Read: Deut. 28:58-63
Just as the LORD rejoiced over you to do you good and multiply you, so the LORD will rejoice over you to destroy you. --- Deuteronomy 28:63
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 13-15
Luke 6:27-49
My wife purchased a birthday card containing these words from a paraphrase: "The LORD has rejoiced over you and has done such wonderful things for you" [Deut. 28:63 TLB]. It was such a beautiful thought that she turned to the passage to read more.
She found that the words printed on the card were only part of one sentence in a section where God warned His people what would happen if they turned away from Him and disobeyed His commands. The entire verse reads, "Just as the LORD has rejoiced over you and has done such wonderful things for you and has multiplied you, so the LORD at that time will rejoice in destroying you; and you shall disappear from the land" [Deut. 28:63 TLB].
Now that would be an unusual birthday greeting!
The experience reminded me how easy it is to select pleasant phrases from the Bible while ignoring their context and meaning. Today's passage is a warning from God to His people. It is worth pondering for what it is --- an expression of certainty as firm in the spiritual realm as the law of gravity in the physical realm.
The Bible contains words of encouragement as well as words of warning. It's important to appreciate both for their instruction in our walk with Christ. --- David McCasland
God's Word provides the nourishment
That every Christian needs to grow;
Supplying strength from day to day
By teaching what we need to know. --- Sper
THE MORE WE MEDITATE ON THE SCRIPTURES, THE CLOSE WE'LL WALK WITH THE SAVIOR.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Which Way Am I Going?
Read: Galatians 6:7-10
Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. --- Galatians 6:7
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 11-12
Luke 6:1-26
Some folks grow old gracefully, while others become grouchy and ill-tempered. It's important to know which way we're growing, because we're all growing older.
People don't get irritable and short-tempered merely because they're getting older. Aging doesn't have to make us hypercritical and cranky. No, it's more likely that we've become what we've been becoming all along.
Paul wrote: "He who sows to his flesh will ... reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will ... reap everlasting life" [Gal. 6:8]. Those who pander to self-interest and think only of themselves are sowing seeds that will produce a harvest of misery in themselves and in others. On the other hand, those who love God and care for others are sowing seeds that, in time, will yield a harvest of joy.
C.S. Lewis put it this way: "Every time you make a choice you are turning the central part of you, the part of you that chooses, into something a little different from what it was before." We can choose to submit our wills to God each day, asking Him to give us strength to live for Him and for others.
So the question we need to ask ourselves is: Which way am I growing? --- David Roper
Surer than autumn's harvests
Are harvests of thought and deed;
Like those that our hands have planted,
The yield will be like the seed. --- Harris
THE SEEDS WE SOW TODAY DETERMINE THE KIND OF FRUIT WE'LL REAP TOMORROW.
Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. --- Galatians 6:7
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 11-12
Luke 6:1-26
Some folks grow old gracefully, while others become grouchy and ill-tempered. It's important to know which way we're growing, because we're all growing older.
People don't get irritable and short-tempered merely because they're getting older. Aging doesn't have to make us hypercritical and cranky. No, it's more likely that we've become what we've been becoming all along.
Paul wrote: "He who sows to his flesh will ... reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will ... reap everlasting life" [Gal. 6:8]. Those who pander to self-interest and think only of themselves are sowing seeds that will produce a harvest of misery in themselves and in others. On the other hand, those who love God and care for others are sowing seeds that, in time, will yield a harvest of joy.
C.S. Lewis put it this way: "Every time you make a choice you are turning the central part of you, the part of you that chooses, into something a little different from what it was before." We can choose to submit our wills to God each day, asking Him to give us strength to live for Him and for others.
So the question we need to ask ourselves is: Which way am I growing? --- David Roper
Surer than autumn's harvests
Are harvests of thought and deed;
Like those that our hands have planted,
The yield will be like the seed. --- Harris
THE SEEDS WE SOW TODAY DETERMINE THE KIND OF FRUIT WE'LL REAP TOMORROW.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Evening
Read: Ephesians 5:6-17
When He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. --- Matthew 14:23
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 9-10
Luke 5:17-39
The evening is one of my favorite times of day. It's a time to look back, take stock, and reflect on the events of the day --- whether good or bad. When weather permits, my wife and I walk, or sometimes we'll just fix a pot of coffee and talk with each other about our day and what we've accomplished. It's a time for careful thought and evaluation, for thanksgiving, and for prayer.
Our Lord had a similar practice during His earthly ministry. At the end of a wearying and demanding day, He went up on a mountain by Himself for a few moments of reflection and prayer in the presence of His Father [Matt. 14:23].
The value of the quiet presence of our heavenly Father and the careful examination of how we have engaged life on a given day has great significance. Perhaps this was the goal of the apostle Paul's challenge for us to redeem the time [Eph. 5:16]]; that is, to make sure we are making the best use of the time God gives us for living and serving.
As the day winds to a close, take some time for quiet reflection. In the serenity of the evening, we can, in God's presence, get a more accurate perspective on life and how we are living it. --- Bill Crowder
I come aside from the world of strife,
With its burdens, trials, and the cares of life
To a beautiful, quiet, restful place
Where I commune with my Jesus face to face. --- Brandt
THERE WILL BE MORE REFLECTION OF JESUS WHEN THERE IS MORE REFLECTION ON HIM.
When He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there. --- Matthew 14:23
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 9-10
Luke 5:17-39
The evening is one of my favorite times of day. It's a time to look back, take stock, and reflect on the events of the day --- whether good or bad. When weather permits, my wife and I walk, or sometimes we'll just fix a pot of coffee and talk with each other about our day and what we've accomplished. It's a time for careful thought and evaluation, for thanksgiving, and for prayer.
Our Lord had a similar practice during His earthly ministry. At the end of a wearying and demanding day, He went up on a mountain by Himself for a few moments of reflection and prayer in the presence of His Father [Matt. 14:23].
The value of the quiet presence of our heavenly Father and the careful examination of how we have engaged life on a given day has great significance. Perhaps this was the goal of the apostle Paul's challenge for us to redeem the time [Eph. 5:16]]; that is, to make sure we are making the best use of the time God gives us for living and serving.
As the day winds to a close, take some time for quiet reflection. In the serenity of the evening, we can, in God's presence, get a more accurate perspective on life and how we are living it. --- Bill Crowder
I come aside from the world of strife,
With its burdens, trials, and the cares of life
To a beautiful, quiet, restful place
Where I commune with my Jesus face to face. --- Brandt
THERE WILL BE MORE REFLECTION OF JESUS WHEN THERE IS MORE REFLECTION ON HIM.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Noon
Read: Psalm 23
He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. --- Psalm 23:2
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 7-8
Luke 5:1-16
Our office is a busy place where things sometimes feel like they are moving at breakneck speed. This often involves meeting after meeting, hallway conferences, and an avalanche of e-mail.
In the midst of this extreme busyness, I sometimes feel the need to escape, to decompress. My response? To create a quiet place. On those days when I have no lunch meeting, I retreat to the quiet of my car, where I can read, listen to music, think, pray --- and be refreshed.
I think this is the essence of what the shepherd-psalmist points to in Psalm 23:2. He sees the Good Shepherd bringing him to "still waters" --- that is, waters to rest by. It pictures a quiet place, a retreat from the pressures of life, where you can rest in the presence of the Shepherd of your heard and be strengthened for what lies ahead. Even Jesus withdrew to a solitary place to pray and commune with His Father [Mark 1:35]/
We all need retreats in our lives, not only because of the overwhelming nature of life, but because of our dependence on the resources of the Master. In our fast-paced days, it is essential to find a place of solitude, "a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God." Where's yours? --- Bill Crowder
There is a place of quiet rest,
Near to the heart of God,
A place where sin cannot molest,
Near to the heart of God. --- McAfee
WHEN WE DRAW NEAR TO GOD OUR MINDS ARE REFRESHED AND OUR STRENGTH IS RENEWED!
He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. --- Psalm 23:2
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 7-8
Luke 5:1-16
Our office is a busy place where things sometimes feel like they are moving at breakneck speed. This often involves meeting after meeting, hallway conferences, and an avalanche of e-mail.
In the midst of this extreme busyness, I sometimes feel the need to escape, to decompress. My response? To create a quiet place. On those days when I have no lunch meeting, I retreat to the quiet of my car, where I can read, listen to music, think, pray --- and be refreshed.
I think this is the essence of what the shepherd-psalmist points to in Psalm 23:2. He sees the Good Shepherd bringing him to "still waters" --- that is, waters to rest by. It pictures a quiet place, a retreat from the pressures of life, where you can rest in the presence of the Shepherd of your heard and be strengthened for what lies ahead. Even Jesus withdrew to a solitary place to pray and commune with His Father [Mark 1:35]/
We all need retreats in our lives, not only because of the overwhelming nature of life, but because of our dependence on the resources of the Master. In our fast-paced days, it is essential to find a place of solitude, "a place of quiet rest, near to the heart of God." Where's yours? --- Bill Crowder
There is a place of quiet rest,
Near to the heart of God,
A place where sin cannot molest,
Near to the heart of God. --- McAfee
WHEN WE DRAW NEAR TO GOD OUR MINDS ARE REFRESHED AND OUR STRENGTH IS RENEWED!
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Morning
Read: Lamentations 3:19-32
His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. --- Lamentations 3:22-23
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 4-6
Luke 4:31-44
On a teaching trip to the Bible lands, our study group had just spent a restful night at our Tiberias hotel. When I awoke, I went to my window and gazed at the beauty of the sunrise on the Sea of Galilee. As I thought ahead to the places we would be visiting that day --- the same places where Jesus had walked 2,000 years before --- I was excited about the opportunities of the day that had begun with the splendor of the sunrise.
We don't need to be in Israel, however, to be amazed at what God gives us each day. Every morning of life offers us new challenges and rich blessings as we walk with Christ. Despite mistakes we may have made yesterday, choices we regret, and heartache we have endured, God is merciful to us. The sunrise reminds us of His faithfulness and of the new start each day brings.
Perhaps it was the simple joy of a beautiful sunrise that prompted Jeremiah to write, "Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" [Lam. 3:22-23].
Each new day the LORD gives to us --- whether in the Bible lands or at home --- is an expression of His faithfulness and provides opportunities to live for Him. --- Bill Crowder
Lord, in the hush of early dawn,
When all the world lies sleeping,
I place my life and all I love
Into Thy gracious keeping. --- White
THE BEST REASON FOR HOPE IS GOD'S FAITHFULNESS.
His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness. --- Lamentations 3:22-23
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 4-6
Luke 4:31-44
On a teaching trip to the Bible lands, our study group had just spent a restful night at our Tiberias hotel. When I awoke, I went to my window and gazed at the beauty of the sunrise on the Sea of Galilee. As I thought ahead to the places we would be visiting that day --- the same places where Jesus had walked 2,000 years before --- I was excited about the opportunities of the day that had begun with the splendor of the sunrise.
We don't need to be in Israel, however, to be amazed at what God gives us each day. Every morning of life offers us new challenges and rich blessings as we walk with Christ. Despite mistakes we may have made yesterday, choices we regret, and heartache we have endured, God is merciful to us. The sunrise reminds us of His faithfulness and of the new start each day brings.
Perhaps it was the simple joy of a beautiful sunrise that prompted Jeremiah to write, "Through the LORD's mercies we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness" [Lam. 3:22-23].
Each new day the LORD gives to us --- whether in the Bible lands or at home --- is an expression of His faithfulness and provides opportunities to live for Him. --- Bill Crowder
Lord, in the hush of early dawn,
When all the world lies sleeping,
I place my life and all I love
Into Thy gracious keeping. --- White
THE BEST REASON FOR HOPE IS GOD'S FAITHFULNESS.
Unlikely Heroes
Read: Judges 2:7-19
The LORD raised up judges who delivered them out of the hand of those who plundered them. --- Judges 2:16
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 1-3
Luke 4:1-30
The book of Judges is an account of God's people descending into spiritual indifference and rebellion. After the death of Joshua and his peers, the next generation "forsook the LORD God of their fathers, ... and they followed other gods from among the gods of the people who were all around them" [Judg. 2:12]/
This dismal record of wavering allegiance hardly seems the place to find spiritual heroes, yet four people from Judges --- Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah [chs. 4-16] --- are named in the New Testament book of Hebrews [11:32]. Along with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and other notables, they are commended for their faith.
Judges, however, presents these men as flawed people who nevertheless responded to God's call during a time of spiritual darkness in their culture. The Bible honors them for their faith, not for their perfection. They were recipients of God's grace as surely as we are.
In every generation, God raises up people who are true to Him and to His Word. The measure of their lives and of ours is not the absence of failure but the presence of God's gracious forgiveness and the faith to obey His call. All of God's champions are unlikely heroes. --- David McCasland
Heaven's heroes never carve their name
On marbled columns built for earthly fame;
They build instead a legacy that springs
Out of a life lived for the King of kings. --- Gustafson
FAITH IN CHRIST CAN MAKE EXTRAORDINARY HEROES OUT OF ORDINARY PEOPLE.
The LORD raised up judges who delivered them out of the hand of those who plundered them. --- Judges 2:16
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 1-3
Luke 4:1-30
The book of Judges is an account of God's people descending into spiritual indifference and rebellion. After the death of Joshua and his peers, the next generation "forsook the LORD God of their fathers, ... and they followed other gods from among the gods of the people who were all around them" [Judg. 2:12]/
This dismal record of wavering allegiance hardly seems the place to find spiritual heroes, yet four people from Judges --- Gideon, Barak, Samson, and Jephthah [chs. 4-16] --- are named in the New Testament book of Hebrews [11:32]. Along with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and other notables, they are commended for their faith.
Judges, however, presents these men as flawed people who nevertheless responded to God's call during a time of spiritual darkness in their culture. The Bible honors them for their faith, not for their perfection. They were recipients of God's grace as surely as we are.
In every generation, God raises up people who are true to Him and to His Word. The measure of their lives and of ours is not the absence of failure but the presence of God's gracious forgiveness and the faith to obey His call. All of God's champions are unlikely heroes. --- David McCasland
Heaven's heroes never carve their name
On marbled columns built for earthly fame;
They build instead a legacy that springs
Out of a life lived for the King of kings. --- Gustafson
FAITH IN CHRIST CAN MAKE EXTRAORDINARY HEROES OUT OF ORDINARY PEOPLE.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Eeyore Theology
Read: Psalm 90
Let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands. --- Psalm 90:17
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 22-24
Luke 3
How does a believer in Jesus Christ cope with life's brevity and burdens without giving in to what Michael Easley of Moody Bible Institute calls "Eeyore theology"? Eeyore, Winnie-the-Pooh's gloomy donkey friend, always walks slowly with his head down. He sees the negative side of everything. An Eeyore Christian can be heard making statements like these: "Sin is rampant everywhere --- even in the church." "The world is in worse shape than ever." "God is about to judge us for our wickedness."
When Moses wrote Psalm 90, he was in a somber mood as he thought about the difference between God's eternal majesty and our human frailty. We struggle, we sorrow, we sin, we fear God, and we die [vv. 7-10]. Depressing, isn't it? But Moses didn't end his psalm in that mood.
How would Moses respond to Eeyore theology? He wrote, "Satisfy us early with Your mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days!" [v.14]. When we wee the value of each moment and live in the glory of our redemption and the joy of our blessings in Christ, we show our delight in God to our children and grandchildren [vv. 16-17].
Lord, keep us from being like Eeyore, and help us to leave a legacy of gladness, hope, and peace. --- Dave Egner
When trials assail and my moods descend,
When pain and sorrow seem never to end,
I yield to You, Lord, so that I may see
The peace and the joy You've promised me. --- Fitzhugh
YOU WON'T BE A CHILD OF DESPAIR IF YOU REMEMBER YOUR FATHER'S CARE.
Let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands. --- Psalm 90:17
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 22-24
Luke 3
How does a believer in Jesus Christ cope with life's brevity and burdens without giving in to what Michael Easley of Moody Bible Institute calls "Eeyore theology"? Eeyore, Winnie-the-Pooh's gloomy donkey friend, always walks slowly with his head down. He sees the negative side of everything. An Eeyore Christian can be heard making statements like these: "Sin is rampant everywhere --- even in the church." "The world is in worse shape than ever." "God is about to judge us for our wickedness."
When Moses wrote Psalm 90, he was in a somber mood as he thought about the difference between God's eternal majesty and our human frailty. We struggle, we sorrow, we sin, we fear God, and we die [vv. 7-10]. Depressing, isn't it? But Moses didn't end his psalm in that mood.
How would Moses respond to Eeyore theology? He wrote, "Satisfy us early with Your mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days!" [v.14]. When we wee the value of each moment and live in the glory of our redemption and the joy of our blessings in Christ, we show our delight in God to our children and grandchildren [vv. 16-17].
Lord, keep us from being like Eeyore, and help us to leave a legacy of gladness, hope, and peace. --- Dave Egner
When trials assail and my moods descend,
When pain and sorrow seem never to end,
I yield to You, Lord, so that I may see
The peace and the joy You've promised me. --- Fitzhugh
YOU WON'T BE A CHILD OF DESPAIR IF YOU REMEMBER YOUR FATHER'S CARE.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Hearing The Sermon Again
Read: Matthew 4:12-17
From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." --- Matthew 4:17
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 19-21
Luke 2:25-52
A story is told about a man who preached an impressive sermon, seeking to be the pastor of a new church. Everybody loved it and voted for him to become their new pastor. They were a bit surprised, however, when he preached the same sermon his first Sunday there --- and even more surprised when he preached it again the next week. After he preached the same sermon the third week in a row, the leaders met with him to find out what was going on. The pastor assured them, "I know what I'm doing. When you start living out this sermon, I'll go on to my next one."
Jesus' sermons had a notably recurring theme. Not surprisingly, the King of kings wanted to be sure that the people understood what was required of them to be part of His kingdom. He came to announce a whole new world order that was totally out of step with life as it was usually lived. Themes such as forgiveness, servanthood, and unconditional mercy and grace were repeatedly on His lips.
Two thousand years later we find ourselves in need of the same message. As soon as we start repenting and living under the authority, reign, and rule of Jesus our King, we will experience benefit to our lives, glory to His name, and blessing to others. --- Joe Stowell
The Bible gives us all we need
To live our lives for God each day,
But it won't help if we don't read
And practice what its pages say. --- Sper
A SERMON ISN'T COMPLETE UNTIL IT'S PUT INTO PRACTICE.
From that time Jesus began to preach and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." --- Matthew 4:17
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 19-21
Luke 2:25-52
A story is told about a man who preached an impressive sermon, seeking to be the pastor of a new church. Everybody loved it and voted for him to become their new pastor. They were a bit surprised, however, when he preached the same sermon his first Sunday there --- and even more surprised when he preached it again the next week. After he preached the same sermon the third week in a row, the leaders met with him to find out what was going on. The pastor assured them, "I know what I'm doing. When you start living out this sermon, I'll go on to my next one."
Jesus' sermons had a notably recurring theme. Not surprisingly, the King of kings wanted to be sure that the people understood what was required of them to be part of His kingdom. He came to announce a whole new world order that was totally out of step with life as it was usually lived. Themes such as forgiveness, servanthood, and unconditional mercy and grace were repeatedly on His lips.
Two thousand years later we find ourselves in need of the same message. As soon as we start repenting and living under the authority, reign, and rule of Jesus our King, we will experience benefit to our lives, glory to His name, and blessing to others. --- Joe Stowell
The Bible gives us all we need
To live our lives for God each day,
But it won't help if we don't read
And practice what its pages say. --- Sper
A SERMON ISN'T COMPLETE UNTIL IT'S PUT INTO PRACTICE.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
For Her
Read: Ephesians 5:22-23
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her. --- Ephesians 5:25
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 16-18
Luke 2:1-24
When my wife had dental surgery, she was out of commission for the weekend. While she was recuperating, I had the daunting task of taking care of her and the kids. I cooked, washed dishes, made special trips to the store for her, and bathed the kids. When I saw all I had done, I thought to myself, I deserve extra credit and reciprocal service when she gets better. Before I gave myself too many pats on the back, however, the Holy Spirit reminded me that what I was doing was my privilege and duty as a Christian husband.
In Paul's time, many believed the husband's needs dominated the house-hold, and the wife existed to fulfill his needs and to serve him. The Christian view was quite different, however. Women were seen as persons of equal worth. The wife was transformed from an accessory to a person of intrinsic value, becoming the focus of her husband's concern. Instead of demanding that she live for him, he was to server her!
Ephesians 5:25 portrays Christ as loving the church and giving Himself for her. And verse 29 indicates that Jesus nourishes and cares for her. As husbands pursue Christlikeness, they have the privilege and duty to sacrifice, nurture, and care for their wives. --- Marvin Williams
Despite the faults that spouses have,
Their marriage still can thrive;
But both must look to God for help ---
He'll keep their love alive. --- Branon
IF YOU THINK IT'S POSSIBLE TO LOVE YOUR WIFE TOO MUCH, YOU PROBABLY HAVEN'T LOVED HER ENOUGH.
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her. --- Ephesians 5:25
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 16-18
Luke 2:1-24
When my wife had dental surgery, she was out of commission for the weekend. While she was recuperating, I had the daunting task of taking care of her and the kids. I cooked, washed dishes, made special trips to the store for her, and bathed the kids. When I saw all I had done, I thought to myself, I deserve extra credit and reciprocal service when she gets better. Before I gave myself too many pats on the back, however, the Holy Spirit reminded me that what I was doing was my privilege and duty as a Christian husband.
In Paul's time, many believed the husband's needs dominated the house-hold, and the wife existed to fulfill his needs and to serve him. The Christian view was quite different, however. Women were seen as persons of equal worth. The wife was transformed from an accessory to a person of intrinsic value, becoming the focus of her husband's concern. Instead of demanding that she live for him, he was to server her!
Ephesians 5:25 portrays Christ as loving the church and giving Himself for her. And verse 29 indicates that Jesus nourishes and cares for her. As husbands pursue Christlikeness, they have the privilege and duty to sacrifice, nurture, and care for their wives. --- Marvin Williams
Despite the faults that spouses have,
Their marriage still can thrive;
But both must look to God for help ---
He'll keep their love alive. --- Branon
IF YOU THINK IT'S POSSIBLE TO LOVE YOUR WIFE TOO MUCH, YOU PROBABLY HAVEN'T LOVED HER ENOUGH.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Happy Christmas
Read: John 3:13-18
I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. --- John 11:25
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 13-15
Luke 1:57-80
Last Easter morning when I walked into church I saw my friend and greeted her, "Happy Christmas!" I quickly corrected myself. "I mean, Happy Easter!"
"Can't have one without the other," she smiled.
How true! Without Christmas, there wouldn't be an Easter. And without the resurrection, this day would be just another day. In fact, we wouldn't even be in church.
Christmas and Easter are the most joyful celebrations of the year for the Christian. In the first, we celebrate the incarnation [God taking on flesh and coming into the world]. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son ..." [John 3:16].
In the second, we celebrate Jesus' resurrection. "He is not here, but is risen!" the angel said [Luke 24:6]. From the beginning of time, these 2 days were inextricably linked in the master plan of the Father. Jesus was born to die for our sins and to conquer death so that we could live.
Which is more important? Christmas --- the birth of the infant Jesus? Or Easter --- the death and resurrection of the man, God's Son? Both are essential --- and both are clear evidence of the Father's love for us.
Happy Christmas! And Happy Easter! --- Cindy Hess Kasper
Jesus our Savior left heaven above,
Coming to earth as a Servant with love;
Laying aside all His glory, He came,
Bringing salvation through faith in His name. --- Hess
CHRISTMAS AND EASTER --- TWO CHAPTERS OF THE SAME BOOK.
I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. --- John 11:25
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 13-15
Luke 1:57-80
Last Easter morning when I walked into church I saw my friend and greeted her, "Happy Christmas!" I quickly corrected myself. "I mean, Happy Easter!"
"Can't have one without the other," she smiled.
How true! Without Christmas, there wouldn't be an Easter. And without the resurrection, this day would be just another day. In fact, we wouldn't even be in church.
Christmas and Easter are the most joyful celebrations of the year for the Christian. In the first, we celebrate the incarnation [God taking on flesh and coming into the world]. "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son ..." [John 3:16].
In the second, we celebrate Jesus' resurrection. "He is not here, but is risen!" the angel said [Luke 24:6]. From the beginning of time, these 2 days were inextricably linked in the master plan of the Father. Jesus was born to die for our sins and to conquer death so that we could live.
Which is more important? Christmas --- the birth of the infant Jesus? Or Easter --- the death and resurrection of the man, God's Son? Both are essential --- and both are clear evidence of the Father's love for us.
Happy Christmas! And Happy Easter! --- Cindy Hess Kasper
Jesus our Savior left heaven above,
Coming to earth as a Servant with love;
Laying aside all His glory, He came,
Bringing salvation through faith in His name. --- Hess
CHRISTMAS AND EASTER --- TWO CHAPTERS OF THE SAME BOOK.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Written In Blood
Read: Galatians 6:11-18
God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. --- Galatians 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 10-12
Luke 1:39-56
In the twisted wreckage of a Metrolink train crash, firefighters from Los Angeles Fire Station 27 found a message that brought tears to their eyes. A survivor of the crash, thinking he was dying, had used his own blood to write on the seat in front of him that he loved his wife and kids.
Normally, we use the words "written in blood" in a less literal way. It usually conveys a willingness to stand behind our words with our life.
As Paul ended his letter to the Galatians, he was, in a figurative sense writing his story in blood. He wrote a message of love and grace that would arouse the anger of other religious leaders. He knew he would be hated for honoring the death of Christ above the ritual and moral law of Israel. He would be punished for teaching that Christ's death and resurrection were more important than the law of circumcision that represented the whole Mosaic way of life. His suffering for Christ would literally include shedding his own blood [2 Cor. 11:23-25].
Paul wasn't willing to play it safe. He knew the crucifixion of Jesus was the center page of history. Putting his own life on the line, Paul proclaimed the inexpressible heart of God, who gave His Son to express the ultimate words of love, written in blood at the cross. --- Mart De Haan
The Father wrote His autograph
Upon a cross of shame,
With pen divine, all dipped in blood,
"Forgiven in Jesus' name." --- Bosch
TO SHOW HIS LOVE, JESUS DIED FOR ME; TO SHOW MY LOVE, I MUST LIVE FOR HIM!
God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. --- Galatians 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 10-12
Luke 1:39-56
In the twisted wreckage of a Metrolink train crash, firefighters from Los Angeles Fire Station 27 found a message that brought tears to their eyes. A survivor of the crash, thinking he was dying, had used his own blood to write on the seat in front of him that he loved his wife and kids.
Normally, we use the words "written in blood" in a less literal way. It usually conveys a willingness to stand behind our words with our life.
As Paul ended his letter to the Galatians, he was, in a figurative sense writing his story in blood. He wrote a message of love and grace that would arouse the anger of other religious leaders. He knew he would be hated for honoring the death of Christ above the ritual and moral law of Israel. He would be punished for teaching that Christ's death and resurrection were more important than the law of circumcision that represented the whole Mosaic way of life. His suffering for Christ would literally include shedding his own blood [2 Cor. 11:23-25].
Paul wasn't willing to play it safe. He knew the crucifixion of Jesus was the center page of history. Putting his own life on the line, Paul proclaimed the inexpressible heart of God, who gave His Son to express the ultimate words of love, written in blood at the cross. --- Mart De Haan
The Father wrote His autograph
Upon a cross of shame,
With pen divine, all dipped in blood,
"Forgiven in Jesus' name." --- Bosch
TO SHOW HIS LOVE, JESUS DIED FOR ME; TO SHOW MY LOVE, I MUST LIVE FOR HIM!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The Great Divider
Read: Luke 23:33-43
When they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him. --- Luke 23:33
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 7-9
Luke 1:21-38
When Jesus died on the cross. He paid for the sins of the human race. Only those who believe on Him, however, can receive His loving provision. The sacrifice of Christ is sufficient for all, but it is effective only for those who place their trust in Him.
As the Lord Jesus hung on the cross, two criminals were crucified next to Him. One of those men is now in the place of the lost --- his doom in hell forever sealed. The other is with Christ --- his place in heaven assured for eternity. Their contrasting attitudes toward the Man on the center cross made all the difference.
One of the criminals railed at the Lord in unbelief. The other cried out in faith, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom" [Luke 23:42]. To him Jesus said, "Today you will be with Me in Paradise" [v.43].
We are all represented by one of those two men. We either believe on Christ or we reject Him. Our eternal destiny depends on our decision. Jesus said of Himself, "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already" [John 3:18].
On this Good Friday, let's thank Jesus for paying for our sin. If you haven't trusted Him, do it today! In dying on the cross, Jesus became the Great Divider. --- Richard De Haan
We may not know, we cannot tell
What pains He had to bear;
But we believe it was for us
He hung and suffered there. --- Alexander
AT CALVARY'S CROSS, WE STAND AT THE CROSSROADS TO HEAVEN OR HELL.
When they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him. --- Luke 23:33
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 7-9
Luke 1:21-38
When Jesus died on the cross. He paid for the sins of the human race. Only those who believe on Him, however, can receive His loving provision. The sacrifice of Christ is sufficient for all, but it is effective only for those who place their trust in Him.
As the Lord Jesus hung on the cross, two criminals were crucified next to Him. One of those men is now in the place of the lost --- his doom in hell forever sealed. The other is with Christ --- his place in heaven assured for eternity. Their contrasting attitudes toward the Man on the center cross made all the difference.
One of the criminals railed at the Lord in unbelief. The other cried out in faith, "Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom" [Luke 23:42]. To him Jesus said, "Today you will be with Me in Paradise" [v.43].
We are all represented by one of those two men. We either believe on Christ or we reject Him. Our eternal destiny depends on our decision. Jesus said of Himself, "He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already" [John 3:18].
On this Good Friday, let's thank Jesus for paying for our sin. If you haven't trusted Him, do it today! In dying on the cross, Jesus became the Great Divider. --- Richard De Haan
We may not know, we cannot tell
What pains He had to bear;
But we believe it was for us
He hung and suffered there. --- Alexander
AT CALVARY'S CROSS, WE STAND AT THE CROSSROADS TO HEAVEN OR HELL.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
A Word From The Wise
Read: James 3:1-12
Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles. --- Proverbs 21:33
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 4-6
Luke 1:1-20
James, a "pillar in the early church" [Gal. 2:9], recognized the great destructive power and the danger of an uncontrolled tongue. He was not alone. Men and women in many cultures have warned us about the need to guard our speech. This bit of verse by an unknown writer says it well:
"The boneless tongue,
so small and weak,
can crush and kill,"
declared the Greek.
The Persian proverb wisely saith,
"A lengthy tongue, an early death."
Sometimes it takes this form instead:
"Don't let your tongue
cut off your head."
While Arab sages this impart:
"The tongue's great storehouse
is the heart."
From Hebrew wit, the maxim's sprung:
"Though feet should slip, don't let the tongue."
A verse from Scripture crowns the whole:
"Who keeps the tongue doth keep his soul."
Is it any wonder that James likened the tongue to a little fire that sets a great forest ablaze, or to the very small rudder that turns a mighty ship in a storm? [James 3:4-6].
O Lord, help us to learn a lesson from the wise. Help us to hold our tongue and not let it slip. --- Haddon Robinson
There are some silent people
Whose praises should be sung;
They preach a mighty sermon
By guarding well their tongue. --- Posegate
WISE IS THE PERSON WHO KNOWS WHAT TO SAY AND WHEN TO SAY IT.
Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles. --- Proverbs 21:33
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 4-6
Luke 1:1-20
James, a "pillar in the early church" [Gal. 2:9], recognized the great destructive power and the danger of an uncontrolled tongue. He was not alone. Men and women in many cultures have warned us about the need to guard our speech. This bit of verse by an unknown writer says it well:
"The boneless tongue,
so small and weak,
can crush and kill,"
declared the Greek.
The Persian proverb wisely saith,
"A lengthy tongue, an early death."
Sometimes it takes this form instead:
"Don't let your tongue
cut off your head."
While Arab sages this impart:
"The tongue's great storehouse
is the heart."
From Hebrew wit, the maxim's sprung:
"Though feet should slip, don't let the tongue."
A verse from Scripture crowns the whole:
"Who keeps the tongue doth keep his soul."
Is it any wonder that James likened the tongue to a little fire that sets a great forest ablaze, or to the very small rudder that turns a mighty ship in a storm? [James 3:4-6].
O Lord, help us to learn a lesson from the wise. Help us to hold our tongue and not let it slip. --- Haddon Robinson
There are some silent people
Whose praises should be sung;
They preach a mighty sermon
By guarding well their tongue. --- Posegate
WISE IS THE PERSON WHO KNOWS WHAT TO SAY AND WHEN TO SAY IT.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Heart For Others
Read: 2 Cor. 11:22-30
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. --- John 15:13
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 1-3
Mark 16
As the young people set up for a concert in the town square in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the worst problem we anticipated was sunburn.
The chorale from Grand Rapids, Michigan, was in Jamaica to encourage Christians and to spread the gospel through music. They had been looking forward to this outreach event.
Midway through the concert, a woman who didn't like the message of the music began shouting angrily at the chorale. Apparently, the God-honoring songs were more than she could stand. After several tense minutes, a bystander tried to quiet her. A fight ensued, and we began to fear for the safety of the young people. Finally, she ran away, and the chorale finished the concert.
Later, I said to one of the girls, "Well, we won't do that again," indicating that our priority was to protect her and her friends. She responded, "If one person came to show Jesus, it was worthwhile, even if we were in danger."
What a response! Sounds like Paul, who was willing to suffer so that people would come to know Jesus [2 Cor. 11:22-30]. This girl was concerned for people she didn't even know. That's true love for Jesus --- caring for people while moving personal needs to the background. --- Dave Branon
Lord, let me live from day to day
In such a self-forgetful way
That even when I kneel to pray
My prayer will be for others. --- Meigs
GOD'S LOVE IN OUR HEART GIVES US A HEART FOR THE LOST.
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. --- John 15:13
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 1-3
Mark 16
As the young people set up for a concert in the town square in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the worst problem we anticipated was sunburn.
The chorale from Grand Rapids, Michigan, was in Jamaica to encourage Christians and to spread the gospel through music. They had been looking forward to this outreach event.
Midway through the concert, a woman who didn't like the message of the music began shouting angrily at the chorale. Apparently, the God-honoring songs were more than she could stand. After several tense minutes, a bystander tried to quiet her. A fight ensued, and we began to fear for the safety of the young people. Finally, she ran away, and the chorale finished the concert.
Later, I said to one of the girls, "Well, we won't do that again," indicating that our priority was to protect her and her friends. She responded, "If one person came to show Jesus, it was worthwhile, even if we were in danger."
What a response! Sounds like Paul, who was willing to suffer so that people would come to know Jesus [2 Cor. 11:22-30]. This girl was concerned for people she didn't even know. That's true love for Jesus --- caring for people while moving personal needs to the background. --- Dave Branon
Lord, let me live from day to day
In such a self-forgetful way
That even when I kneel to pray
My prayer will be for others. --- Meigs
GOD'S LOVE IN OUR HEART GIVES US A HEART FOR THE LOST.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Religion Or Christ?
Read: Ephesians 2:1-10
By grace you have been saved through faith ...; it is the gift of God, not of works. --- Ephesians 2:8-9
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 32-34
Mark 15:26-47
Mary works hard because she wants her boss to recognize her accomplishments and reward her with a higher-paying position. Nancy loves her job and the product her company sells, and out of loyalty she works hard to make the product better.
Mary is like the person who hopes that good works or religion will be rewarded by God someday. Such people count on their good deeds to get them into heaven.
Nancy is a picture of those who have faith in God to get them into heaven. Such people do good works out of gratitude and love for Him.
Someone with religion may believe in God, attend church, say prayers, show kindness, and be seen as a good person. People with religion have many good qualities, but religion is not a substitute for faith in Jesus Christ.
People with faith put their trust in Jesus for forgiveness of sin. They have assurance of entrance into heaven and seek to become more like Jesus each day. The apostle Paul said that the way of salvation is by grace through faith. It's not of works but is the gift of God [Eph. 2:8-9].
The only way to the Father in heaven is through faith in Jesus [John 14:6].
Do you choose religion or Christ? --- Anne Cetas
There aren't many ways into heaven;
God's Word says there is only one;
Confessing Christ Jesus as Savior,
Believing in God's only Son. --- Sper
WE ARE SAVED NOT BY WHAT WE DO BUT BY TRUSTING WHAT CHRIST HAS DONE.
By grace you have been saved through faith ...; it is the gift of God, not of works. --- Ephesians 2:8-9
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 32-34
Mark 15:26-47
Mary works hard because she wants her boss to recognize her accomplishments and reward her with a higher-paying position. Nancy loves her job and the product her company sells, and out of loyalty she works hard to make the product better.
Mary is like the person who hopes that good works or religion will be rewarded by God someday. Such people count on their good deeds to get them into heaven.
Nancy is a picture of those who have faith in God to get them into heaven. Such people do good works out of gratitude and love for Him.
Someone with religion may believe in God, attend church, say prayers, show kindness, and be seen as a good person. People with religion have many good qualities, but religion is not a substitute for faith in Jesus Christ.
People with faith put their trust in Jesus for forgiveness of sin. They have assurance of entrance into heaven and seek to become more like Jesus each day. The apostle Paul said that the way of salvation is by grace through faith. It's not of works but is the gift of God [Eph. 2:8-9].
The only way to the Father in heaven is through faith in Jesus [John 14:6].
Do you choose religion or Christ? --- Anne Cetas
There aren't many ways into heaven;
God's Word says there is only one;
Confessing Christ Jesus as Savior,
Believing in God's only Son. --- Sper
WE ARE SAVED NOT BY WHAT WE DO BUT BY TRUSTING WHAT CHRIST HAS DONE.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Rivers Of Living Water
Read: John 7:37-44
Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water. --- John 7:38
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 30-31
Mark 15:1-25
Just below the snowy peak of Mt. Shasta, near the headwaters of the Sacramento River in California, an icy-cold underground spring gushes out of the side of a cliff. My brother, who used to live there, says that people flock there to fill their jugs with the refreshing liquid.
Water quenches our thirst and sustains our life. In Scripture, water serves as a word picture of the sufficiency of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' day, during the Feast of Tabernacles a choir sang while a priest filled a gold pitcher with water and poured it out. This reminded all those present of the water that gushed from the rock during the wilderness wanderings [Num. 20:8-11].
As this ritual was taking place, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice: "He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" [John 7:38]. This source is the Holy Spirit, who is like a well of satisfaction [7:39]. Earlier, the Lord had made the dramatic claim that the believer would have a continual source of spiritual refreshment [4:14].
Are you thirsty today? Confess your sin, and Christ will fill you with His Spirit. As you yield to His will, He will graciously fill you with living water springing up to eternal life. --- Dennis Fisher
Gracious and Almighty Savior,
Source of all that shall endure,
Quench my thirst with living water,
Living water, clear and pure. --- Vinal
ONLY CHRIST, THE LIVING WATER, CAN QUENCH OUR SPIRITUAL THIRST.
Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water. --- John 7:38
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 30-31
Mark 15:1-25
Just below the snowy peak of Mt. Shasta, near the headwaters of the Sacramento River in California, an icy-cold underground spring gushes out of the side of a cliff. My brother, who used to live there, says that people flock there to fill their jugs with the refreshing liquid.
Water quenches our thirst and sustains our life. In Scripture, water serves as a word picture of the sufficiency of the Holy Spirit. In Jesus' day, during the Feast of Tabernacles a choir sang while a priest filled a gold pitcher with water and poured it out. This reminded all those present of the water that gushed from the rock during the wilderness wanderings [Num. 20:8-11].
As this ritual was taking place, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice: "He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water" [John 7:38]. This source is the Holy Spirit, who is like a well of satisfaction [7:39]. Earlier, the Lord had made the dramatic claim that the believer would have a continual source of spiritual refreshment [4:14].
Are you thirsty today? Confess your sin, and Christ will fill you with His Spirit. As you yield to His will, He will graciously fill you with living water springing up to eternal life. --- Dennis Fisher
Gracious and Almighty Savior,
Source of all that shall endure,
Quench my thirst with living water,
Living water, clear and pure. --- Vinal
ONLY CHRIST, THE LIVING WATER, CAN QUENCH OUR SPIRITUAL THIRST.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
The Preeminent One
Read: Matthew 21:1-11
He is before all things, and in Him all things consist ... that in all things He may have the preeminence. --- Colossians 1:17-18
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 28-29
Mark 14:54-72
We can never overstate the greatness of Christ. As the preeminent person in history, He is worthy of our love and our praise.
In his classic book The Pursuit of God, A.W. Tozer paid tribute to Frederick Faber, the Englishman who penned the song "Faith of Our Fathers." Tozer said, "His love for the person of Christ was so intense that it threatened to consume him; it burned within him ... and flowed from his lips like molten gold. In one of his sermons he said, 'Wherever we turn in the church of God, there is Jesus. He is the beginning, middle, and end of everything to us.... There is nothing good, nothing holy, nothing beautiful, nothing joyous which He is not to His servants.... No one need be downcast, for Jesus is the joy of heaven, and it is His joy to enter into sorrowful hearts. We can exaggerate about many things, but we can never exaggerate our obligation to Jesus, or the compassionate abundance of the love of Jesus to us. All our lives long we might talk of Jesus, and yet we should never come to an end of the sweet things that might be said of Him.'"
On this Palm Sunday, let's lift glad of hosannas of praise to the King of kings. Jesus deserves our loving adoration. He is truly the preeminent One! --- Richard De Haan
Preeminent is Christ the Lord,
He reigns o'er earth and sky and sea;
For mighty power is in His Word ---
How great in majesty is He. --- D. De Haan
WHEN WE SUBMIT TO JESUS' LORDSHIP, WE'LL GIVE HIM OUR WORSHIP.
He is before all things, and in Him all things consist ... that in all things He may have the preeminence. --- Colossians 1:17-18
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 28-29
Mark 14:54-72
We can never overstate the greatness of Christ. As the preeminent person in history, He is worthy of our love and our praise.
In his classic book The Pursuit of God, A.W. Tozer paid tribute to Frederick Faber, the Englishman who penned the song "Faith of Our Fathers." Tozer said, "His love for the person of Christ was so intense that it threatened to consume him; it burned within him ... and flowed from his lips like molten gold. In one of his sermons he said, 'Wherever we turn in the church of God, there is Jesus. He is the beginning, middle, and end of everything to us.... There is nothing good, nothing holy, nothing beautiful, nothing joyous which He is not to His servants.... No one need be downcast, for Jesus is the joy of heaven, and it is His joy to enter into sorrowful hearts. We can exaggerate about many things, but we can never exaggerate our obligation to Jesus, or the compassionate abundance of the love of Jesus to us. All our lives long we might talk of Jesus, and yet we should never come to an end of the sweet things that might be said of Him.'"
On this Palm Sunday, let's lift glad of hosannas of praise to the King of kings. Jesus deserves our loving adoration. He is truly the preeminent One! --- Richard De Haan
Preeminent is Christ the Lord,
He reigns o'er earth and sky and sea;
For mighty power is in His Word ---
How great in majesty is He. --- D. De Haan
WHEN WE SUBMIT TO JESUS' LORDSHIP, WE'LL GIVE HIM OUR WORSHIP.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Full Pockets
Read: Ephesians 1:3-14
God ... has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. --- Ephesians 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 26-27
Mark 14:27-53
Every man needs pockets large enough to carry all the important things in life: wallet, keys, breath mints. By looking at my wife's purse, it seems she has the whole universe of resources, but at least men have the essentials! With just a quick reach into a pocket, I have access to cash, credit cards, and the exclusive privileges that a set of keys offers.
And children know that if they ask Mom or Dad to search their pocket or purse for a piece of gum, a mint, a comb, a tissue, or a dollar --- whatever it is they think will meet their need at the moment --- they will receive it!
It's not unlike our privilege as God's children. At salvation, we are placed "in Christ" and granted full access to all the valuable resources God offers us. Resources such as His wisdom: "Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" [Ps. 119:105]. Forgiveness and grace: "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace" [Eph. 1:7]. New perspectives that bring hope and confidence even in the toughest of times [Eph. 1:18], material provision [Matt. 6:30-31], and peace [Eph. 2:14] are also ours in Him.
God lavishes His resources on us "according to the riches of His grace" [Eph. 1:7]. Dig in! --- Joe Stowell
I know not by what methods rare
The Lord provides for me;
I only know that all my needs
He meets so graciously. --- Adams
CHILDREN OF THE KING HAVE NO REASON TO LIVE LIKE PAUPERS.
God ... has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. --- Ephesians 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 26-27
Mark 14:27-53
Every man needs pockets large enough to carry all the important things in life: wallet, keys, breath mints. By looking at my wife's purse, it seems she has the whole universe of resources, but at least men have the essentials! With just a quick reach into a pocket, I have access to cash, credit cards, and the exclusive privileges that a set of keys offers.
And children know that if they ask Mom or Dad to search their pocket or purse for a piece of gum, a mint, a comb, a tissue, or a dollar --- whatever it is they think will meet their need at the moment --- they will receive it!
It's not unlike our privilege as God's children. At salvation, we are placed "in Christ" and granted full access to all the valuable resources God offers us. Resources such as His wisdom: "Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" [Ps. 119:105]. Forgiveness and grace: "In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace" [Eph. 1:7]. New perspectives that bring hope and confidence even in the toughest of times [Eph. 1:18], material provision [Matt. 6:30-31], and peace [Eph. 2:14] are also ours in Him.
God lavishes His resources on us "according to the riches of His grace" [Eph. 1:7]. Dig in! --- Joe Stowell
I know not by what methods rare
The Lord provides for me;
I only know that all my needs
He meets so graciously. --- Adams
CHILDREN OF THE KING HAVE NO REASON TO LIVE LIKE PAUPERS.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
He Is There
Read: Psalm 139:1-12
He will not leave you nor forsake you. --- Deuteronomy 31:6
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 23-25
Mark 14:1-26
Tanya's fiance David was lying in the intensive care unit after a delicate procedure to repair a brain aneurysm. David's eyes focused on Tanya, who had hardly left his side in several days. In wonder, he said, "Every time I look up, you're here. I love that. Every time I think of you, I open my eyes and you are there."
That young man's appreciation for the woman he loves reminds me of the way we should feel about God's presence in our lives.
He is always there. The Lord's presence gives us comfort and security. He has promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" [Heb. 13:5]. Who knows us more completely? Who loves us more fully? Who cares for us so well?
In Psalm 139, we read what King David thought of God's precious presence. He wrote, "O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; ... and are acquainted with all my ways. ... If I ascend into heaven, You are there" [vv. 1-3, 8].
No matter what happens to us, we have this assurance: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" [Ps. 46:1]. Open your eyes and your heart. He is there. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
When we are walking through the green pastures,
Or over mountains rugged and bare;
Precious the thought and sweet the assurance,
Jesus is always there. --- B. Lillenas
WE CAN FACE ANY FEAR WHEN WE KNOW THE LORD IS NEAR.
He will not leave you nor forsake you. --- Deuteronomy 31:6
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 23-25
Mark 14:1-26
Tanya's fiance David was lying in the intensive care unit after a delicate procedure to repair a brain aneurysm. David's eyes focused on Tanya, who had hardly left his side in several days. In wonder, he said, "Every time I look up, you're here. I love that. Every time I think of you, I open my eyes and you are there."
That young man's appreciation for the woman he loves reminds me of the way we should feel about God's presence in our lives.
He is always there. The Lord's presence gives us comfort and security. He has promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" [Heb. 13:5]. Who knows us more completely? Who loves us more fully? Who cares for us so well?
In Psalm 139, we read what King David thought of God's precious presence. He wrote, "O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know my sitting down and my rising up; ... and are acquainted with all my ways. ... If I ascend into heaven, You are there" [vv. 1-3, 8].
No matter what happens to us, we have this assurance: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble" [Ps. 46:1]. Open your eyes and your heart. He is there. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
When we are walking through the green pastures,
Or over mountains rugged and bare;
Precious the thought and sweet the assurance,
Jesus is always there. --- B. Lillenas
WE CAN FACE ANY FEAR WHEN WE KNOW THE LORD IS NEAR.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Who Says What's Right?
Read: Romans 2:12-16
Gentiles, who do not have the law, ... show the work of the law written in their hearts. --- Romans 2:14-15
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 20-22
Mark 13:21-37
People who reject absolute standards of right and wrong are often inconsistent. When they think they are being treated unfairly, they appeal to a standard of justice that they expect everyone to adhere to.
A philosophy professor began each new term by asking his class, "Do you believe it can be shown that there are absolute values like justice?" The free-thinking students all argued that everything is relative and no single law can be applied universally. Before the end of the semester, the professor devoted one class period to debate their issue. At the end, he concluded, "Regardless of what you think, I want you to know that absolute values can be demonstrated. And if you don't accept what I say, I'll flunk you!" One angry student got up and insisted, "That's not fair!" "You've just proved my point," replied the professor. "You've appealed to a higher standard of fairness."
God has given everyone a conscience to tell right from wrong [Rom. 2:14-15], and His moral standards are written in the Bible. Every time we use the words good and bad, we imply a standard by which we make such judgments. Biblical values are true for any age, because they originate with an eternal, unchanging God. --- Dennis De Haan
God has not left us in the dark
About what's wrong or right,
For through His works and in His Word
His Spirit gives us light. --- D. De Haan
ONLY GOD HAS THE RIGHT TO DEFINE WHAT'S WRONG.
Gentiles, who do not have the law, ... show the work of the law written in their hearts. --- Romans 2:14-15
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 20-22
Mark 13:21-37
People who reject absolute standards of right and wrong are often inconsistent. When they think they are being treated unfairly, they appeal to a standard of justice that they expect everyone to adhere to.
A philosophy professor began each new term by asking his class, "Do you believe it can be shown that there are absolute values like justice?" The free-thinking students all argued that everything is relative and no single law can be applied universally. Before the end of the semester, the professor devoted one class period to debate their issue. At the end, he concluded, "Regardless of what you think, I want you to know that absolute values can be demonstrated. And if you don't accept what I say, I'll flunk you!" One angry student got up and insisted, "That's not fair!" "You've just proved my point," replied the professor. "You've appealed to a higher standard of fairness."
God has given everyone a conscience to tell right from wrong [Rom. 2:14-15], and His moral standards are written in the Bible. Every time we use the words good and bad, we imply a standard by which we make such judgments. Biblical values are true for any age, because they originate with an eternal, unchanging God. --- Dennis De Haan
God has not left us in the dark
About what's wrong or right,
For through His works and in His Word
His Spirit gives us light. --- D. De Haan
ONLY GOD HAS THE RIGHT TO DEFINE WHAT'S WRONG.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Fox Trouble
Read: 1 John 1:5-10
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. --- 1 John 1:8
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 17-19
Mark 13:1-20
The British are having trouble with foxes. According to The Wall Street Journal, the sly little fellows have moved into London and are making a general nuisance of themselves. They knock over rubbish cans, swipe shoes left out to dry, destroy gardens, and leave a foul odor. With the city borders being pushed farther into the country-side, the little troublemakers are adapting rather than moving --- and many Londoners are frustrated and upset.
When you stop to think about it little "foxes" can become great aggravations for followers of Christ who are trying to honor Him. What we may consider "little" or "harmless" sins can be our downfall. "Stretching the truth," for example, is actually lying. And gossip is nothing less than character assassination. The trouble is that those little sins will inevitably grow larger. Before we know it, we'll need to do some serious repenting and confessing.
If some little foxes have crept into the backyards and gardens of your spiritual life, the time to deal with them is now. With the help of the Holy Spirit, identify them. Admit your guilt, confess these pesky little practices to God, and get rid of them before they ruin the entire landscape of your life. --- Dave Egner
Today pull up the little weeds,
The sinful thoughts subdue,
Or they will take the reins themselves
And someday master you. --- Anon.
THE MOST DEADLY SINS DO NOT LEAP UPON US, THEY CREEP UP ON US.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. --- 1 John 1:8
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 17-19
Mark 13:1-20
The British are having trouble with foxes. According to The Wall Street Journal, the sly little fellows have moved into London and are making a general nuisance of themselves. They knock over rubbish cans, swipe shoes left out to dry, destroy gardens, and leave a foul odor. With the city borders being pushed farther into the country-side, the little troublemakers are adapting rather than moving --- and many Londoners are frustrated and upset.
When you stop to think about it little "foxes" can become great aggravations for followers of Christ who are trying to honor Him. What we may consider "little" or "harmless" sins can be our downfall. "Stretching the truth," for example, is actually lying. And gossip is nothing less than character assassination. The trouble is that those little sins will inevitably grow larger. Before we know it, we'll need to do some serious repenting and confessing.
If some little foxes have crept into the backyards and gardens of your spiritual life, the time to deal with them is now. With the help of the Holy Spirit, identify them. Admit your guilt, confess these pesky little practices to God, and get rid of them before they ruin the entire landscape of your life. --- Dave Egner
Today pull up the little weeds,
The sinful thoughts subdue,
Or they will take the reins themselves
And someday master you. --- Anon.
THE MOST DEADLY SINS DO NOT LEAP UPON US, THEY CREEP UP ON US.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Slow Down
Read: Genesis 2:1-3
God ... rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. --- Genesis 2:2
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 14-16
Mark 12:28-44
We live in an action-oriented world, and it seems that simplifying our lives has never been more complicated! Doesn't it seem that there's always work to do and no time for rest? Answer the following questions as honestly as you can to determine if you need to rest: Do I feel stressed when functioning in my normal day-to-day activities? Is it difficult to find joy? Do I get the kind of rest my body needs? Do I wake up tired?
In creation, God established a pattern of work and rest, which is a model for believers. For 6 days God worked to bring order to our world. But on the seventh day, after He had finished all His creative activity, He rested. God demonstrated that rest is appropriate and right.
Jesus showed us the importance of rest when He sat wearily beside a well after a long walk [John 4:6] and when He slept in the back of a boat with His head on a pillow [Mark 4:38]. He also rested when He and His disciples got away from the crowds [Mark 6:31-32].
If the Lord rested from the work of creation and from His earthly ministry, we need to rest from our work as well. Our times of rest refresh us for times of service. Schedule some "slow down" time this week. --- Marvin Williams
If our body, soul, and spirit
Are to function at their best,
Time is needed for renewal ---
Time for leisure, time for rest. --- D. De Haan
ALL WORK AND NO PLAY WILL TAKE THE JOY OF LIFE AWAY.
God ... rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. --- Genesis 2:2
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 14-16
Mark 12:28-44
We live in an action-oriented world, and it seems that simplifying our lives has never been more complicated! Doesn't it seem that there's always work to do and no time for rest? Answer the following questions as honestly as you can to determine if you need to rest: Do I feel stressed when functioning in my normal day-to-day activities? Is it difficult to find joy? Do I get the kind of rest my body needs? Do I wake up tired?
In creation, God established a pattern of work and rest, which is a model for believers. For 6 days God worked to bring order to our world. But on the seventh day, after He had finished all His creative activity, He rested. God demonstrated that rest is appropriate and right.
Jesus showed us the importance of rest when He sat wearily beside a well after a long walk [John 4:6] and when He slept in the back of a boat with His head on a pillow [Mark 4:38]. He also rested when He and His disciples got away from the crowds [Mark 6:31-32].
If the Lord rested from the work of creation and from His earthly ministry, we need to rest from our work as well. Our times of rest refresh us for times of service. Schedule some "slow down" time this week. --- Marvin Williams
If our body, soul, and spirit
Are to function at their best,
Time is needed for renewal ---
Time for leisure, time for rest. --- D. De Haan
ALL WORK AND NO PLAY WILL TAKE THE JOY OF LIFE AWAY.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Satan's Secret
Read: Romans 6:11-23
He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. --- 1 John 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 11-13
Mark 12:1-27
A driving instructor in Germany was stopped by police after a minor accident with a truck. When asked for his driver's license, he couldn't provide one. He had been instructing students for more than 40 years on how to drive, yet he didn't have his own license! Years earlier, he had failed a driving test, and he was fearful of trying again. He kept this fact a secret out of embarrassment.
Satan also has a secret in his past that he doesn't want people to learn about. His secret? He no longer has the power to separate us from God. Our enemy doesn't want anyone to know this truth because he desires to keep nonbelievers controlled by sin and believers entangled in it.
It's true that because of sin we were separated from God. But when Jesus died on the cross, He bore all our sins and took on Himself our punishment of death. God then raised Jesus from the dead, and now He reigns in heaven.
When we trust in what Jesus has done for us, a relationship with God begins and sin no longer has control over us. The apostle Paul wrote, "Sin shall not have dominion over you" [Rom. 6:14]. We are no longer separated from God. We are set free from bondage [v.18] Satan's secret is out in the open. --- Anne Cetas
The outstretched hand of God extends
To those weighed down by sin;
He offers to remove the load
And give His peace within. --- Sper
GOD ALWAYS STANDS BETWEEN THE CHRISTIAN AND THE ENEMY.
He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. --- 1 John 4:4
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 11-13
Mark 12:1-27
A driving instructor in Germany was stopped by police after a minor accident with a truck. When asked for his driver's license, he couldn't provide one. He had been instructing students for more than 40 years on how to drive, yet he didn't have his own license! Years earlier, he had failed a driving test, and he was fearful of trying again. He kept this fact a secret out of embarrassment.
Satan also has a secret in his past that he doesn't want people to learn about. His secret? He no longer has the power to separate us from God. Our enemy doesn't want anyone to know this truth because he desires to keep nonbelievers controlled by sin and believers entangled in it.
It's true that because of sin we were separated from God. But when Jesus died on the cross, He bore all our sins and took on Himself our punishment of death. God then raised Jesus from the dead, and now He reigns in heaven.
When we trust in what Jesus has done for us, a relationship with God begins and sin no longer has control over us. The apostle Paul wrote, "Sin shall not have dominion over you" [Rom. 6:14]. We are no longer separated from God. We are set free from bondage [v.18] Satan's secret is out in the open. --- Anne Cetas
The outstretched hand of God extends
To those weighed down by sin;
He offers to remove the load
And give His peace within. --- Sper
GOD ALWAYS STANDS BETWEEN THE CHRISTIAN AND THE ENEMY.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
No Longer Young
Read: Psalm 37:23-31
The LORD loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever. --- Psalm 37:28
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 8-10
Mark 11:19-33
Recently, as I left a shop, I overheard the man who had served me whisper in disappointment, "He called me 'uncle,' when he's definitely older than I am." Since childhood, my Chinese culture has taught me it is polite to say, "Thank you, Uncle!" for help received.
This gesture has served me well, but now I have to think twice before using it. Taking a good look in the mirror, my eyes confirm that I am no longer the person my mind remembers.
Being young has many advantages, but with age comes the joy of reflecting on God's faithfulness. David reminds us in Psalm 37: "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken" [v.25].
Now that I'm in my fifties, I reflect and wonder how I ever could have thought that God had forsaken me. Yes, He has permitted me to face what seemed like insurmountable difficulties, but now I know it was only to shape me. God has always preserved me, and when I stumble I know it is "the LORD [who] upholds [me] with His hand" [v.24].
We are growing older all the time, but we can also grow more thankful for God's many mercies. Above all, we are grateful that He puts the love of His law in our hearts and keeps our steps from sliding [v.31]. --- Albert Lee
God's faithfulness we've known throughout the years,
His oneness with us in our joys and tears;
So many times the Lord has helped us through,
Has answered prayer and given strength anew. --- F. Hess
AS THE YEARS ADD UP, GOD'S FAITHFULNESS MULTIPLIES.
The LORD loves justice, and does not forsake His saints; they are preserved forever. --- Psalm 37:28
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 8-10
Mark 11:19-33
Recently, as I left a shop, I overheard the man who had served me whisper in disappointment, "He called me 'uncle,' when he's definitely older than I am." Since childhood, my Chinese culture has taught me it is polite to say, "Thank you, Uncle!" for help received.
This gesture has served me well, but now I have to think twice before using it. Taking a good look in the mirror, my eyes confirm that I am no longer the person my mind remembers.
Being young has many advantages, but with age comes the joy of reflecting on God's faithfulness. David reminds us in Psalm 37: "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken" [v.25].
Now that I'm in my fifties, I reflect and wonder how I ever could have thought that God had forsaken me. Yes, He has permitted me to face what seemed like insurmountable difficulties, but now I know it was only to shape me. God has always preserved me, and when I stumble I know it is "the LORD [who] upholds [me] with His hand" [v.24].
We are growing older all the time, but we can also grow more thankful for God's many mercies. Above all, we are grateful that He puts the love of His law in our hearts and keeps our steps from sliding [v.31]. --- Albert Lee
God's faithfulness we've known throughout the years,
His oneness with us in our joys and tears;
So many times the Lord has helped us through,
Has answered prayer and given strength anew. --- F. Hess
AS THE YEARS ADD UP, GOD'S FAITHFULNESS MULTIPLIES.
Jesus Cried
Read: John 11:17-37
Jesus wept. --- John 11:35
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 5-7
Mark 11:1-18
A friend whose young daughter was killed in a card accident in May 2005 told me: "I cried easily before Natalie's accident. ... Now I am always crying. Sometimes the tears just slip out."
Anyone who has suffered such intense personal tragedy understands what she is talking about.
Is there anything wrong with crying? Or do we have biblical evidence to suggest that it's okay to cry?
Jesus gives us the answer. Lazarus, a close friend of His, had died. When Jesus arrived at the home of Lazarus's sisters, they were surrounded by friends who had come to console them. Jesus saw Mary and Martha and their friends mourning, and He too was overcome. Sorrowing with them, "Jesus wept" [John 11:35].
Sadness, tears, and mourning are familiar territory for everyone on this earth --- even for Jesus. His tears tell us that it's okay if tears "just slip out." And they remind us that the reason tears of sorrow will be extinct in eternity is that "there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain" [Rev. 21:4].
When God wipes out the effects of sin, He will wipe out the need for tears --- one more reason to look forward to eternity. --- Dave Branon
God shall wipe away all tears;
There's no death, no pain, nor fears,
And they count not time by years,
For there is no night there. --- Clements
HEAVEN --- NO PAIN, NO NIGHT, NO DEATH, NO TEARS.
Jesus wept. --- John 11:35
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 5-7
Mark 11:1-18
A friend whose young daughter was killed in a card accident in May 2005 told me: "I cried easily before Natalie's accident. ... Now I am always crying. Sometimes the tears just slip out."
Anyone who has suffered such intense personal tragedy understands what she is talking about.
Is there anything wrong with crying? Or do we have biblical evidence to suggest that it's okay to cry?
Jesus gives us the answer. Lazarus, a close friend of His, had died. When Jesus arrived at the home of Lazarus's sisters, they were surrounded by friends who had come to console them. Jesus saw Mary and Martha and their friends mourning, and He too was overcome. Sorrowing with them, "Jesus wept" [John 11:35].
Sadness, tears, and mourning are familiar territory for everyone on this earth --- even for Jesus. His tears tell us that it's okay if tears "just slip out." And they remind us that the reason tears of sorrow will be extinct in eternity is that "there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain" [Rev. 21:4].
When God wipes out the effects of sin, He will wipe out the need for tears --- one more reason to look forward to eternity. --- Dave Branon
God shall wipe away all tears;
There's no death, no pain, nor fears,
And they count not time by years,
For there is no night there. --- Clements
HEAVEN --- NO PAIN, NO NIGHT, NO DEATH, NO TEARS.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
3-D Under The Sea
Read: Job 41:1-11
God created ... every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded. --- Genesis 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 3-4
Mark 10:32-52
My wife and I went to see a large-screen 3-D documentary on life in the sea. We put on plastic eye-glasses that created a 3-dimentional effect and then marveled as one surprise after another jumped out at us from the screen.
Predatory sharks swam dangerously close to us. Giant turtles tumbled and swirled so close we felt we could reach out and touch them. One exotic sea creature dangled what looked like a lure in front of its mouth to attract smaller fish. The narrator marveled that the life-forms that produce coral reefs inexplicably spawn on only one night out of the whole year. Their off-spring then catch currents that carry them to other parts of the ocean.
As I sat there, I thought, How can anyone think all of this happened by chance? The fingerprints of a Designer are on every sea creature we've seen! As Christians we know that time and random chance could never result in such perfectly designed sea creatures. Instead, we accept the witness of God's Word that "God created ... every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded" [Gen. 1:21].
The more we learn about life in our world, the more we recognize God's eternal power and worship Him as Lord of creation [Rom. 1:20]. --- Dennis Fisher
The greatness of our God is seen
In sky and sea and forest green;
And living creatures great and small
Reveal the God who made them all. --- D. De Haan
ALL CREATION SINGS GOD'S PRAISE.
God created ... every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded. --- Genesis 1:21
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 3-4
Mark 10:32-52
My wife and I went to see a large-screen 3-D documentary on life in the sea. We put on plastic eye-glasses that created a 3-dimentional effect and then marveled as one surprise after another jumped out at us from the screen.
Predatory sharks swam dangerously close to us. Giant turtles tumbled and swirled so close we felt we could reach out and touch them. One exotic sea creature dangled what looked like a lure in front of its mouth to attract smaller fish. The narrator marveled that the life-forms that produce coral reefs inexplicably spawn on only one night out of the whole year. Their off-spring then catch currents that carry them to other parts of the ocean.
As I sat there, I thought, How can anyone think all of this happened by chance? The fingerprints of a Designer are on every sea creature we've seen! As Christians we know that time and random chance could never result in such perfectly designed sea creatures. Instead, we accept the witness of God's Word that "God created ... every living thing that moves, with which the waters abounded" [Gen. 1:21].
The more we learn about life in our world, the more we recognize God's eternal power and worship Him as Lord of creation [Rom. 1:20]. --- Dennis Fisher
The greatness of our God is seen
In sky and sea and forest green;
And living creatures great and small
Reveal the God who made them all. --- D. De Haan
ALL CREATION SINGS GOD'S PRAISE.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Trampling Temptation
Read: Matthew 4:1-11
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. --- Philippians 3:14
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 1-2
Mark 10:1-31
Ardent baseball fans will remember Kirby Puckett, who died suddenly in 2006. He had led the Minnesota Twins to championship victories in 1987 and 1991. Even though he was offered larger contracts by other teams, he stayed with the Twins for his entire career. When Puckett was diagnosed with glaucoma in 1996, his career ended abruptly.
During Puckett's induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001, he recalled the difficulties he had faced when growing up. His passion to become a professional baseball player was subject to temptation many times. Drug dealers and gang members repeatedly invited him to join in their destructive lifestyle. But whenever temptation enticed him. Kirby remembered that he had a higher calling --- baseball.
Though we are urged to "walk worthy of the calling with which [we] were called" [Eph. 4:1], we live in a world where we face distracting enticements. Maybe we're offered a job that pays well but requires that we compromise biblical principles. Our calling is always to do God's will.
When we are confronted with a temptation to stray from God's way for our life, we must remember that we have a higher calling as servants of Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
When the powers of darkness come in like a flood,
The battle belongs to the Lord!
He's raised up a standard, the power of His blood ---
The battle belongs to the Lord! --- Owens-Collins
TO CONQUER SIN, NIP IT IN THE BUD OF TEMPTATION.
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. --- Philippians 3:14
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 1-2
Mark 10:1-31
Ardent baseball fans will remember Kirby Puckett, who died suddenly in 2006. He had led the Minnesota Twins to championship victories in 1987 and 1991. Even though he was offered larger contracts by other teams, he stayed with the Twins for his entire career. When Puckett was diagnosed with glaucoma in 1996, his career ended abruptly.
During Puckett's induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2001, he recalled the difficulties he had faced when growing up. His passion to become a professional baseball player was subject to temptation many times. Drug dealers and gang members repeatedly invited him to join in their destructive lifestyle. But whenever temptation enticed him. Kirby remembered that he had a higher calling --- baseball.
Though we are urged to "walk worthy of the calling with which [we] were called" [Eph. 4:1], we live in a world where we face distracting enticements. Maybe we're offered a job that pays well but requires that we compromise biblical principles. Our calling is always to do God's will.
When we are confronted with a temptation to stray from God's way for our life, we must remember that we have a higher calling as servants of Jesus. --- Vernon Grounds
When the powers of darkness come in like a flood,
The battle belongs to the Lord!
He's raised up a standard, the power of His blood ---
The battle belongs to the Lord! --- Owens-Collins
TO CONQUER SIN, NIP IT IN THE BUD OF TEMPTATION.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Inner Turmoil
Read: 1 Samuel 1:9-18
I ... have poured out my soul before the LORD. --- 1 Samuel 1:15
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 34-36
Mark 9:30-50
Sometimes I feel as if I'm in a bad relationship --- with myself! Whenever Julie the writer starts a paragraph, Julie the editor interrupts. "No, no, no. Don't say it that way. Why are you always so negative?" Or "What makes you think you have anything worthwhile to say?"
Before I've completed a single thought, my alter ego has torn it to shreds. This is a very debilitating ritual. It's also common to the human condition.
Satan loves to distract us with criticism, and he tries to get us to use it on others as well as ourselves. We judge prematurely and try to correct others before we know what they're saying. That's what Eli the priest did when Hannah was crying to God. He interrupted her prayer and accused her of being drunk [1 Sam. 1:12-14].
But God lets us pour our hearts to Him in full honesty [Ps. 62:8]. In fact, the Psalms indicate that it is when we are expressing our doubts and fears that God resolves them. Many Psalms that begin in despair end in praise [22; 42; 60; 69; 73].
When a battle is raging inside, pour out your soul before the Lord [1 Sam. 1:15]. He can make sense out of what seems senseless. --- Julie Ackerman Link
When turmoil seems to hold full sway
And be the ruler of the days,
I'll open up my heart and find
That God with peace can ease my mind. --- Hess
PRAYER DOES NOT MAKE GOD SEE THINGS AS WE SEE THEM; IT HELPS US SEE THINGS AS GOD SEES THEM.
I ... have poured out my soul before the LORD. --- 1 Samuel 1:15
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 34-36
Mark 9:30-50
Sometimes I feel as if I'm in a bad relationship --- with myself! Whenever Julie the writer starts a paragraph, Julie the editor interrupts. "No, no, no. Don't say it that way. Why are you always so negative?" Or "What makes you think you have anything worthwhile to say?"
Before I've completed a single thought, my alter ego has torn it to shreds. This is a very debilitating ritual. It's also common to the human condition.
Satan loves to distract us with criticism, and he tries to get us to use it on others as well as ourselves. We judge prematurely and try to correct others before we know what they're saying. That's what Eli the priest did when Hannah was crying to God. He interrupted her prayer and accused her of being drunk [1 Sam. 1:12-14].
But God lets us pour our hearts to Him in full honesty [Ps. 62:8]. In fact, the Psalms indicate that it is when we are expressing our doubts and fears that God resolves them. Many Psalms that begin in despair end in praise [22; 42; 60; 69; 73].
When a battle is raging inside, pour out your soul before the Lord [1 Sam. 1:15]. He can make sense out of what seems senseless. --- Julie Ackerman Link
When turmoil seems to hold full sway
And be the ruler of the days,
I'll open up my heart and find
That God with peace can ease my mind. --- Hess
PRAYER DOES NOT MAKE GOD SEE THINGS AS WE SEE THEM; IT HELPS US SEE THINGS AS GOD SEES THEM.
Monday, March 03, 2008
A Family Thing
Read: Mark 3:31-35
Everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. --- 1 John 5:1
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Mark 9:1-29
When I was growing up, I often heard my pastor read the Ten Commandments and our Lord's command to love God with our whole being and our neighbor as ourselves. I knew I didn't fully live up to those demands, but I took them seriously.
As an 8-year-old, I felt sadness when a 6-year-old neighbor boy in a non-Christian family died. But I also felt guilt because I was not as sad as I would have been if this had happened to one of my brothers. And still today, even though my brothers and I all have our own families who come first in our lives, we still take a keen interest in one another.
God is pleased when we cherish these family ties, but He also wants us to love all who have entered our spiritual family by being born again. This is the family Jesus referred to when He responded to a message that His mother and brothers desired to speak with Him. He looked at the audience before Him and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother" [Mark 3:34-35].
Loving the lost is our duty, but loving those born into God's family, no matter what their faults, should come naturally. It is, after all, a family thing. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Love is an attitude, love is a prayer,
For a soul in sorrow, a heart in despair;
Love is good will for the gain of another,
Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. --- Anon.
WE SHOW OUR LOVE FOR GOD WHEN WE LOVE HIS FAMILY.
Everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. --- 1 John 5:1
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Mark 9:1-29
When I was growing up, I often heard my pastor read the Ten Commandments and our Lord's command to love God with our whole being and our neighbor as ourselves. I knew I didn't fully live up to those demands, but I took them seriously.
As an 8-year-old, I felt sadness when a 6-year-old neighbor boy in a non-Christian family died. But I also felt guilt because I was not as sad as I would have been if this had happened to one of my brothers. And still today, even though my brothers and I all have our own families who come first in our lives, we still take a keen interest in one another.
God is pleased when we cherish these family ties, but He also wants us to love all who have entered our spiritual family by being born again. This is the family Jesus referred to when He responded to a message that His mother and brothers desired to speak with Him. He looked at the audience before Him and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother" [Mark 3:34-35].
Loving the lost is our duty, but loving those born into God's family, no matter what their faults, should come naturally. It is, after all, a family thing. --- Herb Vander Lugt
Love is an attitude, love is a prayer,
For a soul in sorrow, a heart in despair;
Love is good will for the gain of another,
Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. --- Anon.
WE SHOW OUR LOVE FOR GOD WHEN WE LOVE HIS FAMILY.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
El Roi
Read: Genesis 16:7-13
[Hagar] called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees; for she said, "Have I also here seen Him who sees me?" --- Genesis 16:13
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 28-30
Mark 8:22-38
Many locator devices are on the market today that promise to help us keep track of elderly parents, children, wallets, pets, parolees, even potential kidnapping victims.
As useful as these gadgets are, they would have done Hagar no good. No one seemed to care enough about Hagar and her unborn child to monitor their well-being in the desert. No one but El Roi --- Herbrew for "You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees" [Gen. 16:13].
Hagar served Sarai, Abram's wife. Sarai felt like a weak link in the chain of God's promise to bless Abram with many descendants. She was barren, so she told Abram to sleep with her maid-servant and build a family through her. This ill-advised suggestion --- born amid intense cultural pressures to provide an heir --- led to nothing but trouble. When Hagar became pregnant, she despised Sarai for her inability to have children. Then Sarai treated Hagar so badly that she ran away. There in the desert, feeling the misery of her past and the uncertainty of her future, Hagar met God, who saw her and took care of her.
El Roi sees your past misery, your present pain, your uncertain future. He is so watchful that He knows when the smallest sparrow perishes [Matt. 10:29-31]. And He is the God who sees and cares for you today. --- Marvin Williams
If God sees the sparrow's fall,
Paints the lilies short and tall,
Gives the skies their azure hue,
Will He not then care for you? --- Anon.
KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE LORD; HE NEVER TAKES HIS YES OFF YOU.
[Hagar] called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees; for she said, "Have I also here seen Him who sees me?" --- Genesis 16:13
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 28-30
Mark 8:22-38
Many locator devices are on the market today that promise to help us keep track of elderly parents, children, wallets, pets, parolees, even potential kidnapping victims.
As useful as these gadgets are, they would have done Hagar no good. No one seemed to care enough about Hagar and her unborn child to monitor their well-being in the desert. No one but El Roi --- Herbrew for "You-Are-the-God-Who-Sees" [Gen. 16:13].
Hagar served Sarai, Abram's wife. Sarai felt like a weak link in the chain of God's promise to bless Abram with many descendants. She was barren, so she told Abram to sleep with her maid-servant and build a family through her. This ill-advised suggestion --- born amid intense cultural pressures to provide an heir --- led to nothing but trouble. When Hagar became pregnant, she despised Sarai for her inability to have children. Then Sarai treated Hagar so badly that she ran away. There in the desert, feeling the misery of her past and the uncertainty of her future, Hagar met God, who saw her and took care of her.
El Roi sees your past misery, your present pain, your uncertain future. He is so watchful that He knows when the smallest sparrow perishes [Matt. 10:29-31]. And He is the God who sees and cares for you today. --- Marvin Williams
If God sees the sparrow's fall,
Paints the lilies short and tall,
Gives the skies their azure hue,
Will He not then care for you? --- Anon.
KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE LORD; HE NEVER TAKES HIS YES OFF YOU.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
Rescue And Response
Read: Psalm 107:1-9
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy. --- Psalm 107:2
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 26-27
Mark 8:1-21
The sign outside Dave James' shop in Seattle, Washington, says more about getting your life repaired than it does about fixing your vacuum cleaner, but Dave is in business to do both. The top line of the sign is always the same: FREE BIBLES INSIDE. The second line changes and features thoughts such as: SURRENDER YOUR HEART FOR A BRAND-NEW START.
Over the past decade, Mr. James has repaired thousands of vacuum cleaners and given away thousands of Bibles to his customers. It's his way of saying thanks to the Lord for saving him from destruction.
As a successful businessman, Dave James has slipped into a life of drug addiction. "If God hadn't taken cocaine away from me," he says, "I'd be dead." The Lord helped him get clean and find a new beginning.
Every testimony for Christ begins with a rescue followed by a thankful response: "Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever" [Ps. 107:1].
Whether our experience of salvation sounds dramatic or not, the reality remains: "He had delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love" [Col. 1:13]. Because we have been redeemed, we should want to tell others. --- David McCasland
The Christ of God to glorify,
His grace in us to magnify;
His Word of life to all make known ---
Be this our work, and this alone. --- Whittle
THE BEST WAY TO THANK CHRIST FOR SAVING US IS TO TELL OTHERS ABOUT HIM.
Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy. --- Psalm 107:2
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 26-27
Mark 8:1-21
The sign outside Dave James' shop in Seattle, Washington, says more about getting your life repaired than it does about fixing your vacuum cleaner, but Dave is in business to do both. The top line of the sign is always the same: FREE BIBLES INSIDE. The second line changes and features thoughts such as: SURRENDER YOUR HEART FOR A BRAND-NEW START.
Over the past decade, Mr. James has repaired thousands of vacuum cleaners and given away thousands of Bibles to his customers. It's his way of saying thanks to the Lord for saving him from destruction.
As a successful businessman, Dave James has slipped into a life of drug addiction. "If God hadn't taken cocaine away from me," he says, "I'd be dead." The Lord helped him get clean and find a new beginning.
Every testimony for Christ begins with a rescue followed by a thankful response: "Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever" [Ps. 107:1].
Whether our experience of salvation sounds dramatic or not, the reality remains: "He had delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love" [Col. 1:13]. Because we have been redeemed, we should want to tell others. --- David McCasland
The Christ of God to glorify,
His grace in us to magnify;
His Word of life to all make known ---
Be this our work, and this alone. --- Whittle
THE BEST WAY TO THANK CHRIST FOR SAVING US IS TO TELL OTHERS ABOUT HIM.
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