Read: Revelation 3:14-22
Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. --- Rev. 3:20
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 1-3
Proverbs 31:10-31
If I asked the question, "Where's Waldo?" you might recall those popular children's picture books from the 1980s. That little guy in the red-and-white-striped shirt and hat loved to hide in the pages amid a busy blur of images that made it nearly impossible to find him.
Thankfully, finding Jesus is a lot easier than finding Waldo. Jesus doesn't play hide-and-seek. He says, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock" [Rev. 3:20]. You can find Him at the door of your heart --- the core of your existence --- waiting to come in. He doesn't just want to meet you at church, or to be kept at bay on the outer edges of your life. Rather, He longs to be in the center of your dreams, deliberations, and desires. He wants a real relationship with the real you.
And as wonderful as that is, I need to warn you that it may be a little unsettling. Your heart is no doubt harboring a few things that He will want to deal with. But there is nothing that is more valuable than intimacy with Him. Welcome Jesus in and He will clear our the clutter until the air is fragrant and fresh with the purity, power, and pleasure of His presence.
Who's knocking at your heart's door? It's Jesus! How wonderful is that! --- Joe Stowell
Sweetest of all of life's blessings,
Communion with Christ above,
Assured of His constant presence,
His matches, eternal love. --- Anon.
JESUS IS STANDING AT THE DOOR OF YOUR HEART --- WELCOME HIM IN!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
The Richness Of Humility
Read: 1 Corinthians 3:1-10
Neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. --- 1 Corinthians 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 36-38
She lived out spiritual humility, yet she had much on a human level to be proud of. As an author of over 70 books and a translator of many others into Afrikaans, Annalou Marais had much cause to brag --- but she was more concerned about honoring Christ than advancing herself. She worked behind the scenes of the Bible conference, doing a servant's tasks with a smiling face and a joyful heart. It would have been natural for her to desire, and even deserve, the spotlight. Instead, she quietly served, joyfully weeping as God worked in people's hearts. It was an impressive humility, because it was completely genuine.
I have heard it said, "It is amazing what can be accomplished when we don't care who gets the credit." This is certainly true of Christian service. Paul told the church at Corinth, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase" [1 Cor. 3:6-7]. Paul had learned that great lesson of the servant's heart, as Annalou has learned --- it's entirely about God. What we do is accomplished by His power and grace, and all the glory must go to Him.
It was a lesson in humility watching Annalou, and one that reminded me of the richness of serving God. --- Bill Crowder
God often uses lowly things
His purpose to fulfill,
Because it takes a humble heart
To carry out His will. --- D. De Haan
PRIDE AND GRACE CANNOT DWELL IN THE SAME PLACE.
Neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. --- 1 Corinthians 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 36-38
She lived out spiritual humility, yet she had much on a human level to be proud of. As an author of over 70 books and a translator of many others into Afrikaans, Annalou Marais had much cause to brag --- but she was more concerned about honoring Christ than advancing herself. She worked behind the scenes of the Bible conference, doing a servant's tasks with a smiling face and a joyful heart. It would have been natural for her to desire, and even deserve, the spotlight. Instead, she quietly served, joyfully weeping as God worked in people's hearts. It was an impressive humility, because it was completely genuine.
I have heard it said, "It is amazing what can be accomplished when we don't care who gets the credit." This is certainly true of Christian service. Paul told the church at Corinth, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase" [1 Cor. 3:6-7]. Paul had learned that great lesson of the servant's heart, as Annalou has learned --- it's entirely about God. What we do is accomplished by His power and grace, and all the glory must go to Him.
It was a lesson in humility watching Annalou, and one that reminded me of the richness of serving God. --- Bill Crowder
God often uses lowly things
His purpose to fulfill,
Because it takes a humble heart
To carry out His will. --- D. De Haan
PRIDE AND GRACE CANNOT DWELL IN THE SAME PLACE.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
See All Evil
Read: Ephesians 5:1-17
It is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. --- Ephesians 5:12
The Bible In One Year:
John 1-5
Proverbs 31:1-9
While waiting at the doctor's office, I read an article about the importance of freedom of speech. The writer suggested that producing obscene movies and pornography is good because it helps us to see our own potential for evil. He believes that naively thinking we are innocent is worse than knowing about and watching evil.
This rationale for evil is disturbing, especially for those of us who follow Christ. God doesn't expect us to avoid all contact with wickedness. Jesus --- God in the flesh --- loves sinners. But in the book of Ephesians Paul said: "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret" [5:11-12].
Our responsibility is to expose evil by living a life of "goodness, righteousness, and truth" [v.9], and by not taking part in "the unfruitful works of darkness" [v.11]. Hendriksen's New Testament Commentary says that the conduct of believers as children of light exposes the deeds of those in darkness and reveals the vast contrast between the two.
It's not realistic or wise to hide in a "holy cocoon." But we don't need to see evil to understand our propensity to sin. Expose the darkness by living in the Light. --- Anne Cetas
Lord, keep us from entanglements
That choke Your Spirit's work within,
So we can then reflect Your light
Into a world that's dark with sin. --- Sper
CHILDREN OF THE LIGHT WILL NOT BE COMFORTABLE IN THE DARK.
It is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. --- Ephesians 5:12
The Bible In One Year:
John 1-5
Proverbs 31:1-9
While waiting at the doctor's office, I read an article about the importance of freedom of speech. The writer suggested that producing obscene movies and pornography is good because it helps us to see our own potential for evil. He believes that naively thinking we are innocent is worse than knowing about and watching evil.
This rationale for evil is disturbing, especially for those of us who follow Christ. God doesn't expect us to avoid all contact with wickedness. Jesus --- God in the flesh --- loves sinners. But in the book of Ephesians Paul said: "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret" [5:11-12].
Our responsibility is to expose evil by living a life of "goodness, righteousness, and truth" [v.9], and by not taking part in "the unfruitful works of darkness" [v.11]. Hendriksen's New Testament Commentary says that the conduct of believers as children of light exposes the deeds of those in darkness and reveals the vast contrast between the two.
It's not realistic or wise to hide in a "holy cocoon." But we don't need to see evil to understand our propensity to sin. Expose the darkness by living in the Light. --- Anne Cetas
Lord, keep us from entanglements
That choke Your Spirit's work within,
So we can then reflect Your light
Into a world that's dark with sin. --- Sper
CHILDREN OF THE LIGHT WILL NOT BE COMFORTABLE IN THE DARK.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Nic At Nite
Read: John 3:1-21
I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. --- John 12:46
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 33-34
Proverbs 30:21-33
According to the apostle John, Nicodemus "came to Jesus by night" [John 3:2]. Was this Prarisee skulking under cover of darkness, embarrassed or ashamed that he, as one of the ruling class, was curious about Jesus?
Some have suggested that it was just cooler at night. Others have said that evening was a better time to ask Jesus questions because it was quieter and there were fewer distractions.
We really don't know the reason Nicodemus went to Jesus at night, but John seemed determined to make a point of that specific fact. Every time he mentioned Nicodemus, he identified him by saying something like: "You know who I'm talking about --- the guy who came to Jesus by night" [see 7:50; 19:39].
Nicodemus, no doubt, was quite moral and lived according to Mosaic Law. People probably thought he was a pretty good person. Yet none of that mattered. He was in the dark about who Jesus really was, and he wanted to know the truth. So he was drawn from the darkness into the presence of "the light of the world" [John 8:12].
Jesus calls us "out of darkness" too [1 Peter 2:9] and promises that whoever believes in Him will not stay in the dark [John 12:46]. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
Our search for truth is hindered by
The darkness of the night,
Until the Bright and Morning Star
Reveals His brilliant light. --- Sper
FAITH IN CHRIST IS NOT A LEAP INTO THE DARK; IT'S A STEP INTO THE LIGHT.
I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. --- John 12:46
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 33-34
Proverbs 30:21-33
According to the apostle John, Nicodemus "came to Jesus by night" [John 3:2]. Was this Prarisee skulking under cover of darkness, embarrassed or ashamed that he, as one of the ruling class, was curious about Jesus?
Some have suggested that it was just cooler at night. Others have said that evening was a better time to ask Jesus questions because it was quieter and there were fewer distractions.
We really don't know the reason Nicodemus went to Jesus at night, but John seemed determined to make a point of that specific fact. Every time he mentioned Nicodemus, he identified him by saying something like: "You know who I'm talking about --- the guy who came to Jesus by night" [see 7:50; 19:39].
Nicodemus, no doubt, was quite moral and lived according to Mosaic Law. People probably thought he was a pretty good person. Yet none of that mattered. He was in the dark about who Jesus really was, and he wanted to know the truth. So he was drawn from the darkness into the presence of "the light of the world" [John 8:12].
Jesus calls us "out of darkness" too [1 Peter 2:9] and promises that whoever believes in Him will not stay in the dark [John 12:46]. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
Our search for truth is hindered by
The darkness of the night,
Until the Bright and Morning Star
Reveals His brilliant light. --- Sper
FAITH IN CHRIST IS NOT A LEAP INTO THE DARK; IT'S A STEP INTO THE LIGHT.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Create Your Own God
Read: Psalm 146
That they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. --- John 17:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 31-32
Proverbs 30:10-20
I've built a bathroom. I've wired an addition to my house. I've finished an entire basement. I enjoy do-it-yourself projects --- as long as there's a good hardware store nearby.
But some people take this do-it-yourself thing too far. They create their own God. A report in Newsweek magazine said a youth pastor asked his teens who they think God is. One said He was like his grandfather: "He's there, but I never see him." Another suggested He is "an evil being who wants to punish me all the time." The last teen concluded that everyone is right because that's what they really believe.
Do we decide who God is by taking a poll? Is He a being we can make up as we go along? This create-your-own-deity idea is increasingly popular today. And it is extremely dangerous. It robs us of knowing who our heavenly Father really is --- as Scripture describes Him. He is, after all, the One "who made heaven and earth" [Ps. 146:6] and "the only true God" [John 17:3].
One historical confession of faith says: "God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in His being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, and truth." Examine the Scriptures. Find out who God really is and establish a relationship through Jesus. Then trust and obey the one true God. --- Dave Branon
The gods of this world are empty and vain,
They cannot give peace to one's heart;
The living and true One deserves all our love ---
From Him may we never depart. --- D. De Haan
THE INFINITE GOD CANNOT BE MEASURED BY FINITE MAN.
That they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. --- John 17:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 31-32
Proverbs 30:10-20
I've built a bathroom. I've wired an addition to my house. I've finished an entire basement. I enjoy do-it-yourself projects --- as long as there's a good hardware store nearby.
But some people take this do-it-yourself thing too far. They create their own God. A report in Newsweek magazine said a youth pastor asked his teens who they think God is. One said He was like his grandfather: "He's there, but I never see him." Another suggested He is "an evil being who wants to punish me all the time." The last teen concluded that everyone is right because that's what they really believe.
Do we decide who God is by taking a poll? Is He a being we can make up as we go along? This create-your-own-deity idea is increasingly popular today. And it is extremely dangerous. It robs us of knowing who our heavenly Father really is --- as Scripture describes Him. He is, after all, the One "who made heaven and earth" [Ps. 146:6] and "the only true God" [John 17:3].
One historical confession of faith says: "God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable in His being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, and truth." Examine the Scriptures. Find out who God really is and establish a relationship through Jesus. Then trust and obey the one true God. --- Dave Branon
The gods of this world are empty and vain,
They cannot give peace to one's heart;
The living and true One deserves all our love ---
From Him may we never depart. --- D. De Haan
THE INFINITE GOD CANNOT BE MEASURED BY FINITE MAN.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
The Alice Tax
Read: Mark 12:12-17,41-44
Having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. --- 1 Timothy 6:8
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 28-30
Proverbs 30:1-9
Author Calvin Trillin's wife, Alice, held a unique view of income tax. She believed that "after a certain level of income, the government would simply take everything." She thought there should be a limit on how much money people were allowed to keep for themselves. Writing in The New Yorker, Trillin said of his wife, "She believed in the principle of enoughness."
In Mark 12, Jesus avoided a carefully laid trap by telling His questioners to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" [v.17]. When Jesus watched people making their offerings to the temple treasury, He commended a woman who would have been considered foolish for her extravagance. "This poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood" [vv.43-44].
Jesus placed more importance on wholehearted love for God than on wholesale concern over material needs. His tranquil attitude toward money and possessions was based on trusting His Father to supply each day's needs. "Your Father knows the things you have needs of" [Matt. 6:8].
Enoughness. What a concept! --- David McCasland
He clothes the lilies, feeds the birds;
Would He to you, then, pay less heed?
Look up to Him with prayerful heart,
He will supply your every need. --- Renfrow
CONTENTMENT IS NOT GETTING WHAT WE WANT.
Having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. --- 1 Timothy 6:8
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 28-30
Proverbs 30:1-9
Author Calvin Trillin's wife, Alice, held a unique view of income tax. She believed that "after a certain level of income, the government would simply take everything." She thought there should be a limit on how much money people were allowed to keep for themselves. Writing in The New Yorker, Trillin said of his wife, "She believed in the principle of enoughness."
In Mark 12, Jesus avoided a carefully laid trap by telling His questioners to "render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's" [v.17]. When Jesus watched people making their offerings to the temple treasury, He commended a woman who would have been considered foolish for her extravagance. "This poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood" [vv.43-44].
Jesus placed more importance on wholehearted love for God than on wholesale concern over material needs. His tranquil attitude toward money and possessions was based on trusting His Father to supply each day's needs. "Your Father knows the things you have needs of" [Matt. 6:8].
Enoughness. What a concept! --- David McCasland
He clothes the lilies, feeds the birds;
Would He to you, then, pay less heed?
Look up to Him with prayerful heart,
He will supply your every need. --- Renfrow
CONTENTMENT IS NOT GETTING WHAT WE WANT.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
When In Doubt
Read: Matthew 11:1-6
Are you the Coming One, or do we look for another? --- Matthew 11:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 25-27
Proverbs 29:21-27
John the Baptist was languishing in prison and questioning his faith. He may well have wondered: Is Jesus the Messiah? Is His word true? Have I believed and labored in vain for my Master? Is this dark place my final reward for answering God's call?
Perhaps countless question make their way through your mind as well: Is Jesus really the Savior? Have my sins been forgiven? Can I trust the Bible? Will I be raised from the dead? Does heaven lie ahead? Is all that I believe a cruel illusion?
Most of us ask questions like these from time to time. I do --- especially on those dark days when circumstances bring sorrow and bitter disappointment, when it seems there's no story-book ending to our lives.
These questionings are not failures of faith but tests of faith and can be answered in John the Baptist's way: We must take our doubts to Jesus. In His time and in His own wise way He will restore the confidence our hearts our hearts desire.
Jesus didn't abandon John to his doubt. He sent word of the miracles He performed and the hope He preached [Matt. 11:4-6]. As George MacDonald said of God's faithfulness: "You might as well say that a mother would go away from her little child lying moaning in the dark." --- Dave Roper
But in the dark my heart is strangely blest;
Yea, in the gloom my soul obtains its rest;
For, spite of night, I find that God on high
Is near the anguished soul, where'er it lie. --- H. Frost
NEVER DOUBT IN THE DARK WHAT GOD HAS SHOWN YOU IN THE LIGHT.
Are you the Coming One, or do we look for another? --- Matthew 11:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 25-27
Proverbs 29:21-27
John the Baptist was languishing in prison and questioning his faith. He may well have wondered: Is Jesus the Messiah? Is His word true? Have I believed and labored in vain for my Master? Is this dark place my final reward for answering God's call?
Perhaps countless question make their way through your mind as well: Is Jesus really the Savior? Have my sins been forgiven? Can I trust the Bible? Will I be raised from the dead? Does heaven lie ahead? Is all that I believe a cruel illusion?
Most of us ask questions like these from time to time. I do --- especially on those dark days when circumstances bring sorrow and bitter disappointment, when it seems there's no story-book ending to our lives.
These questionings are not failures of faith but tests of faith and can be answered in John the Baptist's way: We must take our doubts to Jesus. In His time and in His own wise way He will restore the confidence our hearts our hearts desire.
Jesus didn't abandon John to his doubt. He sent word of the miracles He performed and the hope He preached [Matt. 11:4-6]. As George MacDonald said of God's faithfulness: "You might as well say that a mother would go away from her little child lying moaning in the dark." --- Dave Roper
But in the dark my heart is strangely blest;
Yea, in the gloom my soul obtains its rest;
For, spite of night, I find that God on high
Is near the anguished soul, where'er it lie. --- H. Frost
NEVER DOUBT IN THE DARK WHAT GOD HAS SHOWN YOU IN THE LIGHT.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Cheering Each Other On
Read: Hebrews 10:19-25
Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works. --- Hebrews 10:24
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 22:24
Proverbs 29:8-20
A mile from the finish line of the London Marathon, thousands on onlookers holding signs lined the route. When spectators spotted a family member or friend coming into view, they shouted the person's name, waved, and yelled encouragement: "Just a little farther! Keep going! You're almost there." After running 25 miles, many competitors were barely walking and ready to quit. It was amazing to watch exhausted runners brighten and pick up the pace when they saw someone they knew or heard their name called out.
Encouragement! We all need it, especially in our walk of faith. The book of Hebrews tells us to keep urging each other on. "Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, ... but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching" [10:24-25].
The New Testament is filled with the certainty that Christ will return soon. "The Lord is at hand" [Phil. 4:5]. "The coming of the Lord is at hand" [James 5:8]. "Behold, I am coming quickly" [Rev. 22:12].
As we "see the Day approaching," let's keep cheering each other on in the faith. "Keep going! You're almost there! The finish line is in sight." --- David McCasland
Help me, Lord, to reassure and strengthen
Others by the words I speak today;
I would always try to be affirming,
As our pathways cross along life's way. --- Hess
EVEN IF YOUR HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO GIVE, YOU CAN GIVE ENCOURAGEMENT.
Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works. --- Hebrews 10:24
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 22:24
Proverbs 29:8-20
A mile from the finish line of the London Marathon, thousands on onlookers holding signs lined the route. When spectators spotted a family member or friend coming into view, they shouted the person's name, waved, and yelled encouragement: "Just a little farther! Keep going! You're almost there." After running 25 miles, many competitors were barely walking and ready to quit. It was amazing to watch exhausted runners brighten and pick up the pace when they saw someone they knew or heard their name called out.
Encouragement! We all need it, especially in our walk of faith. The book of Hebrews tells us to keep urging each other on. "Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, ... but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching" [10:24-25].
The New Testament is filled with the certainty that Christ will return soon. "The Lord is at hand" [Phil. 4:5]. "The coming of the Lord is at hand" [James 5:8]. "Behold, I am coming quickly" [Rev. 22:12].
As we "see the Day approaching," let's keep cheering each other on in the faith. "Keep going! You're almost there! The finish line is in sight." --- David McCasland
Help me, Lord, to reassure and strengthen
Others by the words I speak today;
I would always try to be affirming,
As our pathways cross along life's way. --- Hess
EVEN IF YOUR HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO GIVE, YOU CAN GIVE ENCOURAGEMENT.
Monday, March 23, 2009
What Did He Say?
Read: Psalm 19:7-14
Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. --- Jeremiah 15:16
The Bible In One Year:
Psalm 33-35
Because our son Steve spent most of his teen years connected to a cell phone, it was a bit of a shock for us when we couldn't talk with him for long periods of time after he joined the US Navy. First at boot camp and later while he trained as a hospital corpsman, we endured long periods of time without any communication. So it was a treat whenever we finally did hear from him.
After one of us would get his call, the first question from the other was always, "What did he say?" We hung on every word to hear how he was doing, what he was thinking, and what the Navy was planning for him.
It's natural to respond like this to the words of those who are important to us. We eagerly anticipate hearing from them.
Are we like that with the Word of God? Are we eager to communicate with Him --- to look carefully into His Book to ask, "What did He say?" Unlike the infrequent calls from a son in the military, God's words of encouragement and guidance are always available to us. We just have to listen.
The prophet Jeremiah prayed, "Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your words was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart" [Jer. 15:16]. Do you have that same longing to hear God speak to you through His Word? --- Dave Branon
Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path always
To guide and to save me from sin
And show me the heavenly way. --- Anon.
WE CANNOT KNOW THE HEART OF GOD UNLESS WE HAVE A HEART FOR GOD.
Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart. --- Jeremiah 15:16
The Bible In One Year:
Psalm 33-35
Because our son Steve spent most of his teen years connected to a cell phone, it was a bit of a shock for us when we couldn't talk with him for long periods of time after he joined the US Navy. First at boot camp and later while he trained as a hospital corpsman, we endured long periods of time without any communication. So it was a treat whenever we finally did hear from him.
After one of us would get his call, the first question from the other was always, "What did he say?" We hung on every word to hear how he was doing, what he was thinking, and what the Navy was planning for him.
It's natural to respond like this to the words of those who are important to us. We eagerly anticipate hearing from them.
Are we like that with the Word of God? Are we eager to communicate with Him --- to look carefully into His Book to ask, "What did He say?" Unlike the infrequent calls from a son in the military, God's words of encouragement and guidance are always available to us. We just have to listen.
The prophet Jeremiah prayed, "Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your words was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart" [Jer. 15:16]. Do you have that same longing to hear God speak to you through His Word? --- Dave Branon
Thy Word is a lamp to my feet,
A light to my path always
To guide and to save me from sin
And show me the heavenly way. --- Anon.
WE CANNOT KNOW THE HEART OF GOD UNLESS WE HAVE A HEART FOR GOD.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Listen To His Promptings
Read: Acts 16:6-10
After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. --- Acts 16:7
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 19-24
Proverbs 29:1-7
On Friday, my day of rest as a pastor, the Holy Spirit prompted me to call a young single mother in our faith community to see if her car had been repaired. I had some reservations about making the call, but I obeyed.
Little did I know that my obedience would help save her life. She said later: "Friday at work I was planning on taking my life, but in a time of need, I believe God was there for me. He had Pastor Williams call me, and just by listening to his voice, let me know that God loved me."
The apostle Paul must have had reservations when the Holy spirit prompted him and his team not to go into the provinces of Asia and Bithynia. Instead, they felt the Spirit's call to go into Macedonia to preach the good news. In each situation, they obeyed the Spirit's promptings. As a result, Paul and his team were instrumental in giving birth to a new faith community in Philippi [Acts 16:11-15].
As believers in Christ who are indwelt by the Holy Spirit [Eph. 2:22], our desire should be to please Him. May we not grieve the Holy Spirit [Eph. 4:30] by ignoring His gentle promptings. When we obey Him, we might be used by God to lead someone to Christ, to disciple new believers --- or even to help save somebody's life. --- Marvin Williams
Holy Spirit, we would hear
Your inner promptings, soft and clear;
And help us know Your still, small voice
So we may make God's will our choice. --- D. De Haan
MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE: OBEY THE SPIRIT'S VOICE.
After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit did not permit them. --- Acts 16:7
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 19-24
Proverbs 29:1-7
On Friday, my day of rest as a pastor, the Holy Spirit prompted me to call a young single mother in our faith community to see if her car had been repaired. I had some reservations about making the call, but I obeyed.
Little did I know that my obedience would help save her life. She said later: "Friday at work I was planning on taking my life, but in a time of need, I believe God was there for me. He had Pastor Williams call me, and just by listening to his voice, let me know that God loved me."
The apostle Paul must have had reservations when the Holy spirit prompted him and his team not to go into the provinces of Asia and Bithynia. Instead, they felt the Spirit's call to go into Macedonia to preach the good news. In each situation, they obeyed the Spirit's promptings. As a result, Paul and his team were instrumental in giving birth to a new faith community in Philippi [Acts 16:11-15].
As believers in Christ who are indwelt by the Holy Spirit [Eph. 2:22], our desire should be to please Him. May we not grieve the Holy Spirit [Eph. 4:30] by ignoring His gentle promptings. When we obey Him, we might be used by God to lead someone to Christ, to disciple new believers --- or even to help save somebody's life. --- Marvin Williams
Holy Spirit, we would hear
Your inner promptings, soft and clear;
And help us know Your still, small voice
So we may make God's will our choice. --- D. De Haan
MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE: OBEY THE SPIRIT'S VOICE.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
The Challenge Of Forgiveness
Read: Genesis 45:1-15
If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. --- Matthew 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 19-21
Proverbs 28:15-28
In the heat of an argument, my wife came up with an acute theological insight. We were discussing my short-comings in a rather spirited way when she said, "I think it's pretty amazing that I forgive you for some of the dastardly things you've done!"
What struck me about her comment was its sharp perception into the nature of forgiveness. It is not a sweet platonic ideal to be dispersed in the world like air-freshener sprayed from a can. Forgiveness is achingly difficult, and long after you've forgiven, the wound lives on in memory. Forgiveness is an unnatural act, and my wife was protesting its blatant unfairness.
A story from Genesis captures much the same sentiment. The brothers that Joseph struggled to forgive were the very ones who had bullied him, had cooked up schemes to murder him, has sold him into slavery. Though he went on to triumph over adversity and though with all his heart he now wanted to forgive these brothers, he could not bring himself to that point --- not yet.
I view Genesis 42-45 as Joseph's way of saying, "I think it's pretty amazing that I forgive you for the dastardly things you've done!" When grace finally broke through, the sound of Joseph's grief and love echoed through the palace. What was that wail? It was the sound of a man forgiving. --- Philip Yancey
Oh, what joy and peace we forfeit,
When forgiveness we withhold;
Fellowship with God is broken,
And the heart grows hard and cold. --- D. De Haan
WE CAN STOP FORGIVING OTHERS WHEN CHRIST STOPS FORGIVING US.
If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. --- Matthew 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 19-21
Proverbs 28:15-28
In the heat of an argument, my wife came up with an acute theological insight. We were discussing my short-comings in a rather spirited way when she said, "I think it's pretty amazing that I forgive you for some of the dastardly things you've done!"
What struck me about her comment was its sharp perception into the nature of forgiveness. It is not a sweet platonic ideal to be dispersed in the world like air-freshener sprayed from a can. Forgiveness is achingly difficult, and long after you've forgiven, the wound lives on in memory. Forgiveness is an unnatural act, and my wife was protesting its blatant unfairness.
A story from Genesis captures much the same sentiment. The brothers that Joseph struggled to forgive were the very ones who had bullied him, had cooked up schemes to murder him, has sold him into slavery. Though he went on to triumph over adversity and though with all his heart he now wanted to forgive these brothers, he could not bring himself to that point --- not yet.
I view Genesis 42-45 as Joseph's way of saying, "I think it's pretty amazing that I forgive you for the dastardly things you've done!" When grace finally broke through, the sound of Joseph's grief and love echoed through the palace. What was that wail? It was the sound of a man forgiving. --- Philip Yancey
Oh, what joy and peace we forfeit,
When forgiveness we withhold;
Fellowship with God is broken,
And the heart grows hard and cold. --- D. De Haan
WE CAN STOP FORGIVING OTHERS WHEN CHRIST STOPS FORGIVING US.
Friday, March 20, 2009
The Oyster Man
Read: 2 Corinthians 4:1-7
That the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. --- 2 Corinthians 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 16-18
Proverbs 28:1-14
In the days of John Wesley, lay preachers with limited education would sometimes conduct the church services. One man used Luke 19:21 as his text: "Lord, I feared Thee, because Thou art an austere man" [KJV]. Not knowing the word austere, he thought the text spoke of "an oyster man."
He explained how a diver must grope in dark, freezing water to retrieve oysters. In his attempt, he cuts his hands on the sharp edges of the shells. After he obtains an oyster, he rises to the surface, clutching it "in his forn and bleeding hands." The preacher added, "Christ descended from the glory of heaven into ... sinful human society, in order to retrieve humans and bring them back up with Him to the glory of heaven. His torn and bleeding hands are a sign of the value He has placed on the object of His quest."
Afterward, 12 men received Christ. Later that night someone came to Wesley to complain about unschooled preachers who were too ignorant even to know the meaning of the texts they were preaching on. The Oxford-educated Wesley simply said, "Never mind. The Lord got a dozen oysters tonight."
Our best may not always measure up to the standards of others. But God takes our inadequacies and humble efforts and uses them for His glory. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
The Mater can use what you have to offer,
Though you may consider it small;
His work here on earth is done through His children,
So give Him your best, give your all. --- Hess
DO WHAT YOU CAN WHERE YOU ARE WITH WHAT YOU HAVE.
That the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. --- 2 Corinthians 4:7
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 16-18
Proverbs 28:1-14
In the days of John Wesley, lay preachers with limited education would sometimes conduct the church services. One man used Luke 19:21 as his text: "Lord, I feared Thee, because Thou art an austere man" [KJV]. Not knowing the word austere, he thought the text spoke of "an oyster man."
He explained how a diver must grope in dark, freezing water to retrieve oysters. In his attempt, he cuts his hands on the sharp edges of the shells. After he obtains an oyster, he rises to the surface, clutching it "in his forn and bleeding hands." The preacher added, "Christ descended from the glory of heaven into ... sinful human society, in order to retrieve humans and bring them back up with Him to the glory of heaven. His torn and bleeding hands are a sign of the value He has placed on the object of His quest."
Afterward, 12 men received Christ. Later that night someone came to Wesley to complain about unschooled preachers who were too ignorant even to know the meaning of the texts they were preaching on. The Oxford-educated Wesley simply said, "Never mind. The Lord got a dozen oysters tonight."
Our best may not always measure up to the standards of others. But God takes our inadequacies and humble efforts and uses them for His glory. --- Cindy Hess Kasper
The Mater can use what you have to offer,
Though you may consider it small;
His work here on earth is done through His children,
So give Him your best, give your all. --- Hess
DO WHAT YOU CAN WHERE YOU ARE WITH WHAT YOU HAVE.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Integrity --- Is It Possible?
Read: Psalm 119:121-128
Give me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies. --- Psalm 119:125
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 13-15
Proverbs 27:15-27
Samuel DiPiazza, CEO of a major public accounting firm, co-authored a book on building trust in the business world. The book proposes a spirit of transparency, a culture of accountability, and a people of integrity. But in an interview in Singapore, he noted there is one thing the book cannot teach --- integrity. "Either you have it or you dont," he said.
Is he right? In our world of shifting standards, can integrity be acquired by those who don't have it? The answer is found in our unchanging standard --- God's Word, the Bible.
David the psalmist did not head a multinational corporation. But he did rule over a kingdom, and he was serious about doing what was right. He recognized how easy it is to slide down the slippery path of unethical behavior simply because it seems advantageous.
So David asked God, "Teach me Your statutes" [Ps. 119:124]. "Give me understanding," he said, "that I may know your testimonies" [v.125]. David hated "every false way, and based his life on the principle that "all Your precepts concerning all things I consider to be right" [v.128].
No one is born with godly character. But by studying God's Word and listening to His Hos Spirit, we can learn to hate falsehood and love integrity. --- C.P. Hia
Perish "policy" and cunning,
Perish all that fears the light;
Whether losing, whether winning,
Trust in God and do the right. --- Macleod
THE MEASURE OF A MAN'S CHARACTER IS WHAT HE WOULD DO IF HE KNEW HE NEVER WOULD BE FOUND OUT. --- Macauley
Give me understanding, that I may know Your testimonies. --- Psalm 119:125
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 13-15
Proverbs 27:15-27
Samuel DiPiazza, CEO of a major public accounting firm, co-authored a book on building trust in the business world. The book proposes a spirit of transparency, a culture of accountability, and a people of integrity. But in an interview in Singapore, he noted there is one thing the book cannot teach --- integrity. "Either you have it or you dont," he said.
Is he right? In our world of shifting standards, can integrity be acquired by those who don't have it? The answer is found in our unchanging standard --- God's Word, the Bible.
David the psalmist did not head a multinational corporation. But he did rule over a kingdom, and he was serious about doing what was right. He recognized how easy it is to slide down the slippery path of unethical behavior simply because it seems advantageous.
So David asked God, "Teach me Your statutes" [Ps. 119:124]. "Give me understanding," he said, "that I may know your testimonies" [v.125]. David hated "every false way, and based his life on the principle that "all Your precepts concerning all things I consider to be right" [v.128].
No one is born with godly character. But by studying God's Word and listening to His Hos Spirit, we can learn to hate falsehood and love integrity. --- C.P. Hia
Perish "policy" and cunning,
Perish all that fears the light;
Whether losing, whether winning,
Trust in God and do the right. --- Macleod
THE MEASURE OF A MAN'S CHARACTER IS WHAT HE WOULD DO IF HE KNEW HE NEVER WOULD BE FOUND OUT. --- Macauley
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
So Others May Live
Read: Romans 9:1-5
I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh. --- Romans 9:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 10-12
Proverbs 27:1-14
In the film The Guardian, the viewer is taken into the world of United States Coast Guard rescue swimmers. Eighteen weeks of intense training prepares these courageous men and women for the task of jumping from helicopters to rescue those in danger at sea. The challenges they face include hypothermia and death by drowning. Why would people risk so much for strangers? The answer is found in the rescue swimmer's motto, "So Other May Live."
In Foxe's Book of Martyrs, we read of a different kind of rescue that demanded extreme commitment and sacrifice. John Foxe records the stories of believers who suffered and died because they proclaimed the love of Jesus. Knowing it could cost them their lives, these believers made the Savior known to a world in desperate need of Him.
The apostle Paul, himself a martyr for Christ, expressed his passion for the hearts of people this way, "I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh" [Rom. 9:3]. Paul so longed for his fellow Jews to come to Christ that he was willing to sacrifice all, "so others may live."
May we likewise embrace this passion for the eternal souls of men and women. --- Bill Crowder
Rescue the perishing, duty demands it ---
Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;
Back to the narrow way patiently win them,
Tell the poor wanderer a Savior has died. --- Crosby
THE CROSS REVEALS GOD'S HEART FOR THE LOST.
I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh. --- Romans 9:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 10-12
Proverbs 27:1-14
In the film The Guardian, the viewer is taken into the world of United States Coast Guard rescue swimmers. Eighteen weeks of intense training prepares these courageous men and women for the task of jumping from helicopters to rescue those in danger at sea. The challenges they face include hypothermia and death by drowning. Why would people risk so much for strangers? The answer is found in the rescue swimmer's motto, "So Other May Live."
In Foxe's Book of Martyrs, we read of a different kind of rescue that demanded extreme commitment and sacrifice. John Foxe records the stories of believers who suffered and died because they proclaimed the love of Jesus. Knowing it could cost them their lives, these believers made the Savior known to a world in desperate need of Him.
The apostle Paul, himself a martyr for Christ, expressed his passion for the hearts of people this way, "I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh" [Rom. 9:3]. Paul so longed for his fellow Jews to come to Christ that he was willing to sacrifice all, "so others may live."
May we likewise embrace this passion for the eternal souls of men and women. --- Bill Crowder
Rescue the perishing, duty demands it ---
Strength for thy labor the Lord will provide;
Back to the narrow way patiently win them,
Tell the poor wanderer a Savior has died. --- Crosby
THE CROSS REVEALS GOD'S HEART FOR THE LOST.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Inside Out
Read: Mark 7:9-23
Out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, ... blasphemy, pride, foolishness. --- Mark 7:21-22
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 7-9
Proverbs 26:17-28
Shopping for a melon is a tough assignment. No matter how good it looks, it's hard to tell! So I tap it, thump it, and, if no one is looking, squeeze it --- and then take it home only to discover that it's bad on the inside.
When the Pharisees were irritated that Jesus' disciples did not wash their hands before eating --- a violation of one of their traditions --- Jesus immediately challenged them. "All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition" [Mark 7:9]. He even called them "hypocrites" and explained that what comes from the inside of a person is what "defiles" him, not the other way around.
If we're no careful, we can become absorbed with looking good on the outside and forget what really counts. In fact, when we get to the place where we are keeping all the "right" rules, we may become proud of ourselves and judgmental toward others. But harboring bitterness, clinging to critical attitudes, and thinking too highly of ourselves are the kind of defiling stuff that make us guilty of Jesus' charge of "hypocrite."
So don't miss the point. Remember, it's the things on the inside --- your heart, your thoughts, your attitudes --- that really matter. --- Joe Stowell
Wearing a mask that shows everything's fine
Says that life's struggles are not God's design;
But when we're open, transparent, and true,
People will trust God to meet their needs too. --- Sper
WHAT MATTERS TO JESUS IS WHAT'S ON THE INSIDE.
Out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, ... blasphemy, pride, foolishness. --- Mark 7:21-22
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 7-9
Proverbs 26:17-28
Shopping for a melon is a tough assignment. No matter how good it looks, it's hard to tell! So I tap it, thump it, and, if no one is looking, squeeze it --- and then take it home only to discover that it's bad on the inside.
When the Pharisees were irritated that Jesus' disciples did not wash their hands before eating --- a violation of one of their traditions --- Jesus immediately challenged them. "All too well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition" [Mark 7:9]. He even called them "hypocrites" and explained that what comes from the inside of a person is what "defiles" him, not the other way around.
If we're no careful, we can become absorbed with looking good on the outside and forget what really counts. In fact, when we get to the place where we are keeping all the "right" rules, we may become proud of ourselves and judgmental toward others. But harboring bitterness, clinging to critical attitudes, and thinking too highly of ourselves are the kind of defiling stuff that make us guilty of Jesus' charge of "hypocrite."
So don't miss the point. Remember, it's the things on the inside --- your heart, your thoughts, your attitudes --- that really matter. --- Joe Stowell
Wearing a mask that shows everything's fine
Says that life's struggles are not God's design;
But when we're open, transparent, and true,
People will trust God to meet their needs too. --- Sper
WHAT MATTERS TO JESUS IS WHAT'S ON THE INSIDE.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Words Of Life
Read: John 6:60-71
Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. --- John 6:68
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 30-32
In his book Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business, Neil Postman warns us of the danger of a world of information overload. He reminds us of a chilling futuristic vision --- Aldous Huxley's Brave New Word, which describes a world thoroughly flooded with information. But that data is manipulated so that none of it has any significance.
A glace at the Internet or a magazine rack hints that we are living in just such a culture. We're drowning in a sea of information often marketed by the unscrupulous. We need discernment to choose wisely whom we will listen to.
In John 6, Jesus delivered His "I am the bread of life" message [v.35]. It was a sermon so controversial that, at its conclusion, many of His followers went away and stopped following Him [v.66] They chose to stop listening to the voice of Christ. When Jesus challenged His disciples as to whether they would also walk away, Peter wisely responded, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" [v.68].
In a world swamped with confusing and contradictory information, we can, like Peter, turn to Christ for wisdom. He cuts through the words of confusion with words of life. --- Bill Crowder
There's so much wisdom to be learned,
So many ways for me to grow,
Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know. --- K. De Haan
IF YOU WANT TO BE WISE, LISTEN TO JESUS.
Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. --- John 6:68
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 30-32
In his book Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business, Neil Postman warns us of the danger of a world of information overload. He reminds us of a chilling futuristic vision --- Aldous Huxley's Brave New Word, which describes a world thoroughly flooded with information. But that data is manipulated so that none of it has any significance.
A glace at the Internet or a magazine rack hints that we are living in just such a culture. We're drowning in a sea of information often marketed by the unscrupulous. We need discernment to choose wisely whom we will listen to.
In John 6, Jesus delivered His "I am the bread of life" message [v.35]. It was a sermon so controversial that, at its conclusion, many of His followers went away and stopped following Him [v.66] They chose to stop listening to the voice of Christ. When Jesus challenged His disciples as to whether they would also walk away, Peter wisely responded, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" [v.68].
In a world swamped with confusing and contradictory information, we can, like Peter, turn to Christ for wisdom. He cuts through the words of confusion with words of life. --- Bill Crowder
There's so much wisdom to be learned,
So many ways for me to grow,
Lord, I would listen like a child,
And learn what You would have me know. --- K. De Haan
IF YOU WANT TO BE WISE, LISTEN TO JESUS.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Wanted!
Read: Luke 19:29-40
The LORD has need of him. --- Luke 19:34
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 13-18
Proverbs 26:1-16
As Jesus approached Jerusalem for the last time, He sent two disciples into the city to bring Him a donkey. He told them, "If anyone asks you, 'Why are you loosing it?' thus you shall say to him, 'Because the Lord has need of it'" [Luke 19:31].
As we approach our sunset years, we may ask ourselves, "Can I still be useful to God? Is there some service I can render that will fill my days with significance? Am I needed?"
Of course you are? God needs you just as He needed the donkey to carry him through the streets of Jerusalem. He has always needed something or someone to get His work done. He still has useful work for you to do.
Perhaps your work will be one brief task, like the donkey's single act of service. Or it may be some activity that will fully occupy your years until your Master calls you home. It may be an opportunity to share your faith with someone, to intercede for him, or to love him through quiet acts of mercy, friendly visits, or to extend some small courtesy. There will always be something for you to do.
In the meantime, you and I must stand and wait, preparing ourselves through prayer, Bible reading, and quiet listening --- ready for the moment that our Lord has need of us.
Will you be ready when He needs you? --- David Roper
I'm available for God to use me,
Available, if God should choose me;
Should it be now or then, it doesn't matter when;
I want to see lost souls be born again. --- Anthony
GOD HAS WORK FOR ALL HIS CHILDREN, REGARDLESS OF AGE OR ABILITY.
The LORD has need of him. --- Luke 19:34
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 13-18
Proverbs 26:1-16
As Jesus approached Jerusalem for the last time, He sent two disciples into the city to bring Him a donkey. He told them, "If anyone asks you, 'Why are you loosing it?' thus you shall say to him, 'Because the Lord has need of it'" [Luke 19:31].
As we approach our sunset years, we may ask ourselves, "Can I still be useful to God? Is there some service I can render that will fill my days with significance? Am I needed?"
Of course you are? God needs you just as He needed the donkey to carry him through the streets of Jerusalem. He has always needed something or someone to get His work done. He still has useful work for you to do.
Perhaps your work will be one brief task, like the donkey's single act of service. Or it may be some activity that will fully occupy your years until your Master calls you home. It may be an opportunity to share your faith with someone, to intercede for him, or to love him through quiet acts of mercy, friendly visits, or to extend some small courtesy. There will always be something for you to do.
In the meantime, you and I must stand and wait, preparing ourselves through prayer, Bible reading, and quiet listening --- ready for the moment that our Lord has need of us.
Will you be ready when He needs you? --- David Roper
I'm available for God to use me,
Available, if God should choose me;
Should it be now or then, it doesn't matter when;
I want to see lost souls be born again. --- Anthony
GOD HAS WORK FOR ALL HIS CHILDREN, REGARDLESS OF AGE OR ABILITY.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Sanctuary
Read: Psalm 71:1-16
Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; You have given the commandment to save me. --- Psalm 71:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 4-6
Proverbs 25:15-28
A professional athlete built a palatial eight-bedroom home where he lives by himself. His secluded house includes a movie theater, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and a five-car garage.
The athlete told the New York Times that he doesn't view the $8 million estate as a monument to success. Instead, he considers it to be a sanctuary from his painful childhood memories of poverty and abuse. The young man is seeking something much deeper than luxury and entertainment. "Got to get my peace," he said.
All of us know the feeling of being overwhelmed. When the present is daunting and the past is haunting, where can we turn for release? To whom do we go for comfort and peace?
The psalmist wrote: "Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape; incline Your ear to me, and save me. Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually" [Ps. 71:2-3]. God was his hope, his trust, and his hiding place in the storms of life [vv.5-8].
E. May Grimes' poem captures that biblical theme.
A little sanctuary art Thou to me;
O Jesus Christ, beloved, I live with Thee;
My heart has found its everlasting home,
Its sure abiding place where'er I roam.
Few people can afford a mansion, but everyone who knows the Lord can find refuge and peace in His abiding presence. --- David McCasland
WHEN WE PUT OUR PROBLEMS IN GOD'S HANDS, HE PUTS HIS PEACE IN OUR HEARTS.
Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; You have given the commandment to save me. --- Psalm 71:3
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 4-6
Proverbs 25:15-28
A professional athlete built a palatial eight-bedroom home where he lives by himself. His secluded house includes a movie theater, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and a five-car garage.
The athlete told the New York Times that he doesn't view the $8 million estate as a monument to success. Instead, he considers it to be a sanctuary from his painful childhood memories of poverty and abuse. The young man is seeking something much deeper than luxury and entertainment. "Got to get my peace," he said.
All of us know the feeling of being overwhelmed. When the present is daunting and the past is haunting, where can we turn for release? To whom do we go for comfort and peace?
The psalmist wrote: "Deliver me in Your righteousness, and cause me to escape; incline Your ear to me, and save me. Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually" [Ps. 71:2-3]. God was his hope, his trust, and his hiding place in the storms of life [vv.5-8].
E. May Grimes' poem captures that biblical theme.
A little sanctuary art Thou to me;
O Jesus Christ, beloved, I live with Thee;
My heart has found its everlasting home,
Its sure abiding place where'er I roam.
Few people can afford a mansion, but everyone who knows the Lord can find refuge and peace in His abiding presence. --- David McCasland
WHEN WE PUT OUR PROBLEMS IN GOD'S HANDS, HE PUTS HIS PEACE IN OUR HEARTS.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Complete Honesty
Read: Acts 5:1-11
Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God. --- Acts 5:4
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 1-3
Proverbs 25:1-14
Ask the friends and families of six people buried in a collapsed subway tunnel about complete honesty. Their loved ones' rescue was delayed for hours when the contractor didn't report the disaster to the authorities immediately. Instead, the company sealed the site and confiscated cell phones. It wasn't an outright lie, but it was a cover-up. This dishonest act showed disregard for life.
In the book of Acts, God gave us a sobering example of how He views dishonesty [4:32-5:11]. Some believers had sold their land and shared all the proceeds with the church. Ananias and Sapphira decided to do likewise. But the couple kept some money back despite declaring that they had given the whole amount. Expecting commendation, they were struck dead instead.
Was their punishment too harsh? After all, their "slight" lie wasn't life-threatening. "Whoever falsely boasts of giving is like clouds and wind without rain," warns Proverbs 25:14. The apostle Peter asked Ananias, "Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?" [Acts 5:3], adding, "You have not lied to men, but to God" [v.4].
If we are completely honest with ourselves, can we say that we are completely honest before God? --- Albert Lee
Lord, by Your Spirit grant that we
In word and deed may honest be;
All falsehood we would cast aside ---
From You, O LORD, we cannot hide. --- D. De Haan
THERE ARE NO DEGREE OF HONESTY.
Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God. --- Acts 5:4
The Bible In One Year:
Deuteronomy 1-3
Proverbs 25:1-14
Ask the friends and families of six people buried in a collapsed subway tunnel about complete honesty. Their loved ones' rescue was delayed for hours when the contractor didn't report the disaster to the authorities immediately. Instead, the company sealed the site and confiscated cell phones. It wasn't an outright lie, but it was a cover-up. This dishonest act showed disregard for life.
In the book of Acts, God gave us a sobering example of how He views dishonesty [4:32-5:11]. Some believers had sold their land and shared all the proceeds with the church. Ananias and Sapphira decided to do likewise. But the couple kept some money back despite declaring that they had given the whole amount. Expecting commendation, they were struck dead instead.
Was their punishment too harsh? After all, their "slight" lie wasn't life-threatening. "Whoever falsely boasts of giving is like clouds and wind without rain," warns Proverbs 25:14. The apostle Peter asked Ananias, "Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?" [Acts 5:3], adding, "You have not lied to men, but to God" [v.4].
If we are completely honest with ourselves, can we say that we are completely honest before God? --- Albert Lee
Lord, by Your Spirit grant that we
In word and deed may honest be;
All falsehood we would cast aside ---
From You, O LORD, we cannot hide. --- D. De Haan
THERE ARE NO DEGREE OF HONESTY.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Johnstown Flood
Read: Ruth 1:8-17
Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. --- Ruth 1:16
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 34-36
Proverbs 24:23-34
On May 31, 1889, a massive rainstorm filled Lake Conemaugh in Pennsylvania until its dam finally gave way. A wall of water 40 feet high traveling at 40 mph rushed down the valley toward the town of Johnstown. The torrent picked up buildings, animals, and human beings and sent them crashing down the spillway. When the lake had emptied itself, debris covered 30 acres, and 2,209 people were dead.
At first, stunned by the loss of property and loved ones, survivors felt hopeless. But later, community leaders gave speeches about how local industry and homes could be rebuilt. This acted like a healing balm, and the survivors energetically got to work. Johnstown was rebuilt and today is a thriving town with a population of approximately 28,000.
The Bible tells us that when Naomi despaired over the loss of her husband and sons, her daughter-in-law Ruth refused to leave her. Instead, Ruth focused on God, her relationships, and the future. God rewarded her faith by providing for them and making Ruth an ancestor of Jesus Christ [Matt. 1:5-16].
After a tragic loss, we should look at the resources and relationships that remain and trust God to use them. This can inspire the hope of rebuilding a new life. --- Dennis Fisher
Beyond the losses of this life
That causes us to despair
New hope is born within our heart
Because our God is there. --- D. De Haan
NO ONE IS HOPELESS WHOSE HOPE IS IN GOD.
Your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. --- Ruth 1:16
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 34-36
Proverbs 24:23-34
On May 31, 1889, a massive rainstorm filled Lake Conemaugh in Pennsylvania until its dam finally gave way. A wall of water 40 feet high traveling at 40 mph rushed down the valley toward the town of Johnstown. The torrent picked up buildings, animals, and human beings and sent them crashing down the spillway. When the lake had emptied itself, debris covered 30 acres, and 2,209 people were dead.
At first, stunned by the loss of property and loved ones, survivors felt hopeless. But later, community leaders gave speeches about how local industry and homes could be rebuilt. This acted like a healing balm, and the survivors energetically got to work. Johnstown was rebuilt and today is a thriving town with a population of approximately 28,000.
The Bible tells us that when Naomi despaired over the loss of her husband and sons, her daughter-in-law Ruth refused to leave her. Instead, Ruth focused on God, her relationships, and the future. God rewarded her faith by providing for them and making Ruth an ancestor of Jesus Christ [Matt. 1:5-16].
After a tragic loss, we should look at the resources and relationships that remain and trust God to use them. This can inspire the hope of rebuilding a new life. --- Dennis Fisher
Beyond the losses of this life
That causes us to despair
New hope is born within our heart
Because our God is there. --- D. De Haan
NO ONE IS HOPELESS WHOSE HOPE IS IN GOD.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Agents Of Grace
Read: Luke 15:11-24
When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. --- Luke 15:20
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Proverbs 24:13-22
Jesus most memorable story, The Prodigal Son, ends with a banquet scene, featuring as its hero a good-for-nothing who has soiled the family reputation. Those judged undesirable by everyone else --- like the prodigal son --- are infinitely desirable to God. When one of them turns to God, a party breaks out [Luke 15:22-24].
In the Old Testament, levitical laws guarded against contagion. Among the things that would contaminate a person were contact with certain animals, carcasses, or the sick. But Jesus reversed the process. Rather than becoming contaminated by what was unclean. He made the unclean whole.
I sense in Jesus a fulfillment, not an abolition, of the Old Testament laws. God had hallowed creation by separating the sacred from the profane, the clean from the unclean. Jesus did not cancel out this hallowing principle; rather He changed its source.
Because of God's great grace, we can be agents of His holiness, for He now dwells within us. We can seek, as Jesus did, for ways to be a source of holiness. The sick and the maimed are not hot spots of contamination but potential reservoirs of God's mercy. We are called to extend that mercy, to be conveyers of grace, not avoiders of contagion. Like Jesus, we can help make the "unclean" clean. --- Philip Yancey
FOR FURTHER STUDY
According to Philippians 2:14, how should we
"do all things"? What is the result for us, and
what does that mean for our world? [v.15]
NO ONE IS BEYOND THE REACH OF GOD'S GRACE.
When he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. --- Luke 15:20
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 31-33
Proverbs 24:13-22
Jesus most memorable story, The Prodigal Son, ends with a banquet scene, featuring as its hero a good-for-nothing who has soiled the family reputation. Those judged undesirable by everyone else --- like the prodigal son --- are infinitely desirable to God. When one of them turns to God, a party breaks out [Luke 15:22-24].
In the Old Testament, levitical laws guarded against contagion. Among the things that would contaminate a person were contact with certain animals, carcasses, or the sick. But Jesus reversed the process. Rather than becoming contaminated by what was unclean. He made the unclean whole.
I sense in Jesus a fulfillment, not an abolition, of the Old Testament laws. God had hallowed creation by separating the sacred from the profane, the clean from the unclean. Jesus did not cancel out this hallowing principle; rather He changed its source.
Because of God's great grace, we can be agents of His holiness, for He now dwells within us. We can seek, as Jesus did, for ways to be a source of holiness. The sick and the maimed are not hot spots of contamination but potential reservoirs of God's mercy. We are called to extend that mercy, to be conveyers of grace, not avoiders of contagion. Like Jesus, we can help make the "unclean" clean. --- Philip Yancey
FOR FURTHER STUDY
According to Philippians 2:14, how should we
"do all things"? What is the result for us, and
what does that mean for our world? [v.15]
NO ONE IS BEYOND THE REACH OF GOD'S GRACE.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Fast Feet
Read: Philippians 4:10-19
The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills. --- Habakkuk 3:19
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 28-30
Proverbs 24:1-12
While in Chile for a Bible conference, I was resting at the hotel when a rugby match came on the television. Though I don't fully understand rugby, I enjoy it and admire the courage it takes to play such a dangerous sport.
During the match, one of the French players was injured and had to be taken to the sidelines. As the trainers attended to him, the camera showed a closeup of his shoes. With a black marker the player had written the words: "Habakkuk 3:19" and "Jesus is the way." Those expressions of faith and hope were a strong testimony of that young athlete's priorities and values.
The verse cited on that rugby player's shoes is not just one of heavenly hope and persevering faith. It is one of practical value --- especially to an athlete dependent on speed for success. It says, "The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills."
In all of life, we need the strength and supply of our God. He alone can give us "feet" that are swift and strong. He alone can equip us for all of the uncertainties of life, for He alone is our strength. With Paul, we can be assured: "My God shall supply all your need" [Phil. 4:19]. --- Bill Crowder
In You, O Lord, I take delight,
My every need You will supply;
I long to do what's true and right,
So, Lord, on You I will rely. --- D. De Haan
WE ALWAYS HAVE ENOUGH WHEN GOD IS OUR SUPPLY.
The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills. --- Habakkuk 3:19
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 28-30
Proverbs 24:1-12
While in Chile for a Bible conference, I was resting at the hotel when a rugby match came on the television. Though I don't fully understand rugby, I enjoy it and admire the courage it takes to play such a dangerous sport.
During the match, one of the French players was injured and had to be taken to the sidelines. As the trainers attended to him, the camera showed a closeup of his shoes. With a black marker the player had written the words: "Habakkuk 3:19" and "Jesus is the way." Those expressions of faith and hope were a strong testimony of that young athlete's priorities and values.
The verse cited on that rugby player's shoes is not just one of heavenly hope and persevering faith. It is one of practical value --- especially to an athlete dependent on speed for success. It says, "The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer's feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills."
In all of life, we need the strength and supply of our God. He alone can give us "feet" that are swift and strong. He alone can equip us for all of the uncertainties of life, for He alone is our strength. With Paul, we can be assured: "My God shall supply all your need" [Phil. 4:19]. --- Bill Crowder
In You, O Lord, I take delight,
My every need You will supply;
I long to do what's true and right,
So, Lord, on You I will rely. --- D. De Haan
WE ALWAYS HAVE ENOUGH WHEN GOD IS OUR SUPPLY.
Monday, March 09, 2009
Wait On The Lord
Read: Psalm 27
Wain on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD! --- Psalm 27:14
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 27-29
In Cantonese, a Chinese dialect, the word for wait sounds like the world for class. Making it pun on this word, some senior folks in Hong Kong identify themselves as "third-class citizens," which also means "people of three waits." They wait for their children to return home from work late at ngiht. They wait for the morning sun to dispel their sleepless nights. And with a sigh of resignation, they wait for death.
In the Bible, the word wait is more an attitude than an activity. To "wait on the LORD" is to trust Him. Psalm 27 is David's exuberant declaration of faith in God. He sees the Lord as his salvation [v.1]. In times of danger, he knows for certain that God will hide him [v.5]. He remembers that God has asked him to seek His face, so he asks God not to hide from him. For, like a child, he longs to see God's approving face [vv. 8-10]. In his darkest moments, David declares: "I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living" [v.13].
Though no one knows how to life will unfold, we can decide to trust God and to focus our mind on Him. For to those who wait on the Lord, the promise is given: Our heart will be strengthened [v.14]. --- Albert Lee
I know not what the future holds ---
What in one hour may be;
But I can wait while it unfolds,
And trust implicitly. --- Elliot
THOSE WHO WAIT ON THE LORD, SHALL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH. --- Isaiah 40:31
Wain on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the LORD! --- Psalm 27:14
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 27-29
In Cantonese, a Chinese dialect, the word for wait sounds like the world for class. Making it pun on this word, some senior folks in Hong Kong identify themselves as "third-class citizens," which also means "people of three waits." They wait for their children to return home from work late at ngiht. They wait for the morning sun to dispel their sleepless nights. And with a sigh of resignation, they wait for death.
In the Bible, the word wait is more an attitude than an activity. To "wait on the LORD" is to trust Him. Psalm 27 is David's exuberant declaration of faith in God. He sees the Lord as his salvation [v.1]. In times of danger, he knows for certain that God will hide him [v.5]. He remembers that God has asked him to seek His face, so he asks God not to hide from him. For, like a child, he longs to see God's approving face [vv. 8-10]. In his darkest moments, David declares: "I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living" [v.13].
Though no one knows how to life will unfold, we can decide to trust God and to focus our mind on Him. For to those who wait on the Lord, the promise is given: Our heart will be strengthened [v.14]. --- Albert Lee
I know not what the future holds ---
What in one hour may be;
But I can wait while it unfolds,
And trust implicitly. --- Elliot
THOSE WHO WAIT ON THE LORD, SHALL RENEW THEIR STRENGTH. --- Isaiah 40:31
Sunday, March 08, 2009
A To-Do List
Read: Galatians 5:16-26
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. --- Galatians 5:22
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 7-12
Proverbs 23:29-35
What's on your to-do list today? Cleaning out an overstuffed closet? Calculating a financial report at work? Paying your monthly bills?
We all have things we need to get done today, whether we've written them down or not. They're important for us to accomplish.
While a to-do list is helpful, another type of list is even more valuable: a "to be" list. Albert Einstein said, "Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value."
The apostle Paul encouraged the Galatian believers, and now tells us, to be concerned with our character. He said that if we're controlled by the Holy Spirit, God will produce in us the characteristics of "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" [5:22-23].
As you look at those character traits, which are your needing most in your life? More patience with a co-worker or a child? A little more gentleness and kindness toward a neighbor? As you draw near to God, He will enable you to be the person He wants you to be.
Perhaps at the top of your to-do list today you could put: Spend time praying and reading God's Word. That would be a good start in helping with you "to be" list. --- Anne Cetas
The hidden person of the heart
Must take priority
Because our inner character
Determines who we'll be. --- Sper
IT'S NOT WHAT YOU DO BUT WHO YOU ARE THAT'S MOST IMPORTANT.
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness. --- Galatians 5:22
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 7-12
Proverbs 23:29-35
What's on your to-do list today? Cleaning out an overstuffed closet? Calculating a financial report at work? Paying your monthly bills?
We all have things we need to get done today, whether we've written them down or not. They're important for us to accomplish.
While a to-do list is helpful, another type of list is even more valuable: a "to be" list. Albert Einstein said, "Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value."
The apostle Paul encouraged the Galatian believers, and now tells us, to be concerned with our character. He said that if we're controlled by the Holy Spirit, God will produce in us the characteristics of "love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control" [5:22-23].
As you look at those character traits, which are your needing most in your life? More patience with a co-worker or a child? A little more gentleness and kindness toward a neighbor? As you draw near to God, He will enable you to be the person He wants you to be.
Perhaps at the top of your to-do list today you could put: Spend time praying and reading God's Word. That would be a good start in helping with you "to be" list. --- Anne Cetas
The hidden person of the heart
Must take priority
Because our inner character
Determines who we'll be. --- Sper
IT'S NOT WHAT YOU DO BUT WHO YOU ARE THAT'S MOST IMPORTANT.
Saturday, March 07, 2009
A New Career
Read: Matthew 4:18-22
Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him. --- Matthew 4:22
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 25-27
Proverbs 23:12-28
For some guys, the annual fishing trip is the highlight of their calendar. They stay in cozy cabins and spend long days fishing just for the fun of it. You can be sure it wasn't that way for the disciples. They weren't on vacation when they met Jesus. Fishing was their career.
Our careers often demand much of our time and attention. But Jesus has an interesting way of interrupting our business-as-usual agenda. In fact, He invites us to join His business.
Notice the sequence of His statement to the fishermen: "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men" [Matt. 4:19]. We are tempted to think that we should make something of our lives and a the same time follow Jesus. Wrong! He calls us first to follow Him, and then He makes something of our lives. He leads us to prioritize so that we see the needs of people and their eternity as the goal of all our endeavors.
And while God may not require you to give up your career, following Him will guarantee that you will never see your career in the same way again. Where you "fish" is not important. But if you follow, you must fish.
What are you waiting for? Drop your nets, follow Him, and let Him make something of your life. --- Joe Stowell
"Take up your cross," the Savior said,
"If you would My disciple be;
Take up your cross with willing heart
And humbly follow after Me." --- Everest
DROP YOUR NETS AND FOLLOW JESUS.
Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed Him. --- Matthew 4:22
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 25-27
Proverbs 23:12-28
For some guys, the annual fishing trip is the highlight of their calendar. They stay in cozy cabins and spend long days fishing just for the fun of it. You can be sure it wasn't that way for the disciples. They weren't on vacation when they met Jesus. Fishing was their career.
Our careers often demand much of our time and attention. But Jesus has an interesting way of interrupting our business-as-usual agenda. In fact, He invites us to join His business.
Notice the sequence of His statement to the fishermen: "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men" [Matt. 4:19]. We are tempted to think that we should make something of our lives and a the same time follow Jesus. Wrong! He calls us first to follow Him, and then He makes something of our lives. He leads us to prioritize so that we see the needs of people and their eternity as the goal of all our endeavors.
And while God may not require you to give up your career, following Him will guarantee that you will never see your career in the same way again. Where you "fish" is not important. But if you follow, you must fish.
What are you waiting for? Drop your nets, follow Him, and let Him make something of your life. --- Joe Stowell
"Take up your cross," the Savior said,
"If you would My disciple be;
Take up your cross with willing heart
And humbly follow after Me." --- Everest
DROP YOUR NETS AND FOLLOW JESUS.
Friday, March 06, 2009
From Nothing
Read: Genesis 1:1-13
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. --- Genesis 1:1
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 22-24
Proverbs 23:1-11
Nothing. Absolutely nothing. No light. No sky. No land. It's incomprehensible to our finite thinking --- the barren nothingness that existed before Genesis 1:1.
Then suddenly, through the work of the Almighty, God supplanted nothingness with "the heavens and the earth." The divine hand reached through the void and produced a place, a world, a universe. Through the magnificent convergence of the workings of the Godhead --- with the Son enacting the will of the Father as the Agent of creation, and the Holy Spirit as the hovering Presence --- nothing became something. History began its long march toward today.
The first verse of Genesis provides us with sufficient concepts to contemplate for a lifetime. That introductory statement speaks of enough glory, enough majesty, enough awe to leave us speechless before God. Just as today we would have no life, no breath, no existence without His sustaining action, neither would we have the cosmos without His mighty act at the moment of creation.
In awe we wonder what went on before "the beginning." With breathless praise we marvel at the words "God created the heavens and the earth." We read --- and we stand in adoration. "Nothing" has never been so fascinating! --- Dave Branon
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies. --- Watts
NATURE IS BUT A NAME FOR AN EFFECT WHOSE CAUSE IS GOD.
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. --- Genesis 1:1
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 22-24
Proverbs 23:1-11
Nothing. Absolutely nothing. No light. No sky. No land. It's incomprehensible to our finite thinking --- the barren nothingness that existed before Genesis 1:1.
Then suddenly, through the work of the Almighty, God supplanted nothingness with "the heavens and the earth." The divine hand reached through the void and produced a place, a world, a universe. Through the magnificent convergence of the workings of the Godhead --- with the Son enacting the will of the Father as the Agent of creation, and the Holy Spirit as the hovering Presence --- nothing became something. History began its long march toward today.
The first verse of Genesis provides us with sufficient concepts to contemplate for a lifetime. That introductory statement speaks of enough glory, enough majesty, enough awe to leave us speechless before God. Just as today we would have no life, no breath, no existence without His sustaining action, neither would we have the cosmos without His mighty act at the moment of creation.
In awe we wonder what went on before "the beginning." With breathless praise we marvel at the words "God created the heavens and the earth." We read --- and we stand in adoration. "Nothing" has never been so fascinating! --- Dave Branon
I sing the mighty power of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies. --- Watts
NATURE IS BUT A NAME FOR AN EFFECT WHOSE CAUSE IS GOD.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Urge To Jump
Read: John 22:10-16,21-29
If you hear someone ... saying, "Corrupt men have gone out from among you and enticed the inhabitants," ... then you shall inquire, search out, and ask diligently. --- Deut. 13:12-14
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 19-21
Proverbs 22:17-29
In April 2006, a stuntman tried to jump from the top of the Empire State Building. At the last minute, authorities restrained him and changed him with reckless endangerment. After a judge had looked carefully at all the facts, he dismissed the charges, noting that the accused had taken steps to ensure the safety of others. With a parachute strapped to his back, Jeb Corliss had safely made 3,000 previous jumps, including leaps from the 1,483-foot Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur and the Eiffel Tower.
As extreme as Corliss' sport is, it is safer than the kind of leap that almost took place in Joshua 22. Israel had just engaged in a 7-year conquest of Canaan. Suddenly, an alarming rumor raised the possibility of civil war. Word spread that the families who settled east of the Jordan River had built an idolatrous altar [v.10].
A national catastrophe was averted that day, only because someone took time to investigate the facts and listen to both sides of the issue [vv. 16-29]. A terrible, costly misunderstanding was avoided. The wisdom of God was honored [v.31]. Our loving Lord taught His people that the cost of listening is not nearly as great as the cost of jumping to wrong conclusions. --- Mart De Haan
Lest judgment should be based on wrong conclusion,
Distinguish right from vain and carnal pleading;
The world is rife with error and confusion;
Rely alone on God the Spirit's leading. --- Mollon
JUMPING TO WRONG CONCLUSIONS IS ONE OF THE GREATEST OF ALL DANGERS.
If you hear someone ... saying, "Corrupt men have gone out from among you and enticed the inhabitants," ... then you shall inquire, search out, and ask diligently. --- Deut. 13:12-14
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 19-21
Proverbs 22:17-29
In April 2006, a stuntman tried to jump from the top of the Empire State Building. At the last minute, authorities restrained him and changed him with reckless endangerment. After a judge had looked carefully at all the facts, he dismissed the charges, noting that the accused had taken steps to ensure the safety of others. With a parachute strapped to his back, Jeb Corliss had safely made 3,000 previous jumps, including leaps from the 1,483-foot Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur and the Eiffel Tower.
As extreme as Corliss' sport is, it is safer than the kind of leap that almost took place in Joshua 22. Israel had just engaged in a 7-year conquest of Canaan. Suddenly, an alarming rumor raised the possibility of civil war. Word spread that the families who settled east of the Jordan River had built an idolatrous altar [v.10].
A national catastrophe was averted that day, only because someone took time to investigate the facts and listen to both sides of the issue [vv. 16-29]. A terrible, costly misunderstanding was avoided. The wisdom of God was honored [v.31]. Our loving Lord taught His people that the cost of listening is not nearly as great as the cost of jumping to wrong conclusions. --- Mart De Haan
Lest judgment should be based on wrong conclusion,
Distinguish right from vain and carnal pleading;
The world is rife with error and confusion;
Rely alone on God the Spirit's leading. --- Mollon
JUMPING TO WRONG CONCLUSIONS IS ONE OF THE GREATEST OF ALL DANGERS.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
The Miracle Of Restraint
Read: Luke 4:1-13
We love Him because He first loved us. --- 1 John 4:19
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 16-18
Proverbs 22:9-16
In Dostoevsky's novel The Brothers Karamazov, Ivan Karamazov refers to "the miracle of restraint" --- God's choice to curb His own power. The more I get to know Jesus, the more that observation impresses me.
The miracles Satan suggested to Jesus [Luke 4:3-9], the signs the Pharisees demanded [Matt. 12:38; 16:11], the final proofs I yearn for offer no obstacle to an omnipotent God. More amazing is His refusal to perform, to overwhelm. God's terrible insistence on human freedom is so absolute that He granted us the power to live as though He does not exist. Jesus must have known this as He faced the tempter in the desert, focusing His power on the energy of restraint.
I believe God insists on such restraint because no pyrotechnic displays of omnipotence will achieve the response He desires. Only love can summon a response of love. "I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself," Jesus said [John 12:32]. He said this to show the kind of death He would die. God's nature is self-giving.
Why does God content Himself with the show, mysterious way of making righteousness grow rather than avenging it? That's how love is. Love has its own power --- the only power capable of conquering the human heart. --- Philip Yancey
That leaden, night on which He was betrayed,
The One by whom the universe was made
Reclined with friends, took bread and stretched a hand
Of love to him who His demise had planned. --- Gustafson
REVENGE RESTRAINED IS A VICTORY GAINED.
We love Him because He first loved us. --- 1 John 4:19
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 16-18
Proverbs 22:9-16
In Dostoevsky's novel The Brothers Karamazov, Ivan Karamazov refers to "the miracle of restraint" --- God's choice to curb His own power. The more I get to know Jesus, the more that observation impresses me.
The miracles Satan suggested to Jesus [Luke 4:3-9], the signs the Pharisees demanded [Matt. 12:38; 16:11], the final proofs I yearn for offer no obstacle to an omnipotent God. More amazing is His refusal to perform, to overwhelm. God's terrible insistence on human freedom is so absolute that He granted us the power to live as though He does not exist. Jesus must have known this as He faced the tempter in the desert, focusing His power on the energy of restraint.
I believe God insists on such restraint because no pyrotechnic displays of omnipotence will achieve the response He desires. Only love can summon a response of love. "I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself," Jesus said [John 12:32]. He said this to show the kind of death He would die. God's nature is self-giving.
Why does God content Himself with the show, mysterious way of making righteousness grow rather than avenging it? That's how love is. Love has its own power --- the only power capable of conquering the human heart. --- Philip Yancey
That leaden, night on which He was betrayed,
The One by whom the universe was made
Reclined with friends, took bread and stretched a hand
Of love to him who His demise had planned. --- Gustafson
REVENGE RESTRAINED IS A VICTORY GAINED.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
An Impossible Challenge?
Read: Num. 14:1-5,26-27
Do all things without complaining and disputing. --- Philippians 2:14
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 13-15
Proverbs 22:1-8
A pastor in Kansas City gave what seemed to be an impossible challenge to his congregation --- to go 21 days without complaining [the amount of time some say it takes to develop a new habit]. Special bracelets were distributed to participants as a reminder to live complaint-free lives. A movement was started, and millions of bracelets have been distributed all over the world.
The biblical principle "Do all things without complaining and disputing" [Phil. 2:14] is an important one. The ancient Israelites discovered this when, because of their constant complaining in the wilderness, they were judged by God and not allowed to enter the Promised Land [Num. 14]. How can we learn to develop a non-complaining, positive attitude that will please the Lord?
By disciplining our thoughts [Rom. 12:2]. We need to meditate on Scripture and remember our blessings. By confessing our critical spirit and committing ourselves to obedience each time we fail [1 John 1:9]. By enlisting God's help and the help of others. The Spirit will empower us as we depend on Him [John 14:26].
Because God helps us, doing all things without complaining is not an impossible challenge. --- Anne Cetas
Lord, help me stop complaining
When things don't go my way;
Instead, give me a thankful heart
For all You do each day. --- Sper
A COMPLAINING CHRISTIAN IS A CONTRADICTION IN TERMS
Do all things without complaining and disputing. --- Philippians 2:14
The Bible In One Year:
Numbers 13-15
Proverbs 22:1-8
A pastor in Kansas City gave what seemed to be an impossible challenge to his congregation --- to go 21 days without complaining [the amount of time some say it takes to develop a new habit]. Special bracelets were distributed to participants as a reminder to live complaint-free lives. A movement was started, and millions of bracelets have been distributed all over the world.
The biblical principle "Do all things without complaining and disputing" [Phil. 2:14] is an important one. The ancient Israelites discovered this when, because of their constant complaining in the wilderness, they were judged by God and not allowed to enter the Promised Land [Num. 14]. How can we learn to develop a non-complaining, positive attitude that will please the Lord?
Because God helps us, doing all things without complaining is not an impossible challenge. --- Anne Cetas
Lord, help me stop complaining
When things don't go my way;
Instead, give me a thankful heart
For all You do each day. --- Sper
A COMPLAINING CHRISTIAN IS A CONTRADICTION IN TERMS
Monday, March 02, 2009
Wii And Mii
Read: Ephesians 4:25-5:1
Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. --- Ephesians 4:25
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 24-26
Our grandsons introduced me to the amazing world of virtual bowling using the Nintendo Wii [pronounced we] video-game console. But before beginning, we had to create my look-alike character called Mii [me]. From a selection of facial characteristics, they quickly created a person whose hair, nose, glasses, and mouth looked surprisingly like me. "Hey, Grandpa," they said. "It's you!" And so it was.
Much of our self-concept comes from others. The feedback of family and friends is vital in helping us discover our unique gifts. As followers of Christ, we are charged with making an honest, positive contribution to each other. We can apply the words of Paul to the critical process. "Let each one of your speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.... Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers" [Eph. 4:25, 29].
Between the extremes of hazardous flattery and destructive criticism, we should aim for beneficial reality in what we say to each other. In the "we" of Christian community, the "me" of personality is shaped. It's a great privilege and responsibility to help each other discover who are in Christ. --- David McCasland
Together, Lord, we seek Thy will;
We bow before Thee --- yielded still;
We come today, as oft before,
And with each coming love Thee more. --- Group
TRUE COMMUNITY IS NOT ORGANIZED BUT EXERCISED.
Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another. --- Ephesians 4:25
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 24-26
Our grandsons introduced me to the amazing world of virtual bowling using the Nintendo Wii [pronounced we] video-game console. But before beginning, we had to create my look-alike character called Mii [me]. From a selection of facial characteristics, they quickly created a person whose hair, nose, glasses, and mouth looked surprisingly like me. "Hey, Grandpa," they said. "It's you!" And so it was.
Much of our self-concept comes from others. The feedback of family and friends is vital in helping us discover our unique gifts. As followers of Christ, we are charged with making an honest, positive contribution to each other. We can apply the words of Paul to the critical process. "Let each one of your speak truth with his neighbor, for we are members of one another.... Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers" [Eph. 4:25, 29].
Between the extremes of hazardous flattery and destructive criticism, we should aim for beneficial reality in what we say to each other. In the "we" of Christian community, the "me" of personality is shaped. It's a great privilege and responsibility to help each other discover who are in Christ. --- David McCasland
Together, Lord, we seek Thy will;
We bow before Thee --- yielded still;
We come today, as oft before,
And with each coming love Thee more. --- Group
TRUE COMMUNITY IS NOT ORGANIZED BUT EXERCISED.
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Songbird In The Dark
Read: Luke 1:67-80
The Dayspring from on high has visited us. --- Luke 1:78
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 1-6
Proverbs 21:22-31
Just before the sunrise, we often hear songbirds welcoming the dawn. Despite the darkness, we know that the radiant light of the sun will soon appear.
Fanny Crosby has been called "The Songbird in the Dark." Though blinded in infancy, she wrote hymns that inspirationally envision our future reunion with Christ. Early in her life, Fanny had a dream in which she saw the panorama of a glorious heaven, and many of her songs reflect that theme. By the time of her death, she had penned at least 8,000 hymns. Songs such as "Tell Me the Story of Jesus" and "To God Be the Glory" are still popular today.
When Zacharias praised God in anticipation of the Messiah, he also looked forward to a spiritual sunrise. Citing Malachi 4:2, he proclaimed: "The Dayspring [sunrise] from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness" [Luke 1:78-79]. That Messiah came to earth, died for our sins, rose again, ascended, and promised to return for us.
Do you feel surrounded by dark and confusing circumstances? You can still lift your praise to God for the bright future you will share with His Son. The words of Fanny Crosby's beloved hymn "Blessed Assurance" encourage us as we anticipate this glorious reunion with Christ. --- Dennis Fisher
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. --- Crosby
FOR THE CHRISTIAN, THE DARK SORROWS OF EARTH WILL ONE DAY BE CHANGED INTO THE BRIGHT SONGS OF HEAVEN.
The Dayspring from on high has visited us. --- Luke 1:78
The Bible In One Year:
Luke 1-6
Proverbs 21:22-31
Just before the sunrise, we often hear songbirds welcoming the dawn. Despite the darkness, we know that the radiant light of the sun will soon appear.
Fanny Crosby has been called "The Songbird in the Dark." Though blinded in infancy, she wrote hymns that inspirationally envision our future reunion with Christ. Early in her life, Fanny had a dream in which she saw the panorama of a glorious heaven, and many of her songs reflect that theme. By the time of her death, she had penned at least 8,000 hymns. Songs such as "Tell Me the Story of Jesus" and "To God Be the Glory" are still popular today.
When Zacharias praised God in anticipation of the Messiah, he also looked forward to a spiritual sunrise. Citing Malachi 4:2, he proclaimed: "The Dayspring [sunrise] from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness" [Luke 1:78-79]. That Messiah came to earth, died for our sins, rose again, ascended, and promised to return for us.
Do you feel surrounded by dark and confusing circumstances? You can still lift your praise to God for the bright future you will share with His Son. The words of Fanny Crosby's beloved hymn "Blessed Assurance" encourage us as we anticipate this glorious reunion with Christ. --- Dennis Fisher
Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. --- Crosby
FOR THE CHRISTIAN, THE DARK SORROWS OF EARTH WILL ONE DAY BE CHANGED INTO THE BRIGHT SONGS OF HEAVEN.
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