Read: Numbers 15:37-41
Tell them to make tassels on the corners of their garments ... and to put a blue thread in the tassels. --- Numbers 15:38
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 15-16
John 12:27-50
The children of Israel were to make tassels on the corners of their garments with "a blue thread in the tassels" [Num. 15:38]. The tassels reminded them to "do all My commandments, and be holy for your God" [v.40]. The blue thread --- the color of the heavens above --- spoke of His immeasurable power and saving grace.
We still need reminders today. In the fuss and frenzy of our busy lives, we easily forget God and His passion for us. We forget that He lives within and around us and loves us with eternal affection. It helps to have something to signify His presence. Blue can be one of those signs.
"The first step is to remember," says Aslan in C.S. Lewis' The Silver Chair. Aslan, a figure of Christ, tells Jill to "remember the signs" he has given her.
If you learn God's signs --- like the significance of the color blue --- it will be easier to remember God's love. Blue can remind you of the invisible realm above and all around, unseen and yet as real as anything you can see. A mountain lake, a glacial crevasse, an alpine forget-me-not, a cerulean sky --- all remind us of heaven and God's unfathomable love.
When you see blue, think of God's love, and especially His love for you. --- David Roper
This is my Father's world!
He shines in all that's fair;
In the rustling grass I hear Him pass ---
He speaks to me everywhere. --- Babcock
DAILY BLESSINGS ARE DAILY REMINDERS OF GOD.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Hold Hands And Jump!
Read: Ecclesiastes 4:8-12
Two are better than one. --- Ecclesiastes 4:9
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 13-14
John 12:1-26
When Leo and Amy opened a 300-seat, fine-dining restaurant, Leo admitted he was "scared of everything." Amy equates their leap of faith in starting their business to holding hands while jumping off a mountain. But if you're going to do something scary, "you want to do it with someone you know and trust," Leo continued.
Chris and Karie, another couple who took a risk to own and run a restaurant together, say they have "a good working relationship, as well as mutual admiration for each other's work."
Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, knew how crucial it is to have companions in life. He wrote, "Two are better than one" [Eccl. 4:9]. When one falls during a difficult time, another provides comfort and support [vv.10-12]. We need our spouses and friends to help us through the scary times and to provide emotional support. Loners make life harder for themselves [v.8]. But those who recognize their need for others find help and encouragement.
If you need to take a leap of faith --- something involving finances, a career change, a new ministry --- invite someone trustworthy to hold your hand as you make that jump. Or give that same encouragement to someone close to you. Because two really are better than one. --- Anne Cetas
We are dependent on the strength
We draw from one another;
Words spoken give encouragement,
Love practiced draws us closer. --- Sper
THOSE WHO TRUST GOD CAN HELP OTHERS TO DO THE SAME.
Two are better than one. --- Ecclesiastes 4:9
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 13-14
John 12:1-26
When Leo and Amy opened a 300-seat, fine-dining restaurant, Leo admitted he was "scared of everything." Amy equates their leap of faith in starting their business to holding hands while jumping off a mountain. But if you're going to do something scary, "you want to do it with someone you know and trust," Leo continued.
Chris and Karie, another couple who took a risk to own and run a restaurant together, say they have "a good working relationship, as well as mutual admiration for each other's work."
Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, knew how crucial it is to have companions in life. He wrote, "Two are better than one" [Eccl. 4:9]. When one falls during a difficult time, another provides comfort and support [vv.10-12]. We need our spouses and friends to help us through the scary times and to provide emotional support. Loners make life harder for themselves [v.8]. But those who recognize their need for others find help and encouragement.
If you need to take a leap of faith --- something involving finances, a career change, a new ministry --- invite someone trustworthy to hold your hand as you make that jump. Or give that same encouragement to someone close to you. Because two really are better than one. --- Anne Cetas
We are dependent on the strength
We draw from one another;
Words spoken give encouragement,
Love practiced draws us closer. --- Sper
THOSE WHO TRUST GOD CAN HELP OTHERS TO DO THE SAME.
Beyond Amazing
Read: Psalm 19:1-6
The heavens are the work of Your hands. --- Psalm 102:25
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 10-12
John 11:30-57
In 1977, the United States launched a rocket into space. On board was a small craft called Voyager I, a probe that was jettisoned into space to explore the planets. After Voyager was done sending back photos and date from the planet Jupiter and its neighbors, it didn't stop working. It just kept going.
Today, almost 30 years later, that tiny vehicle is still going --- traveling at a speed of over 38,000 miles per hour. And it's nearly 9 billion miles from the sun. That's mind-boggling! Brilliant scientists have sent a ship to the edge of our solar system. It's astounding. It's amazing.
But it's absolutely puny when compared with what God has done. It would be like hearing someone brag to the architect of the Empire State Building that he had traveled to the second floor.
We have barely begun to explore the vastness of God's creation. But every small step by mankind should continue to put us in absolute awe of God's power and creativity. Think of this: While we have left the realm of one star with a spaceship, the Creator of the stars "calls them all by name" [Isa. 40:26]. After all, He made them.
Exploring the universe is amazing. But exploring the God who made it all: That's beyond amazing! --- Dave Branon
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies. --- Watts
THE WONDER OF IT ALL --- JUST TO THINK THAT GOD LOVES ME. --- Shea
The heavens are the work of Your hands. --- Psalm 102:25
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 10-12
John 11:30-57
In 1977, the United States launched a rocket into space. On board was a small craft called Voyager I, a probe that was jettisoned into space to explore the planets. After Voyager was done sending back photos and date from the planet Jupiter and its neighbors, it didn't stop working. It just kept going.
Today, almost 30 years later, that tiny vehicle is still going --- traveling at a speed of over 38,000 miles per hour. And it's nearly 9 billion miles from the sun. That's mind-boggling! Brilliant scientists have sent a ship to the edge of our solar system. It's astounding. It's amazing.
But it's absolutely puny when compared with what God has done. It would be like hearing someone brag to the architect of the Empire State Building that he had traveled to the second floor.
We have barely begun to explore the vastness of God's creation. But every small step by mankind should continue to put us in absolute awe of God's power and creativity. Think of this: While we have left the realm of one star with a spaceship, the Creator of the stars "calls them all by name" [Isa. 40:26]. After all, He made them.
Exploring the universe is amazing. But exploring the God who made it all: That's beyond amazing! --- Dave Branon
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies. --- Watts
THE WONDER OF IT ALL --- JUST TO THINK THAT GOD LOVES ME. --- Shea
Monday, May 28, 2007
A Blessed Memorial
Read: Matthew 26:6-13
What this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her. --- Matthew 26:13
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 7-9
John 11:1-29
Certain names from the past can elicit a variety of responses.The mention of Hitler, for example, brings feelings of contempt. On the other hand, a great historical figure like Churchill brings a positive response. Even within the circle of our own acquaintances, we remember some individuals with thankfulness, while we think negatively of others whose lives were spent in selfish pursuits.
On Memorial Day in the US, we pause to honor those of past generations. While many stirring recollections flood our minds, we realize that the time will come when each of us will also be a memory. What will others recall of our words and deeds when they think of us?
I once read about James Lewis Pettigru. His life was so exemplary that after his death the community erected a tombstone in his honor inscribed with these words:
UWAWED BY OPINION, UNSEDUCED BY FLATTERY,
UNDISMAYED BY DISASTER, HE CONFRONTED LIFE
WITH COURAGE, AND DEATH WITH CHRISTIAN HOPE.
What will your memorial be? Determine by the grace of God to live for Him and give yourself to the needs of others. Then your testimony will become a blessing and inspiration to all who follow in your steps. --- Richard De Haan
What have you written on memory's page?
Deeds that were done in the Master's name?
Words that were spoken to spread His fame?
What have you written today? --- Anon.
WILL YOUR MEMORIAL BE A BLESSING OR A BLOT?
What this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her. --- Matthew 26:13
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 7-9
John 11:1-29
Certain names from the past can elicit a variety of responses.The mention of Hitler, for example, brings feelings of contempt. On the other hand, a great historical figure like Churchill brings a positive response. Even within the circle of our own acquaintances, we remember some individuals with thankfulness, while we think negatively of others whose lives were spent in selfish pursuits.
On Memorial Day in the US, we pause to honor those of past generations. While many stirring recollections flood our minds, we realize that the time will come when each of us will also be a memory. What will others recall of our words and deeds when they think of us?
I once read about James Lewis Pettigru. His life was so exemplary that after his death the community erected a tombstone in his honor inscribed with these words:
UWAWED BY OPINION, UNSEDUCED BY FLATTERY,
UNDISMAYED BY DISASTER, HE CONFRONTED LIFE
WITH COURAGE, AND DEATH WITH CHRISTIAN HOPE.
What will your memorial be? Determine by the grace of God to live for Him and give yourself to the needs of others. Then your testimony will become a blessing and inspiration to all who follow in your steps. --- Richard De Haan
What have you written on memory's page?
Deeds that were done in the Master's name?
Words that were spoken to spread His fame?
What have you written today? --- Anon.
WILL YOUR MEMORIAL BE A BLESSING OR A BLOT?
Sunday, May 27, 2007
The Angel Of Music
Read: Ephesians 6:10-18
Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. --- 2 Corinthians 11:14
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 4-6
John 10:24-42
In Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical The Phantom of the Opera, a young chorus girl named Christine Daae receives voice training from a mysterious musician she calls the "Angel of Music." Christine believes this is the angel her dying father had promised to send to complete her musical training.
As the plot thickens, we find that her mysterious mentor is really a demented man who wants to carry her away into a bizarre underworld beneath the opera house. What the girl thinks is a supernatural agent sent by her beloved father is really a madman who wants to possess her for his own ends. The "Angel of Music" is evil masquerading as good.
The believer in Christ also faces an evil one who masquerades. One of Satan's key strategies is to look like someone who is good. Paul told us,"Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light" [2 Cor. 11:14]. The Greek word translated as "transforms" means "to change appearance, masquerade, or disguise oneself."
In preparing us to face the evil strategies of the devil. God has provided all the equipment we need to stand our ground. Protecting ourselves with the armor of God unmasks the evil that opposes us and stabilizes our spiritual walk [Eph. 6:10-18]. --- Dennis Fisher
When you're making a decision,
Evil sometimes wears a mask;
Trust the Lord for true discernment ---
He'll give wisdom if you ask. --- Hess
GOD'S ARMOR IS TAILOR-MADE FOR US, BUT WE MUST PUT IT ON.
Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. --- 2 Corinthians 11:14
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 4-6
John 10:24-42
In Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical The Phantom of the Opera, a young chorus girl named Christine Daae receives voice training from a mysterious musician she calls the "Angel of Music." Christine believes this is the angel her dying father had promised to send to complete her musical training.
As the plot thickens, we find that her mysterious mentor is really a demented man who wants to carry her away into a bizarre underworld beneath the opera house. What the girl thinks is a supernatural agent sent by her beloved father is really a madman who wants to possess her for his own ends. The "Angel of Music" is evil masquerading as good.
The believer in Christ also faces an evil one who masquerades. One of Satan's key strategies is to look like someone who is good. Paul told us,"Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light" [2 Cor. 11:14]. The Greek word translated as "transforms" means "to change appearance, masquerade, or disguise oneself."
In preparing us to face the evil strategies of the devil. God has provided all the equipment we need to stand our ground. Protecting ourselves with the armor of God unmasks the evil that opposes us and stabilizes our spiritual walk [Eph. 6:10-18]. --- Dennis Fisher
When you're making a decision,
Evil sometimes wears a mask;
Trust the Lord for true discernment ---
He'll give wisdom if you ask. --- Hess
GOD'S ARMOR IS TAILOR-MADE FOR US, BUT WE MUST PUT IT ON.
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Earthworms And Fruit
Read: Job 37:14-19
Every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused. --- 1 Timothy 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 1-3
John 10:1-23
Have you ever wondered why God made a particular creature, like mosquitos or snakes? I've often wondered about earthworms. Why did God form such creepy crawlers?
Actually, worms have an indispensable function to fulfill. Amy Stuart, in her book The Earth Moved: On The Remarkable Achievements of Earthworms tells us that in an average acre of ground there are countless earthworms continually breaking up the soil. Their silent and invisible activity is absolutely essential --- no worms, no vegetation.
What, then, can we learn from earthworms? Not only in nature but also in our lives there are invisible forces at work. There is the silent and unseen work of prayer by those who are concerned about our well-being. There is the work of our own spiritual discipline, as we pray and meditate on God's Word. And there is the vital work of the Holy Spirit, breaking up the clogged of our souls and producing in us the Christlike fruit of "love, joy, peace, longsuffering ..." [Gal. 5:22-23].
In our lives and in our world, God has ordained unseen influences that bear fruit. Whether it's the lowly earthworm or the crown of God's creation --- the human race --- there is so much more at work than meets the eye. --- Vernon Grounds
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all. --- Alexander
GOD'S UNSEEN WORK IN OUR HEARTS PRODUCES FRUIT IN OUR LIVES.
Every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be refused. --- 1 Timothy 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Chronicles 1-3
John 10:1-23
Have you ever wondered why God made a particular creature, like mosquitos or snakes? I've often wondered about earthworms. Why did God form such creepy crawlers?
Actually, worms have an indispensable function to fulfill. Amy Stuart, in her book The Earth Moved: On The Remarkable Achievements of Earthworms tells us that in an average acre of ground there are countless earthworms continually breaking up the soil. Their silent and invisible activity is absolutely essential --- no worms, no vegetation.
What, then, can we learn from earthworms? Not only in nature but also in our lives there are invisible forces at work. There is the silent and unseen work of prayer by those who are concerned about our well-being. There is the work of our own spiritual discipline, as we pray and meditate on God's Word. And there is the vital work of the Holy Spirit, breaking up the clogged of our souls and producing in us the Christlike fruit of "love, joy, peace, longsuffering ..." [Gal. 5:22-23].
In our lives and in our world, God has ordained unseen influences that bear fruit. Whether it's the lowly earthworm or the crown of God's creation --- the human race --- there is so much more at work than meets the eye. --- Vernon Grounds
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all. --- Alexander
GOD'S UNSEEN WORK IN OUR HEARTS PRODUCES FRUIT IN OUR LIVES.
Friday, May 25, 2007
Daily Devotion
Read: Psalm 96
Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. --- Psalm 96:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 28-29
John 9:24-41
Tiger Woods has won many dramatic tournament victories during his professional golf career. But one of his greatest achievements went virtually unnoticed because it unfolded slowly over 7 years. During that period, Tiger qualified in 142 consecutive tournaments --- more than any other player i the history of US professional golf. It speaks to the power of his commitment and consistency, and to his conviction never to give up.
Recently I was challenged by a friend's statement of his growing desire to follow the Lord with "daily rather than dramatic devotion." Is that how it is in my life of faith in Jesus Christ? Am I consistent or erratic? Am I dependable or unreliable?
There are great spiritual events in our lives, but our daily choices to obey Christ best express our ongoing love for Him. Psalm 96, a ringing call to witness and praise, says: "Sing to the Lord, bless His name; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples" [vv.2-3].
When we are consistently devoted to the Lord, we will proclaim His love and power day after day. Over time, a life of daily loyalty will become a magnificent testimony to our Savior. --- David McCasland
Jesus I will learn from You,
Obey You day by day;
I'll be your faithful follower
And serve you on the way. --- Fitzhugh
TO BE A DISCIPLE IS TO BE A LOYAL SUBJECT OF THE KING OF KINGS.
Sing to the LORD, bless His name; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. --- Psalm 96:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 28-29
John 9:24-41
Tiger Woods has won many dramatic tournament victories during his professional golf career. But one of his greatest achievements went virtually unnoticed because it unfolded slowly over 7 years. During that period, Tiger qualified in 142 consecutive tournaments --- more than any other player i the history of US professional golf. It speaks to the power of his commitment and consistency, and to his conviction never to give up.
Recently I was challenged by a friend's statement of his growing desire to follow the Lord with "daily rather than dramatic devotion." Is that how it is in my life of faith in Jesus Christ? Am I consistent or erratic? Am I dependable or unreliable?
There are great spiritual events in our lives, but our daily choices to obey Christ best express our ongoing love for Him. Psalm 96, a ringing call to witness and praise, says: "Sing to the Lord, bless His name; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples" [vv.2-3].
When we are consistently devoted to the Lord, we will proclaim His love and power day after day. Over time, a life of daily loyalty will become a magnificent testimony to our Savior. --- David McCasland
Jesus I will learn from You,
Obey You day by day;
I'll be your faithful follower
And serve you on the way. --- Fitzhugh
TO BE A DISCIPLE IS TO BE A LOYAL SUBJECT OF THE KING OF KINGS.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Words That Defile
Read: Matthew 15:17-20
He who guards his mouth preserves his life, but he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction. --- Proverbs 13:3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 25-27
John 9:1-23
Recently I overheard an older woman speaking to a friend about the current obsession with dieting. "These days," she mused, "I'm more concerned with what comes out of my mouth than what goes into it." There's a world of wisdom in those words.
Jesus put it this way: "Those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man" [Matt. 15:18-20].
What we say affects others. "There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword," says Proverbs 12:18. But what we may overlook is the effect our reckless words have on us. When we gossip, or when we malign others, our words begin to ruin us. for we gratify the evil that is in us and strengthen it until it overthrows us.
On the contrary, when we guard our lips we strike a blow at this malevolence. "The tongue of the wise promotes health," continues Proverbs 12:18. We protect our souls, for we weaken the very thing that lies in wait to ruin us.
Ask God to "set a guard" over your mouth and "keep watch over the door" of your lips [Ps. 141:3]. Let your words promote life, not destruction. --- David Roper
Guard well your lips, for none can know
What evils from the tongue may flow;
What guilt, what grief may be incurred
By one uncautious, evil word. --- Elliott
A WORD FROM YOUR MOUTH SPEAKS VOLUMES ABOUT YOUR HEART.
He who guards his mouth preserves his life, but he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction. --- Proverbs 13:3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 25-27
John 9:1-23
Recently I overheard an older woman speaking to a friend about the current obsession with dieting. "These days," she mused, "I'm more concerned with what comes out of my mouth than what goes into it." There's a world of wisdom in those words.
Jesus put it this way: "Those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man" [Matt. 15:18-20].
What we say affects others. "There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword," says Proverbs 12:18. But what we may overlook is the effect our reckless words have on us. When we gossip, or when we malign others, our words begin to ruin us. for we gratify the evil that is in us and strengthen it until it overthrows us.
On the contrary, when we guard our lips we strike a blow at this malevolence. "The tongue of the wise promotes health," continues Proverbs 12:18. We protect our souls, for we weaken the very thing that lies in wait to ruin us.
Ask God to "set a guard" over your mouth and "keep watch over the door" of your lips [Ps. 141:3]. Let your words promote life, not destruction. --- David Roper
Guard well your lips, for none can know
What evils from the tongue may flow;
What guilt, what grief may be incurred
By one uncautious, evil word. --- Elliott
A WORD FROM YOUR MOUTH SPEAKS VOLUMES ABOUT YOUR HEART.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Can We Rejoice?
Read: Habakkuk 3:17-19
Yet I will rejoice in the LORD ... The LORD God is my strength. --- Habakkuk 3:18-19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 22-24
John 8:28-59
I'll never forget the question our Bible-study leader asked: "What do you fear would test your faith in God the most?" We were studying Habakkuk 3:17-18, where the prophet said that even if God sent suffering or loss, he would still rejoice.
As a single woman in my twenties, my answer was "I don't know if I could stand the pain of losing my parents." But I told God that day that even when they died I would rejoice in Him. I found out too soon that it's easier said than done.
A month later, Dad learned he had heart disease and didn't have long to live. He didn't know Jesus as his Savior, so I begged God not to let him die without coming to know Him. Not only did he die that year, so did Mom, who was a believer. I didn't know if my prayer for Dad was answered. I couldn't rejoice; I wondered if God had even heard my prayer.
As I wrestled with Him about my questions, I experienced the Lord as my "refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" [Ps. 46:1]. I found hope in the truth that God, "the Judge of all the earth," would do what was right by everyone [Genesis 18:25].
We can rejoice --- when we are rejoicing in the Lord, our strong refuge and righteous Judge. --- Anne Cetas
Why must I bear this pain? I cannot tell;
I only know my Lord does all things well.
And so I trust in God, my all in all,
For He will bring me through, whate'er befall. --- Smith
GOD TRIES OUR FAITH SO THAT WE MAY TRY HIS FAITHFULNESS.
Yet I will rejoice in the LORD ... The LORD God is my strength. --- Habakkuk 3:18-19
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 22-24
John 8:28-59
I'll never forget the question our Bible-study leader asked: "What do you fear would test your faith in God the most?" We were studying Habakkuk 3:17-18, where the prophet said that even if God sent suffering or loss, he would still rejoice.
As a single woman in my twenties, my answer was "I don't know if I could stand the pain of losing my parents." But I told God that day that even when they died I would rejoice in Him. I found out too soon that it's easier said than done.
A month later, Dad learned he had heart disease and didn't have long to live. He didn't know Jesus as his Savior, so I begged God not to let him die without coming to know Him. Not only did he die that year, so did Mom, who was a believer. I didn't know if my prayer for Dad was answered. I couldn't rejoice; I wondered if God had even heard my prayer.
As I wrestled with Him about my questions, I experienced the Lord as my "refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" [Ps. 46:1]. I found hope in the truth that God, "the Judge of all the earth," would do what was right by everyone [Genesis 18:25].
We can rejoice --- when we are rejoicing in the Lord, our strong refuge and righteous Judge. --- Anne Cetas
Why must I bear this pain? I cannot tell;
I only know my Lord does all things well.
And so I trust in God, my all in all,
For He will bring me through, whate'er befall. --- Smith
GOD TRIES OUR FAITH SO THAT WE MAY TRY HIS FAITHFULNESS.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Welcome Criticism
Read: Proverbs 9:1-10
A fool despises his father's instruction, but he who receives correction is prudent. --- Proverbs 15:5
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 19-21
John 8:1-27
Cancer researcher Dr. Robert Good was a hard-driving individual with an enormous faculty for new ideas. According to an article I read about him, he had the ability to make use of any information he came across.
I was most impressed, however, with a statement that credited him with a willingness to recognize any error in his theories and abandon them faster than anyone else in medical research. An associate said, "Dr. Good never gets married to his hypotheses, so he doesn't go through the pangs of divorce when one is proven wrong."
Proverbs 9 puts a high premium on such a willingness to see one's error and admit it. It describes a wise man as one who wants to learn from his mistakes. When challenged, he resists the urge to get his back up like a threatened tomcat. Instead, correction becomes a faithful friend and a necessary means to improvement [v.9]. On the other hand, when a "scoffer" is rebuked, he responds with anger and hate [v.8]. Because of his overinflated ego, he won't listen when told he has erred.
We need to follow the path of wisdom by giving heed to words of reproof. To be truly wise, we must remember that at times we too have played the fool. --- Mart De Haan
When criticism comes your way,
Consider its intent;
It may be that some truth from God
To you is being sent. --- D. De Haan
THE PERSON WHO REFUSES TO HEAR CRITICISM HAS NO CHANCE TO LEARN FROM IT.
A fool despises his father's instruction, but he who receives correction is prudent. --- Proverbs 15:5
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 19-21
John 8:1-27
Cancer researcher Dr. Robert Good was a hard-driving individual with an enormous faculty for new ideas. According to an article I read about him, he had the ability to make use of any information he came across.
I was most impressed, however, with a statement that credited him with a willingness to recognize any error in his theories and abandon them faster than anyone else in medical research. An associate said, "Dr. Good never gets married to his hypotheses, so he doesn't go through the pangs of divorce when one is proven wrong."
Proverbs 9 puts a high premium on such a willingness to see one's error and admit it. It describes a wise man as one who wants to learn from his mistakes. When challenged, he resists the urge to get his back up like a threatened tomcat. Instead, correction becomes a faithful friend and a necessary means to improvement [v.9]. On the other hand, when a "scoffer" is rebuked, he responds with anger and hate [v.8]. Because of his overinflated ego, he won't listen when told he has erred.
We need to follow the path of wisdom by giving heed to words of reproof. To be truly wise, we must remember that at times we too have played the fool. --- Mart De Haan
When criticism comes your way,
Consider its intent;
It may be that some truth from God
To you is being sent. --- D. De Haan
THE PERSON WHO REFUSES TO HEAR CRITICISM HAS NO CHANCE TO LEARN FROM IT.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Whose Are You?
Read: Psalm 24
The earth is the LORD's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. --- Psalm 24:1
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 16-18
John 7:28-53
"You're not the boss of me!" Have you ever heard a child make this statement to someone in authority? It's the child's attempt to assert his or her independence.
It's not just children, though. No matter what our age, we don't like having someone to tell us what to do. After all, that person might ask us to do something we don't want to do, or put us in a situation we don't want to be in.
Therein lies the fear of trusting God. Afraid of putting control of our life into His hands, we prefer to dig in and say, "You're not the boss of me."
There's a serious problem with that line of thinking: It's not accurate. In reality, we cannot tell God that He's not in charge. In Psalm 24, David said, "The earth is the LORD's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein" [v.1]. God is the boss of "those who dwell" in the world. That means all of us.
Our response, therefore, of trusting Him and turning our life over to Him comes when we acknowledge His authority. We say to Him, "Lord, You are to boss of me! I acknowledge Your ownership, and I want to work with You to accomplish You will."
We are God's. He is in charge. Our job is to trust in Him and live for Him. --- Dave Branon
Now I belong to Jesus,
Jesus belongs to me,
Not for the years of time alone,
But for eternity. --- Clayton
YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN....YOU WERE BOUGHT AT A PRICE. --- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
The earth is the LORD's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. --- Psalm 24:1
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 16-18
John 7:28-53
"You're not the boss of me!" Have you ever heard a child make this statement to someone in authority? It's the child's attempt to assert his or her independence.
It's not just children, though. No matter what our age, we don't like having someone to tell us what to do. After all, that person might ask us to do something we don't want to do, or put us in a situation we don't want to be in.
Therein lies the fear of trusting God. Afraid of putting control of our life into His hands, we prefer to dig in and say, "You're not the boss of me."
There's a serious problem with that line of thinking: It's not accurate. In reality, we cannot tell God that He's not in charge. In Psalm 24, David said, "The earth is the LORD's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein" [v.1]. God is the boss of "those who dwell" in the world. That means all of us.
Our response, therefore, of trusting Him and turning our life over to Him comes when we acknowledge His authority. We say to Him, "Lord, You are to boss of me! I acknowledge Your ownership, and I want to work with You to accomplish You will."
We are God's. He is in charge. Our job is to trust in Him and live for Him. --- Dave Branon
Now I belong to Jesus,
Jesus belongs to me,
Not for the years of time alone,
But for eternity. --- Clayton
YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN....YOU WERE BOUGHT AT A PRICE. --- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Unchained By The Cross
Read: Matthew 27:33-50
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. --- Romans 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 13-15
John 7:1-27
In ancient Greek mythology, the hero Prometheus was captured and chained to a mountain peak, where he was sentenced to stay forever. Each day, a giant eagle arrived to feast on his liver. Hermes came to him and said, "Do not hope for an end to your suffering until a god appears as your substitute in torment, ready to descend for you into the realm of Hades." According to the myth, this was done by the wise and just god Chiron, who sacrificed himself for Prometheus and delivered him from torment.
This story is in some ways a picture of what happened for us the day Jesus died on the cross. Mankind was bound by sin, and there was no hope of escape unless God took our place. And that's exactly what happened. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died on our behalf and paid the penalty for our sin. He provided a way of releasing us from eternal punishment. Were we to write for a thousand days, we still could not express the meaning of Christ's sacrifice for the sins of mankind. Its full significance is beyond our comprehension.
Have you confessed your sin and asked Jesus Christ to be your personal Savior? If not, there's no better time than today. Trust in Him, and you will know what it means to be unchained by the cross. --- Dave Egner
Amazing thought, that God in flesh
Would take my place and bear my sin;
That I, a guilty, death-doomed soul,
Eternal life might win. --- Anon.
STEP OUT OF SIN'S SLAVERY AND INTO SALVATION'S FREEDOM --- TRUST CHRIST.
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. --- Romans 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 13-15
John 7:1-27
In ancient Greek mythology, the hero Prometheus was captured and chained to a mountain peak, where he was sentenced to stay forever. Each day, a giant eagle arrived to feast on his liver. Hermes came to him and said, "Do not hope for an end to your suffering until a god appears as your substitute in torment, ready to descend for you into the realm of Hades." According to the myth, this was done by the wise and just god Chiron, who sacrificed himself for Prometheus and delivered him from torment.
This story is in some ways a picture of what happened for us the day Jesus died on the cross. Mankind was bound by sin, and there was no hope of escape unless God took our place. And that's exactly what happened. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, died on our behalf and paid the penalty for our sin. He provided a way of releasing us from eternal punishment. Were we to write for a thousand days, we still could not express the meaning of Christ's sacrifice for the sins of mankind. Its full significance is beyond our comprehension.
Have you confessed your sin and asked Jesus Christ to be your personal Savior? If not, there's no better time than today. Trust in Him, and you will know what it means to be unchained by the cross. --- Dave Egner
Amazing thought, that God in flesh
Would take my place and bear my sin;
That I, a guilty, death-doomed soul,
Eternal life might win. --- Anon.
STEP OUT OF SIN'S SLAVERY AND INTO SALVATION'S FREEDOM --- TRUST CHRIST.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Dynamited Into Change
Read: Acts 9:1-9
He had delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love. --- Colossians 1:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 10-12
John 6:45-71
When a newspaper editor learned that a man named Alfred Nobel had died, he assumed that the deceased must be the same man who had invented dynamite. So he published an obituary calling Nobel the merchant of death.
When Nobel read the account of his own death, he reacted like a blind man suddenly gaining sight. From that day on, Nobel devoted himself to philanthropic causes --- especially peace.
Saul of Tarsus experienced a transformation far more dramatic than Nobel's. While on the road to Damascus to take captive those who followed Jesus, Saul met the Lord Himself. Temporarily blinded by his encounter, Saul devoted the rest of his life to serving the One he had formerly persecuted. The enemy of Jesus became His dedicated apostle [Acts 9:15-16].
Our own experience will not likely be so earthshaking. Yet we must ask ourselves if we have had an encounter with the Savior --- one that has changed the direction of our lives.
If that is not your experience, turn to John 3 and read what Jesus said about being born again. Then, with a simple prayer of repentance, you may open your heart to Him. An honest commitment to the Lord will put you into a new relationship with Him --- one that will last for eternity. --- Vernon Grounds
He touched me, oh, He touched me,
And oh, the joy that floods my soul!
Something happened and now I know
He touched me and made me whole. --- Gaither
SALVATION IS MORE THAN BREAKING BAD HABITS, IT'S CREATING GOOD CHARACTER.
He had delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love. --- Colossians 1:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 10-12
John 6:45-71
When a newspaper editor learned that a man named Alfred Nobel had died, he assumed that the deceased must be the same man who had invented dynamite. So he published an obituary calling Nobel the merchant of death.
When Nobel read the account of his own death, he reacted like a blind man suddenly gaining sight. From that day on, Nobel devoted himself to philanthropic causes --- especially peace.
Saul of Tarsus experienced a transformation far more dramatic than Nobel's. While on the road to Damascus to take captive those who followed Jesus, Saul met the Lord Himself. Temporarily blinded by his encounter, Saul devoted the rest of his life to serving the One he had formerly persecuted. The enemy of Jesus became His dedicated apostle [Acts 9:15-16].
Our own experience will not likely be so earthshaking. Yet we must ask ourselves if we have had an encounter with the Savior --- one that has changed the direction of our lives.
If that is not your experience, turn to John 3 and read what Jesus said about being born again. Then, with a simple prayer of repentance, you may open your heart to Him. An honest commitment to the Lord will put you into a new relationship with Him --- one that will last for eternity. --- Vernon Grounds
He touched me, oh, He touched me,
And oh, the joy that floods my soul!
Something happened and now I know
He touched me and made me whole. --- Gaither
SALVATION IS MORE THAN BREAKING BAD HABITS, IT'S CREATING GOOD CHARACTER.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Signs Are Not Enough
Read: John 6:25-35
"This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent." ... "They said to Him, "What sign will You perform?" --- John 6:29-30
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 7-9
John 6:22-44
Film director Woody Allen has been quoted as saying, "If only God would give me some clear sign! Like making a large deposit in my name at a Swiss bank."
The reasons people give for not believing God often boil down to something they want God to do to prove Himself. Sadly, in making "to do" lists for God, we miss seeing the countless things He has already done.
Even people who lived near Jesus and who witnessed His miracles asked for more proof. Comparing Jesus to Moses, they asked, "What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You? ... Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat'" [John 6:30-31].
The startling thing about their request is that just one day earlier Jesus had indeed given them bread. He had fed 5,000 of them with the bread from one boy's lunch!
Had we been in Jesus' place, we may have replied, "What about the bread I fed you yesterday?" But Jesus used the moment to teach them, "I am the bread of life" [v.35].
Instead of waiting in doubt and disappointment for God to do the one thing we demand of Him, let's take the time to look at everything God has already done. --- Julie Ackerman Link
If you're waiting for a sign from heaven,
I'm afraid you may be disappointed;
God has given us the perfect witness ---
Jesus Christ, the One He has anointed. --- Hess
WHAT WE KNOW OF GOD ENCOURAGES US TO TRUST HIM IN ALL WE DON'T KNOW.
"This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent." ... "They said to Him, "What sign will You perform?" --- John 6:29-30
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 7-9
John 6:22-44
Film director Woody Allen has been quoted as saying, "If only God would give me some clear sign! Like making a large deposit in my name at a Swiss bank."
The reasons people give for not believing God often boil down to something they want God to do to prove Himself. Sadly, in making "to do" lists for God, we miss seeing the countless things He has already done.
Even people who lived near Jesus and who witnessed His miracles asked for more proof. Comparing Jesus to Moses, they asked, "What sign will You perform then, that we may see it and believe You? ... Our fathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written, 'He gave them bread from heaven to eat'" [John 6:30-31].
The startling thing about their request is that just one day earlier Jesus had indeed given them bread. He had fed 5,000 of them with the bread from one boy's lunch!
Had we been in Jesus' place, we may have replied, "What about the bread I fed you yesterday?" But Jesus used the moment to teach them, "I am the bread of life" [v.35].
Instead of waiting in doubt and disappointment for God to do the one thing we demand of Him, let's take the time to look at everything God has already done. --- Julie Ackerman Link
If you're waiting for a sign from heaven,
I'm afraid you may be disappointed;
God has given us the perfect witness ---
Jesus Christ, the One He has anointed. --- Hess
WHAT WE KNOW OF GOD ENCOURAGES US TO TRUST HIM IN ALL WE DON'T KNOW.
Are You A Complainer?
Read: Numbers 11:1-10
When the people complained, it displeased the LORD. --- Numbers 11:1
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 4-6
John 6:1-21
There's a story about a farmer who was known for his negative attitude. One day a neighbor stopped by and commented on the farmer's wonderful crop. "You must be extremely happy with this year's harvest," he said. The farmer grudgingly replied, "Well, yes, it looks like a pretty good one, but a bumper crop is awfully hard on the soil."
The people of Israel had the same kind of complaining attitude. God had miraculously taken care of them during their wilderness wanderings, yet they constantly complained. For example, they griped about the manna that God had so graciously provided. Remembering the fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic of Egypt, they whined, "There is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!" [Num. 11:6]. What ingratitude!
We too sometimes tend to focus on the negatives rather than the positives of life. We murmur against the Lord when we should be praising Him for His countless blessings. We let ourselves be distracted by the disappointments and deprivations that God allows for our spiritual good.
Whenever we are tempted to grumble, let's remember Numbers 11:1, "When the people complained, it displeased the LORD." --- Richard De Haan
Every time you want to grumble,
Think of others who have less;
Ask the Lord to keep you humble,
Grateful for each happiness. --- Marye
SOME PEOPLE GO THROUGH LIFE STANDING AT THE COMPLAINT COUNTER.
When the people complained, it displeased the LORD. --- Numbers 11:1
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 4-6
John 6:1-21
There's a story about a farmer who was known for his negative attitude. One day a neighbor stopped by and commented on the farmer's wonderful crop. "You must be extremely happy with this year's harvest," he said. The farmer grudgingly replied, "Well, yes, it looks like a pretty good one, but a bumper crop is awfully hard on the soil."
The people of Israel had the same kind of complaining attitude. God had miraculously taken care of them during their wilderness wanderings, yet they constantly complained. For example, they griped about the manna that God had so graciously provided. Remembering the fish, cucumbers, melons, leeks, onions, and garlic of Egypt, they whined, "There is nothing at all except this manna before our eyes!" [Num. 11:6]. What ingratitude!
We too sometimes tend to focus on the negatives rather than the positives of life. We murmur against the Lord when we should be praising Him for His countless blessings. We let ourselves be distracted by the disappointments and deprivations that God allows for our spiritual good.
Whenever we are tempted to grumble, let's remember Numbers 11:1, "When the people complained, it displeased the LORD." --- Richard De Haan
Every time you want to grumble,
Think of others who have less;
Ask the Lord to keep you humble,
Grateful for each happiness. --- Marye
SOME PEOPLE GO THROUGH LIFE STANDING AT THE COMPLAINT COUNTER.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
A Rusty Mind
Read: Hebrews 5:12-14
Solid food belongs to those ... who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. --- Hebrews 5:14
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 1-3
John 5:25-47
Leonardo da Vinci's contributions to art, science, and engineering establish him as one of the great geniuses in history. Whether it be designing a flying machine or painting the Mona Lisa, his mind was alive, observant, and creative. He is credited with making this comment about maintaining mental sharpness: "Iron rusts from disuse; stagnant water loses its purity; ... even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind."
It is also possible to become stagnant in our Christian life. This is what happened to the recipients of the book of Hebrews.The inspired author saw the symptoms and knew the cure. "Solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" [Heb. 5:14].
The word exercised is from the Greek gymnasium and relates to our idea of a disciplined workout. The Christian life is to be one of growing in knowledge so that we learn to choose the right path. And we do that by looking into the Word of God.
Take a fresh look at the Bible and ask God for new insights on how it affects your relationship with Him and with others. Work at staying spiritually fit. --- Dennis Fisher
Search the Scripture's precious store ---
As a miner digs for ore,
Search, and you will surely find
Treasures to enrich your mind. --- Anon.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH REQUIRES THE SOLID FOOD OF GOD'S WORD.
Solid food belongs to those ... who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. --- Hebrews 5:14
The Bible In One Year:
1 Chronicles 1-3
John 5:25-47
Leonardo da Vinci's contributions to art, science, and engineering establish him as one of the great geniuses in history. Whether it be designing a flying machine or painting the Mona Lisa, his mind was alive, observant, and creative. He is credited with making this comment about maintaining mental sharpness: "Iron rusts from disuse; stagnant water loses its purity; ... even so does inaction sap the vigor of the mind."
It is also possible to become stagnant in our Christian life. This is what happened to the recipients of the book of Hebrews.The inspired author saw the symptoms and knew the cure. "Solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil" [Heb. 5:14].
The word exercised is from the Greek gymnasium and relates to our idea of a disciplined workout. The Christian life is to be one of growing in knowledge so that we learn to choose the right path. And we do that by looking into the Word of God.
Take a fresh look at the Bible and ask God for new insights on how it affects your relationship with Him and with others. Work at staying spiritually fit. --- Dennis Fisher
Search the Scripture's precious store ---
As a miner digs for ore,
Search, and you will surely find
Treasures to enrich your mind. --- Anon.
SPIRITUAL GROWTH REQUIRES THE SOLID FOOD OF GOD'S WORD.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Walking Tall
Read: Leviticus 26:3,12-16
I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright. --- Leviticus 26:13
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 24-25
John 5:1-24
During my basic training in the Army, our drill sergeant worked hard week after week to transform us from a group of slouching civilians into a company of men who stood straight and walked tall. It was not an easy job. When he finally said, "You're looking good!" we felt proud of who we were and how we had changed.
That experience came to mind when I read Leviticus 26:13, "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright." After 400 years of slavery and hard labor, the people of Israel were burdened and discouraged. But under Moses, God led them out of bondage and put them on the road to a new life of freedom through obedience to Him.
It's a vivid reminder of what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. Paul wrote: "Stand fast ... in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage" [Gal. 5:1].
We don't need to be bowed down with our sin. As we embrace the freedom of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, we can hold our heads high and keep walking tall. --- David McCasland
May I stand firm, O God of truth,
For all that pleases Thee;
Undaunted by the critic's frown,
Let nothing hinder me. --- Bosch
THERE ARE NO DEADENDS ON THE ROAD OF OBEDIENCE TO GOD.
I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright. --- Leviticus 26:13
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 24-25
John 5:1-24
During my basic training in the Army, our drill sergeant worked hard week after week to transform us from a group of slouching civilians into a company of men who stood straight and walked tall. It was not an easy job. When he finally said, "You're looking good!" we felt proud of who we were and how we had changed.
That experience came to mind when I read Leviticus 26:13, "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that you should not be their slaves; I have broken the bands of your yoke and made you walk upright." After 400 years of slavery and hard labor, the people of Israel were burdened and discouraged. But under Moses, God led them out of bondage and put them on the road to a new life of freedom through obedience to Him.
It's a vivid reminder of what God has done for us through Jesus Christ. Paul wrote: "Stand fast ... in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage" [Gal. 5:1].
We don't need to be bowed down with our sin. As we embrace the freedom of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, we can hold our heads high and keep walking tall. --- David McCasland
May I stand firm, O God of truth,
For all that pleases Thee;
Undaunted by the critic's frown,
Let nothing hinder me. --- Bosch
THERE ARE NO DEADENDS ON THE ROAD OF OBEDIENCE TO GOD.
Monday, May 14, 2007
L'Chayim!
Read: Exodus 12:21-30
The LORD will ... not allow the destroyer to come into your houses to strike you. --- Exodus 12:23
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 22-23
John 4:31-54
My friends Deb and Bryce were invited by some Jewish friends to attend their seder dinner. This is a celebration held by Jewish families to commemorate the first Passover in Egypt [Ex. 12:24-27]. The entire family becomes involved, including the little children.
Deb and Bryce expected a somber evening, but they discovered a joyous celebration. At the beginning of the meal, a piece of bread was halved. One half was shared by the guests; the other half was hidden by the youngest family member. All the adults searched for it, to the child's delight. When the bread was not discovered, it ws ransomed by the child amid great laughter. Then followed an evening of stories and songs, and the oft-repeated phrase: "L'Chayim! To life!"
Why not a joyous celebration? The Passover marks the deliverance of Israel from slavery and the "destroyer."
The Passover meal Jesus and His disciples shared the night before His death was a celebration too, but with serious overtones. It signaled the beginning of the events that led to His sacrifice and our redemption from sin and Satan.
From spiritual slavery to spiritual freedom. From death to life. As we celebrate our deliverance, we too can say with joy to one another, "L'Chayim! To life!" --- Dave Egner
No condemnation now I dread,
I am my Lord's and He is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine. --- Wesley
DELIVERANCE FROM SIN IS THE GREATEST OF ALL FREEDOMS.
The LORD will ... not allow the destroyer to come into your houses to strike you. --- Exodus 12:23
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 22-23
John 4:31-54
My friends Deb and Bryce were invited by some Jewish friends to attend their seder dinner. This is a celebration held by Jewish families to commemorate the first Passover in Egypt [Ex. 12:24-27]. The entire family becomes involved, including the little children.
Deb and Bryce expected a somber evening, but they discovered a joyous celebration. At the beginning of the meal, a piece of bread was halved. One half was shared by the guests; the other half was hidden by the youngest family member. All the adults searched for it, to the child's delight. When the bread was not discovered, it ws ransomed by the child amid great laughter. Then followed an evening of stories and songs, and the oft-repeated phrase: "L'Chayim! To life!"
Why not a joyous celebration? The Passover marks the deliverance of Israel from slavery and the "destroyer."
The Passover meal Jesus and His disciples shared the night before His death was a celebration too, but with serious overtones. It signaled the beginning of the events that led to His sacrifice and our redemption from sin and Satan.
From spiritual slavery to spiritual freedom. From death to life. As we celebrate our deliverance, we too can say with joy to one another, "L'Chayim! To life!" --- Dave Egner
No condemnation now I dread,
I am my Lord's and He is mine;
Alive in Him, my living Head,
And clothed in righteousness divine. --- Wesley
DELIVERANCE FROM SIN IS THE GREATEST OF ALL FREEDOMS.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Leader Or Follower?
Read: Luke 5:27-32
[Jesus] said to him, "Follow Me." --- Luke 5:27
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 19-21
John 4:1-30
A close friend asked Gandhi, "If you admire Christ so much, why don't you become a Christian?" It is said that he replied, "When I meet a Christian who is a follower of Christ, I may consider it."
But isn't that what a Christian is supposed to be --- a follower of Christ? Joe Stowell, former president of Moody Bible Institute, wrote in Following Christ: "Many of us live out our faith as though [Christ] exists to follow us. We come to believe that Christ exists to satisfy our demands.... This disguised form of self-serving religion sets Christ up as just one more commodity in life that will enhance and empower our dreams."
When Jesus called His disciples to follow Him. He meant that He would do the following [Luke 5:27]. Like the disciples, we must give up our will, obey Him, and choose to "lose" our lives for Him [17:33].
Without too much thought, this might sound simple. But in reality, it is impossible to do on our own. Only by choosing each day to let go of our own plans and by trusting the Holy Spirit's leading can we cooperate with His work in us.
This is God's way of teaching us to become His submissive followers instead of the leader. --- Anne Cetas
Because Christ is the One who holds
The key to all our needs,
We can release what we hold dear
To follow where He leads. --- Sper
TO LEAD OTHERS TO JESUS, YOU MUST FIRST LEARN TO FOLLOW HIM.
[Jesus] said to him, "Follow Me." --- Luke 5:27
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 19-21
John 4:1-30
A close friend asked Gandhi, "If you admire Christ so much, why don't you become a Christian?" It is said that he replied, "When I meet a Christian who is a follower of Christ, I may consider it."
But isn't that what a Christian is supposed to be --- a follower of Christ? Joe Stowell, former president of Moody Bible Institute, wrote in Following Christ: "Many of us live out our faith as though [Christ] exists to follow us. We come to believe that Christ exists to satisfy our demands.... This disguised form of self-serving religion sets Christ up as just one more commodity in life that will enhance and empower our dreams."
When Jesus called His disciples to follow Him. He meant that He would do the following [Luke 5:27]. Like the disciples, we must give up our will, obey Him, and choose to "lose" our lives for Him [17:33].
Without too much thought, this might sound simple. But in reality, it is impossible to do on our own. Only by choosing each day to let go of our own plans and by trusting the Holy Spirit's leading can we cooperate with His work in us.
This is God's way of teaching us to become His submissive followers instead of the leader. --- Anne Cetas
Because Christ is the One who holds
The key to all our needs,
We can release what we hold dear
To follow where He leads. --- Sper
TO LEAD OTHERS TO JESUS, YOU MUST FIRST LEARN TO FOLLOW HIM.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
A Mother's Strength
Read: Proverbs 31:26-31
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. --- Proverbs 31:26
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 17-18
John 3:19-36
My wife Carolyn and I were walking in a park one morning when we spotted a mother squirrel scurrying along a power line with her baby in her mouth. She delivered the little squirrel to a new nest she had built in a tree. Then she ran back across the wire to fetch another baby from the old nest and transport it to its new home. Back and forth she scampered until she had deposited all six of her babies in their new home. "Being a mother is hard work!" Carolyn mused.
Indeed it is. The labor to bring a child into the world is only the beginning. How essential it is that she take care of herself spiritually so she can take care of her children! Of all concerns, the care for her soul is the greatest --- to grow in wisdom and in the knowledge of God.
Susanna Wesley was a busy mother with 19 children, yet she set aside time each day to meet with God. Some days she spent that time in a chair with her apron over her head, praying. Woe be to the child who disturbed her!
The woman described in Proverbs 31 placed a high value on wisdom, kindness, and a respect for the Lord [vv.26, 30]. This Mother's Day, let's honor the women in our lives who shair their wisdom, show us kindness, and who seek above all to honor the Lord. --- David Roper
Though other scenes may be forgot,
While life shall last, this one cannot;
When mother prayed! O peace divine!
My mother's God today is mine. --- Anon.
GOD BLESS MY MOTHER; ... ALL I AM I OWE TO HER. --- Abraham Lincoln
She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness. --- Proverbs 31:26
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 17-18
John 3:19-36
My wife Carolyn and I were walking in a park one morning when we spotted a mother squirrel scurrying along a power line with her baby in her mouth. She delivered the little squirrel to a new nest she had built in a tree. Then she ran back across the wire to fetch another baby from the old nest and transport it to its new home. Back and forth she scampered until she had deposited all six of her babies in their new home. "Being a mother is hard work!" Carolyn mused.
Indeed it is. The labor to bring a child into the world is only the beginning. How essential it is that she take care of herself spiritually so she can take care of her children! Of all concerns, the care for her soul is the greatest --- to grow in wisdom and in the knowledge of God.
Susanna Wesley was a busy mother with 19 children, yet she set aside time each day to meet with God. Some days she spent that time in a chair with her apron over her head, praying. Woe be to the child who disturbed her!
The woman described in Proverbs 31 placed a high value on wisdom, kindness, and a respect for the Lord [vv.26, 30]. This Mother's Day, let's honor the women in our lives who shair their wisdom, show us kindness, and who seek above all to honor the Lord. --- David Roper
Though other scenes may be forgot,
While life shall last, this one cannot;
When mother prayed! O peace divine!
My mother's God today is mine. --- Anon.
GOD BLESS MY MOTHER; ... ALL I AM I OWE TO HER. --- Abraham Lincoln
Friday, May 11, 2007
The Legacy
Read: Psalm 34:11-22
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. --- 3 John 1:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 15-16
John 3:1-18
Her writing career spanned three decades, from the mid-1960s through the mid-1990s. She wrote 12 books and received 16 honorary doctorate degrees. But 3 years before she died of cancer in 1996, popular humorist Erma Bombeck told an ABC TV interviewer that no matter how many columns she had written, her legacy would be her three children. "If I did a bad job with them," she said, "then everything else [I] do isn't very important."
Bombeck had riches and fame and the goodwill of millions of readers, but she realized that her top priority was taking care of her children.
Although no parent can be guaranteed that his or her child will turn out to be godly model citizen, those of us who are parents must start with Erma's attitude. Our motivation is to provide spiritually, physically, and emotionally for our children. They will be our legacy.
That means introducing them to the Savior, providing spiritual guidance [Ps. 34:11-14], praying for them, and encouraging them to find mentors who can guide them in godly living.
Sometimes it's a battle. Often it's expensive in time and toil. But the value of a child overshadows it all. --- Dave Branon
Our children are a gift from God
To nurture and to love;
They need our help in guiding them
To turn their thoughts above. --- Sper
LITTLE CHILDREN ARE OF GREAT VALUE TO GOD.
I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. --- 3 John 1:4
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 15-16
John 3:1-18
Her writing career spanned three decades, from the mid-1960s through the mid-1990s. She wrote 12 books and received 16 honorary doctorate degrees. But 3 years before she died of cancer in 1996, popular humorist Erma Bombeck told an ABC TV interviewer that no matter how many columns she had written, her legacy would be her three children. "If I did a bad job with them," she said, "then everything else [I] do isn't very important."
Bombeck had riches and fame and the goodwill of millions of readers, but she realized that her top priority was taking care of her children.
Although no parent can be guaranteed that his or her child will turn out to be godly model citizen, those of us who are parents must start with Erma's attitude. Our motivation is to provide spiritually, physically, and emotionally for our children. They will be our legacy.
That means introducing them to the Savior, providing spiritual guidance [Ps. 34:11-14], praying for them, and encouraging them to find mentors who can guide them in godly living.
Sometimes it's a battle. Often it's expensive in time and toil. But the value of a child overshadows it all. --- Dave Branon
Our children are a gift from God
To nurture and to love;
They need our help in guiding them
To turn their thoughts above. --- Sper
LITTLE CHILDREN ARE OF GREAT VALUE TO GOD.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Your Biography
Read: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. --- 2 Timothy 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 13-14
John 2
When D.L. Moody was moving into old age, he was asked to grant permission for his biography. Moody refused, saying, "A man's life should never be written while he is living. What is important is how a man ends, not how he begins."
For better or worse, I have failed to follow that dictum. My biography has been published. Yet I agree with Moody that the way our lives end is the crucial test of authentic disciple-ship. Only if we remain in a steadfast relationship with the Savior can we be confident not merely of entering heaven, but of obtaining the victor's crown [1 Cor. 9:25].
Paul was concerned about the possibility of being disapproved by his Lord [v.27]. He was a redeemed believer who was serving the Lord, yet he feared that his service might prove to be wood, hay, and straw rather than gold, silver, and precious stones [1 Cor. 3:12-13].
What will be the Lord's appraisal of our lives? Will someone evaluating us be able to say honestly that we continued to bear fruit in old age? [Ps. 92:14]. Whatever vocation we pursue, with the help of the Holy Spirit we may be "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" [1 Cor. 15:58]. --- Vernon Grounds
Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful,
May the fire of our devotion light their way;
May the footprints that we leave lead them to believe,
And the lives we live inspire them to obey. --- Mohr
FOR THE IGNORANT, OLD AGE IS AS WINTER; FOR THE LEARNED, IT IS A HARVEST. --- Jewish Proverb
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. --- 2 Timothy 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 13-14
John 2
When D.L. Moody was moving into old age, he was asked to grant permission for his biography. Moody refused, saying, "A man's life should never be written while he is living. What is important is how a man ends, not how he begins."
For better or worse, I have failed to follow that dictum. My biography has been published. Yet I agree with Moody that the way our lives end is the crucial test of authentic disciple-ship. Only if we remain in a steadfast relationship with the Savior can we be confident not merely of entering heaven, but of obtaining the victor's crown [1 Cor. 9:25].
Paul was concerned about the possibility of being disapproved by his Lord [v.27]. He was a redeemed believer who was serving the Lord, yet he feared that his service might prove to be wood, hay, and straw rather than gold, silver, and precious stones [1 Cor. 3:12-13].
What will be the Lord's appraisal of our lives? Will someone evaluating us be able to say honestly that we continued to bear fruit in old age? [Ps. 92:14]. Whatever vocation we pursue, with the help of the Holy Spirit we may be "steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" [1 Cor. 15:58]. --- Vernon Grounds
Oh, may all who come behind us find us faithful,
May the fire of our devotion light their way;
May the footprints that we leave lead them to believe,
And the lives we live inspire them to obey. --- Mohr
FOR THE IGNORANT, OLD AGE IS AS WINTER; FOR THE LEARNED, IT IS A HARVEST. --- Jewish Proverb
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
The Greatness Of Godliness
Read: Genesis 47:7-12
Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh. --- Genesis 47:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 10-12
John 1:29-51
In the eyes of most people, Jacob's brother Esau was the greater man of the two. Through the years he had accumulated immense wealth and power. He was the ruler of the land of Edom and could have met Pharaoh on his own terms. Yet Esau, with all his earthly authority, could not have blessed the Pharaoh. Only Jacob had that power [Gen. 47:10].
The spiritual is greater than the natural. God can endow a humble human being with awesome moral force. Holiness has within itself the power to master all other powers.
The Greek word for power or authority [exousia] contains the preposition ex, which means "out of" or "from." This suggests that the ability to influence others flows from inside. It is rooted in what we are. "Do you wish to be great?" Augustine asked. "Then begin by being." Greatness comes from holiness and nothing more.
I have a friend who makes his way through the halls of power in Washington, DC, meeting with the most prominent women and men in the world. He speaks a word or two, prays, and then walks on, but he leaves behind the lingering and compelling influence of Christ. He has the aura of greatness that surrounds all whose lives reflect the character of Jesus. It is the greatness of godliness. --- David Roper
I want my heart His throne to be,
So that a watching world may see
His likeness shining forth in me;
I want to be like Jesus. --- Chisholm
EVEN A LITTLE EXAMPLE CAN HAVE A BIG INFLUENCE FOR CHRIST.
Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh. --- Genesis 47:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 10-12
John 1:29-51
In the eyes of most people, Jacob's brother Esau was the greater man of the two. Through the years he had accumulated immense wealth and power. He was the ruler of the land of Edom and could have met Pharaoh on his own terms. Yet Esau, with all his earthly authority, could not have blessed the Pharaoh. Only Jacob had that power [Gen. 47:10].
The spiritual is greater than the natural. God can endow a humble human being with awesome moral force. Holiness has within itself the power to master all other powers.
The Greek word for power or authority [exousia] contains the preposition ex, which means "out of" or "from." This suggests that the ability to influence others flows from inside. It is rooted in what we are. "Do you wish to be great?" Augustine asked. "Then begin by being." Greatness comes from holiness and nothing more.
I have a friend who makes his way through the halls of power in Washington, DC, meeting with the most prominent women and men in the world. He speaks a word or two, prays, and then walks on, but he leaves behind the lingering and compelling influence of Christ. He has the aura of greatness that surrounds all whose lives reflect the character of Jesus. It is the greatness of godliness. --- David Roper
I want my heart His throne to be,
So that a watching world may see
His likeness shining forth in me;
I want to be like Jesus. --- Chisholm
EVEN A LITTLE EXAMPLE CAN HAVE A BIG INFLUENCE FOR CHRIST.
Mount St. Helens Syndrome
Read: 2 Peter 3:3-15
The longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. --- 2 Peter 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 7-9
John 1:1-28
On March 20, 1980, Mount St. Helens in Washington, a supposedly dormant volcano, began to quake and rumble. The local population was evacuated to a "safe" distance 8 miles away. Later, the side of the mountain began to bulge. Scientists were not alarmed because past research of volcanoes indicated that they never blew sideways.
Then on May 18, the side of Mount St. Helens exploded, shooting tons of debris downhill at the speed of 150 miles per hour. A minute later, the volcano exploded upward with the equivalent power of 500 atomic bombs! Two hundred thirty square miles of forest were devastated and 57 people lost their lives. The scientists had assumed that natural events would continue as before. But they were wrong.
The book of 2 Peter tells us of a future time when a misplaced confidence will be destroyed by the fiery end of our world [3:4-7]. But the good news is that God will build "new heavens and a new earth" [v.13]. He is "not willing that any should perish," and He is patiently waiting so that more people will find true safety in His Son Jesus [v.9]. They need only accept the salvation He offers.
Have you trusted Christ for your safety? --- Dennis Fisher
We do not need a pulpit
From which to speak God's Word;
It only takes our willingness
To share what we have heard. --- Sper
GOD'S PEOPLE MUST POINT THE WAY IF OTHERS ARE TO ESCAPE GOD'S JUDGMENT.
The longsuffering of our Lord is salvation. --- 2 Peter 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 7-9
John 1:1-28
On March 20, 1980, Mount St. Helens in Washington, a supposedly dormant volcano, began to quake and rumble. The local population was evacuated to a "safe" distance 8 miles away. Later, the side of the mountain began to bulge. Scientists were not alarmed because past research of volcanoes indicated that they never blew sideways.
Then on May 18, the side of Mount St. Helens exploded, shooting tons of debris downhill at the speed of 150 miles per hour. A minute later, the volcano exploded upward with the equivalent power of 500 atomic bombs! Two hundred thirty square miles of forest were devastated and 57 people lost their lives. The scientists had assumed that natural events would continue as before. But they were wrong.
The book of 2 Peter tells us of a future time when a misplaced confidence will be destroyed by the fiery end of our world [3:4-7]. But the good news is that God will build "new heavens and a new earth" [v.13]. He is "not willing that any should perish," and He is patiently waiting so that more people will find true safety in His Son Jesus [v.9]. They need only accept the salvation He offers.
Have you trusted Christ for your safety? --- Dennis Fisher
We do not need a pulpit
From which to speak God's Word;
It only takes our willingness
To share what we have heard. --- Sper
GOD'S PEOPLE MUST POINT THE WAY IF OTHERS ARE TO ESCAPE GOD'S JUDGMENT.
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Looting The Camp
Read: 2 Kings 5:15-27
Did not my heart go with you ...? Is it time to receive money and to receive clothing? --- 2 Kings 5:26
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Luke 24:36-53
While visiting a US Civil War battlefield in Virginia, I was struck by a story about an army unit that arrived too late for a major battle. The troops had stopped to loot a camp abandoned by their enemy. By taking what they felt they needed, they could not accomplish their mission.
That seems to describe the failure of the prophet Elisha's servant Gehazi, who sought money and clothing from Naaman, a Syrian military commander [2 Kings 5:20-25]. Elisha told Naaman how to be cured of his leprosy, but he refused any gift or payment from him [v.16]. Gehazi, however, decided to get something for himself [v.20]. In a stinging rebuke, Elisha said to Gehazi: "Is it time to receive money and to receive clothing ... ? Therefore the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and your descendants forever" [vv.26-27].
The desire for personal gain can be a snare in our service for the Lord. It may be the subtle lure of recognition or the fatal attraction of financial reward. Any motive that changes our focus from giving to God to getting from Him poses a real spiritual danger.
Greed makes us believe that we deserve what we desire. That leads us down the wrong road. May God give us the wisdom to avoid the sin of Gehazi. --- David McCasland
God's riches fill up our supply,
Whatever we may need,
So we can then be generous,
And not controlled by greed. --- Sper
LIVE TO GIVE.
Did not my heart go with you ...? Is it time to receive money and to receive clothing? --- 2 Kings 5:26
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Luke 24:36-53
While visiting a US Civil War battlefield in Virginia, I was struck by a story about an army unit that arrived too late for a major battle. The troops had stopped to loot a camp abandoned by their enemy. By taking what they felt they needed, they could not accomplish their mission.
That seems to describe the failure of the prophet Elisha's servant Gehazi, who sought money and clothing from Naaman, a Syrian military commander [2 Kings 5:20-25]. Elisha told Naaman how to be cured of his leprosy, but he refused any gift or payment from him [v.16]. Gehazi, however, decided to get something for himself [v.20]. In a stinging rebuke, Elisha said to Gehazi: "Is it time to receive money and to receive clothing ... ? Therefore the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and your descendants forever" [vv.26-27].
The desire for personal gain can be a snare in our service for the Lord. It may be the subtle lure of recognition or the fatal attraction of financial reward. Any motive that changes our focus from giving to God to getting from Him poses a real spiritual danger.
Greed makes us believe that we deserve what we desire. That leads us down the wrong road. May God give us the wisdom to avoid the sin of Gehazi. --- David McCasland
God's riches fill up our supply,
Whatever we may need,
So we can then be generous,
And not controlled by greed. --- Sper
LIVE TO GIVE.
Monday, May 07, 2007
"Good Buddy"
Read: John 15:9-17
You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. --- John 15:14
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Luke 24:1-35
The congregation listened intently as the pastor began to pray: "Dear heavenly Father ..." Suddenly he was interrupted by a voice saying, "Hey there, good buddy!"
Everyone began to laugh when they realized the voice was coming from the organ. It was picking up the conversation of a truck driver on his CB radio! Not much was accomplished in the service that day, because the congregation continued to chuckle about the voice that made them think God was responding to their pastor and calling him His "good buddy."
Moses knew what it was like to be a friend of God --- a relationship that went beyond buddies. The Lord often talked with Moses "face to face, as a man speaks to his friend" [Ex. 33:11]. The patriarch Abraham was also called God's friend [2 Chron. 20:7].
But can you and I be a friend of God? In our Bible reading for today, Jesus, the supreme example of loving friendship, called His disciples friends [John 15:13,15]. He put it simply: "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you" [v.14].
And what does He command? That we love Him with all our heart and love others as ourselves [Mark 12:30-31]. That's how we can be God's friend. --- Anne Cetas
Friendship with Jesus,
Fellowship divine,
Oh, what blessed, sweet communion,
Jesus is a friend of mind. --- Ludgate
THE DEAREST FRIEND ON EARTH IS BUT A MERE SHADOW COMPARED TO JESUS. --- Chambers
You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. --- John 15:14
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Luke 24:1-35
The congregation listened intently as the pastor began to pray: "Dear heavenly Father ..." Suddenly he was interrupted by a voice saying, "Hey there, good buddy!"
Everyone began to laugh when they realized the voice was coming from the organ. It was picking up the conversation of a truck driver on his CB radio! Not much was accomplished in the service that day, because the congregation continued to chuckle about the voice that made them think God was responding to their pastor and calling him His "good buddy."
Moses knew what it was like to be a friend of God --- a relationship that went beyond buddies. The Lord often talked with Moses "face to face, as a man speaks to his friend" [Ex. 33:11]. The patriarch Abraham was also called God's friend [2 Chron. 20:7].
But can you and I be a friend of God? In our Bible reading for today, Jesus, the supreme example of loving friendship, called His disciples friends [John 15:13,15]. He put it simply: "You are My friends if you do whatever I command you" [v.14].
And what does He command? That we love Him with all our heart and love others as ourselves [Mark 12:30-31]. That's how we can be God's friend. --- Anne Cetas
Friendship with Jesus,
Fellowship divine,
Oh, what blessed, sweet communion,
Jesus is a friend of mind. --- Ludgate
THE DEAREST FRIEND ON EARTH IS BUT A MERE SHADOW COMPARED TO JESUS. --- Chambers
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Which Tire Was It?
Read: Acts 5:1-11
You have not lied to men but to God. --- Acts 5:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Luke 23:26-56
One sunny day, four high school boys couldn't resist the temptation to skip classes. The next morning they explained to their teacher that they had missed her class because their car had a flat tire. To their relief, she smiled and said, "Well, you missed a quiz yesterday." But then she added, "Take your seats and get out a pencil and paper. The first question is: Which tire was flat?"
No one gets away with lying. In Acts 5, Ananias and Sapphira thought they were lying only to Peter and the other believers. But the apostle said to them, "You have not lied to men but to God" [v.4].
Truth is one of the attributes of God. So when we tell a lie, we offend Him. And sooner or later He will uncover every falsehood --- if not in this life, then at the final judgment, when we each give an account of ourselves to God [Rom. 14:10-12].
We live in a highly competitive world, and sometimes we may be strongly tempted to shade the truth to get ahead. But the short-term gains from lying are worth little compared with the long-term benefits of telling the truth.
If you have deceived someone, confess if to the person and to the Lord. It may be humbling, but it's the first step to restoring integrity in your life. --- Dennis De Haan
The road that leads to misery
Is caused by a tongue that wags;
Beware of lying lips, my friend,
And a mouth that boasts and brags. --- Shade
IF YOU HAVE ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH, YOU WILL NEVER BE TRAPPED IN A LIE.
You have not lied to men but to God. --- Acts 5:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Luke 23:26-56
One sunny day, four high school boys couldn't resist the temptation to skip classes. The next morning they explained to their teacher that they had missed her class because their car had a flat tire. To their relief, she smiled and said, "Well, you missed a quiz yesterday." But then she added, "Take your seats and get out a pencil and paper. The first question is: Which tire was flat?"
No one gets away with lying. In Acts 5, Ananias and Sapphira thought they were lying only to Peter and the other believers. But the apostle said to them, "You have not lied to men but to God" [v.4].
Truth is one of the attributes of God. So when we tell a lie, we offend Him. And sooner or later He will uncover every falsehood --- if not in this life, then at the final judgment, when we each give an account of ourselves to God [Rom. 14:10-12].
We live in a highly competitive world, and sometimes we may be strongly tempted to shade the truth to get ahead. But the short-term gains from lying are worth little compared with the long-term benefits of telling the truth.
If you have deceived someone, confess if to the person and to the Lord. It may be humbling, but it's the first step to restoring integrity in your life. --- Dennis De Haan
The road that leads to misery
Is caused by a tongue that wags;
Beware of lying lips, my friend,
And a mouth that boasts and brags. --- Shade
IF YOU HAVE ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH, YOU WILL NEVER BE TRAPPED IN A LIE.
We Touched Him!
Read: 1 John 1:1-4
That which ... our hands have handled, ... we declare to you. --- 1 John 1:1,3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Luke 23:1-25
Mythology is filled with legends of ancient gods who descended from heaven and took human form, but no one ever heard or saw them, and no one ever touched them. These were dreams born of human desire for God and the hope that someday He would draw near. The incarnation of Jesus --- God who came in the flesh --- is how those dreams came true.
Author Dorothy Sayers put it this way: "[God] can exact nothing from man that He has not exacted from Himself. He has Himself gone through the whole of human experience, from the trivial irritations of family life and the cramping restrictions of hard work and lack of money to the worst horrors of pain and humiliation, defeat, despair, and death. When He was a man, He played the man. He was born in poverty and died in disgrace and thought it well worthwhile."
The incarnation of Jesus Christ is the irrefutable proof that God will do anything to draw near to us.
Augustine said, "[God] gave Himself for a time to be handled by the hands of men." And we have the written record of John, a man who actually did touch Him. We can trust his account --- and we can trust that God wants to be near to you and me. --- David Roper
Absolutely tender! Absolutely true!
Understanding all things; understanding you;
Infinitely loving, good and kind and near ---
That is Christ our Savior. What have we to fear?
LOVE WAS WHEN GOD BECAME A MAN. --- Walvoord
That which ... our hands have handled, ... we declare to you. --- 1 John 1:1,3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Luke 23:1-25
Mythology is filled with legends of ancient gods who descended from heaven and took human form, but no one ever heard or saw them, and no one ever touched them. These were dreams born of human desire for God and the hope that someday He would draw near. The incarnation of Jesus --- God who came in the flesh --- is how those dreams came true.
Author Dorothy Sayers put it this way: "[God] can exact nothing from man that He has not exacted from Himself. He has Himself gone through the whole of human experience, from the trivial irritations of family life and the cramping restrictions of hard work and lack of money to the worst horrors of pain and humiliation, defeat, despair, and death. When He was a man, He played the man. He was born in poverty and died in disgrace and thought it well worthwhile."
The incarnation of Jesus Christ is the irrefutable proof that God will do anything to draw near to us.
Augustine said, "[God] gave Himself for a time to be handled by the hands of men." And we have the written record of John, a man who actually did touch Him. We can trust his account --- and we can trust that God wants to be near to you and me. --- David Roper
Absolutely tender! Absolutely true!
Understanding all things; understanding you;
Infinitely loving, good and kind and near ---
That is Christ our Savior. What have we to fear?
LOVE WAS WHEN GOD BECAME A MAN. --- Walvoord
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Lost At Sea
Read: Job 2:7-10
Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity? --- Job 2:10
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Luke 22:47-71
In the fall of 1982, Deborah Kiley set out with three other young people to deliver the 58-feet yacht Trashman from Maine to Florida. Off the coast of North Carolina, they encountered gale winds and mountainous seas that sank their boat. Enduring 4 grueling days at sea without food or fresh water, the crew clung to life in a rubber dinghy in shark-infested waters.
In her book, Albatross, Deborah recalls how one of the crew shouted curses at God for their dilemma. Despite her fatigue, Deborah silently recited The Lord's Prayer and asked God to teach her through this crisis. Later, the same young man drank sea water, became delirious, jumped overboard, and was eaten by sharks. Eventually, the survivors were rescued by a Russian freighter.
Each of us responds in different ways to a crisis. Centuries ago, Job was hit by one wave of bad news after another. At one point his wife told him to curse God and die. Job's response was profound: "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" [Job 2:10].
The next time a crisis hits, recognize God's sovereignty and do as Deborah Kiley did --- ask God to teach you something through it. --- Dennis Fisher
O Lord, I would not ask You why
These trials come my way
But what there is for me to learn
Of Your great love, I pray. --- D. De Haan
THE LORD GAVE, AND THE LORD HAS TAKEN AWAY; BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD. --- Job
Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity? --- Job 2:10
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Luke 22:47-71
In the fall of 1982, Deborah Kiley set out with three other young people to deliver the 58-feet yacht Trashman from Maine to Florida. Off the coast of North Carolina, they encountered gale winds and mountainous seas that sank their boat. Enduring 4 grueling days at sea without food or fresh water, the crew clung to life in a rubber dinghy in shark-infested waters.
In her book, Albatross, Deborah recalls how one of the crew shouted curses at God for their dilemma. Despite her fatigue, Deborah silently recited The Lord's Prayer and asked God to teach her through this crisis. Later, the same young man drank sea water, became delirious, jumped overboard, and was eaten by sharks. Eventually, the survivors were rescued by a Russian freighter.
Each of us responds in different ways to a crisis. Centuries ago, Job was hit by one wave of bad news after another. At one point his wife told him to curse God and die. Job's response was profound: "Shall we indeed accept good from God, and shall we not accept adversity?" [Job 2:10].
The next time a crisis hits, recognize God's sovereignty and do as Deborah Kiley did --- ask God to teach you something through it. --- Dennis Fisher
O Lord, I would not ask You why
These trials come my way
But what there is for me to learn
Of Your great love, I pray. --- D. De Haan
THE LORD GAVE, AND THE LORD HAS TAKEN AWAY; BLESSED BE THE NAME OF THE LORD. --- Job
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Heed The Warning
Read: 1 Cor. 10:1,5-11
These things ... were written for our admonition. --- 1 Corinthians 10:11
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 14-15
Luke 22:21-46
In the months following the devastating Asian tsunami of December 2004, an amazing story of survival emerged from Simeulue Island, the closest inhabited land to the epicenter of the earthquake.
A news report said that only 7 or the remote Indonesian island's 75,000 inhabitants died when 30-foot waves struck just half an hour after the quake. For decades, the people had heard stories told by their grandparents of giant waves that killed thousands on this same island in 1907. So when the ground shook and the sea retreated from the shore, the people recalled their grandparents' warnings and fled to high ground.
First Corinthians 10 describes a spiritual disaster we can avoid. After the people of Israel were delivered from slavery in Egypt, they continued to turn away from the Lord. Recounting their recurring self-indulgence and its disastrous results, Paul wrote: "Now these things became our examples .... And they were written for our admonition" [vv.6,11]. The story of their failure has been preserved so we can avoid the same disaster of disobedience.
If there are warning signs in our lives today, it's time to run from self-destructive sin to the high ground of God's forgiving grace. --- David McCasland
The Bible is filled with example and teaching
On how to avoid all the pitfalls of sin;
And if we will learn from its people and precepts,
The struggles and battles of life we can win. --- Hess
A WARNING HEEDED IS A DISASTER AVOIDED.
These things ... were written for our admonition. --- 1 Corinthians 10:11
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 14-15
Luke 22:21-46
In the months following the devastating Asian tsunami of December 2004, an amazing story of survival emerged from Simeulue Island, the closest inhabited land to the epicenter of the earthquake.
A news report said that only 7 or the remote Indonesian island's 75,000 inhabitants died when 30-foot waves struck just half an hour after the quake. For decades, the people had heard stories told by their grandparents of giant waves that killed thousands on this same island in 1907. So when the ground shook and the sea retreated from the shore, the people recalled their grandparents' warnings and fled to high ground.
First Corinthians 10 describes a spiritual disaster we can avoid. After the people of Israel were delivered from slavery in Egypt, they continued to turn away from the Lord. Recounting their recurring self-indulgence and its disastrous results, Paul wrote: "Now these things became our examples .... And they were written for our admonition" [vv.6,11]. The story of their failure has been preserved so we can avoid the same disaster of disobedience.
If there are warning signs in our lives today, it's time to run from self-destructive sin to the high ground of God's forgiving grace. --- David McCasland
The Bible is filled with example and teaching
On how to avoid all the pitfalls of sin;
And if we will learn from its people and precepts,
The struggles and battles of life we can win. --- Hess
A WARNING HEEDED IS A DISASTER AVOIDED.
Naomi
Read: Ruth 4:13-22
The women said to Naomi, "Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a close relative." --- Ruth 4:14
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 12-13
Luke 22
A wise person once told me, "Never be quick to judge whether something is a blessing or a curse." The story of Naomi reminds me of this.
The name Naomi means "my delight." But when bad things happened to her, Naomi wanted to change her name to match her circumstances. After her husband and sons died, Naomi concluded, "The hand of the LORD has gone out against me!" [Ruth 1:13]. When people greeted her, she said, "Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty had dealt very bitterly with me" [v.20].
Rather than judge her circumstances in light of her identity as a follower of the one true God who had proclaimed unfailing love for His people, Naomi did what most of us tend to do: She judged wrongly. The hand of the Lord had not gone out against her. In fact, Naomi had a God-given treasure she had not yet discovered. Although Naomi lost her husband and two sons, she was given something totally unexpected --- a devoted daughter-in-law and a grand-child who would be in the lineage of the Messiah.
As Naomi's life shows us, sometimes the worst thing that happens to us can open the door for the best that God has to give us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Loving Father, help me not to judge Your love for me
on the basis of whether today brings good news or bad.
Help me remember that You desire to use
my circumstances to make me more like Jesus. Amen.
GOD'S PURPOSE FOR TODAY'S EVENTS MAY NOT BE SEEN TILL TOMORROW.
The women said to Naomi, "Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a close relative." --- Ruth 4:14
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 12-13
Luke 22
A wise person once told me, "Never be quick to judge whether something is a blessing or a curse." The story of Naomi reminds me of this.
The name Naomi means "my delight." But when bad things happened to her, Naomi wanted to change her name to match her circumstances. After her husband and sons died, Naomi concluded, "The hand of the LORD has gone out against me!" [Ruth 1:13]. When people greeted her, she said, "Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara, for the Almighty had dealt very bitterly with me" [v.20].
Rather than judge her circumstances in light of her identity as a follower of the one true God who had proclaimed unfailing love for His people, Naomi did what most of us tend to do: She judged wrongly. The hand of the Lord had not gone out against her. In fact, Naomi had a God-given treasure she had not yet discovered. Although Naomi lost her husband and two sons, she was given something totally unexpected --- a devoted daughter-in-law and a grand-child who would be in the lineage of the Messiah.
As Naomi's life shows us, sometimes the worst thing that happens to us can open the door for the best that God has to give us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Loving Father, help me not to judge Your love for me
on the basis of whether today brings good news or bad.
Help me remember that You desire to use
my circumstances to make me more like Jesus. Amen.
GOD'S PURPOSE FOR TODAY'S EVENTS MAY NOT BE SEEN TILL TOMORROW.
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