Read: Psalm 1
His delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. --- Psalm 1:2
The Bible In One Year:
Genesis 1-3
Matthew 1
Many of our New Year's resolutions many actually accelerate our pace of life instead of helping us to slow down. In a quest for greater productivity and efficiency, we over-schedule our days, then rush through meals, drive impatiently, and wonder why the joy of living eludes us.
Carol Odell, who writes a business advice column, says that slowing down can positively affect our lives at work and at home. She believes that rushing can cloud our judgment and cause us to overlook important things and valuable people. Carol encourages everyone to slow down, and even suggests the radical idea of welcoming red traffic lights and using the waiting time to meditate.
In Psalm 1, there is no hint of a frenzied pace. It describes a person who enjoys the blessing of God. Instead of thinking and acting like those who rarely consider spiritual matters, "His delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night" [v.2]. The result is a fruitful life and well-nourished soul [v.3].
Isaiah wrote, "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You" [Isa. 26:3]. Just for today, try thinking about that verse whenever you have to wait. Isn't it time for all of us to slow down and live? --- David McCasland
If you're working hard to make a living,
Never taking time to smell the roses,
Now's the time to heed the Bible's wisdom:
Find true joy before your life's day closes. --- Hess
COME APART AND REST AWHILE OR YOU MAY JUST PLAIN COME APART! --- Havner
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Fear Escape
Read: Proverbs 1:1-7
You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD; He is their help and their shield. --- Psalm 115:11
The Bible In One Year:
Malachi
Revelation 22
In our increasingly dangerous world, think of what we have to fear: Ominous terrorist threats, frightening crime rates, increasing natural disasters, sobering energy crises, ... God.
Yes, God. Ironic, isn't it, that in a world full of fearful things, the single source of our refuge and safety is also the One we are instructed to fear?
Consider Solomon's words: "In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and His children will have a place of refuge" [Prov. 14:26]. Then look at the next verse: "The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life."
We try to avoid life's fearful things because they interrupt our peace. Yet we are told to move toward fear --- the fear of God. For those who "fear the LORD, ... He is their help and their shield" [Ps. 115:11].
Our faith in God can deliver us from the fears of the world [Ps. 23:4] --- but only because our faith relies on a fear that is different from worldly fear. Proverbs 29:25 says, "The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe."
To fear God is to sense His awesomeness. When we acknowledge that greatness and trust in Him, we no longer want to sin against Him. He becomes our refuge from the fears of this world. In Him we find peace. --- Dave Branon
Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then
Have nothing else to fear;
Make you His service your delight;
Your wants shall be His care. --- Tate & Brady
THOSE WHO FEAR GOD NEED NOT FEAR THE WORLD.
You who fear the LORD, trust in the LORD; He is their help and their shield. --- Psalm 115:11
The Bible In One Year:
Malachi
Revelation 22
In our increasingly dangerous world, think of what we have to fear: Ominous terrorist threats, frightening crime rates, increasing natural disasters, sobering energy crises, ... God.
Yes, God. Ironic, isn't it, that in a world full of fearful things, the single source of our refuge and safety is also the One we are instructed to fear?
Consider Solomon's words: "In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and His children will have a place of refuge" [Prov. 14:26]. Then look at the next verse: "The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life."
We try to avoid life's fearful things because they interrupt our peace. Yet we are told to move toward fear --- the fear of God. For those who "fear the LORD, ... He is their help and their shield" [Ps. 115:11].
Our faith in God can deliver us from the fears of the world [Ps. 23:4] --- but only because our faith relies on a fear that is different from worldly fear. Proverbs 29:25 says, "The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the LORD shall be safe."
To fear God is to sense His awesomeness. When we acknowledge that greatness and trust in Him, we no longer want to sin against Him. He becomes our refuge from the fears of this world. In Him we find peace. --- Dave Branon
Fear Him, ye saints, and you will then
Have nothing else to fear;
Make you His service your delight;
Your wants shall be His care. --- Tate & Brady
THOSE WHO FEAR GOD NEED NOT FEAR THE WORLD.
Remembering
Read: Psalm 103:1-5
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. --- Psalm 103:2
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 13-14
Revelation 21
Some days we awaken with aching joints and dull spirits and wonder how we can shake off our lethargy and make it through the day.
Here's an idea: Like David, try lifting up your thanks to God. Use mind and memory to rekindle thankfulness for all God's "benefits" [Ps. 103:2]. Gratefulness will lead to joy.
Thank God for His forgiveness. He "forgives all your iniquities" [v.3], and "has cast all our sins into the depths of the sea" [Mic. 7-19].
Thank Him for healing your diseases [Ps. 103:3]. God uses infirmity and disorders to draw you more deeply into His love and care. And, one day when your Lord comes for you, He will heal all or your diseases.
Thank Him for redeeming your life from destruction [v.4]. This is more than rescue from a premature death. It is redemption from death itself.
Thank Him for crowning your life "with lovingkindness and tender mercies" [v.4].
Thank the One who satisfies your desires [v.5]. He is your satisfaction. Each day, He renews your strength and vigor. Then your spirit can rise up and soar like the eagle.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits" [v.2]. --- David Roper
Give me a spirit of thankfulness, Lord,
For numberless blessings given;
Blessings that daily come to me
Like dewdrops falling from heaven. --- Dawe
GRATITUDE IS THE MEMORY OF A GLAD HEART.
Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits. --- Psalm 103:2
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 13-14
Revelation 21
Some days we awaken with aching joints and dull spirits and wonder how we can shake off our lethargy and make it through the day.
Here's an idea: Like David, try lifting up your thanks to God. Use mind and memory to rekindle thankfulness for all God's "benefits" [Ps. 103:2]. Gratefulness will lead to joy.
Thank God for His forgiveness. He "forgives all your iniquities" [v.3], and "has cast all our sins into the depths of the sea" [Mic. 7-19].
Thank Him for healing your diseases [Ps. 103:3]. God uses infirmity and disorders to draw you more deeply into His love and care. And, one day when your Lord comes for you, He will heal all or your diseases.
Thank Him for redeeming your life from destruction [v.4]. This is more than rescue from a premature death. It is redemption from death itself.
Thank Him for crowning your life "with lovingkindness and tender mercies" [v.4].
Thank the One who satisfies your desires [v.5]. He is your satisfaction. Each day, He renews your strength and vigor. Then your spirit can rise up and soar like the eagle.
"Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits" [v.2]. --- David Roper
Give me a spirit of thankfulness, Lord,
For numberless blessings given;
Blessings that daily come to me
Like dewdrops falling from heaven. --- Dawe
GRATITUDE IS THE MEMORY OF A GLAD HEART.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Impaired Vision
Read: 1 Corinthians 13:8-13
Now we see in a mirror, dimly. --- 1 Corinthians 13:12
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 9-12
Revelation 20
When I was a child, I had to wear glasses. Interestingly, my vision improved, and from high school until age 40 I didn't need them. Prior to that landmark age, my vision was better than 20/20. Now, because of the natural degeneration of the eyes, I wear bifocals. Without glasses, my vision is impaired.
About our "spiritual vision" the apostle Paul said, "Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face" [1 Cor. 13:12]. The word dimly (enigma in Greek) implies that our current spiritual perceptions in our earthly state are impaired, at best.
In the ancient world, they didn't have the clear glass mirrors we have today. Instead, mirrors were made of polished metal and provided a reflection that was dim and distorted. What was seen in a mirror was only an imperfect representation of what would be clear if it could be seen directly.
If you have questions about what God is doing in your life, continue to trust Him and to seek clarity through prayer and His Word.
For now, our understanding is limited [1 Cor. 13:9]. Our current spiritual vision is impaired, but in eternity we will see clearly. We will see Jesus "face to face." --- Dennis Fisher
Someday He'll make it plain to me,
Someday when I His face shall see;
Someday from tears I shall be free,
For someday I shall understand. --- Leech
WE NOW SEE JESUS IN THE BIBLE, BUT THEN, FACE TO FACE.
Now we see in a mirror, dimly. --- 1 Corinthians 13:12
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 9-12
Revelation 20
When I was a child, I had to wear glasses. Interestingly, my vision improved, and from high school until age 40 I didn't need them. Prior to that landmark age, my vision was better than 20/20. Now, because of the natural degeneration of the eyes, I wear bifocals. Without glasses, my vision is impaired.
About our "spiritual vision" the apostle Paul said, "Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face" [1 Cor. 13:12]. The word dimly (enigma in Greek) implies that our current spiritual perceptions in our earthly state are impaired, at best.
In the ancient world, they didn't have the clear glass mirrors we have today. Instead, mirrors were made of polished metal and provided a reflection that was dim and distorted. What was seen in a mirror was only an imperfect representation of what would be clear if it could be seen directly.
If you have questions about what God is doing in your life, continue to trust Him and to seek clarity through prayer and His Word.
For now, our understanding is limited [1 Cor. 13:9]. Our current spiritual vision is impaired, but in eternity we will see clearly. We will see Jesus "face to face." --- Dennis Fisher
Someday He'll make it plain to me,
Someday when I His face shall see;
Someday from tears I shall be free,
For someday I shall understand. --- Leech
WE NOW SEE JESUS IN THE BIBLE, BUT THEN, FACE TO FACE.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
The Last Sins To Go
Read: 1 Chronicles 21:1-13
David said to God, "I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing." --- 1 Chronicles 21:8
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 5-8
Revelation 19
The apostle Paul said that we are to "cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit" [2 Cor. 7:1]. Even though it may seem to people around us that we are living a clean, moral life, in our spirit we may be harboring an attitude that displeases the Lord. Because sins of the spirit are unseen, hidden in the heart, we tend to ignore them until they lead to some outward behavior that reveals their presence.
King David's life illustrates these two aspects of sin. His lust for Bathsheba led to adultery and murder [2 Sam. 11-12; Ps. 32:5], and brought great pain to his own life and reproach to the nation of Israel. Then, late in his life, he succumbed to Satan's prompting to take a census [1 Chron. 21:1-6]. This seemingly innocent act displeased God [vv.7-8] because David was taking pride in his military might. He apparently made a subtle shift from complete reliance on God, who had often miraculously delivered him, to trusting in his own power and strength.
On the outside, it may appear to others that we are winning the battle against sin. But we must stay alert to the sins of the spirit, especially pride. They can cause us to stumble and fall, even at the end of life's journey. --- Dennis De Haan
We may confess our outward sins
Because they're difficult to hide,
But we must also guard against
Our inner sins, like lust and pride. --- Sper
PRIDE AND LUST ARE HIDDEN STONES OVER WHICH MANY PEOPLE STUMBLE.
David said to God, "I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing." --- 1 Chronicles 21:8
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 5-8
Revelation 19
The apostle Paul said that we are to "cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit" [2 Cor. 7:1]. Even though it may seem to people around us that we are living a clean, moral life, in our spirit we may be harboring an attitude that displeases the Lord. Because sins of the spirit are unseen, hidden in the heart, we tend to ignore them until they lead to some outward behavior that reveals their presence.
King David's life illustrates these two aspects of sin. His lust for Bathsheba led to adultery and murder [2 Sam. 11-12; Ps. 32:5], and brought great pain to his own life and reproach to the nation of Israel. Then, late in his life, he succumbed to Satan's prompting to take a census [1 Chron. 21:1-6]. This seemingly innocent act displeased God [vv.7-8] because David was taking pride in his military might. He apparently made a subtle shift from complete reliance on God, who had often miraculously delivered him, to trusting in his own power and strength.
On the outside, it may appear to others that we are winning the battle against sin. But we must stay alert to the sins of the spirit, especially pride. They can cause us to stumble and fall, even at the end of life's journey. --- Dennis De Haan
We may confess our outward sins
Because they're difficult to hide,
But we must also guard against
Our inner sins, like lust and pride. --- Sper
PRIDE AND LUST ARE HIDDEN STONES OVER WHICH MANY PEOPLE STUMBLE.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
A Christmas Rose
Read: Matthew 1:18-25
The Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. --- Isaiah 7:14
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 1-4
Revelation 18
In contrast to many of the resounding carols proclaiming the Savior's birth, "Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming" is a gentle song. Its words and music capture the hushed, almost preposterous assertion that a rose of hope has bloomed in the world's winter of despair. Written in the 15th century by an unknown German poet, it stands quietly in the midst of our modern Christmas rush, bearing a message of joy for all who will pause to listen.
Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming
From tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse's lineage coming,
As men of old have sung.
It came, a flowered bright,
Amid the cold of winter,
When half spent was the night.
The song speaks of a season when rose don't bloom, of a night half gone, a time when people may yield to despair.
Christmas can be an emotional winter, a dark night when the holiday lights are dimmed and cheery greetings are muted by loneliness or fear. Yet there is this word of hope:
This Flower, whose fragrance tender
With sweetness fills the air,
Dispels with glorious splendor
The darkness everywhere;
True man, yet very God,
From sin and death He saves us,
And lightens every load.
A Rose has bloomed at midnight in winter. Christ the Savior is born! --- David McCasland
YOU'RE ONLY COOKING UP TROUBLE WHEN YOU STEW ABOUT TOMORROW.
The Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. --- Isaiah 7:14
The Bible In One Year:
Zechariah 1-4
Revelation 18
In contrast to many of the resounding carols proclaiming the Savior's birth, "Lo, How A Rose E'er Blooming" is a gentle song. Its words and music capture the hushed, almost preposterous assertion that a rose of hope has bloomed in the world's winter of despair. Written in the 15th century by an unknown German poet, it stands quietly in the midst of our modern Christmas rush, bearing a message of joy for all who will pause to listen.
Lo, how a Rose e'er blooming
From tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse's lineage coming,
As men of old have sung.
It came, a flowered bright,
Amid the cold of winter,
When half spent was the night.
The song speaks of a season when rose don't bloom, of a night half gone, a time when people may yield to despair.
Christmas can be an emotional winter, a dark night when the holiday lights are dimmed and cheery greetings are muted by loneliness or fear. Yet there is this word of hope:
This Flower, whose fragrance tender
With sweetness fills the air,
Dispels with glorious splendor
The darkness everywhere;
True man, yet very God,
From sin and death He saves us,
And lightens every load.
A Rose has bloomed at midnight in winter. Christ the Savior is born! --- David McCasland
YOU'RE ONLY COOKING UP TROUBLE WHEN YOU STEW ABOUT TOMORROW.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
The Great Earthquake
Read: John 10:22-30
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. --- John 10:28
The Bible In One Year:
Haggai
Revelation 17
On December 26, 2004, an earthquake shook the whole earth. Many people didn't feel it, but the South Asian region and parts of Africa suffered a devastating tsunami as a result. According to reporter Randolph Schmid, however, "No point on Earth remained undisturbed." That earthquake, he tells us, "shook the ground everywhere on Earth's surface."
The 19th-century Danish philosopher Soren Kierkergaard says that his world was rocked when his religious father told him he had cursed God for the mistreatment he was getting from others. His father's actions shook Soren so much that he called the event "The Great Earthquake." He wondered for the rest of his life if his family was cursed by God for his father's actions.
We too have had or possibly will have "earthquakes" in our lives. But it's comforting to know that under the worst of circumstances, our faith in God can --- and will --- hold us fast. After all, He's got the whole world in His hands," and that means "He got you and me, brother and sister, in His hands."
No one, nor any disaster, can snatch us out of our heavenly Father's hands [John 10:28-29]. His grip will hold us into all eternity. --- Vernon Grounds
Neither life nor death can ever
From the Lord His children sever,
For His love and deep compassion
Comforts them in tribulation. --- Berg
OUR UNKNOWN FUTURE IS SECURE IN THE HANDS OF OUR ALL-KNOWING GOD.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. --- John 10:28
The Bible In One Year:
Haggai
Revelation 17
On December 26, 2004, an earthquake shook the whole earth. Many people didn't feel it, but the South Asian region and parts of Africa suffered a devastating tsunami as a result. According to reporter Randolph Schmid, however, "No point on Earth remained undisturbed." That earthquake, he tells us, "shook the ground everywhere on Earth's surface."
The 19th-century Danish philosopher Soren Kierkergaard says that his world was rocked when his religious father told him he had cursed God for the mistreatment he was getting from others. His father's actions shook Soren so much that he called the event "The Great Earthquake." He wondered for the rest of his life if his family was cursed by God for his father's actions.
We too have had or possibly will have "earthquakes" in our lives. But it's comforting to know that under the worst of circumstances, our faith in God can --- and will --- hold us fast. After all, He's got the whole world in His hands," and that means "He got you and me, brother and sister, in His hands."
No one, nor any disaster, can snatch us out of our heavenly Father's hands [John 10:28-29]. His grip will hold us into all eternity. --- Vernon Grounds
Neither life nor death can ever
From the Lord His children sever,
For His love and deep compassion
Comforts them in tribulation. --- Berg
OUR UNKNOWN FUTURE IS SECURE IN THE HANDS OF OUR ALL-KNOWING GOD.
Monday, December 24, 2007
A Fitting Present
Read: Matthew 2:11-15
Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God. --- Romans 12:1
The Bible In One Year:
Zephaniah
Revelation 16
A little boy was somewhat perplexed by all the exchanging of presents on Christmas morning, for he had been taught in Sunday school that it was the birthday of the Savior. Finally, after a long period of silence, he asked, "Mommy, when are we going to give Jesus His present? I thought it was His birthday!"
Strange, isn't it, that most of us give gifts to everyone but the One whose birthday we celebrate. A good question we might ask ourselves is this: What am I going to give to the Lord Jesus this Christmas? If you have never trusted in Him as your Savior, the thing He desires most from you is a believing heart. Why not put your faith in Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross so you can be saved from your sins?
If by faith you already know Christ as your Savior, then the most wonderful thing you can do this Christmas is to present to God the one gift He most desires to receive from you --- your body [Rom. 12:1].
Our bodies are to be used for God's purposes. Because we have accepted the gift of salvation from Him, it's only reasonable that we should present ourselves to the Father. When we give ourselves, we give the one Christmas present that truly fits the occasion! --- Richard De Haan
What shall I give for Christmas
To Him who gave Himself for me?
To Him I give my life, my love,
For time and for eternity. --- Anon.
GIVE YOUR ALL TO CHRIST; HE GAVE HIS ALL FOR YOU.
Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God. --- Romans 12:1
The Bible In One Year:
Zephaniah
Revelation 16
A little boy was somewhat perplexed by all the exchanging of presents on Christmas morning, for he had been taught in Sunday school that it was the birthday of the Savior. Finally, after a long period of silence, he asked, "Mommy, when are we going to give Jesus His present? I thought it was His birthday!"
Strange, isn't it, that most of us give gifts to everyone but the One whose birthday we celebrate. A good question we might ask ourselves is this: What am I going to give to the Lord Jesus this Christmas? If you have never trusted in Him as your Savior, the thing He desires most from you is a believing heart. Why not put your faith in Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross so you can be saved from your sins?
If by faith you already know Christ as your Savior, then the most wonderful thing you can do this Christmas is to present to God the one gift He most desires to receive from you --- your body [Rom. 12:1].
Our bodies are to be used for God's purposes. Because we have accepted the gift of salvation from Him, it's only reasonable that we should present ourselves to the Father. When we give ourselves, we give the one Christmas present that truly fits the occasion! --- Richard De Haan
What shall I give for Christmas
To Him who gave Himself for me?
To Him I give my life, my love,
For time and for eternity. --- Anon.
GIVE YOUR ALL TO CHRIST; HE GAVE HIS ALL FOR YOU.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Wonder
Read: Luke 2:15-20
All those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. --- Luke 2:18
The Bible In One Year:
Habakkuk
Revelation 15
Elmer Kline, a bakery manager in 1921, was given the job of naming the company's new loaf of bread. As he struggled to come up with something "catchy," he found his answer in an unlikely place. While visiting the grounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, he stopped to watch the International Balloon Festival.
Later he described the sight of the beautiful hot-air balloons launching into the Indiana sky as one of "awe and wonderment." The thought stuck, and he called the new product Wonder Bread. To this day, the packaging for Wonder Bread is brightened by colorful balloons.
Wonder, however, is a word that evokes something more significant than a loaf of bread or hot-air balloons. One dictionary defines wonder as "a cause of astonishment or admiration." It's a word that captures the experience of all the people surrounding the events of the coming of Jesus into the world --- the angels, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and all the people they told. Luke said they "marveled" [2:18]. For all of them, trying to understand the birth of Christ was an exercise in wonder.
As we celebrate Christmas, may we be filled with wonder at His love and His coming! --- Bill Crowder
Have you felt the joy of the shepherds,
Who were first to behold the sight
Of that holy Child of Mary
On that wonderful Christmas night? --- Brill
A WONDER-FILLED LIFE IS YOURS WHEN YOU KNOW THE CHRIST OF CHRISTMAS.
All those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds. --- Luke 2:18
The Bible In One Year:
Habakkuk
Revelation 15
Elmer Kline, a bakery manager in 1921, was given the job of naming the company's new loaf of bread. As he struggled to come up with something "catchy," he found his answer in an unlikely place. While visiting the grounds of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, he stopped to watch the International Balloon Festival.
Later he described the sight of the beautiful hot-air balloons launching into the Indiana sky as one of "awe and wonderment." The thought stuck, and he called the new product Wonder Bread. To this day, the packaging for Wonder Bread is brightened by colorful balloons.
Wonder, however, is a word that evokes something more significant than a loaf of bread or hot-air balloons. One dictionary defines wonder as "a cause of astonishment or admiration." It's a word that captures the experience of all the people surrounding the events of the coming of Jesus into the world --- the angels, Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, and all the people they told. Luke said they "marveled" [2:18]. For all of them, trying to understand the birth of Christ was an exercise in wonder.
As we celebrate Christmas, may we be filled with wonder at His love and His coming! --- Bill Crowder
Have you felt the joy of the shepherds,
Who were first to behold the sight
Of that holy Child of Mary
On that wonderful Christmas night? --- Brill
A WONDER-FILLED LIFE IS YOURS WHEN YOU KNOW THE CHRIST OF CHRISTMAS.
A Baby Boy
Read: Luke 2:8-14
[Mary] brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths. --- Luke 2:7
The Bible In One Year:
Nahum
Revelation 14
The full-page advertisement in the newspaper caught my eye immediately. Near the top of the light-blue page was the silhouette of a star. In the center of the page were the words: It's a boy.
Luke 2:11 was printed across the bottom of the page: "Today in the town of David a Savior had been born to you; He is Christ the Lord" [NIV].
This simple message --- it's a boy --- proclaimed the indescribable gift of a Savior who came to earth as a baby. Why did He do it?
We needed God to send Jesus. Because of our sin, we were separated from a holy God [Rom. 3:23]. A perfect Savior and mediator was needed to bring us back together. Only God could restore the relationship.
God wanted to send Jesus. He loved us so much that He gave His Son [John 3:16] so that our relationship could be restored. Jesus was the only One who could meet His demand for a perfect sacrifice --- only He was sinless [Heb. 9:11-15]. He willingly gave Himself on the cross. God accepted that sacrifice and raised Him from the dead.
Because of our need and His love, God the Father gave us the gift of Jesus the Son. Accept His gift today --- it's free. --- Anne Cetas
Rejoice, O soul, the debt is paid,
For all our sins on Christ were laid;
We've been redeemed, we're justified ---
And all because the Savior died. --- D. De Haan
JESUS DIED THAT WE MIGHT LIVE.
[Mary] brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths. --- Luke 2:7
The Bible In One Year:
Nahum
Revelation 14
The full-page advertisement in the newspaper caught my eye immediately. Near the top of the light-blue page was the silhouette of a star. In the center of the page were the words: It's a boy.
Luke 2:11 was printed across the bottom of the page: "Today in the town of David a Savior had been born to you; He is Christ the Lord" [NIV].
This simple message --- it's a boy --- proclaimed the indescribable gift of a Savior who came to earth as a baby. Why did He do it?
We needed God to send Jesus. Because of our sin, we were separated from a holy God [Rom. 3:23]. A perfect Savior and mediator was needed to bring us back together. Only God could restore the relationship.
God wanted to send Jesus. He loved us so much that He gave His Son [John 3:16] so that our relationship could be restored. Jesus was the only One who could meet His demand for a perfect sacrifice --- only He was sinless [Heb. 9:11-15]. He willingly gave Himself on the cross. God accepted that sacrifice and raised Him from the dead.
Because of our need and His love, God the Father gave us the gift of Jesus the Son. Accept His gift today --- it's free. --- Anne Cetas
Rejoice, O soul, the debt is paid,
For all our sins on Christ were laid;
We've been redeemed, we're justified ---
And all because the Savior died. --- D. De Haan
JESUS DIED THAT WE MIGHT LIVE.
Friday, December 21, 2007
The Joy Of Redemption
Read: Psalm 98
Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! For He has done marvelous things. --- Psalm 98:1
The Bible In One Year:
Micah 6-7
Revelation 13
For 30 straight Christmas seasons at the Omaha Community Playhouse, Dick Boyd never missed a performance as Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol. When he retired at the age of 83, Boyd no longer needed makeup to play the cynical, miserly old man who is transformed at Christmas. During the play, the dramatic change in Scrooge is seen in his face, in his voice, and in his generosity. The director who selected Boyd for the role in 1976 said, "Dick was the one who best captured the joy of redemption."
Each Christmas reminds us of God's grace shown to us in the gift of Jesus Christ, His Son. The carols of the season reflect the psalmist's words: "Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! For He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. The LORD has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations" [Ps. 98:1-2]. Isaac Watts poetically expressed Psalm 98 in these enduring words:
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing.
The evidence of God's salvation can be seen in our faces, heard in our voices, and reflected by the works of our hands. May the joy of redemption shine through us this Christmas, and throughout the rest of the year. --- David McCasland
YOU'LL HAVE NO TRUE JOY AT CHRISTMAS IF CHRIST IS NOT IN YOUR HEART.
Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! For He has done marvelous things. --- Psalm 98:1
The Bible In One Year:
Micah 6-7
Revelation 13
For 30 straight Christmas seasons at the Omaha Community Playhouse, Dick Boyd never missed a performance as Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol. When he retired at the age of 83, Boyd no longer needed makeup to play the cynical, miserly old man who is transformed at Christmas. During the play, the dramatic change in Scrooge is seen in his face, in his voice, and in his generosity. The director who selected Boyd for the role in 1976 said, "Dick was the one who best captured the joy of redemption."
Each Christmas reminds us of God's grace shown to us in the gift of Jesus Christ, His Son. The carols of the season reflect the psalmist's words: "Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! For He has done marvelous things; His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory. The LORD has made known His salvation; His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations" [Ps. 98:1-2]. Isaac Watts poetically expressed Psalm 98 in these enduring words:
Joy to the world! The Lord is come:
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heaven and nature sing.
The evidence of God's salvation can be seen in our faces, heard in our voices, and reflected by the works of our hands. May the joy of redemption shine through us this Christmas, and throughout the rest of the year. --- David McCasland
YOU'LL HAVE NO TRUE JOY AT CHRISTMAS IF CHRIST IS NOT IN YOUR HEART.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Seeing At Christmas
Read: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
God ... commanded light to shine out of darkness. --- 2 Corinthians 4:6
The Bible In One Year:
Micah 4-5
Revelation 12
During the Christmas season of 1879, an agnostic reporter in Boston saw three little girls standing in front of a store window full of toys. One of them was blind. He heard the other two describing the toys to their friend. He had never considered how difficult it was to explain to someone without sight what something looks like. That incident became the basis for a newspaper story.
Two weeks later the reporter attended a meeting held by Dwight L. Moody. His purpose was to catch the evangelist in an inconsistency. He was surprised when Moody used his account of the children to illustrate a truth. "Just as the blind girl couldn't visualize the toys," said Moody, "so an unsaved person can't see Christ in all His glory."
On that first Christmas, only a few people understood who Jesus really was. Many heard the report of the shepherds and were amazed, but they didn't view the baby in the manger as the Son of God.
Today, multitudes are unaware of the true identity of Jesus because they are spiritually blind. If this describes you, ask God to open your eyes. Believe that the Lord of glory died for your sins. Then trust Him. Your eyes will be opened, and you'll recognize who He really is. --- Herb Vander Lugt
What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping? --- Dix
WISE MEN STILL SEEK JESUS.
God ... commanded light to shine out of darkness. --- 2 Corinthians 4:6
The Bible In One Year:
Micah 4-5
Revelation 12
During the Christmas season of 1879, an agnostic reporter in Boston saw three little girls standing in front of a store window full of toys. One of them was blind. He heard the other two describing the toys to their friend. He had never considered how difficult it was to explain to someone without sight what something looks like. That incident became the basis for a newspaper story.
Two weeks later the reporter attended a meeting held by Dwight L. Moody. His purpose was to catch the evangelist in an inconsistency. He was surprised when Moody used his account of the children to illustrate a truth. "Just as the blind girl couldn't visualize the toys," said Moody, "so an unsaved person can't see Christ in all His glory."
On that first Christmas, only a few people understood who Jesus really was. Many heard the report of the shepherds and were amazed, but they didn't view the baby in the manger as the Son of God.
Today, multitudes are unaware of the true identity of Jesus because they are spiritually blind. If this describes you, ask God to open your eyes. Believe that the Lord of glory died for your sins. Then trust Him. Your eyes will be opened, and you'll recognize who He really is. --- Herb Vander Lugt
What child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping? --- Dix
WISE MEN STILL SEEK JESUS.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
The "Mom Box"
Read: 2 Timothy 3:14-17
From childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, ... able to make you wise for salvation through faith. --- 2 Timothy 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
Micah 1-3
Revelation 11
Each Christmas I give both of my daughters a "Mom box." Each box contains items to encourage them to be the best mothers they can be. It might have craft books or special projects, devotional books or tapes geared toward young moms, first-aid kids, recipes for cooking with kids --- and often something personal like bubble bath for a little pampering after a tough day of mothering! It's become a tradition that Rosemary and Tanya have looked forward to every year for the last decade.
Encouraging our children to be good parents can begin even earlier. The best way is to start equipping them with the Word of God while they are still young.
The apostle Paul wrote that "from childhood" Timothy had known "the Holy Scriptures" [2 Tim. 3:15]. And 2 Timothy 1:5 mentions the "genuine faith" of Timothy's mother and grandmother. That faithful teaching and spiritual influence helped to enable Timothy to be a godly man.
The Bible is our richest resource to help us raise children who will know and love Jesus. Nothing is more essential than "the Holy Scriptures" to equip them for all of life's challenges.
What are you doing to make the next generation "wise for salvation through faith"? [3:15]. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
Parents, give your children guidance
And instruction from God's Word;
Then with wisdom and compassion
Teach them how to love the Lord. --- Sper
THE CHARACTER OF OUR CHILDREN TOMORROW DEPENDS ON WHAT WE PUT INTO THEIR HEARTS TODAY.
From childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, ... able to make you wise for salvation through faith. --- 2 Timothy 3:15
The Bible In One Year:
Micah 1-3
Revelation 11
Each Christmas I give both of my daughters a "Mom box." Each box contains items to encourage them to be the best mothers they can be. It might have craft books or special projects, devotional books or tapes geared toward young moms, first-aid kids, recipes for cooking with kids --- and often something personal like bubble bath for a little pampering after a tough day of mothering! It's become a tradition that Rosemary and Tanya have looked forward to every year for the last decade.
Encouraging our children to be good parents can begin even earlier. The best way is to start equipping them with the Word of God while they are still young.
The apostle Paul wrote that "from childhood" Timothy had known "the Holy Scriptures" [2 Tim. 3:15]. And 2 Timothy 1:5 mentions the "genuine faith" of Timothy's mother and grandmother. That faithful teaching and spiritual influence helped to enable Timothy to be a godly man.
The Bible is our richest resource to help us raise children who will know and love Jesus. Nothing is more essential than "the Holy Scriptures" to equip them for all of life's challenges.
What are you doing to make the next generation "wise for salvation through faith"? [3:15]. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
Parents, give your children guidance
And instruction from God's Word;
Then with wisdom and compassion
Teach them how to love the Lord. --- Sper
THE CHARACTER OF OUR CHILDREN TOMORROW DEPENDS ON WHAT WE PUT INTO THEIR HEARTS TODAY.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Name Above All Names
Read: Philippians 2:5-11
You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. --- Matthew 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
Jonah
Revelation 10
If you knew for certain that you were going to lose your voice and that you would never be able to speak again, what would you want your final words to be?
A man with throat cancer faced an operation that would save his life but not his voice. Just before surgery, he spent time with his wife telling her of his love. He did the same with his daughter.
Then he asked his doctor to let him know precisely when the anesthetic would make him unconscious. As the man slipping off to sleep, he said distinctly, "Jesus! Jesus!" That was the last word he chose to utter in this life --- "Jesus!"
How meaningful is the name of Jesus to us? Other names, like the names of those we love, are inexpressively precious. But for those of us who are redeemed by God's grace, the name of Jesus is the most meaningful. And it is to our heavenly Father as well. He "has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, ... and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" [Phil. 2:9-11].
Throughout the rest of our lives and into eternity, let's magnify that wonderful name --- Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!
Let all heaven and earth proclaim:
Kings and kingdoms will all pass away,
But there's something about that name! --- Gaither
THE NAME OF JESUS IS PRECIOUS TO THOSE WHO KNOW HIM AND PROFANE TO THOSE WHO SPURN HIM.
You shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. --- Matthew 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
Jonah
Revelation 10
If you knew for certain that you were going to lose your voice and that you would never be able to speak again, what would you want your final words to be?
A man with throat cancer faced an operation that would save his life but not his voice. Just before surgery, he spent time with his wife telling her of his love. He did the same with his daughter.
Then he asked his doctor to let him know precisely when the anesthetic would make him unconscious. As the man slipping off to sleep, he said distinctly, "Jesus! Jesus!" That was the last word he chose to utter in this life --- "Jesus!"
How meaningful is the name of Jesus to us? Other names, like the names of those we love, are inexpressively precious. But for those of us who are redeemed by God's grace, the name of Jesus is the most meaningful. And it is to our heavenly Father as well. He "has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, ... and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" [Phil. 2:9-11].
Throughout the rest of our lives and into eternity, let's magnify that wonderful name --- Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!
Let all heaven and earth proclaim:
Kings and kingdoms will all pass away,
But there's something about that name! --- Gaither
THE NAME OF JESUS IS PRECIOUS TO THOSE WHO KNOW HIM AND PROFANE TO THOSE WHO SPURN HIM.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Learning To Lament
Read: Lamentations 3:19-27
This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. --- Lamentations 3:21
The Bible In One Year:
Obadiah
Revelation 9
On February 14, 1884, Theodore Roosevelt's wife, Alice, died giving birth to their daughter, also named Alice. Roosevelt was so distraught with the loss of his wife that he never spoke of her again. But reminders of her absence haunted the family. Because the newborn had the same name as her mother, she was called "Sister" --- never Alice. On Valentine's Day, the holiday for sweethearts, few in the Roosevelt household felt inclined to celebrate it or Sister's birthday. Broken hearts made moods strained and stoic.
Burying our feelings doesn't help, but prayerful grieving can. Jeremiah's heart was broken by Israel's disobedience and the Babylonian captivity that followed. Memories of Jerusalem's destruction haunted him [Lam. 1-2]. Yet he had learned how to lament. He identified what caused him grief, began to pray, and let his tears flow. Soon his focus shifted from his loss to the steadfast grace of the Lord's provision. "Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" [3:22-23]. Grief gave way to thankfulness.
Learning to lament can give us a fresh vision of hope and begin the process of healing and restoration. --- Dennis Fisher
I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the God of all comfort was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain. --- Anon.
GRIEF IS ITSELF A MEDICINE. --- Cowper
This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. --- Lamentations 3:21
The Bible In One Year:
Obadiah
Revelation 9
On February 14, 1884, Theodore Roosevelt's wife, Alice, died giving birth to their daughter, also named Alice. Roosevelt was so distraught with the loss of his wife that he never spoke of her again. But reminders of her absence haunted the family. Because the newborn had the same name as her mother, she was called "Sister" --- never Alice. On Valentine's Day, the holiday for sweethearts, few in the Roosevelt household felt inclined to celebrate it or Sister's birthday. Broken hearts made moods strained and stoic.
Burying our feelings doesn't help, but prayerful grieving can. Jeremiah's heart was broken by Israel's disobedience and the Babylonian captivity that followed. Memories of Jerusalem's destruction haunted him [Lam. 1-2]. Yet he had learned how to lament. He identified what caused him grief, began to pray, and let his tears flow. Soon his focus shifted from his loss to the steadfast grace of the Lord's provision. "Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" [3:22-23]. Grief gave way to thankfulness.
Learning to lament can give us a fresh vision of hope and begin the process of healing and restoration. --- Dennis Fisher
I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the God of all comfort was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain. --- Anon.
GRIEF IS ITSELF A MEDICINE. --- Cowper
Sunday, December 16, 2007
A Gift Of Shelter
Read: Luke 2:1-7
There was no room for them in the inn. --- Luke 2:7
The Bible In One Year:
Amos 7-9
Revelation 8
Life was tough for Datha and her family. At age 39, she had a heart attack and bypass surgery and learned that she had coronary artery disease. A year later, her 15-year-old daughter Heather became paralyzed as the result of a car accident. Datha quit her job to take care of Heather, and the bills started piling up. Soon they would be facing eviction. Datha was so angry with God that she stopped praying.
Then came Christmas Eve 2004. A young girl knocked on Datha's door. The girl wished her a "Merry Christmas," gave her an envelope, and left quickly. Inside was a gift that would cover Datha's housing needs for the next year. The attached note read, "Please accept this gift in honor of the Man whose birthday we celebrate on this holy night. Long ago, His family also had a shelter problem."
Luke 2 tells the story of Joseph and Mary as they searched for a shelter for Mary to deliver her baby. They found a place with the animals. Later in His life, Jesus said of Himself, "The Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head" [Matt. 8:20].
Jesus understood Datha's troubles. He brought her hope and met her needs through others who contributed funds.
We can cast all our cares on Him [1 Peter 5:7]. In Christ, we find shelter [Ps. 61:3-4]. --- Anne Cetas
God will take care of you still to the end;
O what a Father, Redeemer, and Friend!
Jesus will answer whenever you call;
He will take care of you: Trust Him for all! --- M. Crosby
YOU DO THE CASTING, GOD WILL DO THE CARING.
There was no room for them in the inn. --- Luke 2:7
The Bible In One Year:
Amos 7-9
Revelation 8
Life was tough for Datha and her family. At age 39, she had a heart attack and bypass surgery and learned that she had coronary artery disease. A year later, her 15-year-old daughter Heather became paralyzed as the result of a car accident. Datha quit her job to take care of Heather, and the bills started piling up. Soon they would be facing eviction. Datha was so angry with God that she stopped praying.
Then came Christmas Eve 2004. A young girl knocked on Datha's door. The girl wished her a "Merry Christmas," gave her an envelope, and left quickly. Inside was a gift that would cover Datha's housing needs for the next year. The attached note read, "Please accept this gift in honor of the Man whose birthday we celebrate on this holy night. Long ago, His family also had a shelter problem."
Luke 2 tells the story of Joseph and Mary as they searched for a shelter for Mary to deliver her baby. They found a place with the animals. Later in His life, Jesus said of Himself, "The Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head" [Matt. 8:20].
Jesus understood Datha's troubles. He brought her hope and met her needs through others who contributed funds.
We can cast all our cares on Him [1 Peter 5:7]. In Christ, we find shelter [Ps. 61:3-4]. --- Anne Cetas
God will take care of you still to the end;
O what a Father, Redeemer, and Friend!
Jesus will answer whenever you call;
He will take care of you: Trust Him for all! --- M. Crosby
YOU DO THE CASTING, GOD WILL DO THE CARING.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Dirty Jobs
Read: Matthew 8:1-4
Jesus put out His hand and touched him. --- Matthew 8:3
The Bible In One Year:
Amos 4-6
Revelation 7
One TV personality seeks out the most dirty and grimy jobs he can find. Then he does those jobs on camera so we can all be grossed out.
The surprising thing that usually comes out of this excursion into grime is that the people who do these really nasty chores for a living seem happy to be doing them.
I wonder if that's the way it is among the people of God. In the church and in the community of God's people, there are definitely "dirty" jobs that God has called us to do.
For instance, where is the glamour in working in a homeless shelter, providing gospel hope and physical help to street people? Where is the intrinsic joy in walking into a hospital room to visit a patient who has just received awful news from the doctor? And how can it be easy to sit across the counseling room from an abused spouse and try to help her retain her dignity and piece her life back together?
Imagine how the crowds gasped when Jesus reached out and touched the leper. He was not afraid of "dirty" jobs. Jesus came "to seek and to save that which was lost" [Luke 19:10]. He was "moved with compassion" for the lame, the ill, the downtrodden [Matt. 9:36]. Let's follow His lead and with love tackle the tough tasks around us. --- Dave Branon
No matter what my daily chores might be
To earn my livelihood, still may I see
My job, the real position that I hold,
Is bringing others to the Master's fold. --- Stalter
WORK WELL DONE FOR CHRIST WILL RECEIVE A "WELL DONE" FROM CHRIST.
Jesus put out His hand and touched him. --- Matthew 8:3
The Bible In One Year:
Amos 4-6
Revelation 7
One TV personality seeks out the most dirty and grimy jobs he can find. Then he does those jobs on camera so we can all be grossed out.
The surprising thing that usually comes out of this excursion into grime is that the people who do these really nasty chores for a living seem happy to be doing them.
I wonder if that's the way it is among the people of God. In the church and in the community of God's people, there are definitely "dirty" jobs that God has called us to do.
For instance, where is the glamour in working in a homeless shelter, providing gospel hope and physical help to street people? Where is the intrinsic joy in walking into a hospital room to visit a patient who has just received awful news from the doctor? And how can it be easy to sit across the counseling room from an abused spouse and try to help her retain her dignity and piece her life back together?
Imagine how the crowds gasped when Jesus reached out and touched the leper. He was not afraid of "dirty" jobs. Jesus came "to seek and to save that which was lost" [Luke 19:10]. He was "moved with compassion" for the lame, the ill, the downtrodden [Matt. 9:36]. Let's follow His lead and with love tackle the tough tasks around us. --- Dave Branon
No matter what my daily chores might be
To earn my livelihood, still may I see
My job, the real position that I hold,
Is bringing others to the Master's fold. --- Stalter
WORK WELL DONE FOR CHRIST WILL RECEIVE A "WELL DONE" FROM CHRIST.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Overcoming Evil With Good
Read: Luke 9:51-56
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. --- Romans 12:21
The Bible In One Year:
Amos 1-3
Revelation 6
Jesus was passing through Samaria on His way to Jerusalem. He sent messengers ahead to prepare a place, but the villagers rejected Him.
When James and John heard about the refusal, they fumed, "Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" [Luke 9:54]. They had just been on the Mount of Transfiguration and had seen their Lord with Moses and Elijah. No doubt they recalled the story of Elijah calling down fire from heaven [1 Kings 18:36-38]. But when they asked for a consuming fire, Jesus corrected them.
He told them, "The Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives but to save them" [Luke 9:56]. It is not our business to seek vengeance. God treads the winepress of His wrath alone [Isa. 63:3]. Our business is to bring the good news of salvation to the world.
Paul wrote, "Do not avenge yourselves ... for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord. Therefore 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.' Do not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" [Rom. 12:19-21]. We must leave vengeance with God.
Jesus calls us to treat difficult people with kindness and to seek to bring them to Him. --- David Roper
When anger springs up in my heart, dear Lord,
Because of the evil I see,
Help me to channel the wrath that I feel
And do something noble for Thee. --- Branon
GOD'S WRATH AND MERCY ARE BOTH SEEN IN THE CROSS OF CALVARY.
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. --- Romans 12:21
The Bible In One Year:
Amos 1-3
Revelation 6
Jesus was passing through Samaria on His way to Jerusalem. He sent messengers ahead to prepare a place, but the villagers rejected Him.
When James and John heard about the refusal, they fumed, "Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" [Luke 9:54]. They had just been on the Mount of Transfiguration and had seen their Lord with Moses and Elijah. No doubt they recalled the story of Elijah calling down fire from heaven [1 Kings 18:36-38]. But when they asked for a consuming fire, Jesus corrected them.
He told them, "The Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives but to save them" [Luke 9:56]. It is not our business to seek vengeance. God treads the winepress of His wrath alone [Isa. 63:3]. Our business is to bring the good news of salvation to the world.
Paul wrote, "Do not avenge yourselves ... for it is written, 'Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,' says the Lord. Therefore 'If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.' Do not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" [Rom. 12:19-21]. We must leave vengeance with God.
Jesus calls us to treat difficult people with kindness and to seek to bring them to Him. --- David Roper
When anger springs up in my heart, dear Lord,
Because of the evil I see,
Help me to channel the wrath that I feel
And do something noble for Thee. --- Branon
GOD'S WRATH AND MERCY ARE BOTH SEEN IN THE CROSS OF CALVARY.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
"Little Rajah, Little King"
Read: Isaiah 9:1-7
The haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. --- Isaiah 2:11
The Bible In One Year:
Joel
Revelation 5
In an editorial in Reaper, David G. Stewart wrote, "In India we used to chuckle about baby pujah, or baby worship. All the women would gather around the baby in arms, and cluck like broody hens with their approval, and note the supposed likeness to mom or dad, and hold the fingers, touch the cheek, kiss the feet. A favorite term to describe the young baby boy was 'Little Rajah, Little King.' Though they do not actually bow down and worship a new baby, those Indians give so much attention to a new infant that it's no wonder they call i 'baby worship.'"
When Jesus was an infant, He too received adoration and honor. He was adored by shepherds who left their flocks in the fields to worship a baby in a manger. Why? Because He was the King of kings.
I wonder, as this Christmas season progresses, are you able to focus your attention, even briefly, on the One whose birth we celebrate? Even more, are you willing to bow down in humility and give Him the adoration He rightly deserves? Isaiah prophesied long that His name would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace [9:6]. Jesus was no ordinary baby. He truly was the King of all kings! --- Dave Egner
As you bring your gifts to His cradle
And worship Him now as King,
Do you bow your knees to His power?
Is your life the offering you bring? --- Brill
WHEN WE RECOGNIZE JESUS' KINGSHIP, WE WILL GIVE HIM OUR WORSHIP.
The haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day. --- Isaiah 2:11
The Bible In One Year:
Joel
Revelation 5
In an editorial in Reaper, David G. Stewart wrote, "In India we used to chuckle about baby pujah, or baby worship. All the women would gather around the baby in arms, and cluck like broody hens with their approval, and note the supposed likeness to mom or dad, and hold the fingers, touch the cheek, kiss the feet. A favorite term to describe the young baby boy was 'Little Rajah, Little King.' Though they do not actually bow down and worship a new baby, those Indians give so much attention to a new infant that it's no wonder they call i 'baby worship.'"
When Jesus was an infant, He too received adoration and honor. He was adored by shepherds who left their flocks in the fields to worship a baby in a manger. Why? Because He was the King of kings.
I wonder, as this Christmas season progresses, are you able to focus your attention, even briefly, on the One whose birth we celebrate? Even more, are you willing to bow down in humility and give Him the adoration He rightly deserves? Isaiah prophesied long that His name would be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace [9:6]. Jesus was no ordinary baby. He truly was the King of all kings! --- Dave Egner
As you bring your gifts to His cradle
And worship Him now as King,
Do you bow your knees to His power?
Is your life the offering you bring? --- Brill
WHEN WE RECOGNIZE JESUS' KINGSHIP, WE WILL GIVE HIM OUR WORSHIP.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Money Talks
Read: Luke 12:13-21
The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness. --- 1 Timothy 6:10
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 12-14
Revelation 4
As I was driving home from the office, I saw a minivan proudly displaying a bumper sticker that read: "Money Talks: Mine Says Goodbye." I think a lot of people can relate to that sentiment.
Much of our living is spent acquiring and using money, which doesn't last. The stock market crashes. Prices go up. Thieves steal others' goods. Things wear out and break down, requiring the acquisition and expenditure of more money to replace what has been lost. The temporary nature of material wealth makes it a poor bargain in the search for security in an insecure world. Money is much better at saying goodbye than it is at sticking around.
Nowhere does the Bible say it's wrong to have money or the things that money can buy. Where we lose our way is when money becomes the driving purpose of our lives. Like the rich man and his barns [Luke 12:13-21], we end up pursuing the accumulation of things that eventually will be forfeited --- if not in life, then certainly at death.
How tragic to live our entire lives, only to end them with nothing of eternal worth to show for our labors. To paraphrase Jesus' words, it is much better to be rich toward God than to work for treasure that can't last [v.21]. -- Bill Crowder
Let me hold lightly things of this earth;
Transient treasures, what are they worth?
Moths can corrupt them, rust can decay;
All their bright beauty fades in a day. --- Nicholson
TREASURES IN HEAVEN ARE LAID UP AS TREASURES ON EARTH ARE LAID DOWN.
The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have strayed from the faith in their greediness. --- 1 Timothy 6:10
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 12-14
Revelation 4
As I was driving home from the office, I saw a minivan proudly displaying a bumper sticker that read: "Money Talks: Mine Says Goodbye." I think a lot of people can relate to that sentiment.
Much of our living is spent acquiring and using money, which doesn't last. The stock market crashes. Prices go up. Thieves steal others' goods. Things wear out and break down, requiring the acquisition and expenditure of more money to replace what has been lost. The temporary nature of material wealth makes it a poor bargain in the search for security in an insecure world. Money is much better at saying goodbye than it is at sticking around.
Nowhere does the Bible say it's wrong to have money or the things that money can buy. Where we lose our way is when money becomes the driving purpose of our lives. Like the rich man and his barns [Luke 12:13-21], we end up pursuing the accumulation of things that eventually will be forfeited --- if not in life, then certainly at death.
How tragic to live our entire lives, only to end them with nothing of eternal worth to show for our labors. To paraphrase Jesus' words, it is much better to be rich toward God than to work for treasure that can't last [v.21]. -- Bill Crowder
Let me hold lightly things of this earth;
Transient treasures, what are they worth?
Moths can corrupt them, rust can decay;
All their bright beauty fades in a day. --- Nicholson
TREASURES IN HEAVEN ARE LAID UP AS TREASURES ON EARTH ARE LAID DOWN.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
God Intrudes
Read: Galatians 3:26-4:7
When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. --- Galatians 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 9-11
Revelation 3
During this Christmas season, it's good to keep a firm grip on the reality of Easter. While the two events are celebrated at different times and in very different ways, they are both integral parts of God's initiative in His grand plan of salvation.
Peter Larson wrote: "Despite our efforts to keep Him out, God intrudes. The life of Jesus is bracketed by two impossibilities: a virgin's womb and an empty tomb. Jesus entered our world through a door marked 'No Entrance' and left through a door marked 'No Exit.'"
James Edwards echoes this scheme in his book The Divine Intruder: "[God] breaks into this world, even when He is unexpected and unwelcome. God joins us in our weakest and worst moments. There is a Divine Intruder among us."
The stable in Bethlehem and the cross of Calvary remind us that "when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son ... to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" [Gal. 4:4-5].
The Lord did not wait for an invitation to enter our world. Clothed with humanity, He lived as our teacher, died as our sacrifice, and rose from the grave as our Savior.
Christmas is coming --- and so is Easter. --- David McCasland
This joyous season of the year
Should prompt us to recall
That Jesus' death on Calvary
Provides new life for all. --- Sper
JESUS' EARTHLY LIFE IS FRAMED BY TWO IMPOSSIBILITIES: A VIRGIN'S WOMB AND AN EMPTY TOMB.
When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. --- Galatians 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 9-11
Revelation 3
During this Christmas season, it's good to keep a firm grip on the reality of Easter. While the two events are celebrated at different times and in very different ways, they are both integral parts of God's initiative in His grand plan of salvation.
Peter Larson wrote: "Despite our efforts to keep Him out, God intrudes. The life of Jesus is bracketed by two impossibilities: a virgin's womb and an empty tomb. Jesus entered our world through a door marked 'No Entrance' and left through a door marked 'No Exit.'"
James Edwards echoes this scheme in his book The Divine Intruder: "[God] breaks into this world, even when He is unexpected and unwelcome. God joins us in our weakest and worst moments. There is a Divine Intruder among us."
The stable in Bethlehem and the cross of Calvary remind us that "when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son ... to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons" [Gal. 4:4-5].
The Lord did not wait for an invitation to enter our world. Clothed with humanity, He lived as our teacher, died as our sacrifice, and rose from the grave as our Savior.
Christmas is coming --- and so is Easter. --- David McCasland
This joyous season of the year
Should prompt us to recall
That Jesus' death on Calvary
Provides new life for all. --- Sper
JESUS' EARTHLY LIFE IS FRAMED BY TWO IMPOSSIBILITIES: A VIRGIN'S WOMB AND AN EMPTY TOMB.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Does God Forget?
Read: Hebrews 8
Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more. --- Hebrews 8:12
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 5-8
Revelation 2
God longs to forgive sinners! But in the minds of many people, this thought seems too good to be true. Countless sermons have been preached to convince guilt-ridden individuals that it is true. Many of these sermons emphasize that God not only forgives the sinner but also forgets the sin. I've often said it myself, never doubting its soundness.
Then one Sunday I heard a sermon that revolutionized my thinking. The speaker caught my attention when he said, "The idea that God forgets my sins isn't very reassuring to me. After all, what if He suddenly remembered? In any case, only imperfection can forget, and God is perfect."
As I was questioning the biblical basis for such statements, the pastor read Hebrews 8:12, "Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more." Then he said, "God doesn't say He'll forget our sins --- He says He'll remember them no more! His promise not to remember them ever again is stronger than saying He'll forget them. Now that reassures me!"
Do you worry that there are certain sins you'll be punished for someday? Because Christ died for all our sins [1 Cor. 15:3], God promises to forgive us and never bring up our sin again [Ps. 103:12]. --- Joanie Yoder
God, whose every way is perfect,
Said in justice and in grace
That our sins He'll not remember,
And our fears He will erase. --- Hess
TO ENJOY THE FUTURE, ACCEPT GOD'S FORGIVENESS FOR THE PAST.
Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more. --- Hebrews 8:12
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 5-8
Revelation 2
God longs to forgive sinners! But in the minds of many people, this thought seems too good to be true. Countless sermons have been preached to convince guilt-ridden individuals that it is true. Many of these sermons emphasize that God not only forgives the sinner but also forgets the sin. I've often said it myself, never doubting its soundness.
Then one Sunday I heard a sermon that revolutionized my thinking. The speaker caught my attention when he said, "The idea that God forgets my sins isn't very reassuring to me. After all, what if He suddenly remembered? In any case, only imperfection can forget, and God is perfect."
As I was questioning the biblical basis for such statements, the pastor read Hebrews 8:12, "Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more." Then he said, "God doesn't say He'll forget our sins --- He says He'll remember them no more! His promise not to remember them ever again is stronger than saying He'll forget them. Now that reassures me!"
Do you worry that there are certain sins you'll be punished for someday? Because Christ died for all our sins [1 Cor. 15:3], God promises to forgive us and never bring up our sin again [Ps. 103:12]. --- Joanie Yoder
God, whose every way is perfect,
Said in justice and in grace
That our sins He'll not remember,
And our fears He will erase. --- Hess
TO ENJOY THE FUTURE, ACCEPT GOD'S FORGIVENESS FOR THE PAST.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Praying Sheep
Read: James 1:1-8
If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. --- John 14:14
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 1-4
Revelation 1
Two children dressed as sheep in the Christmas play at Kaw Prairie Community Church in De Soto, Missouri, had a special part. Whenever Murphy, the main character in the play, encountered a problem, the sheep [Maria and Luke] came on stage to offer a reminder of what he needed to do. One carried the sign: "Just." The other carried the sign: "Pray."
We've all been faced with situations when we didn't know what to do, or there was nothing we could do. When we're distressed, we probably don't want to hear someone flippantly say, "Just pray!" That answer seems too simplistic and can even feel hurtful if it's said unthinkingly.
But the simple answer "Just pray" is exactly what we need to do. During the days of the early church, James wrote to believers who were going through trials --- difficulties that most of us know nothing about: stonings, imprisonment, and beatings for their faith. He told them to ask God for the wisdom and comfort to withstand those trials: "Let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" [1:5].
When you encounter a problem, remember the simple instructions of the "Just Pray" sheep and talk to God about it. He'll give you what you need. --- Anne Cetas
When with expectancy we pray
According to God's will,
We'll see Him working in our lives
His purpose to fulfill. --- Sper
NO REQUEST IS TOO GREAT OR TOO SMALL TO BRING TO GOD.
If you ask anything in My name, I will do it. --- John 14:14
The Bible In One Year:
Hosea 1-4
Revelation 1
Two children dressed as sheep in the Christmas play at Kaw Prairie Community Church in De Soto, Missouri, had a special part. Whenever Murphy, the main character in the play, encountered a problem, the sheep [Maria and Luke] came on stage to offer a reminder of what he needed to do. One carried the sign: "Just." The other carried the sign: "Pray."
We've all been faced with situations when we didn't know what to do, or there was nothing we could do. When we're distressed, we probably don't want to hear someone flippantly say, "Just pray!" That answer seems too simplistic and can even feel hurtful if it's said unthinkingly.
But the simple answer "Just pray" is exactly what we need to do. During the days of the early church, James wrote to believers who were going through trials --- difficulties that most of us know nothing about: stonings, imprisonment, and beatings for their faith. He told them to ask God for the wisdom and comfort to withstand those trials: "Let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him" [1:5].
When you encounter a problem, remember the simple instructions of the "Just Pray" sheep and talk to God about it. He'll give you what you need. --- Anne Cetas
When with expectancy we pray
According to God's will,
We'll see Him working in our lives
His purpose to fulfill. --- Sper
NO REQUEST IS TOO GREAT OR TOO SMALL TO BRING TO GOD.
Saturday, December 08, 2007
The Maker Of Mountains
Read: Psalm 102:3-12
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people. --- Psalm 125:2
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 11-12
Jude
The Bible uses vivid imagery to express the brevity of our life on earth. Job said that his days were "swifter than a runner" and "they pass by like swift ships" [Job 9:25-26].
I recall preaching at the funeral service of a young mother. From where I stood I could see the Rocky Mountains towering over the western horizon. The scene prompted me to consider how I will one day follow that friend through the valley of the shadow of death, and yet those peaks will still be thrusting themselves skyward. Eventually they will crumble into dust, but the God who made them will exist forever in undiminished glory. I also remember thinking that my deceased friend and I will, by God's grace, live with Him forever and ever.
Whenever we are troubled by the shortness of life and the impermanence of everything in this world, let's remember the Maker of the mountains. He has always been and will always be. As the psalmist said, "You, O LORD, shall endure forever" [102:12].
That truth inspires us with hope. If by faith we belong to Jesus Christ the Savior, who is from everlasting to everlasting, we will one day rejoice in heaven in unending praise to Him. --- Vernon Grounds
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes;
Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious, Thy great Name we praise. --- Smith
TO SEE GOD'S HAND IN EVERYTHING MAKES LIFE A GREAT ADVENTURE.
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people. --- Psalm 125:2
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 11-12
Jude
The Bible uses vivid imagery to express the brevity of our life on earth. Job said that his days were "swifter than a runner" and "they pass by like swift ships" [Job 9:25-26].
I recall preaching at the funeral service of a young mother. From where I stood I could see the Rocky Mountains towering over the western horizon. The scene prompted me to consider how I will one day follow that friend through the valley of the shadow of death, and yet those peaks will still be thrusting themselves skyward. Eventually they will crumble into dust, but the God who made them will exist forever in undiminished glory. I also remember thinking that my deceased friend and I will, by God's grace, live with Him forever and ever.
Whenever we are troubled by the shortness of life and the impermanence of everything in this world, let's remember the Maker of the mountains. He has always been and will always be. As the psalmist said, "You, O LORD, shall endure forever" [102:12].
That truth inspires us with hope. If by faith we belong to Jesus Christ the Savior, who is from everlasting to everlasting, we will one day rejoice in heaven in unending praise to Him. --- Vernon Grounds
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes;
Most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious, Thy great Name we praise. --- Smith
TO SEE GOD'S HAND IN EVERYTHING MAKES LIFE A GREAT ADVENTURE.
Friday, December 07, 2007
A Knightly Soldier
Read: 2 Tim. 2:1-4, 24-25
Be gentle ..., in humility correcting those who are in opposition. --- 2 Timothy 2:24-25
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 8-10
3 John
Before he enlisted in the Union Army to fight during the US Civil War, Joshua Chamberlain was a quiet and unassuming college professor. In the crucible of military combat he distinguished himself for his heroism in holding the line on Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg. He was later awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
To recognize Chamberlain's contribution to the Union victory, General Ulysses S. Grant designated him to receive the first flag of surrender at Appomattox Courthouse. The defeated troops of the South expected to be ridiculed and humiliated. Instead, Chamberlain showed them kindness and respect. For this, the Confederate commanding officer wrote in his memoirs that Chamberlain was "one of the knightliest soldiers of the Federal Army."
As a committed Christian, Chamberlain reflected the grace of Christ. We too need to stand for what we believe but also to be kind to those with whom we disagree. Paul exhorted Timothy, "as a good soldier of Jesus Christ ... be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition" [2 Tim. 2:3, 24-25]. In conflict and in reconciliation, our response should reflect the gracious heart of a knightly soldier of Christ. --- Dennis Fisher
Oh, to be like Him, tender and kind,
Gentle in spirit, lowly in mind;
More like Jesus, day after day,
Filled with His Spirit now and always. --- Ellsworth
THERE IS NOTHING SO KINGLY AS KINDNESS; THERE IS NOTHING SO ROYAL AS TRUTH.
Be gentle ..., in humility correcting those who are in opposition. --- 2 Timothy 2:24-25
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 8-10
3 John
Before he enlisted in the Union Army to fight during the US Civil War, Joshua Chamberlain was a quiet and unassuming college professor. In the crucible of military combat he distinguished himself for his heroism in holding the line on Little Round Top during the Battle of Gettysburg. He was later awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor.
To recognize Chamberlain's contribution to the Union victory, General Ulysses S. Grant designated him to receive the first flag of surrender at Appomattox Courthouse. The defeated troops of the South expected to be ridiculed and humiliated. Instead, Chamberlain showed them kindness and respect. For this, the Confederate commanding officer wrote in his memoirs that Chamberlain was "one of the knightliest soldiers of the Federal Army."
As a committed Christian, Chamberlain reflected the grace of Christ. We too need to stand for what we believe but also to be kind to those with whom we disagree. Paul exhorted Timothy, "as a good soldier of Jesus Christ ... be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition" [2 Tim. 2:3, 24-25]. In conflict and in reconciliation, our response should reflect the gracious heart of a knightly soldier of Christ. --- Dennis Fisher
Oh, to be like Him, tender and kind,
Gentle in spirit, lowly in mind;
More like Jesus, day after day,
Filled with His Spirit now and always. --- Ellsworth
THERE IS NOTHING SO KINGLY AS KINDNESS; THERE IS NOTHING SO ROYAL AS TRUTH.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Waiting For God
Read: Luke 2:25-35
Simeon ... was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel. --- Luke 2:25
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 5-7
2 John
Author Henri Nouwen has observed that the first pages of Luke's gospel are filled with people who were waiting: Zacharias and Elizabeth, Mary and Joseph, Simeon and Anna were all waiting for the fulfillment of a promise from God. But instead of passively waiting, they were actively looking to the Lord each day, what Nouwen calls being "present to the moment."
Simeon, for example, was controlled not by hopelessness but by the Spirit who prompted him to go into the temple. His words of praise when he saw the child Jesus, the promised Messiah, resound as an example of patient hope in God: "My eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel" [Luke 2:30-32].
Many of us find ourselves waiting on God for an answer to a prayer or the fulfillment of a promise. His word comes to us, just as it did to those who were swept up in the events that marked the first Christmas: "Do not be afraid, Zacharias" [1:13]; "Do not be afraid, Mary" [1:30]; "Do not be afraid, [shepherds]" [2:10].
As we listen to God in His Word and obey Him, we'll discover His goodness and power as we wait. --- David McCasland
Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. --- Crosby
TIME SPENT "WAITING ON GOD" IS NEVER WASTED.
Simeon ... was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel. --- Luke 2:25
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 5-7
2 John
Author Henri Nouwen has observed that the first pages of Luke's gospel are filled with people who were waiting: Zacharias and Elizabeth, Mary and Joseph, Simeon and Anna were all waiting for the fulfillment of a promise from God. But instead of passively waiting, they were actively looking to the Lord each day, what Nouwen calls being "present to the moment."
Simeon, for example, was controlled not by hopelessness but by the Spirit who prompted him to go into the temple. His words of praise when he saw the child Jesus, the promised Messiah, resound as an example of patient hope in God: "My eyes have seen Your salvation which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, a light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel" [Luke 2:30-32].
Many of us find ourselves waiting on God for an answer to a prayer or the fulfillment of a promise. His word comes to us, just as it did to those who were swept up in the events that marked the first Christmas: "Do not be afraid, Zacharias" [1:13]; "Do not be afraid, Mary" [1:30]; "Do not be afraid, [shepherds]" [2:10].
As we listen to God in His Word and obey Him, we'll discover His goodness and power as we wait. --- David McCasland
Perfect submission, all is at rest,
I in my Savior am happy and blest;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
Filled with His goodness, lost in His love. --- Crosby
TIME SPENT "WAITING ON GOD" IS NEVER WASTED.
God's Work Of Art
Read: Colossians 3:8-17
Put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him. --- Colossians 3:10
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 3-4
1 John 5
Vincent Van Gogh bought a mirror and used his own likeness in many of his paintings. Rembrandt also used himself as a model, completing nearly 100 self-portraits. These artists had a good example, that of God Himself, who used His own likeness as the pattern for His crown jewel of creation [Gen. 1:27].
Henry Ward Beecher, the famous 19th-century clergyman, said, "Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures." In everything we create --- works of art, music, literature, even our children --- a bit of ourselves is revealed. The same is true of God; each of us reveals a bit of Him. The image may be tarnished, but it's always there and is never beyond repair.
Superficial changes won't fix what's wrong with us, however. Clothes, cosmetics, and surgical procedures can make us look like everyone else, not like the unique masterpiece God designed each of us to be. We need a whole new "self" [Col. 3:10], one that is renewed in His image and dressed in the wardrobe of mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and long-suffering [v.12].
To improve your "self" image, put on the character of God and display His image in all its glory. --- Julie Ackerman Link
O to be like Thee! O to be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;
Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness;
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart. --- Chisholm
GOD'S CHILDREN SHOULD REFLECT THEIR FATHER'S LIKENESS.
Put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge according to the image of Him who created him. --- Colossians 3:10
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 3-4
1 John 5
Vincent Van Gogh bought a mirror and used his own likeness in many of his paintings. Rembrandt also used himself as a model, completing nearly 100 self-portraits. These artists had a good example, that of God Himself, who used His own likeness as the pattern for His crown jewel of creation [Gen. 1:27].
Henry Ward Beecher, the famous 19th-century clergyman, said, "Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures." In everything we create --- works of art, music, literature, even our children --- a bit of ourselves is revealed. The same is true of God; each of us reveals a bit of Him. The image may be tarnished, but it's always there and is never beyond repair.
Superficial changes won't fix what's wrong with us, however. Clothes, cosmetics, and surgical procedures can make us look like everyone else, not like the unique masterpiece God designed each of us to be. We need a whole new "self" [Col. 3:10], one that is renewed in His image and dressed in the wardrobe of mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and long-suffering [v.12].
To improve your "self" image, put on the character of God and display His image in all its glory. --- Julie Ackerman Link
O to be like Thee! O to be like Thee,
Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art;
Come in Thy sweetness, come in Thy fullness;
Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart. --- Chisholm
GOD'S CHILDREN SHOULD REFLECT THEIR FATHER'S LIKENESS.
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Righteousness Endures Forever
Read: Psalm 112:4-9
His righteousness endures forever. --- Psalm 112:9
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 1-2
1 John 4
A good deal of our unhappiness as we grow older is caused by our pining for the "good old days" --- those times when we enjoyed health, wealth, position, or power. But the things of this world don't last. They are vacillating, changeable, capricious. In time, they may be taken away from us and replaced with poverty, isolation, weakness, and pain.
When we realize that this world and everything in it is unstable and unpredictable, we are left longing for something that lasts. What is left?
The psalmist wrote, "[God's] righteousness endures forever" [112:9]. It is untouched and unharmed by time and circumstances. Nothing that happens in this world can take it away. It endures when life has stripped us of every other possession.
This righteousness is ours as we draw near to God through faith in Jesus Christ [see Rom. 1:17; 3:21-26]. He is our rock and our salvation and the only source of true and lasting happiness. Psalm 112:1 says, "Blessed [happy] is the man who fears the LORD, who delights greatly in His commandments."
Delight in the Lord and in His Word, and you'll find true happiness. He alone offers a righteousness that endures for all eternity. --- David Roper
I love Your truth, O Lord,
The Word which You have given;
Its precepts shall my soul delight
On earth as well as heaven. --- Bosch
HAPPINESS IS OURS WHEN WE DELIGHT IN THE LORD.
His righteousness endures forever. --- Psalm 112:9
The Bible In One Year:
Daniel 1-2
1 John 4
A good deal of our unhappiness as we grow older is caused by our pining for the "good old days" --- those times when we enjoyed health, wealth, position, or power. But the things of this world don't last. They are vacillating, changeable, capricious. In time, they may be taken away from us and replaced with poverty, isolation, weakness, and pain.
When we realize that this world and everything in it is unstable and unpredictable, we are left longing for something that lasts. What is left?
The psalmist wrote, "[God's] righteousness endures forever" [112:9]. It is untouched and unharmed by time and circumstances. Nothing that happens in this world can take it away. It endures when life has stripped us of every other possession.
This righteousness is ours as we draw near to God through faith in Jesus Christ [see Rom. 1:17; 3:21-26]. He is our rock and our salvation and the only source of true and lasting happiness. Psalm 112:1 says, "Blessed [happy] is the man who fears the LORD, who delights greatly in His commandments."
Delight in the Lord and in His Word, and you'll find true happiness. He alone offers a righteousness that endures for all eternity. --- David Roper
I love Your truth, O Lord,
The Word which You have given;
Its precepts shall my soul delight
On earth as well as heaven. --- Bosch
HAPPINESS IS OURS WHEN WE DELIGHT IN THE LORD.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Scared To Death
Read: 1 Cor. 15:51-58
Our Savior Jesus Christ ... abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. --- 2 Timothy 1:10
The Bible In One Year:
Ezekiel 47-48
1 John 3
The opening line of a country song, "Sarabeth is scared to death....," leads the listener into the fearful heart of a teenage girl who is diagnosed with cancer. The lyrics of "Skin [Sarabeth]" expose the struggles she faces, not only with the disease and its treatment but also with the obvious evidence of her struggle --- the loss of her hair [hence, the title]. It is a touching song of triumph in the midst of tragedy, as Sarabeth deals with the understandable life-and-death fears that cancer brings.
The specter of death is faced by every human being. Yet, whether we face that reality with fear or with confidence is not dependent on having a good outlook or a positive attitude. The way we face death depends completely on whether or not we have a personal relationship with Jesus, who gave Himself to die so that death itself could be abolished.
Paul wrote to Timothy that our Savior was the One who "abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" [2 Tim. 1:10]. The result is that even in the most disturbing times of life, we never need to be scared to death.
We can live confidently and filled with hope, because Jesus conquered death. --- Bill Crowder
Your love, O God, would spare no pain
To conquer death and win;
You sent Your only Son to die
To rescue us from sin. --- M. Gustafson
BECAUSE CHRIST IS ALIVE, WE NEED NOT FEAR DEATH.
Our Savior Jesus Christ ... abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. --- 2 Timothy 1:10
The Bible In One Year:
Ezekiel 47-48
1 John 3
The opening line of a country song, "Sarabeth is scared to death....," leads the listener into the fearful heart of a teenage girl who is diagnosed with cancer. The lyrics of "Skin [Sarabeth]" expose the struggles she faces, not only with the disease and its treatment but also with the obvious evidence of her struggle --- the loss of her hair [hence, the title]. It is a touching song of triumph in the midst of tragedy, as Sarabeth deals with the understandable life-and-death fears that cancer brings.
The specter of death is faced by every human being. Yet, whether we face that reality with fear or with confidence is not dependent on having a good outlook or a positive attitude. The way we face death depends completely on whether or not we have a personal relationship with Jesus, who gave Himself to die so that death itself could be abolished.
Paul wrote to Timothy that our Savior was the One who "abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" [2 Tim. 1:10]. The result is that even in the most disturbing times of life, we never need to be scared to death.
We can live confidently and filled with hope, because Jesus conquered death. --- Bill Crowder
Your love, O God, would spare no pain
To conquer death and win;
You sent Your only Son to die
To rescue us from sin. --- M. Gustafson
BECAUSE CHRIST IS ALIVE, WE NEED NOT FEAR DEATH.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
The Moment I Knew
Read: Acts 26:8-18
I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light. --- Acts 26:17-18
The Bible In One Year:
Ezekiel 45-46
1 John 2
The lights dimmed on the platform as Tom Whittaker began to sing the words of "Mary, Did You Know?" The steady, quiet strumming of his guitar beautifully complemented his calm, deep voice. His wife, Gloria, says that when she first heard him sing that song, she realized she was in love with him.
Many people who know Jesus as Savior can point to a specific moment when they suddenly grasped the extent of God's amazing love for them. At that instant, they got it. Ray Boltz describes it in a song:
The moment it happened,
It was the moment I knew;
It was like walking in the darkness
When the light comes shining through.
Paul had such a moment on the Damascus Road. His first encounter with Jesus transformed him from a fierce persecutor of Christmas to the first great missionary. Spurred on by this eye-opening experience, Paul's newfound love for the Savior compelled him to share the gospel with everyone he met [Acts 26].
Perhaps you know about Christ but have never trusted Him for salvation. John wrote, "We know that we have passed from death to life" [1 John 3:14]. But that statement applies only to those who look to Jesus for forgiveness.
Because of God's love, you too can "receive forgiveness of sins" through Jesus Christ [Acts 26:18] and be "born again" [John 3:3].
The moment is now. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
IT'S ONE THING TO KNOW THERE IS A GOD; IT'S QUITE ANOTHER TO KNOW THAT GOD WHO IS.
I now send you, to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light. --- Acts 26:17-18
The Bible In One Year:
Ezekiel 45-46
1 John 2
The lights dimmed on the platform as Tom Whittaker began to sing the words of "Mary, Did You Know?" The steady, quiet strumming of his guitar beautifully complemented his calm, deep voice. His wife, Gloria, says that when she first heard him sing that song, she realized she was in love with him.
Many people who know Jesus as Savior can point to a specific moment when they suddenly grasped the extent of God's amazing love for them. At that instant, they got it. Ray Boltz describes it in a song:
The moment it happened,
It was the moment I knew;
It was like walking in the darkness
When the light comes shining through.
Paul had such a moment on the Damascus Road. His first encounter with Jesus transformed him from a fierce persecutor of Christmas to the first great missionary. Spurred on by this eye-opening experience, Paul's newfound love for the Savior compelled him to share the gospel with everyone he met [Acts 26].
Perhaps you know about Christ but have never trusted Him for salvation. John wrote, "We know that we have passed from death to life" [1 John 3:14]. But that statement applies only to those who look to Jesus for forgiveness.
Because of God's love, you too can "receive forgiveness of sins" through Jesus Christ [Acts 26:18] and be "born again" [John 3:3].
The moment is now. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
IT'S ONE THING TO KNOW THERE IS A GOD; IT'S QUITE ANOTHER TO KNOW THAT GOD WHO IS.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Not Fair
Read: Psalm 19:7-14
He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice. --- Deuteronomy 32:4
The Bible In One Year:
Ezekiel 42-44
1 John 1
When I was coaching highschool freshman girls basketball in the fall of 2005, I was surprised at how many times I heard, "That's not fair!"
The girls' motivation seemed to depend on whether or not they thought what I asked them to do was fair. If i asked some girls to do a defensive drill while others shot free throws, I heard, "Not fair." If I allowed one group to play offense longer than another group, I heard, "Not fair."
So many situations in life shout, "Not fair!" I observe Christian couples who struggle to have babies while others are blessed with children and then abuse them. I look at families whose children are all alive and well, while I go through life without one of mine. I see friends who long to serve God but can't because of health issues.
It's then that I must go back to a basic truth. We are not the arbiters of fairness. God is, and He knows far more than we do about His plans and purposes. The question isn't about fairness. In the end, it's about trust in a faithful God who knows what He is doing. "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice" [Deut. 32:4].
Life will never look fair. But when we trust God, we always know that He is faithful. --- Dave Branon
If you feel that blessings pass you by,
And for you life seems a bit unfair,
Just remember, Christ was born to die,
And in His great salvation you can share. --- Hess
LIFE IS NOT ALWAYS FAIR, BUT GOD IS ALWAYS FAITHFUL.
He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice. --- Deuteronomy 32:4
The Bible In One Year:
Ezekiel 42-44
1 John 1
When I was coaching highschool freshman girls basketball in the fall of 2005, I was surprised at how many times I heard, "That's not fair!"
The girls' motivation seemed to depend on whether or not they thought what I asked them to do was fair. If i asked some girls to do a defensive drill while others shot free throws, I heard, "Not fair." If I allowed one group to play offense longer than another group, I heard, "Not fair."
So many situations in life shout, "Not fair!" I observe Christian couples who struggle to have babies while others are blessed with children and then abuse them. I look at families whose children are all alive and well, while I go through life without one of mine. I see friends who long to serve God but can't because of health issues.
It's then that I must go back to a basic truth. We are not the arbiters of fairness. God is, and He knows far more than we do about His plans and purposes. The question isn't about fairness. In the end, it's about trust in a faithful God who knows what He is doing. "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice" [Deut. 32:4].
Life will never look fair. But when we trust God, we always know that He is faithful. --- Dave Branon
If you feel that blessings pass you by,
And for you life seems a bit unfair,
Just remember, Christ was born to die,
And in His great salvation you can share. --- Hess
LIFE IS NOT ALWAYS FAIR, BUT GOD IS ALWAYS FAITHFUL.
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