Samuel 7:1-17].
When you are tempted to judge someone by his outward appearance, remember Thomas Aquinas and King David. The heart is what matters to God. --- Dennis Fisher
First impressions can mislead us,
For we do not know the heart;
We can often be mistaken,
Since we only know in part. --- Fitzhugh
THE TRUE MEASURE OF A PERSON IS WHAT'S IN THE HEART.
Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. --- 1 Samuel 16:7
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 32-33
John 18:19-40
When Thomas Aquinas began to attend classes at the University of Paris in the 13th century, he seldom spoke up in class. His fellow students thought that his silence meant he wasn't very smart, so they nicknamed him "the dumb ox."
His peers must have been surprised when he excelled in his studies and went on to write great works of theology still in use today. Thomas Aquinas was a misjudged genius.
How could his classmates have been so wrong? They judged him only by his outward appearance. They didn't really know what he was like on the inside.
God had told the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king to rule His people Israel. David the shepherd boy did not appear to be kingly material. His youthfulness did not measure up to the age and stature of his older brother Eliab [1 Samuel 16:6]. Yet the Lord corrected Samuel's original perception [1 Samuel 16:7]. David would go on to become a great warrior and the Lord's chosen ruler of His people [1 Samuel 13:14; 18:8; 2 Samuel 7:1-17].
When you are tempted to judge someone by his outward appearance, remember Thomas Aquinas and King David. The heart is what matters to God. --- Dennis Fisher
First impressions can mislead us,
For we do not know the heart;
We can often be mistaken,
Since we only know in part. --- Fitzhugh
THE TRUE MEASURE OF A PERSON IS WHAT'S IN THE HEART.
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
A Crooked Generation
Read: Philippians 2:12-16
Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless ... in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. --- Phil. 2:14-15
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 30-31
John 18:1-18
You could call today's generation "crooked and perverse," just as Paul described his own generation in Philippians 2:15. Even Moses would have understood what Paul was talking about, for he said of Israel, "They have corrupted themselves; they are not His children, because of their blemish: a perverse and crooked generation" [Deuteronomy 32:5].
Crookedness refers to the means by which people accomplish their objectives --- doing whatever it takes to get what they want. Shortcuts to success are applauded. Some even boast about how they circumvent the law.
Perversion refers to the way people distort the truth. For example, I heard about three teenagers who wanted to end their stay in a youth hostel long before their expected departure. They angrily insisted that the manager return their nonrefundable deposit. When he finally gave in and the three teens were on their way out, they exclaimed to the hostel's other guests that they had been forced to leave.
We may sometimes get hurt by the crooked behavior and distorted thinking of people. But we are called to be "blameless and harmless" and to "shine as lights in the world" [Philippians 2:15].
Let's show the world a different way of living. --- Albert Lee
We are called with a holy calling
The light of the world to be,
To lift up the lamp of the Savior
That others His light may see. --- Anon.
THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW WAY IS GOD'S WAY FOR A CROOKED GENERATION.
Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless ... in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation. --- Phil. 2:14-15
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 30-31
John 18:1-18
You could call today's generation "crooked and perverse," just as Paul described his own generation in Philippians 2:15. Even Moses would have understood what Paul was talking about, for he said of Israel, "They have corrupted themselves; they are not His children, because of their blemish: a perverse and crooked generation" [Deuteronomy 32:5].
Crookedness refers to the means by which people accomplish their objectives --- doing whatever it takes to get what they want. Shortcuts to success are applauded. Some even boast about how they circumvent the law.
Perversion refers to the way people distort the truth. For example, I heard about three teenagers who wanted to end their stay in a youth hostel long before their expected departure. They angrily insisted that the manager return their nonrefundable deposit. When he finally gave in and the three teens were on their way out, they exclaimed to the hostel's other guests that they had been forced to leave.
We may sometimes get hurt by the crooked behavior and distorted thinking of people. But we are called to be "blameless and harmless" and to "shine as lights in the world" [Philippians 2:15].
Let's show the world a different way of living. --- Albert Lee
We are called with a holy calling
The light of the world to be,
To lift up the lamp of the Savior
That others His light may see. --- Anon.
THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW WAY IS GOD'S WAY FOR A CROOKED GENERATION.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Above All
Read: John 3:22-36
He who comes from heaven is above all. --- John 3:31
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 28-29
John 17
In the mid-1800s, Ralph Waldo Emerson became a leader in a philosophical movement known as "transcendentalism," which says that truth comes from personal insight. Emerson wrote, "To believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men --- that is genius."
Sadly, Emerson's faulty thinking took root, and personal thoughts about God replaced God's thoughts and words about Himself. The Lord said in Isaiah, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts" [55:9].
One of ancient Israel's songwriters expressed God's greatness this way: "I know that the LORD is great, and our Lord is above all gods. Whatever the LORD pleases He does, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deep places" [Psalm 135:5-6].
Jesus, the image of the invisible God, is the source of all truth [Colossians 1:15-19]. John the Baptist said of Him: "He who comes from heaven is above all" [John 3:31].
Only God, the creator of all things, deserves to be called transcendent --- that is, above and beyond all things. Contrary to what Emerson concluded, truth comes from above, not from within. --- Julie Ackerman Link
No matter how we think and try
To understand the Lord above,
Our thoughts can only amplify
Our need to know His truth and love. --- Hess
HE IS NO GENIUS WHO IGNORES HIS CREATOR.
He who comes from heaven is above all. --- John 3:31
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 28-29
John 17
In the mid-1800s, Ralph Waldo Emerson became a leader in a philosophical movement known as "transcendentalism," which says that truth comes from personal insight. Emerson wrote, "To believe your own thought, to believe that what is true for you in your private heart is true for all men --- that is genius."
Sadly, Emerson's faulty thinking took root, and personal thoughts about God replaced God's thoughts and words about Himself. The Lord said in Isaiah, "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts" [55:9].
One of ancient Israel's songwriters expressed God's greatness this way: "I know that the LORD is great, and our Lord is above all gods. Whatever the LORD pleases He does, in heaven and in earth, in the seas and in all deep places" [Psalm 135:5-6].
Jesus, the image of the invisible God, is the source of all truth [Colossians 1:15-19]. John the Baptist said of Him: "He who comes from heaven is above all" [John 3:31].
Only God, the creator of all things, deserves to be called transcendent --- that is, above and beyond all things. Contrary to what Emerson concluded, truth comes from above, not from within. --- Julie Ackerman Link
No matter how we think and try
To understand the Lord above,
Our thoughts can only amplify
Our need to know His truth and love. --- Hess
HE IS NO GENIUS WHO IGNORES HIS CREATOR.
Monday, June 05, 2006
A Vision That Transforms
Read: 2 Corinthians 3:7-18
We all ... are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. --- 2 Corinthians 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 25-27
John 16
In one version of they mythical tale of King Arthur, the young king is hiding in a tree, nervously awaiting his betrothed. After falling, he felt he had to explain himself to the princess. So he recounted how he mysteriously was able to pull a sword out of a stone, entitling him to be king.
"That's how I became king," Arthur told her. "I never wanted to be. And since I am, I have been ill at ease in my crown --- until I dropped from the tree and my eye beheld you. Then suddenly, for the first time, I felt I was king. I was glad to be king. And most astonishing of all, I wanted to be the wisest, most heroic, most splendid king who ever sat on any throne." Simply gazing at his beloved brought about a change in character and purpose.
As we reflect on our beloved, the Lord Jesus, we too experience a transformation. Paul wrote, "We all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from the glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord" [2 Corinthians 3:18].
By gazing at our Lord in the pages of Scripture, and by yielding to the Holy Spirit, we become different people. We will want to become more like Him. And our highest desire will be to please Him. --- Dennis Fisher
Every day more like my Savior,
Every day my will resign,
Till at last Christ reigns supremely
In this grateful heart of mine. --- Brandt
ONLY JESUS CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE.
We all ... are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. --- 2 Corinthians 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 25-27
John 16
In one version of they mythical tale of King Arthur, the young king is hiding in a tree, nervously awaiting his betrothed. After falling, he felt he had to explain himself to the princess. So he recounted how he mysteriously was able to pull a sword out of a stone, entitling him to be king.
"That's how I became king," Arthur told her. "I never wanted to be. And since I am, I have been ill at ease in my crown --- until I dropped from the tree and my eye beheld you. Then suddenly, for the first time, I felt I was king. I was glad to be king. And most astonishing of all, I wanted to be the wisest, most heroic, most splendid king who ever sat on any throne." Simply gazing at his beloved brought about a change in character and purpose.
As we reflect on our beloved, the Lord Jesus, we too experience a transformation. Paul wrote, "We all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from the glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord" [2 Corinthians 3:18].
By gazing at our Lord in the pages of Scripture, and by yielding to the Holy Spirit, we become different people. We will want to become more like Him. And our highest desire will be to please Him. --- Dennis Fisher
Every day more like my Savior,
Every day my will resign,
Till at last Christ reigns supremely
In this grateful heart of mine. --- Brandt
ONLY JESUS CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
A Friend To The End
Read: Proverbs 18:14-24
There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. --- Proverbs 18:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 23-24
John 15
Traditionally, medical schools have trained their students to help patients live, while offering little instruction in helping them face death. But that is changing with the addition of courses in end-of-life care. Physicians are now taught that when they have used all their medical expertise without achieving a cure, they should seize the opportunity to stand compassionately beside their dying patients and be a friend.
Death frightens many of us and makes us feel awkward in the presence of a terminally ill person. But our greatest opportunities to help someone in Jesus' name may come during a person's final days on earth.
The Bible speaks of a friendship that knows no limits. "A friend loves at all times," said the wise man [Proverbs 17:17]. And "there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" [18:24]. Jesus siad, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" [John 15:13].
Jesus is both our Great Physician and our Friend, and He promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us [Hebrews 13:5]. He calls us to stand with our friends and family in His name as their earthly journey nears its end. That's what a true friend would do. --- David McCasland
A friend is he who always knows
When the cold wind of trouble blows,
Who comes in dark and stormy night
With friendship's glowing lamp alight. --- Mason
A TRUE FRIEND STAYS TRUE TO THE END.
There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. --- Proverbs 18:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 23-24
John 15
Traditionally, medical schools have trained their students to help patients live, while offering little instruction in helping them face death. But that is changing with the addition of courses in end-of-life care. Physicians are now taught that when they have used all their medical expertise without achieving a cure, they should seize the opportunity to stand compassionately beside their dying patients and be a friend.
Death frightens many of us and makes us feel awkward in the presence of a terminally ill person. But our greatest opportunities to help someone in Jesus' name may come during a person's final days on earth.
The Bible speaks of a friendship that knows no limits. "A friend loves at all times," said the wise man [Proverbs 17:17]. And "there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother" [18:24]. Jesus siad, "Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends" [John 15:13].
Jesus is both our Great Physician and our Friend, and He promised that He would never leave us nor forsake us [Hebrews 13:5]. He calls us to stand with our friends and family in His name as their earthly journey nears its end. That's what a true friend would do. --- David McCasland
A friend is he who always knows
When the cold wind of trouble blows,
Who comes in dark and stormy night
With friendship's glowing lamp alight. --- Mason
A TRUE FRIEND STAYS TRUE TO THE END.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Have A Great Day!
Read: Psalm 118
This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. --- Psalm 118:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 21-22
John 14
I was in a convenience store one day, standing in line behind a man paying for his groceries. When he was finished, the clerk sent him off with a cheery "Have a great day!"
To the clerk's surprise [and mine] the man exploded in anger. "This is one of the worst days of my life," he shouted. "How can I have a great day?" And with that he stormed out of the store.
I understand the man's frustration; I too have "bad" days over which I have no control. How can I have a great day, I ask myself, when it's beyond my control? Then I remember these words: "This is the day the LORD has made" [Psalm 118:24].
The LORD has made ever day, and my Father will show Himself strong on my behalf today. He has control over everything in it --- even the hard things that will my way. All events have been screened through His wisdom and love, and they are opportunities for me to grow in faith. "His mercy endures forever" [v.1]. "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear" [v.6].
Now, when people give me the parting admonition to have a great day, I reply, "That's beyond my control, but I can be grateful for whatever comes my way, and rejoice --- for this is the day the LORD has made." --- David Roper
When dawn announces each new day,
Before you rise up out of bed,
Rejoice --- be glad and give God praise,
And thank Him for what lies ahead. --- Sper
A SMILE IS A CURVE THAT CAN SET THINGS STRAIGHT.
This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. --- Psalm 118:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 21-22
John 14
I was in a convenience store one day, standing in line behind a man paying for his groceries. When he was finished, the clerk sent him off with a cheery "Have a great day!"
To the clerk's surprise [and mine] the man exploded in anger. "This is one of the worst days of my life," he shouted. "How can I have a great day?" And with that he stormed out of the store.
I understand the man's frustration; I too have "bad" days over which I have no control. How can I have a great day, I ask myself, when it's beyond my control? Then I remember these words: "This is the day the LORD has made" [Psalm 118:24].
The LORD has made ever day, and my Father will show Himself strong on my behalf today. He has control over everything in it --- even the hard things that will my way. All events have been screened through His wisdom and love, and they are opportunities for me to grow in faith. "His mercy endures forever" [v.1]. "The LORD is on my side; I will not fear" [v.6].
Now, when people give me the parting admonition to have a great day, I reply, "That's beyond my control, but I can be grateful for whatever comes my way, and rejoice --- for this is the day the LORD has made." --- David Roper
When dawn announces each new day,
Before you rise up out of bed,
Rejoice --- be glad and give God praise,
And thank Him for what lies ahead. --- Sper
A SMILE IS A CURVE THAT CAN SET THINGS STRAIGHT.
Friday, June 02, 2006
I'll Pay You Later
Read: Luke 14:7-14
You shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just. --- Luke 14:14
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 19-20
John 13:21-38
Suppose a boss were to say to an employee, "We really appreciate what you're doing around here, but we've decided to change the way we pay you. Starting today, we're going to pay you later --- after you retire." Would the employee jump for joy? Of course not. That's not the way things work in this world. We like our payment now --- or at least every payday.
Did you know that God promise to "pay" us later --- much later? And He asks us to be happy about it!
Jesus suggested that our ultimate reward for the good things we do in His name comes after we die. In Luke 14, Jesus said that if we care for the poor, the lame, and the blind, our reward for such kindness will come at the resurrection of the righteous [Luke 14:14]. He also said that if we are persecuted, we should "rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed [our] reward is great in heaven" [6:22-23]. Surely, the Lord gives us comfort, love, and guidance today, but what wonderful things He has planned for us in the future!
This may not be the way we would have planned it; we don't enjoy waiting for things. But imagine how glorious it will be when we receive our rewards in Jesus' presence. What a grand time we'll have as we enjoy what God has reserved for later. --- Dave Branon
Beyond earth's sorrows, the joys of heaven,
Eternal blessings with Christ my Lord;
Earth's weeping ended, earth's trials over,
Sweet rest in Jesus, O blest reward! --- Gilmore
WHAT IS DONE FOR CHRIST IN THIS LIFE WILL BE REWARDED IN THE LIFE TO COME.
You shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just. --- Luke 14:14
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 19-20
John 13:21-38
Suppose a boss were to say to an employee, "We really appreciate what you're doing around here, but we've decided to change the way we pay you. Starting today, we're going to pay you later --- after you retire." Would the employee jump for joy? Of course not. That's not the way things work in this world. We like our payment now --- or at least every payday.
Did you know that God promise to "pay" us later --- much later? And He asks us to be happy about it!
Jesus suggested that our ultimate reward for the good things we do in His name comes after we die. In Luke 14, Jesus said that if we care for the poor, the lame, and the blind, our reward for such kindness will come at the resurrection of the righteous [Luke 14:14]. He also said that if we are persecuted, we should "rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed [our] reward is great in heaven" [6:22-23]. Surely, the Lord gives us comfort, love, and guidance today, but what wonderful things He has planned for us in the future!
This may not be the way we would have planned it; we don't enjoy waiting for things. But imagine how glorious it will be when we receive our rewards in Jesus' presence. What a grand time we'll have as we enjoy what God has reserved for later. --- Dave Branon
Beyond earth's sorrows, the joys of heaven,
Eternal blessings with Christ my Lord;
Earth's weeping ended, earth's trials over,
Sweet rest in Jesus, O blest reward! --- Gilmore
WHAT IS DONE FOR CHRIST IN THIS LIFE WILL BE REWARDED IN THE LIFE TO COME.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Five-Finger Prayers
Read: James 5:13-18
Pray for one another. --- James 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 17-18
John 13:1-20
Prayer is a conversation with God, not a formula. Yet sometimes we might need to use a "method" to freshen up our prayer time. We can pray the Psalms or other Scriptures [such as The Lord's Prayer], or use the ACTS method [Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication]. I recently came across this "Five-Finger Prayer" to use as a guide when praying for others:
When you fold your hands, the thumb is nearest you. So begin by praying for those closest to you --- your loved ones [Philippians 1:3-5]. The index finger is the pointer. Pray for those who teach --- Bible teachers and preachers, and those who teach children [1 Thessalonians 5:25]. The next figner is the tallest. It reminds you to pray for those in authority over you --- national local leaders, and your supervisor at work [1 Timothy 2:1-2]. The fourth finger is usually the weakest. Pray for those who are in trouble or who are suffering [James 5:13-16]. Then comes your little finger. It reminds you of your smallness in relation to God's greatness. Ask Him to supply your needs [Philippians 4:6,19].
Whatever method you use, just talk with your Father. He wants to hear what's on your heart. --- Anne Cetas
Our prayers ascend to heaven's throne
Regardless of the form we use;
Our Father always hears His own
Regardless of the words we choose. --- D. De Haan
IT'S NOT THE WORDS WE PRAY THAT MATTER, IT'S THE CONDITION OF OUR HEART.
Pray for one another. --- James 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 17-18
John 13:1-20
Prayer is a conversation with God, not a formula. Yet sometimes we might need to use a "method" to freshen up our prayer time. We can pray the Psalms or other Scriptures [such as The Lord's Prayer], or use the ACTS method [Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication]. I recently came across this "Five-Finger Prayer" to use as a guide when praying for others:
Whatever method you use, just talk with your Father. He wants to hear what's on your heart. --- Anne Cetas
Our prayers ascend to heaven's throne
Regardless of the form we use;
Our Father always hears His own
Regardless of the words we choose. --- D. De Haan
IT'S NOT THE WORDS WE PRAY THAT MATTER, IT'S THE CONDITION OF OUR HEART.
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