Read: John 3:1-16
Do not marvel that I said to you, "You must be born again." --- John 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 11-13
Ephesians 4
Lord Kenneth Clark, internationally known for his television series Civilization, lived and died without faith in Jesus Christ. In his autobiography, he wrote about an overwhelming religious experience he had while visiting a beautiful church.
"My whole being," Clark wrote, "was irradiated by a kind of heavenly joy far more intense thana anything I had known before." Unfortunately, the "flood of grace," as he described it, created a problem for him. If he allowed himself to be influenced by it, he knew he would have to change. His family might think he had lost his mind. Or perhaps the intense joy would prove to be an illusion. So he concluded, "I was too deeply embedded in the world to change course."
What a tragedy! If only he had responded to that grace-granted glimpse of another world! If only he had allowed it to turn his attention away from this world and toward Jesus! Then he would have become a part of that invisible world, which is not an illusion but a glorious reality.
God can enable any of us to change, no matter how deeply embedded we may be in this world. The miracle of the new birth [John 3:5-7] will take place when we say yes to the stirring of God's grace in our souls. --- Vernon Grounds
The Saviour is waiting to save you
And cleanse every sin-stain away;
By faith you can know full forgiveness
And be a new creature today! --- Bosch
SALVATION IS NOT REFORMATION BUT TRANSFORMATION.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Friday, September 29, 2006
A Great Mystery
Read: Luke 16:19-31
We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. --- 2 Corinthians 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 9-10
Ephesians 3
Many people love mysteries. It's exciting to put ourselves in the shoes of a detective and try to figure out "whodunit" as we turn the pages of a mystery novel. But there's a cliffhanger that we'll never resolve --- until we experience it ourselves.
Those of us who have watched in sadness as someone close to us has died may wonder about their new existence. Our hearts ache to know what they are doing or where they are. If they had trusted Jesus Christ as Savior, we know they are in heaven. But, for now, a veil separates us from our loved ones and we cannot see behind it.
We do have a few clues about this mystery, though. We know that our departed loved ones are enjoying God's presence [2 Corinthians 5:8]. We also know that they are recognizable and conscious of their surroundings --- just like the rich man and the beggar Jesus spoke of in Luke 16:22-23. And we know that they haven't yet received the perfect body that will be theirs when Christ returns [1 Thessalonians 4:13-17].
Beyond that, we are left with this truth: God, in His matchless love and power, is planning a glorious reunion. Then, our eternal rejoicing will begin. The last page of this great mystery has a happy ending. --- Dave Branon
The Lord has promised to prepare
A place in heaven above ---
A home where we will always be
With Him and those we love. --- Sper
GOD'S PEOPLE NEVER SAY GOODBYE FOR THE LAST TIME.
We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. --- 2 Corinthians 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 9-10
Ephesians 3
Many people love mysteries. It's exciting to put ourselves in the shoes of a detective and try to figure out "whodunit" as we turn the pages of a mystery novel. But there's a cliffhanger that we'll never resolve --- until we experience it ourselves.
Those of us who have watched in sadness as someone close to us has died may wonder about their new existence. Our hearts ache to know what they are doing or where they are. If they had trusted Jesus Christ as Savior, we know they are in heaven. But, for now, a veil separates us from our loved ones and we cannot see behind it.
We do have a few clues about this mystery, though. We know that our departed loved ones are enjoying God's presence [2 Corinthians 5:8]. We also know that they are recognizable and conscious of their surroundings --- just like the rich man and the beggar Jesus spoke of in Luke 16:22-23. And we know that they haven't yet received the perfect body that will be theirs when Christ returns [1 Thessalonians 4:13-17].
Beyond that, we are left with this truth: God, in His matchless love and power, is planning a glorious reunion. Then, our eternal rejoicing will begin. The last page of this great mystery has a happy ending. --- Dave Branon
The Lord has promised to prepare
A place in heaven above ---
A home where we will always be
With Him and those we love. --- Sper
GOD'S PEOPLE NEVER SAY GOODBYE FOR THE LAST TIME.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
A Winner Either Way
Read: Philippians 1:15-26
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. --- Philippians 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 7-8
Ephesians 2
Lois had just undergone cancer surgery and was alone with her thoughts. She had faced death before, but it had always been the death of people she had loved --- not her own.
Suddenly she realized that losing someone she loved was more threatening to her than the possibility of losing to her than the possibility of losing her own life. She wondered why. She remembered that she had asked herself before her operation, "Am I ready to die?" Her immediate answer had been, and still was, "Yes, I am. Christ is my Lord and Savior."
With her readiness for death assured, she now needed to concentrate on living. Would it be in fear or in faith? Then God seemed to say, "I have saved you from eternal death. I want to save you from living in fear." Isaiah 43:1 came to mind: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine."
Now Lois testifies, "Yes, I am His! That reality is more important than doctors telling me I have cancer." And then she adds, "I win either way!"
Lois' insight is a convinced echo of Paul's words in today's text, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Let's pray that those words will resonate in our heart. That confidence makes us a winner either way. --- Joanie Yoder
Safe in the Lord, without a doubt,
By virtue of the blood;
For nothing can destroy the life
That's hid with Christ in God. --- Anon.
WE CAN REALLY LIVE IF WE ARE READY TO DIE.
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. --- Philippians 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 7-8
Ephesians 2
Lois had just undergone cancer surgery and was alone with her thoughts. She had faced death before, but it had always been the death of people she had loved --- not her own.
Suddenly she realized that losing someone she loved was more threatening to her than the possibility of losing to her than the possibility of losing her own life. She wondered why. She remembered that she had asked herself before her operation, "Am I ready to die?" Her immediate answer had been, and still was, "Yes, I am. Christ is my Lord and Savior."
With her readiness for death assured, she now needed to concentrate on living. Would it be in fear or in faith? Then God seemed to say, "I have saved you from eternal death. I want to save you from living in fear." Isaiah 43:1 came to mind: "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine."
Now Lois testifies, "Yes, I am His! That reality is more important than doctors telling me I have cancer." And then she adds, "I win either way!"
Lois' insight is a convinced echo of Paul's words in today's text, "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Let's pray that those words will resonate in our heart. That confidence makes us a winner either way. --- Joanie Yoder
Safe in the Lord, without a doubt,
By virtue of the blood;
For nothing can destroy the life
That's hid with Christ in God. --- Anon.
WE CAN REALLY LIVE IF WE ARE READY TO DIE.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Marching Into A Closet
Read: Titus 1:5-16
A bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God. --- Titus 1:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 5-6
Ephesians 1
Author and pastor Stuart Briscoe writes about a funeral for a war veteran in which the man's military buddies had a role in the service. The friends requested that the minister lead them to the casket for a moment of silence. They would then follow the pastor out a side door.
The plan was carried out with military precision --- until the minister marched them into a broom closet. The soldiers had to make an awkward retreat.
That pastor made an honest mistake, but it illustrates that leaders must know where they are going. As go the leaders, so go the followers.
The apostle Paul left Titus on the island of Crete to establish a witness for Jesus Christ. Titus was to appoint leaders for the growing band of believers. Except for preaching the gospel, nothing Titus did for the Christians on Crete was more important than finding the right leadership for them.
Church leaders are to meet the standards set forth in Titus 1:6-9 and guide others to greater maturity in their relationship with Christ. And followers must lovingly hold their spiritual leaders accountable to those goals.
Whether you're leading or following, know where you're going --- or you may end up in a closet. --- Haddon Robinson
Before you follow a leader
Check his beliefs, and pray;
Be sure he's following Jesus,
And that he knows the way. --- Hess
THE ONLY LEADER WORTH FOLLOWING IS ONE WHO IS FOLLOWING CHRIST.
A bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God. --- Titus 1:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 5-6
Ephesians 1
Author and pastor Stuart Briscoe writes about a funeral for a war veteran in which the man's military buddies had a role in the service. The friends requested that the minister lead them to the casket for a moment of silence. They would then follow the pastor out a side door.
The plan was carried out with military precision --- until the minister marched them into a broom closet. The soldiers had to make an awkward retreat.
That pastor made an honest mistake, but it illustrates that leaders must know where they are going. As go the leaders, so go the followers.
The apostle Paul left Titus on the island of Crete to establish a witness for Jesus Christ. Titus was to appoint leaders for the growing band of believers. Except for preaching the gospel, nothing Titus did for the Christians on Crete was more important than finding the right leadership for them.
Church leaders are to meet the standards set forth in Titus 1:6-9 and guide others to greater maturity in their relationship with Christ. And followers must lovingly hold their spiritual leaders accountable to those goals.
Whether you're leading or following, know where you're going --- or you may end up in a closet. --- Haddon Robinson
Before you follow a leader
Check his beliefs, and pray;
Be sure he's following Jesus,
And that he knows the way. --- Hess
THE ONLY LEADER WORTH FOLLOWING IS ONE WHO IS FOLLOWING CHRIST.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
David's Lament
Read: 2 Samuel 12:1-14
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. --- Psalm 51:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 3-4
Galatians 6
You may already know the story. King David, Israel's most illustrious ruler, the man after God's own heart, became the seducer, the adulterer, the liar, the murderer --- utterly pitiless and unmoved by his monstrous misdeeds. Israel's ruler was now ruled by sin.
A year had passed since David committed adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrated the murder of her husband. David deteriorated physically and emotionally. His gnawing conscience kept him restless and melancholy. At night he tossed and turned.
When David was brought face to face with his corruption, his defenses crumbled. He cried, "I have sinned against the LORD" [2 Samuel 12:13]. And Nathan the prophet replied, "The LORD also has put away your sin." Despite the devastating consequences of David's sin, he was assured of God's forgiveness.
After realizing the extent of his sin and its consequences, David penned Psalm 51, a song of repentance and pleading for God's forgiveness. "I acknowledge my transgressions .... Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow" [vv.3,7].
Are you suffering the consequences of sin? Admit your wrongs and ask God to cleanse your heart. He will show mercy and restore your joy if you turn to Him. --- David Roper
Our sinfulness can sap our joy
And make us feel far from the Lord;
Confession and repentance, though,
Provide the way to be restored. --- Sper
REPENTANCE MEANS HATING SIN ENOUGH TO TURN FROM IT.
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. --- Psalm 51:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 3-4
Galatians 6
You may already know the story. King David, Israel's most illustrious ruler, the man after God's own heart, became the seducer, the adulterer, the liar, the murderer --- utterly pitiless and unmoved by his monstrous misdeeds. Israel's ruler was now ruled by sin.
A year had passed since David committed adultery with Bathsheba and orchestrated the murder of her husband. David deteriorated physically and emotionally. His gnawing conscience kept him restless and melancholy. At night he tossed and turned.
When David was brought face to face with his corruption, his defenses crumbled. He cried, "I have sinned against the LORD" [2 Samuel 12:13]. And Nathan the prophet replied, "The LORD also has put away your sin." Despite the devastating consequences of David's sin, he was assured of God's forgiveness.
After realizing the extent of his sin and its consequences, David penned Psalm 51, a song of repentance and pleading for God's forgiveness. "I acknowledge my transgressions .... Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow" [vv.3,7].
Are you suffering the consequences of sin? Admit your wrongs and ask God to cleanse your heart. He will show mercy and restore your joy if you turn to Him. --- David Roper
Our sinfulness can sap our joy
And make us feel far from the Lord;
Confession and repentance, though,
Provide the way to be restored. --- Sper
REPENTANCE MEANS HATING SIN ENOUGH TO TURN FROM IT.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Count On It!
Read: Galatians 6:1-10
Whatever a man sows, that he will reap. --- Galatians 6:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 1-2
Galatians 5
A children's book called The Chance World describes an imaginary planet where everything happens unpredictably. For example, the sun might rise one day or it might not, and it might appear at any hour. Some days the moon might come up in its place. One day you might jump up and not come down, the next day find gravity so strong you can't even lift your feet.
Scottish biologist Henry Drummond commented that in such a place, where natural law was nonexistent, "reason would be impossible. It would become a lunatic world with a population of lunatics."
We should be thankful for the dependability of the natural laws that the Creator has set in motion. They are a great benefit to us if we recognize and respect them. If we violate those laws, however, we will suffer the consequences.
That is also true of God's spiritual laws, such as the one in today's text. The person who ignores God's standards and caters to sinful appetites can expect destruction. But the person who follows the leading of the Holy Spirit will experience the blessings of everlasting life.
God's laws never fail. For better or worse, you will reap what you sow. Count on it! --- Richard De Haan
Surer than autumn's harvests
Are harvests of thought and deed;
Like those that our hands have planted,
The yield will be like the seed. --- Harris
WHEN WE SOW SEEDS OF SIN, WE CAN COUNT ON A HARVEST OF JUDGMENT.
Whatever a man sows, that he will reap. --- Galatians 6:7
The Bible In One Year:
Isaiah 1-2
Galatians 5
A children's book called The Chance World describes an imaginary planet where everything happens unpredictably. For example, the sun might rise one day or it might not, and it might appear at any hour. Some days the moon might come up in its place. One day you might jump up and not come down, the next day find gravity so strong you can't even lift your feet.
Scottish biologist Henry Drummond commented that in such a place, where natural law was nonexistent, "reason would be impossible. It would become a lunatic world with a population of lunatics."
We should be thankful for the dependability of the natural laws that the Creator has set in motion. They are a great benefit to us if we recognize and respect them. If we violate those laws, however, we will suffer the consequences.
That is also true of God's spiritual laws, such as the one in today's text. The person who ignores God's standards and caters to sinful appetites can expect destruction. But the person who follows the leading of the Holy Spirit will experience the blessings of everlasting life.
God's laws never fail. For better or worse, you will reap what you sow. Count on it! --- Richard De Haan
Surer than autumn's harvests
Are harvests of thought and deed;
Like those that our hands have planted,
The yield will be like the seed. --- Harris
WHEN WE SOW SEEDS OF SIN, WE CAN COUNT ON A HARVEST OF JUDGMENT.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Carried Along
Read: Hebrews 2:5-18
Both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren. --- Hebrews 2:11
The Bible In One Year:
Song of Solomon 6-8
Galatians 4
A chorus of groans erupted after the announcement that our flight had been delayed an hour and a half because bad weather in Chicago was allowing only a few planes to land. But a short time later, another announcement caused those same people to cheer. We were told that a medical courier was transporting bone marrow need for a transplant, and this gave our flight top priority to land in Chicago. In a few minutes we were on our way, "carried along" by the important mission of another person.
As we landed and taxied directly to the gate of O'Hare, one of the world's busiest airports, I thought of Jesus Christ, who through His death and resurrection has made it possible for us to enter the presence of God. By faith in His merit alone, we become identified with Him and partake of all that He secured for us. The writer of Hebrews said that "it was fitting for Him, ... in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of me" [2:10-11].
Each day, let's thank God for the saving work of Jesus Christ, whose love and sacrifice have "carried us along" to God the Father. --- David McCasland
To enter heaven when we die,
We have no merit on our own;
But if we've put our faith in Christ,
He'll take us to the Father's throne. --- Sper
IF WE COULD MERIT OUR OWN SALVATION, JESUS WOULD NOT HAVE DIED TO PROVIDE IT.
Both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of one, for which reason He is not ashamed to call them brethren. --- Hebrews 2:11
The Bible In One Year:
Song of Solomon 6-8
Galatians 4
A chorus of groans erupted after the announcement that our flight had been delayed an hour and a half because bad weather in Chicago was allowing only a few planes to land. But a short time later, another announcement caused those same people to cheer. We were told that a medical courier was transporting bone marrow need for a transplant, and this gave our flight top priority to land in Chicago. In a few minutes we were on our way, "carried along" by the important mission of another person.
As we landed and taxied directly to the gate of O'Hare, one of the world's busiest airports, I thought of Jesus Christ, who through His death and resurrection has made it possible for us to enter the presence of God. By faith in His merit alone, we become identified with Him and partake of all that He secured for us. The writer of Hebrews said that "it was fitting for Him, ... in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both He who sanctifies and those who are being sanctified are all of me" [2:10-11].
Each day, let's thank God for the saving work of Jesus Christ, whose love and sacrifice have "carried us along" to God the Father. --- David McCasland
To enter heaven when we die,
We have no merit on our own;
But if we've put our faith in Christ,
He'll take us to the Father's throne. --- Sper
IF WE COULD MERIT OUR OWN SALVATION, JESUS WOULD NOT HAVE DIED TO PROVIDE IT.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Out Of The Dust
Read: Psalm 119:25-32
Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live. --- Psalm 119:77
The Bible In One Year:
Song of Solomon 4-5
Galatians 3
Feeling low? Struggling with one of life's worst-case scenarios? You're not alone.
It would be fantastic if we could recite some spiritually charged words and make all of our problems go away, but that's just not going to happen. Life is not all smiles and happy hearts --- even for the people of God.
Yet even from the darkest expressions of sadness can come the hope of help. The despair of the psalmist, recorded in Psalm 119, leads to the promise of comfort and mercy. Out of tribulation can arise new understnading and strength. The psalmist freely expressed his feelings and his trust that God would take care of him.
"My soul clings to the dust" [v.25]. Then a plea to God: "Revive me according to Your Word."
"My soul melts from heaviness" [v.28]. Then the hope in God's provision: "Strengthen me according to Your Word."
"I will run the course of Your commandments" [v.32]. Even in the midst of deep trials, the psalmist was committed to obeying God.
Yes, express your despair to the Lord --- but don't stop there. Ask Him for mercy and strength. Commit to obeying Him. Cling to His promises in the Scriptures. He will be faithful to see you through any trial. --- Dave Branon
Be still, My child, and know that I am God!
Wait thou patiently --- I know the path you trod.
So falter not, nor fear; nor think to run and hide,
For I, thy hope and strength, am waiting by thy side. --- Hein
IF WE HAVE HOPE, WE CAN GO ON.
Let Your tender mercies come to me, that I may live. --- Psalm 119:77
The Bible In One Year:
Song of Solomon 4-5
Galatians 3
Feeling low? Struggling with one of life's worst-case scenarios? You're not alone.
It would be fantastic if we could recite some spiritually charged words and make all of our problems go away, but that's just not going to happen. Life is not all smiles and happy hearts --- even for the people of God.
Yet even from the darkest expressions of sadness can come the hope of help. The despair of the psalmist, recorded in Psalm 119, leads to the promise of comfort and mercy. Out of tribulation can arise new understnading and strength. The psalmist freely expressed his feelings and his trust that God would take care of him.
"My soul clings to the dust" [v.25]. Then a plea to God: "Revive me according to Your Word."
"My soul melts from heaviness" [v.28]. Then the hope in God's provision: "Strengthen me according to Your Word."
"I will run the course of Your commandments" [v.32]. Even in the midst of deep trials, the psalmist was committed to obeying God.
Yes, express your despair to the Lord --- but don't stop there. Ask Him for mercy and strength. Commit to obeying Him. Cling to His promises in the Scriptures. He will be faithful to see you through any trial. --- Dave Branon
Be still, My child, and know that I am God!
Wait thou patiently --- I know the path you trod.
So falter not, nor fear; nor think to run and hide,
For I, thy hope and strength, am waiting by thy side. --- Hein
IF WE HAVE HOPE, WE CAN GO ON.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Dirty Laundry
Read: Leviticus 10:8-11 & 1 Corinthians 2:13-16
Distinguish between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean. --- Leviticus 10:10
The Bible In One Year:
Song of Solomon 1-3
Galatians 2
Whenever my husband and I leave the house, our dog Maggie goes sniffing for old shoes and dirty laundry. She surrounds herself with what she finds and then sleep with it near her nose. The familiar smells comfort her until we return.
Of course Maggie doesn't realize she's following a levitical command to "distinguish between ... unclean and clean" [Leviticus 10:10]. Nor does she know she's violating it.
In a world still swirling in sin long after its catastrophic collision with evil, God commanded His followers to live holy lives [Leviticus 11:45]. Distinguishing between clean and unclean is essential to that task.
Such discernment requires more than finely tuned physical senses. The apostle Paul wrote that the "natural man" --- that is, a human being in his sinful state --- "does not receive the things of the Spirit of God ...; they are spiritually discerned" [1 Corinthians 2:14]. It is the Holy Spirit who provides this wisdom [v.13].
Just as Maggie finds comfort in old shoes and socks, many people seek comfort in old dirty sins. We must be mindful that our comfort and consolation come from God, who loves us and who establishes us in "every good word and work" [2 Thessalonians 2:16-17]. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free. --- Orr
THERE IS NO TRUE HAPPINESS APART FROM HOLINESS, AND NO HOLINESS APART FROM CHRIST.
Distinguish between holy and unholy, and between unclean and clean. --- Leviticus 10:10
The Bible In One Year:
Song of Solomon 1-3
Galatians 2
Whenever my husband and I leave the house, our dog Maggie goes sniffing for old shoes and dirty laundry. She surrounds herself with what she finds and then sleep with it near her nose. The familiar smells comfort her until we return.
Of course Maggie doesn't realize she's following a levitical command to "distinguish between ... unclean and clean" [Leviticus 10:10]. Nor does she know she's violating it.
In a world still swirling in sin long after its catastrophic collision with evil, God commanded His followers to live holy lives [Leviticus 11:45]. Distinguishing between clean and unclean is essential to that task.
Such discernment requires more than finely tuned physical senses. The apostle Paul wrote that the "natural man" --- that is, a human being in his sinful state --- "does not receive the things of the Spirit of God ...; they are spiritually discerned" [1 Corinthians 2:14]. It is the Holy Spirit who provides this wisdom [v.13].
Just as Maggie finds comfort in old shoes and socks, many people seek comfort in old dirty sins. We must be mindful that our comfort and consolation come from God, who loves us and who establishes us in "every good word and work" [2 Thessalonians 2:16-17]. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free. --- Orr
THERE IS NO TRUE HAPPINESS APART FROM HOLINESS, AND NO HOLINESS APART FROM CHRIST.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Bring Out The Shine
Read: Job 23:8-17
He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. --- Job 23:10
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 10-12
Galatians 1
Many years ago I bought a 1964 Volkswagen from my neighbor. The car was mechanically sound, but the outside looked pretty rough. Dents marred its surface, and dirt and grime had dulled its once deep blue color.
As time passed, I wondered if its original luster and beauty could be restored. I was sure its bumps could be eliminated, but what about the finish? So I began to experiment on some of the worst spots. Much to my delight, I discovered that with a lot of elbow grease and some rubbing compound my drab little Volkswagen could be brought to a beautiful shine.
We as Christians have the wonderful potential of reflecting the beauty of our Savior. But sin has left its mark on our personalities, and a lot of "road film" needs to be removed before the lovely character of Jesus can be seen in us.
God often brings about this change through the buffing of hardship and trials, for pressure has a way of loosening the dirt and grime of rebellion and selfishness. The Bible tells us that tribulation produces perseverance, character, hope, and confidence by the Holy Spirit [Romans 5:3-5].
We might wish that a speedy "car wash" could do the job, but there's no substitute for the difficulties that can bring out the shine of Christlike character. --- Dennis De Haan
What pains my dear Lord must be taking,
How true and how faithful His care;
I know if He gave me all sunshine
I could not His own image bear. --- Beattie
A GEM CANNOT BE POLISHED WITHOUT FRICTION, NOR A MAN PERFECTED WITHOUT ADVERSITY.
He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. --- Job 23:10
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 10-12
Galatians 1
Many years ago I bought a 1964 Volkswagen from my neighbor. The car was mechanically sound, but the outside looked pretty rough. Dents marred its surface, and dirt and grime had dulled its once deep blue color.
As time passed, I wondered if its original luster and beauty could be restored. I was sure its bumps could be eliminated, but what about the finish? So I began to experiment on some of the worst spots. Much to my delight, I discovered that with a lot of elbow grease and some rubbing compound my drab little Volkswagen could be brought to a beautiful shine.
We as Christians have the wonderful potential of reflecting the beauty of our Savior. But sin has left its mark on our personalities, and a lot of "road film" needs to be removed before the lovely character of Jesus can be seen in us.
God often brings about this change through the buffing of hardship and trials, for pressure has a way of loosening the dirt and grime of rebellion and selfishness. The Bible tells us that tribulation produces perseverance, character, hope, and confidence by the Holy Spirit [Romans 5:3-5].
We might wish that a speedy "car wash" could do the job, but there's no substitute for the difficulties that can bring out the shine of Christlike character. --- Dennis De Haan
What pains my dear Lord must be taking,
How true and how faithful His care;
I know if He gave me all sunshine
I could not His own image bear. --- Beattie
A GEM CANNOT BE POLISHED WITHOUT FRICTION, NOR A MAN PERFECTED WITHOUT ADVERSITY.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Invisible Companions
Read: Hebrews 12:18-24
You have come to ... an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly. --- Hebrews 12:22-23
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 7-9
2 Corinthians 13
One Sunday morning while traveling in West Virginia, we visited a small church in a tiny village. Only 15 people were present, yet they radiated joy as they sang. And the pastor preached from the Bible with enthusiasm. But I couldn't shake a feeling of sympathy for him and his people. With little chance for growth, it looked like a discouraging ministry.
But the testimony of a young seminarian showed me how wrong I was! Assigned to minister in a small village chapel, he was dismayed when only two people stayed for the communion service. As he read from the liturgy, he came to the words: "Therefore, with angels and arcangels and all the company of heaven, we worship and adore. Thy glorious name." That sentence changed everything for him. In his heart he said, "God forgive me. I did not know I was in that great company."
When we came to Christ in faith, we joined an invisible host of companions, what the writer of Hebrews says is an "innumerable company of angels," and "the general assembly and church of the firstborn" [12:22-23]. Keep this amazing reality in mind as you worship God. It will give great meaning to every service, whether thousands of fellow worshipers are present, or just two or three. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Glory to God, and praise and love
Be ever, ever given
By saints below and saints above,
The church in earth and heaven. --- Wesley
WHEN CHRISTIAN WORSHIP HERE ON EARTH, THE HOSTS OF HEAVEN ARE WORSHIPING WITH THEM.
You have come to ... an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly. --- Hebrews 12:22-23
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 7-9
2 Corinthians 13
One Sunday morning while traveling in West Virginia, we visited a small church in a tiny village. Only 15 people were present, yet they radiated joy as they sang. And the pastor preached from the Bible with enthusiasm. But I couldn't shake a feeling of sympathy for him and his people. With little chance for growth, it looked like a discouraging ministry.
But the testimony of a young seminarian showed me how wrong I was! Assigned to minister in a small village chapel, he was dismayed when only two people stayed for the communion service. As he read from the liturgy, he came to the words: "Therefore, with angels and arcangels and all the company of heaven, we worship and adore. Thy glorious name." That sentence changed everything for him. In his heart he said, "God forgive me. I did not know I was in that great company."
When we came to Christ in faith, we joined an invisible host of companions, what the writer of Hebrews says is an "innumerable company of angels," and "the general assembly and church of the firstborn" [12:22-23]. Keep this amazing reality in mind as you worship God. It will give great meaning to every service, whether thousands of fellow worshipers are present, or just two or three. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Glory to God, and praise and love
Be ever, ever given
By saints below and saints above,
The church in earth and heaven. --- Wesley
WHEN CHRISTIAN WORSHIP HERE ON EARTH, THE HOSTS OF HEAVEN ARE WORSHIPING WITH THEM.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Why Me?
Read: Luke 17:11-19
One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God. --- Luke 17:15
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 4-6
2 Corinthians 12
A few years ago, an unkempt, poorly adjusted youth named Tim [not his real name] was converted to Christ in an evangelistic crusade. Several days later, still unkempt but bathed in the love of Christ, he was send to my home so that I could help him find a good church. And so it was that he began attending with me.
Though Tim needed and received much loving help in personal grooming and basic social graces, one characteristic has remained unchanged --- his untamed love for his Savior.
One Sunday after church TIm rushed to my side, looking somewhat perplexed. He exclaimed, "Why me? I keep asking myself, why me?" Oh, no, I thought, he's become another complaining Christian. Then with arms outstretched, he went on to say, "Out of all the people in the world who are greater and smarter than I am, why did God choose me?" With that he joyfully clapped his hands.
Over the years I've heard many Christians, including myself, ask "Why me?" during rough times. But Tim is the first one I've heard ask that question when talking about God's blessings. Many were converted the same night as Tim, but I wonder how many among them have humbly asked, "Why me?" May we ask it often. --- Joanie Yoder
I know not why God's wondrous grace
To me He hath made known;
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own. --- Whittle
GRATITUDE SHOULD BE A CONTINUOUS ATTITUDE.
One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God. --- Luke 17:15
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 4-6
2 Corinthians 12
A few years ago, an unkempt, poorly adjusted youth named Tim [not his real name] was converted to Christ in an evangelistic crusade. Several days later, still unkempt but bathed in the love of Christ, he was send to my home so that I could help him find a good church. And so it was that he began attending with me.
Though Tim needed and received much loving help in personal grooming and basic social graces, one characteristic has remained unchanged --- his untamed love for his Savior.
One Sunday after church TIm rushed to my side, looking somewhat perplexed. He exclaimed, "Why me? I keep asking myself, why me?" Oh, no, I thought, he's become another complaining Christian. Then with arms outstretched, he went on to say, "Out of all the people in the world who are greater and smarter than I am, why did God choose me?" With that he joyfully clapped his hands.
Over the years I've heard many Christians, including myself, ask "Why me?" during rough times. But Tim is the first one I've heard ask that question when talking about God's blessings. Many were converted the same night as Tim, but I wonder how many among them have humbly asked, "Why me?" May we ask it often. --- Joanie Yoder
I know not why God's wondrous grace
To me He hath made known;
Nor why, unworthy, Christ in love
Redeemed me for His own. --- Whittle
GRATITUDE SHOULD BE A CONTINUOUS ATTITUDE.
Monday, September 18, 2006
Our Lord's Command
Read: John 21:14-22
Jesus said, ... "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." --- Mark 1:17
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 1-3
2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Jesus asked Simon Peter a heart-searching question long ago on the seashore in Galilee: "Do you love Me?" [John 21:15-17]. Then the risen Lord told His disciple Peter that his future would lead to martyrdom. And Peter accepted that destiny without complaint.
But then Peter asked about the apostle John's future [v.21]. We can only guess what motivated his question. Was it brotherly concern? Was it fleshly curiosity? Was it resentment because he thought that John might be spared a martyr's death?
Whatever Peter's motive, Jesus responded with a counter-question that applied not just to Peter but to every follower of His: "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me" [v.22]. In that question, Jesus was saying in essence, "Don't worry about what happens in the life of anybody else. Your task is to keep following Me steadfastly."
It is so easy to let our relationship with the Lord be overly influenced by the behavior and experiences of others. But we must not be concerned with what God has planned for anyone else. Through the conflicting voices that surround us, we must keep hearing the Savior's clear command: "You follow Me." --- Vernon Grounds
Jesus calls us o'er the tumult
Of our life's wild, restless sea,
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth,
Saying, "Christian, follow Me." --- Alexanderb
TO FIND YOUR WAY THROUGH LIFE, FOLLOW JESUS.
Jesus said, ... "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." --- Mark 1:17
The Bible In One Year:
Ecclesiastes 1-3
2 Corinthians 11:16-33
Jesus asked Simon Peter a heart-searching question long ago on the seashore in Galilee: "Do you love Me?" [John 21:15-17]. Then the risen Lord told His disciple Peter that his future would lead to martyrdom. And Peter accepted that destiny without complaint.
But then Peter asked about the apostle John's future [v.21]. We can only guess what motivated his question. Was it brotherly concern? Was it fleshly curiosity? Was it resentment because he thought that John might be spared a martyr's death?
Whatever Peter's motive, Jesus responded with a counter-question that applied not just to Peter but to every follower of His: "If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me" [v.22]. In that question, Jesus was saying in essence, "Don't worry about what happens in the life of anybody else. Your task is to keep following Me steadfastly."
It is so easy to let our relationship with the Lord be overly influenced by the behavior and experiences of others. But we must not be concerned with what God has planned for anyone else. Through the conflicting voices that surround us, we must keep hearing the Savior's clear command: "You follow Me." --- Vernon Grounds
Jesus calls us o'er the tumult
Of our life's wild, restless sea,
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth,
Saying, "Christian, follow Me." --- Alexanderb
TO FIND YOUR WAY THROUGH LIFE, FOLLOW JESUS.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
A "Well" Church
Read: Acts 2:41-47
They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship. --- Acts 2:42
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 30-31
2 Corinthians 11:1-15
Pastor and author Greg Laurie says that churches are "well" when they practice these activities:
W-orship
E-vangelize
L-earn
L-ove
Like the early church, we should be active in these ways today.
Worship. We must meet together for fellowship, communion, prayer, and praise [Acts 2:42,47]. God is to be the focus of all we do in His church.
Evangelize. As we share the Word, the Lord will add new believers to the church [v.47]. We can all take part in spreading God's Word by developing a friendship, by giving someone an article about the gospel, or by sharing some Scripture verses with a stranger.
Learn. We must continue learning sound doctrine taught by qualified leaders [v.42]. The Bible is filled with instruction for living, and we should take every opportunity to learn from it, apply it to our lives, and teach others.
Love. We are to share with whoever has need, and enjoy the fellowship of other believers regularly [vv.45-46].
A church whose members worship, evangelize, learn, and love will be a "well" church, effective in the community, and appreciated by "all the people" [v.47]. --- Anne Cetas
Churches grow when people pray
And pastors preach the Word,
When love for Christ sends out the call
To those who have not heard. --- D. De Haan
A WORLD IN DESPAIR NEEDS CHURCHES THAT CARE.
They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship. --- Acts 2:42
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 30-31
2 Corinthians 11:1-15
Pastor and author Greg Laurie says that churches are "well" when they practice these activities:
W-orship
E-vangelize
L-earn
L-ove
Like the early church, we should be active in these ways today.
Worship. We must meet together for fellowship, communion, prayer, and praise [Acts 2:42,47]. God is to be the focus of all we do in His church.
Evangelize. As we share the Word, the Lord will add new believers to the church [v.47]. We can all take part in spreading God's Word by developing a friendship, by giving someone an article about the gospel, or by sharing some Scripture verses with a stranger.
Learn. We must continue learning sound doctrine taught by qualified leaders [v.42]. The Bible is filled with instruction for living, and we should take every opportunity to learn from it, apply it to our lives, and teach others.
Love. We are to share with whoever has need, and enjoy the fellowship of other believers regularly [vv.45-46].
A church whose members worship, evangelize, learn, and love will be a "well" church, effective in the community, and appreciated by "all the people" [v.47]. --- Anne Cetas
Churches grow when people pray
And pastors preach the Word,
When love for Christ sends out the call
To those who have not heard. --- D. De Haan
A WORLD IN DESPAIR NEEDS CHURCHES THAT CARE.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
Magic Or Miracle?
Read: John 10:22-39
Though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him. --- John 10:38
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 27-29
2 Corinthians 10
Magician Harry Houdini often performed an amazing escape. He was handcuffed, put inside a sack, and locked in a trunk --- but he always managed to free himself. Some claimed that he had supernatural powers, but Houdine himself said that all his tricks could be explained.
When a museum in Wisconsin opened an exhibit that showed the secret of Houdine's famous escape act, many magicians said it violated their code of ethics that prohibits revealing how tricks are performed. The exhibit proved Houdine was a magician, not a miracle worker.
Jesus, however, was a miracle worker. He attributed His supernatural acts to the power of God. He performed them to heal people and to prove that He was who He claimed to be --- the Son of God. He said, "The works [miracles] that I don in My Father's name, they bear witness of Me .... Though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him" [John 10:25,38].
The wonderful works of Jesus established His identity in history. The marvelous works He performs through all who trust Him reveal His identity in the world today. Have you found that to be true in your life? --- David McCasland
Sometimes we see a miracle,
And faith in God revives;
Yet we should see God's gracious hand
At work throughout our lives. --- Hess
IN A WORLD OF SMOKE AND MIRRORS, JESUS OFFERS THE MIRACLE OF SALVATION.
Though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him. --- John 10:38
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 27-29
2 Corinthians 10
Magician Harry Houdini often performed an amazing escape. He was handcuffed, put inside a sack, and locked in a trunk --- but he always managed to free himself. Some claimed that he had supernatural powers, but Houdine himself said that all his tricks could be explained.
When a museum in Wisconsin opened an exhibit that showed the secret of Houdine's famous escape act, many magicians said it violated their code of ethics that prohibits revealing how tricks are performed. The exhibit proved Houdine was a magician, not a miracle worker.
Jesus, however, was a miracle worker. He attributed His supernatural acts to the power of God. He performed them to heal people and to prove that He was who He claimed to be --- the Son of God. He said, "The works [miracles] that I don in My Father's name, they bear witness of Me .... Though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him" [John 10:25,38].
The wonderful works of Jesus established His identity in history. The marvelous works He performs through all who trust Him reveal His identity in the world today. Have you found that to be true in your life? --- David McCasland
Sometimes we see a miracle,
And faith in God revives;
Yet we should see God's gracious hand
At work throughout our lives. --- Hess
IN A WORLD OF SMOKE AND MIRRORS, JESUS OFFERS THE MIRACLE OF SALVATION.
Friday, September 15, 2006
"I Hurt For You"
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it. --- 1 Corinthians 12:26
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 25-26
2 Corinthians 9
When my sons were young, one of them stubbed his toe and grimaced with pain. Seeing him trying bravely to bear the agony of those moments, I said, "Son, I'm truly sorry. My toe hurts for you."
Lifting his head, he looked at me and responded, "Dad, your toe doesn't really hurt, does it?"
No, I didn't sense any physical pangs, yet I did share his suffering. I even wished his ache could somehow be transfered to my body.
The apostle Paul said that all believers in Christ are part of "one body" [1 Corinthians 12:13]. And if one part suffers, "all the members suffer with it" [v.26].
Are you grieved when a brother or sister in Christ is in trouble? Does it bother you when a believer stumbles into sin and is brought under the chastening hand of the Lord? Do you experience sorrow of heart when a child of God is passing through the deep waters of affliction and trial? If not, ask the Lord right now to help you become the kind of person who can share the heartache of others and sympathize with them.
Yes, to every Christian we meet who is in some kind of distress, we should be ready to say from our heart, "I hurt for you." --- Richard De Haan
The hurting ones need sympathy,
They need to know we're there;
A quiet word, a tender touch
Assures them that we care. --- D. De Haan
EMPATHY = YOUR PAIN IN MY HEART.
If one member suffers, all the members suffer with it. --- 1 Corinthians 12:26
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 25-26
2 Corinthians 9
When my sons were young, one of them stubbed his toe and grimaced with pain. Seeing him trying bravely to bear the agony of those moments, I said, "Son, I'm truly sorry. My toe hurts for you."
Lifting his head, he looked at me and responded, "Dad, your toe doesn't really hurt, does it?"
No, I didn't sense any physical pangs, yet I did share his suffering. I even wished his ache could somehow be transfered to my body.
The apostle Paul said that all believers in Christ are part of "one body" [1 Corinthians 12:13]. And if one part suffers, "all the members suffer with it" [v.26].
Are you grieved when a brother or sister in Christ is in trouble? Does it bother you when a believer stumbles into sin and is brought under the chastening hand of the Lord? Do you experience sorrow of heart when a child of God is passing through the deep waters of affliction and trial? If not, ask the Lord right now to help you become the kind of person who can share the heartache of others and sympathize with them.
Yes, to every Christian we meet who is in some kind of distress, we should be ready to say from our heart, "I hurt for you." --- Richard De Haan
The hurting ones need sympathy,
They need to know we're there;
A quiet word, a tender touch
Assures them that we care. --- D. De Haan
EMPATHY = YOUR PAIN IN MY HEART.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Do The Hard Work!
Read: 1 Timothy 6:6-19
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life. --- 1 Timothy 6:12
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 22-24
2 Corinthians 8
After living more than 80 years, I know that any claim that offers an effortless way to develop a lean, well-conditioned body is a hoax. So is any sermon title that promises an easy way to become like Christ.
Author Brennan Manning tells of an alcoholic who asked his minister to pray over him to be delivered form his drinking problem. He thought this would be a quick and easy way to overcome his addiction. Recognizing his motive in asking for prayer, the minister replied, "I've got a better idea. Go to Alcoholics Anonymous." He counseled the man to follow the program diligently and read his Bible daily. "In other words," the minister concluded, "do the hard work."
Do the hard work --- that's what Paul was saying to Timothy when he told him how he should order his life so he could teach believers how they should live. Notice the action verbs: "Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life" [1 Timothy 6:11-12].
Just as there is no easy path to being delivered from alcoholism, so too, there is no effort-free route to Christlikeness. If we really want to become like Jesus, we must keep on doing the hard work. --- Herb Vander Lugt
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
CONVERSION IS THE MIRACLE OF A MOMENT; BECOMING LIKE CHRIST IS THE WORK OF A LIFETIME.
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life. --- 1 Timothy 6:12
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 22-24
2 Corinthians 8
After living more than 80 years, I know that any claim that offers an effortless way to develop a lean, well-conditioned body is a hoax. So is any sermon title that promises an easy way to become like Christ.
Author Brennan Manning tells of an alcoholic who asked his minister to pray over him to be delivered form his drinking problem. He thought this would be a quick and easy way to overcome his addiction. Recognizing his motive in asking for prayer, the minister replied, "I've got a better idea. Go to Alcoholics Anonymous." He counseled the man to follow the program diligently and read his Bible daily. "In other words," the minister concluded, "do the hard work."
Do the hard work --- that's what Paul was saying to Timothy when he told him how he should order his life so he could teach believers how they should live. Notice the action verbs: "Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life" [1 Timothy 6:11-12].
Just as there is no easy path to being delivered from alcoholism, so too, there is no effort-free route to Christlikeness. If we really want to become like Jesus, we must keep on doing the hard work. --- Herb Vander Lugt
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
CONVERSION IS THE MIRACLE OF A MOMENT; BECOMING LIKE CHRIST IS THE WORK OF A LIFETIME.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
Anger Or Applause?
Read: Jonah 3:10-4:11
Then God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God relented. --- Jonah 3:10
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 19-21
2 Corinthians 7
How do we react when God shows mercy to people we think deserve punishment? If we are resentful, it may indicate that we have forgotten how much the Lord has forgiven us.
After Jonah followed God's second call to preach His coming judgment on Nineveh [Jonah 3:1-4], the people of the city turned from their evil lifestyle, so the Lord did not destroy them [v.10]. God's mercy made Jonah angry. He told God he had been afraid this would happen, and that's why he fled to Tarshish in the first place. "I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, ... One who relents from doing harm" [4:2].
But the Lord said to Jonah, "Should I not pity Nineveh, that great city, in which are more than one hundred and twenty thousand persons?" [4:11].
God's marvelous grace is greater than all our sin. "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is gift of God" [Ephesians 2:8]. Because of His grace to us, we should "be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave [us]" [4:32].
Instead of being angry when God is merciful, we should applaud. --- David McCasland
What love the Father has bestowed on me!
For this I cannot help but thankful be;
I read His Word, His promises embrace,
And daily praise Him for His matchless grace. --- Hess
WE CAN STOP SHOWING MERCY TO OTHERS WHEN CHRIST STOPS SHOWING MERCY TO US.
Then God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God relented. --- Jonah 3:10
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 19-21
2 Corinthians 7
How do we react when God shows mercy to people we think deserve punishment? If we are resentful, it may indicate that we have forgotten how much the Lord has forgiven us.
After Jonah followed God's second call to preach His coming judgment on Nineveh [Jonah 3:1-4], the people of the city turned from their evil lifestyle, so the Lord did not destroy them [v.10]. God's mercy made Jonah angry. He told God he had been afraid this would happen, and that's why he fled to Tarshish in the first place. "I know that You are a gracious and merciful God, ... One who relents from doing harm" [4:2].
But the Lord said to Jonah, "Should I not pity Nineveh, that great city, in which are more than one hundred and twenty thousand persons?" [4:11].
God's marvelous grace is greater than all our sin. "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is gift of God" [Ephesians 2:8]. Because of His grace to us, we should "be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave [us]" [4:32].
Instead of being angry when God is merciful, we should applaud. --- David McCasland
What love the Father has bestowed on me!
For this I cannot help but thankful be;
I read His Word, His promises embrace,
And daily praise Him for His matchless grace. --- Hess
WE CAN STOP SHOWING MERCY TO OTHERS WHEN CHRIST STOPS SHOWING MERCY TO US.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Walking In His Dust
Read: Mark 1:16-20
[Jesus] called them, and they left their father ... and went after Him. --- Mark 1:20
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 16-18
2 Corinthians 6
In the first century, a Jewish man who wanted to become a disciple of a rabbi [teacher] was expected to leave family and job to join his rabbi. They would live together 24 hours a day --- walking from place to place, teaching and learning, studying and working. They discussed and memorized the Scriptures and applied them to life.
The disciple's calling, as described in early Jewish writings about basic ethics, was to "cover himself in the dust of [the rabbi's] feet," drinking in his every word. He followed his rabbi so closely that he would "walk in his dust." In doing so, he became like the rabbi, his master.
Simon, Andrew, James, and John knew that this was the type of relationship to which Jesus was calling them [Mark 1:16-20]. So immediately they walked away from their work and "went after Him" [v.20]. For 3 years they stayed close to Him --- listening to His teaching, watching His miracles, learning His principles, and walking in His dust.
As Jesus' followers today, we too can "walk in His dust." By spending time studying and meditating on His Word and applying its principles to life, we'll become like our rabbi --- Jesus. --- Anne Cetas
What holds me back? Some earthly tie? A thirst for gain?
A strange entanglement with life? A pleasure vain?
Dear Lord, I cast it all aside so willingly;
The path of true discipleship I'll walk with Thee. --- Adams
FAITH IN CHRIST IS NOT JUST A SINGLE STEP --- IT'S A LIFELONG WALK WITH HIM.
[Jesus] called them, and they left their father ... and went after Him. --- Mark 1:20
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 16-18
2 Corinthians 6
In the first century, a Jewish man who wanted to become a disciple of a rabbi [teacher] was expected to leave family and job to join his rabbi. They would live together 24 hours a day --- walking from place to place, teaching and learning, studying and working. They discussed and memorized the Scriptures and applied them to life.
The disciple's calling, as described in early Jewish writings about basic ethics, was to "cover himself in the dust of [the rabbi's] feet," drinking in his every word. He followed his rabbi so closely that he would "walk in his dust." In doing so, he became like the rabbi, his master.
Simon, Andrew, James, and John knew that this was the type of relationship to which Jesus was calling them [Mark 1:16-20]. So immediately they walked away from their work and "went after Him" [v.20]. For 3 years they stayed close to Him --- listening to His teaching, watching His miracles, learning His principles, and walking in His dust.
As Jesus' followers today, we too can "walk in His dust." By spending time studying and meditating on His Word and applying its principles to life, we'll become like our rabbi --- Jesus. --- Anne Cetas
What holds me back? Some earthly tie? A thirst for gain?
A strange entanglement with life? A pleasure vain?
Dear Lord, I cast it all aside so willingly;
The path of true discipleship I'll walk with Thee. --- Adams
FAITH IN CHRIST IS NOT JUST A SINGLE STEP --- IT'S A LIFELONG WALK WITH HIM.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Get To Know Jesus
Read: 2 Peter 1:1-11
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. --- 2 Peter 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 13-15
2 Corinthians 5
In his book The Call, Os Guinness tells a story about Arthur Burns, chairman of the US Federal Reserve Board during the 1970s. Burns, who Jewish, became part of a Bible study held at the White House at that time. One day, those in the group listened in surprise as Burns prayed, "O God, may the day come when all Jews will come to know Jesus." But an even bigger surprise came when he prayed for the time "when all Christians will come to know Jesus."
Burns hit on a profound truth we all need to wrestle with. Even if we claim the name of Jesus Christ, it may not be evident to others that we really know Him. Do we have a personal relationship with Him? If so, are we striving, praying, and working to know Jesus more intimately each day?
Peter, a man who knew Jesus well, said that "the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord" will bring us multiplied "grace and peace" [2 Peter 1:2]. Knowing Jesus gives us "all things that pertain to life and godliness" [v.3]. And knowledge of Jesus will help us develop character traits that show the world that we are connected to Him [vv.5-8].
Can you and I honestly say, "I know Jesus better today than I did yesterday"? --- Dave Branon
No knowledge gained through arduous quest
Has made my heart so free
As this great fact of time and space ---
That Jesus died for me! --- D. De Haan
THE BETTER YOU KNOW JESUS IN YOUR HEART, THE MORE THE WORLD WILL SEE JESUS IN YOUR LIFE.
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our LORD and Savior Jesus Christ. --- 2 Peter 3:18
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 13-15
2 Corinthians 5
In his book The Call, Os Guinness tells a story about Arthur Burns, chairman of the US Federal Reserve Board during the 1970s. Burns, who Jewish, became part of a Bible study held at the White House at that time. One day, those in the group listened in surprise as Burns prayed, "O God, may the day come when all Jews will come to know Jesus." But an even bigger surprise came when he prayed for the time "when all Christians will come to know Jesus."
Burns hit on a profound truth we all need to wrestle with. Even if we claim the name of Jesus Christ, it may not be evident to others that we really know Him. Do we have a personal relationship with Him? If so, are we striving, praying, and working to know Jesus more intimately each day?
Peter, a man who knew Jesus well, said that "the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord" will bring us multiplied "grace and peace" [2 Peter 1:2]. Knowing Jesus gives us "all things that pertain to life and godliness" [v.3]. And knowledge of Jesus will help us develop character traits that show the world that we are connected to Him [vv.5-8].
Can you and I honestly say, "I know Jesus better today than I did yesterday"? --- Dave Branon
No knowledge gained through arduous quest
Has made my heart so free
As this great fact of time and space ---
That Jesus died for me! --- D. De Haan
THE BETTER YOU KNOW JESUS IN YOUR HEART, THE MORE THE WORLD WILL SEE JESUS IN YOUR LIFE.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Sing To The Lord
Read: Psalm 30
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. --- Psalm 30:5
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 10-12
2 Corinthians 4
It's as though a sinister stranger comes knocking on your door. You must let him in, for he knocks insistently and will not go away. He is sorrow personified.
You believe no one sees your tears and you feel all alone --- but God sees them and He understands. "All night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears," David said in Psalm 6. "The LORD has heard the voice of my weeping" [vv.6,8]. "You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book?" [56:8]. Though "weeping may endure for a night," it is a transient houseguest, for "joy comes in the morning" [30:5].
We remember, as David did, that God's love and favor last for a lifetime. He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. When God's love comes into our thoughts, our feelings of sorrow and dread flee. Our mourning is turned into dancing, our garments of sackcloth and sorrow are stripped away and we are girded with gladness. We can rise to greet the day with shouts of ringing praise for His mercy, guidance, and protection. We rejoice in His holy name [30:11-12].
No matter our circumstances, let's sing to the Lord once again! --- David Roper
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise. --- Robinson
PRAISE IS THE VOICE OF A SOUL SET FREE.
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. --- Psalm 30:5
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 10-12
2 Corinthians 4
It's as though a sinister stranger comes knocking on your door. You must let him in, for he knocks insistently and will not go away. He is sorrow personified.
You believe no one sees your tears and you feel all alone --- but God sees them and He understands. "All night I make my bed swim; I drench my couch with my tears," David said in Psalm 6. "The LORD has heard the voice of my weeping" [vv.6,8]. "You number my wanderings; put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book?" [56:8]. Though "weeping may endure for a night," it is a transient houseguest, for "joy comes in the morning" [30:5].
We remember, as David did, that God's love and favor last for a lifetime. He has promised never to leave us nor forsake us. When God's love comes into our thoughts, our feelings of sorrow and dread flee. Our mourning is turned into dancing, our garments of sackcloth and sorrow are stripped away and we are girded with gladness. We can rise to greet the day with shouts of ringing praise for His mercy, guidance, and protection. We rejoice in His holy name [30:11-12].
No matter our circumstances, let's sing to the Lord once again! --- David Roper
Come, Thou Fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise. --- Robinson
PRAISE IS THE VOICE OF A SOUL SET FREE.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
For Example
Read: 1 Thessalonians 1
Shepherd the flock of God ... [by] being examples to the flock. --- 1 Peter 5:2-3
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 8-9
2 Corinthians 3
A mother cheetash brought a live gazelle fawn to her 5-month-old cubs and released it. After the cubs made several unsuccessful attacks, the mama cheetah intervened and showed them how to "catch dinner."
I observed a similar technique used by a life insurance saleman. After he told me about the benefits of a particular policy, he shared how much coverage he had for his own family. His words took on new meaning because he demonstrated by his own example how to insure a family inadequately.
If we want to teach others the art of knowing God and serving Him, we can't overemphasize the importance and the power of example. That's how Christ and His apostles communicated the same message. Their obedience to God was seen in flesh-and-blood terms that were easily understood.
Leadership by example is contagious. When Paul mentioned the Thessalonians, who had become "followers of us and of the Lord," he said that they also "became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia" [1 Thessalonians 1:6-7].
Leadership is more than something that automatically goes with an official title like Dad, Mom, Pastor, or Teacher. Those who want to lead and help others must first of all be good examples. --- Mart De Haan
All in vain is splendid preaching
And the noble things we say;
All our talk is wasted teaching
If we do not lead the way. --- Anon.
YOU CANNOT TEACH WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW, NOR LEAD WHERE YOU DO NOT GO.
Shepherd the flock of God ... [by] being examples to the flock. --- 1 Peter 5:2-3
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 8-9
2 Corinthians 3
A mother cheetash brought a live gazelle fawn to her 5-month-old cubs and released it. After the cubs made several unsuccessful attacks, the mama cheetah intervened and showed them how to "catch dinner."
I observed a similar technique used by a life insurance saleman. After he told me about the benefits of a particular policy, he shared how much coverage he had for his own family. His words took on new meaning because he demonstrated by his own example how to insure a family inadequately.
If we want to teach others the art of knowing God and serving Him, we can't overemphasize the importance and the power of example. That's how Christ and His apostles communicated the same message. Their obedience to God was seen in flesh-and-blood terms that were easily understood.
Leadership by example is contagious. When Paul mentioned the Thessalonians, who had become "followers of us and of the Lord," he said that they also "became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia" [1 Thessalonians 1:6-7].
Leadership is more than something that automatically goes with an official title like Dad, Mom, Pastor, or Teacher. Those who want to lead and help others must first of all be good examples. --- Mart De Haan
All in vain is splendid preaching
And the noble things we say;
All our talk is wasted teaching
If we do not lead the way. --- Anon.
YOU CANNOT TEACH WHAT YOU DO NOT KNOW, NOR LEAD WHERE YOU DO NOT GO.
Friday, September 08, 2006
For Whom The Bell Tolls
Read: 1 Corinthians 15:51-56
Death is swallowed up in victory. O Death, where is your sting? --- 1 Corinthians 15:54-55
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 6-7
2 Corinthians 2
In 17th-century England, church bells tolled out the news of what was taking place in a parish. They announced not only religious services but also weddings and funerals.
So when John Donne, author and dean of St. Paul's Cathedral, lay desperately sick with the plague that was killing people in London by the thousands, he could hear the bells announce death after death. Writing down his thoughts in the devotional diary that became a classic, Donne urged his readers, "Never send to know for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee."
How true! The book of Hebrews teaches that we will all face death one day: "It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment" [9:27].
But if we are believers in the gospel, news of death does not need to arouse dread. We know, as Paul joyfully assured us, that by His resurrection Jesus has broken the power of death and "brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" [2 Timothy 1:10]. Death has been "swallowed up in victory" by the Lord Jesus Christ [1 Corinthians 15:54]. Its sting is gone [v.55].
When the bell tolls for the Christian, it announces the good news of Jesus' victory over death. --- Vernon Grounds
Ring the bells, ring the bells;
Let the whole world know
Christ the Savior lives today
As He did so long ago. --- Bollback
CHRIST'S RESURRECTION IS CAUSE FOR OUR CELEBRATION.
Death is swallowed up in victory. O Death, where is your sting? --- 1 Corinthians 15:54-55
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 6-7
2 Corinthians 2
In 17th-century England, church bells tolled out the news of what was taking place in a parish. They announced not only religious services but also weddings and funerals.
So when John Donne, author and dean of St. Paul's Cathedral, lay desperately sick with the plague that was killing people in London by the thousands, he could hear the bells announce death after death. Writing down his thoughts in the devotional diary that became a classic, Donne urged his readers, "Never send to know for whom the bell tolls. It tolls for thee."
How true! The book of Hebrews teaches that we will all face death one day: "It is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment" [9:27].
But if we are believers in the gospel, news of death does not need to arouse dread. We know, as Paul joyfully assured us, that by His resurrection Jesus has broken the power of death and "brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" [2 Timothy 1:10]. Death has been "swallowed up in victory" by the Lord Jesus Christ [1 Corinthians 15:54]. Its sting is gone [v.55].
When the bell tolls for the Christian, it announces the good news of Jesus' victory over death. --- Vernon Grounds
Ring the bells, ring the bells;
Let the whole world know
Christ the Savior lives today
As He did so long ago. --- Bollback
CHRIST'S RESURRECTION IS CAUSE FOR OUR CELEBRATION.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
A Helping Hand
Read: Luke 5:17-26
To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown by his friend. --- Job 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 3-5
2 Corinthians 1
A college student named Kelly shattered her arm in the first volleyball game of the season. This meant she couldn't work at her part-time job. Then her car stopped running. To top it all off, the young man she had been dating stopped calling. Kelly felt so low that she began spending hours alone in her room crying.
Laura, a Christian friend on the volleyball team, became concerned about Kelly and decided to help her. So she planned a party. She and some friends collected money, and a couple of guys got Kelly's car running again. They found a temporary job she could do, using just one hand. And they gave her tickets to see her basketball hero when his team came to town. Before long, Kelly was herself again. When she asked why they did all this for her, Laura was able to tell her about the love of Jesus.
Kelly's story reminds me of the paralyzed man who was healed by Jesus. The afflicted man's friends cared enough about him to bring him to the Savior [Luke 5:17-26].
Do you have a friend in need? Think of some ways you can help. Show the love of Christ and then share the gospel. You never know what might happen when you lend a helping hand. --- Dave Egner
Reach out in Jesus' name
With hands of love and care
To those who are in need
And caught in life's despair. --- Sper
REAL LOVE PUTS ACTIONS TO GOOD INTENTIONS.
To him who is afflicted, kindness should be shown by his friend. --- Job 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 3-5
2 Corinthians 1
A college student named Kelly shattered her arm in the first volleyball game of the season. This meant she couldn't work at her part-time job. Then her car stopped running. To top it all off, the young man she had been dating stopped calling. Kelly felt so low that she began spending hours alone in her room crying.
Laura, a Christian friend on the volleyball team, became concerned about Kelly and decided to help her. So she planned a party. She and some friends collected money, and a couple of guys got Kelly's car running again. They found a temporary job she could do, using just one hand. And they gave her tickets to see her basketball hero when his team came to town. Before long, Kelly was herself again. When she asked why they did all this for her, Laura was able to tell her about the love of Jesus.
Kelly's story reminds me of the paralyzed man who was healed by Jesus. The afflicted man's friends cared enough about him to bring him to the Savior [Luke 5:17-26].
Do you have a friend in need? Think of some ways you can help. Show the love of Christ and then share the gospel. You never know what might happen when you lend a helping hand. --- Dave Egner
Reach out in Jesus' name
With hands of love and care
To those who are in need
And caught in life's despair. --- Sper
REAL LOVE PUTS ACTIONS TO GOOD INTENTIONS.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
My Sin
Read: Genesis 3:1-6
When desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. --- James 1:15
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 1-2
1 Corinthians 16
Eve explained the rules to the tempter. She and Adam could eat the fruit of any tree in the Garden of Eden, except for the special one in the middle. Just touching it, she said, would bring death.
I can imagine Satan throwing back his head and with mocking laughter saying, "You will not surely die" [Genesis 3:4]. He then suggested that God was holding back something good from her [v.5].
For thousands of years the enemy has repeated that strategy. He doesn't care if you believe in the authority of the Bible, as long as he can get you to disbelieve that the one thing standing between you and God is sin.
"You will not surely die," we are told. That is the theme of so many modern novels. The hero and heroine live ni disobedience to God but suffer no consequences. In TV shows and movies the characters rebel against the moral laws of God but live happily ever after.
There is even a perfume called "My Sin." It's a fragrance "so alluring, so charming, so exciting," the ads tells us, "we could only call it 'My Sin.'" You would never guess that sin is a stench in the nostrils of God.
In the temptations you face, will you believe Satan's lie? Or will you obey God's warning? --- Haddon Robinson
PERSONAL REFLECTION
How has sin damaged the lives of people I know?
How had disobedience to God harmed me?
Have I experienced God's forgiveness? [1 John 1:9-10].
ONE BIT OF SIN LEAVES A BITTER AFTERTASTE.
When desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. --- James 1:15
The Bible In One Year:
Proverbs 1-2
1 Corinthians 16
Eve explained the rules to the tempter. She and Adam could eat the fruit of any tree in the Garden of Eden, except for the special one in the middle. Just touching it, she said, would bring death.
I can imagine Satan throwing back his head and with mocking laughter saying, "You will not surely die" [Genesis 3:4]. He then suggested that God was holding back something good from her [v.5].
For thousands of years the enemy has repeated that strategy. He doesn't care if you believe in the authority of the Bible, as long as he can get you to disbelieve that the one thing standing between you and God is sin.
"You will not surely die," we are told. That is the theme of so many modern novels. The hero and heroine live ni disobedience to God but suffer no consequences. In TV shows and movies the characters rebel against the moral laws of God but live happily ever after.
There is even a perfume called "My Sin." It's a fragrance "so alluring, so charming, so exciting," the ads tells us, "we could only call it 'My Sin.'" You would never guess that sin is a stench in the nostrils of God.
In the temptations you face, will you believe Satan's lie? Or will you obey God's warning? --- Haddon Robinson
PERSONAL REFLECTION
How has sin damaged the lives of people I know?
How had disobedience to God harmed me?
Have I experienced God's forgiveness? [1 John 1:9-10].
ONE BIT OF SIN LEAVES A BITTER AFTERTASTE.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
A Good Husband
Read: Ephesians 5:25-33
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church. --- Ephesians 5:25
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 148-150
1 Corinthians 15:29-58
Early in their marriage, the well-known preacher W.E. Sangster [1900-1960] told his wife, "I can't be a good husband and a good minister. I am going to be a good minister."
Sangster was in demand as a preacher and lecturer and was often away on speaking tours. When he was at home, he seldom took his wife out for dinner or an evening of entertainment. Nor did he help with household chores. His son noted these feelings, yet out of respect for his father he wrote, "If a 'good husband' is a man who loves his wife absolutely ... and dedicates himself to a cause that is greater than both of them, then my father was a good husband as a minister."
No doubt Sangster was committed to his wife, but I believe he could have been a better husband and a better minister if he had been more concerned for her needs than for his busy schedule.
Many people in responsible positions have demands placed upon them, some that are unavoidable. But if a Christian husband takes seriously Paul's instruction to love his wife "as Christ also loved the church," he will find ways to give of himself for her, even in little things. That's how Christ, our example, loved the church. --- Herb Vander Lugt
A marriage that's neglected
Brings pain and bitterness;
But one that's daily nurtured
Brings peace and happiness. --- Sper
NURTURE YOUR MARRIAGE AND YOU'LL NOURISH YOUR SOUL.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church. --- Ephesians 5:25
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 148-150
1 Corinthians 15:29-58
Early in their marriage, the well-known preacher W.E. Sangster [1900-1960] told his wife, "I can't be a good husband and a good minister. I am going to be a good minister."
Sangster was in demand as a preacher and lecturer and was often away on speaking tours. When he was at home, he seldom took his wife out for dinner or an evening of entertainment. Nor did he help with household chores. His son noted these feelings, yet out of respect for his father he wrote, "If a 'good husband' is a man who loves his wife absolutely ... and dedicates himself to a cause that is greater than both of them, then my father was a good husband as a minister."
No doubt Sangster was committed to his wife, but I believe he could have been a better husband and a better minister if he had been more concerned for her needs than for his busy schedule.
Many people in responsible positions have demands placed upon them, some that are unavoidable. But if a Christian husband takes seriously Paul's instruction to love his wife "as Christ also loved the church," he will find ways to give of himself for her, even in little things. That's how Christ, our example, loved the church. --- Herb Vander Lugt
A marriage that's neglected
Brings pain and bitterness;
But one that's daily nurtured
Brings peace and happiness. --- Sper
NURTURE YOUR MARRIAGE AND YOU'LL NOURISH YOUR SOUL.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Hard Labor
Read: 2 Thessalonians 3:7-13
Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men. --- Colossians 3:23
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 146-147
1 Corinthians 15:1-28
It's one of life's ironies that on Labor Day in the US and Canada, most of the workers get the day off. But that's for good reason. What better way to reward a hard-working populace than to give the laborers a holiday!
Labor Day seems like a good time to take a closer look at what it takes to offer our employers our best.
1. No matter what our task, it's our duty to work for God's glory [Colossians 3:23]. In this sense, no job is better than another. Each should result in honor to God.
2. The way we work can earn the respect of those who do not follow Christ [1 Thessalonians 4:11-12]. A boss shouldn't have to tell a Christian to use time well or to work hard.
3. Our work is one way to fulfill our dual purpose: to love God and others. Showing love to our co-workers is a good way to show that we love God [Matthew 22:37-40].
4. We must work to provide for those who depend on us. Harsh words of criticism are reserved for those who don't take care of their family [1 Timothy 5:8].
Having a job can be hard work. Even for those who truly enjoy their jobs, it's nice to have a Labor Day breather. But until the day comes when our work is over, our task is to make our labor a testimony to God's glory. --- Dave Branon
Whatever you are working on,
Engage in it with zest,
Because your work is for the Lord,
And He expects your best. --- Sper
IT'S NOT THE HOURS YOU PUT IN THAT COUNT, BUT WHAT YOU PUT IN THE HOURS.
Whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men. --- Colossians 3:23
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 146-147
1 Corinthians 15:1-28
It's one of life's ironies that on Labor Day in the US and Canada, most of the workers get the day off. But that's for good reason. What better way to reward a hard-working populace than to give the laborers a holiday!
Labor Day seems like a good time to take a closer look at what it takes to offer our employers our best.
1. No matter what our task, it's our duty to work for God's glory [Colossians 3:23]. In this sense, no job is better than another. Each should result in honor to God.
2. The way we work can earn the respect of those who do not follow Christ [1 Thessalonians 4:11-12]. A boss shouldn't have to tell a Christian to use time well or to work hard.
3. Our work is one way to fulfill our dual purpose: to love God and others. Showing love to our co-workers is a good way to show that we love God [Matthew 22:37-40].
4. We must work to provide for those who depend on us. Harsh words of criticism are reserved for those who don't take care of their family [1 Timothy 5:8].
Having a job can be hard work. Even for those who truly enjoy their jobs, it's nice to have a Labor Day breather. But until the day comes when our work is over, our task is to make our labor a testimony to God's glory. --- Dave Branon
Whatever you are working on,
Engage in it with zest,
Because your work is for the Lord,
And He expects your best. --- Sper
IT'S NOT THE HOURS YOU PUT IN THAT COUNT, BUT WHAT YOU PUT IN THE HOURS.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
God Is Great, God Is Good
Read: Nahum1:1-8
The LORD is slow to anger and great in power .... The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble. --- Nahum 1:3,7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 143-145
1 Corinthians 14:21-40
When we were children, my brother and I recited this prayer every night before supper: "God is great, God is good. Let us thank Him for this food." For years I spoke the words of this prayer without stopping to consider what life would be like if it were not true --- if God were not both great and good.
Without His greatness maintaining order in the universe, the galaxies would be a junkyard of banged-up stars and planets. And without His goodness saying "enough" to every evil despot, the earth would be a playground ruled by the biggest bully.
That simple childhood prayer celebrates two profound attributes of God: His trancendence and His immanence. Trancendence means that His greatness is beyond our comprehension. Immanence describes His nearness to us. The greatness of the almighty God sends us to our knees in humility. But the goodness of God lifts us back to our feet in grateful, jubilant praise. The One who is above everything humbled Himself and became one of us [Psalm 135:5; Philippians 2:8].
Thank God that He uses His greatness not to destroy us but to save us, and that He uses His goodness not as a reason to reject us but as a way to reach us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious --- Thy great name we praise. --- Smith
WHEN YOU TASTE GOD'S GOODNESS, HIS PRAISE WILL BE ON YOUR LIPS.
The LORD is slow to anger and great in power .... The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble. --- Nahum 1:3,7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 143-145
1 Corinthians 14:21-40
When we were children, my brother and I recited this prayer every night before supper: "God is great, God is good. Let us thank Him for this food." For years I spoke the words of this prayer without stopping to consider what life would be like if it were not true --- if God were not both great and good.
Without His greatness maintaining order in the universe, the galaxies would be a junkyard of banged-up stars and planets. And without His goodness saying "enough" to every evil despot, the earth would be a playground ruled by the biggest bully.
That simple childhood prayer celebrates two profound attributes of God: His trancendence and His immanence. Trancendence means that His greatness is beyond our comprehension. Immanence describes His nearness to us. The greatness of the almighty God sends us to our knees in humility. But the goodness of God lifts us back to our feet in grateful, jubilant praise. The One who is above everything humbled Himself and became one of us [Psalm 135:5; Philippians 2:8].
Thank God that He uses His greatness not to destroy us but to save us, and that He uses His goodness not as a reason to reject us but as a way to reach us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious --- Thy great name we praise. --- Smith
WHEN YOU TASTE GOD'S GOODNESS, HIS PRAISE WILL BE ON YOUR LIPS.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Words Of Light
Read: John 8:12-20
I am the light of the world. --- John 8:12
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 140-142
1 Corinthians 14:1-20
Jesus, an itinerant rabbi from the town of Nazareth, asserted that He was the light of the world. That was an incredible claim from a man in first-century Galilee, an obscure region in the Roman Empire. It could not boast of any impressive culture and had not famous philosophers, noted authors, or gifted sculptors. And we have no record that Jesus had any formal education.
More than that, Jesus lived before the invention of the printing press, radio, television, and e-mail. How could He expect His ideas to be circulated around the globe? The words He spoke were committed to the memories of His followers. Then the Light of the world was snuffed out by the darkness --- or so it seemed.
Centuries later we still listen with amazement to Jesus' words, which His Father has miraculously preserved. His words lead us out of darkness into the light of God's truth; they fulfill His promise, "He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" [John 8:12].
I encourage you to read the words of Jesus in the Gospels. Ponder them. Let them grip your mind and change your life. You'll exclaim as His contemporaries did: "No man ever spoke like this Man!" [John 7:46]. --- Vernon Grounds
Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path alway
To guide and to save me from sin
And to show me the heavenly way. --- Sellers
BECAUSE JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD, WE DON'T NEED TO BE IN THE DARK ABOUT GOD.
I am the light of the world. --- John 8:12
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 140-142
1 Corinthians 14:1-20
Jesus, an itinerant rabbi from the town of Nazareth, asserted that He was the light of the world. That was an incredible claim from a man in first-century Galilee, an obscure region in the Roman Empire. It could not boast of any impressive culture and had not famous philosophers, noted authors, or gifted sculptors. And we have no record that Jesus had any formal education.
More than that, Jesus lived before the invention of the printing press, radio, television, and e-mail. How could He expect His ideas to be circulated around the globe? The words He spoke were committed to the memories of His followers. Then the Light of the world was snuffed out by the darkness --- or so it seemed.
Centuries later we still listen with amazement to Jesus' words, which His Father has miraculously preserved. His words lead us out of darkness into the light of God's truth; they fulfill His promise, "He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life" [John 8:12].
I encourage you to read the words of Jesus in the Gospels. Ponder them. Let them grip your mind and change your life. You'll exclaim as His contemporaries did: "No man ever spoke like this Man!" [John 7:46]. --- Vernon Grounds
Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path alway
To guide and to save me from sin
And to show me the heavenly way. --- Sellers
BECAUSE JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD, WE DON'T NEED TO BE IN THE DARK ABOUT GOD.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Check Your Blind Spots
Read: Deuteronomy 6:1-9
These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. --- Deuteronomy 6:6
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 137-139
1 Corinthians 13
When i was in high school, I had a driving instructor who gave me some sound advice. "You think by looking in the rearview mirror you know what is on your left side, but your vision is limited," he said. "Always look over your shoulder before changing lanes. There may be another car in your blind spot." His wise instruction has kept me out of more potential wrecks than I care to think about.
Moses had some wise instruction for the people of Israel. They were to make the study and contemplation of God's commandments an integral part of life. Moses said, "You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up" [Deuteronomy 6:7]. In short, God's words were to permeate every aspect of their lives.
The Bible is our instruction manual from God for navigating life's journey. But merely owning a copy is not enough. It must be studied, applied, and passed on to others.
Just as checking our blind spot should become an automatic response while we drive, applying God's Word should be our natural response as we encounter the hazards of life. It will help us avoid a spiritual crash. --- Dennis Fisher
The Bible will transform our lives
And turn us from our sin,
If we will read it and obey
God's principles within. --- Sper
THE BIBLE WILL TELL YOU WHAT IS WRONG BEFORE YOU HAVE DONE IT! --- Moody
These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. --- Deuteronomy 6:6
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 137-139
1 Corinthians 13
When i was in high school, I had a driving instructor who gave me some sound advice. "You think by looking in the rearview mirror you know what is on your left side, but your vision is limited," he said. "Always look over your shoulder before changing lanes. There may be another car in your blind spot." His wise instruction has kept me out of more potential wrecks than I care to think about.
Moses had some wise instruction for the people of Israel. They were to make the study and contemplation of God's commandments an integral part of life. Moses said, "You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up" [Deuteronomy 6:7]. In short, God's words were to permeate every aspect of their lives.
The Bible is our instruction manual from God for navigating life's journey. But merely owning a copy is not enough. It must be studied, applied, and passed on to others.
Just as checking our blind spot should become an automatic response while we drive, applying God's Word should be our natural response as we encounter the hazards of life. It will help us avoid a spiritual crash. --- Dennis Fisher
The Bible will transform our lives
And turn us from our sin,
If we will read it and obey
God's principles within. --- Sper
THE BIBLE WILL TELL YOU WHAT IS WRONG BEFORE YOU HAVE DONE IT! --- Moody
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