Read: Romans 10:13-17
Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. --- Mark 16:15
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 19-21
Proverbs 11:1-11
In John 3:16 we read, "For God so loved the world." But what about His love for individuals? The rest of the verse reveals the central purpose behind God's sacrifice of His Son: "That whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." Therefore, without exception, every person may interpret John 3:16 like this: "For God so loved me!"
A.B. Simpson, a great missionary of the past, often hugged a globe to his chest and wept over the world's lostness. Yet his global vision was marked by compassion for individuals. You and I also must feel the responsibility to take the gospel to our world --- by sharing the good news with one person at a time.
Unfortunately, we often think of the Great Commission in terms of "foreign missions" only. "World missions" is perhaps a better term, for that includes our nearest neighbors, who are part of the world to which God has called us. And we are already there!
Like A.B. Simpson, embrace your smaller world through earnest prayer as you consider lost individuals in your family, neighborhood, and workplace. Then, as you seek to live and give the good news, expect God to open doors of opportunity. --- Joenie Yoder
Jesus died to bring salvation
For the rich and for the poor;
Those of every tribe and nation ---
He includes the ones next door. --- Anon.
THE LIGHT THAT SHINES FARTHEST, SHINES BRIGHTEST AT HOME.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The Lamb Is My Shepherd
Read: Psalm 23
The Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them. --- Revelation 7:17
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 16-18
Proverbs 20:22-32
The writers of the Old and New Testaments used many different metaphors for the Lord Jesus Christ. These word pictures vividly describe the marvelous aspects of Jesus' life and ministry.
While visiting a friend, hymn-writer Albert Simpson Reitz saw the following motto hanging on a wall: "The Lamb Is My Shepherd." How foolish, he thought. Then he realized that a smudge on his glasses had distorted the second word of the motto. Actually it read: "The Lord Is My Shepherd."
His mistake started him thinking. He remembered that the Scriptures present Jesus both as the Good Shepherd and as the Lamb of God. Reitz said to his friend, "I've just seen the glorious gospel of our Lord in a new light. I'm reminded that the apostle John on the island of Patmos saw a vision, assuring him that the resurrected 'Lamb who is in the midst of the throne' will guide His people even when they get to heaven. Misreading that motto on your wall has given me a rich blessing. It could actually read, 'The Lamb Is My Shepherd.'"
It's reassuring to know that our Shepherd will guide us safely through this life, and that He will continue to feed and lead us throughout eternity. --- Henry Bosch
The Lord of hosts my Shepherd is ---
O sweet these words to me;
And Thou, dear Lamb, will be my Guide
Throughout eternity. --- Kendrie
THE LAMB WHO DIED TO SAVE US IS THE SHEPHERD WHO LIVES TO LEAD US.
The Lamb who is in the midst of the throne will shepherd them. --- Revelation 7:17
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 16-18
Proverbs 20:22-32
The writers of the Old and New Testaments used many different metaphors for the Lord Jesus Christ. These word pictures vividly describe the marvelous aspects of Jesus' life and ministry.
While visiting a friend, hymn-writer Albert Simpson Reitz saw the following motto hanging on a wall: "The Lamb Is My Shepherd." How foolish, he thought. Then he realized that a smudge on his glasses had distorted the second word of the motto. Actually it read: "The Lord Is My Shepherd."
His mistake started him thinking. He remembered that the Scriptures present Jesus both as the Good Shepherd and as the Lamb of God. Reitz said to his friend, "I've just seen the glorious gospel of our Lord in a new light. I'm reminded that the apostle John on the island of Patmos saw a vision, assuring him that the resurrected 'Lamb who is in the midst of the throne' will guide His people even when they get to heaven. Misreading that motto on your wall has given me a rich blessing. It could actually read, 'The Lamb Is My Shepherd.'"
It's reassuring to know that our Shepherd will guide us safely through this life, and that He will continue to feed and lead us throughout eternity. --- Henry Bosch
The Lord of hosts my Shepherd is ---
O sweet these words to me;
And Thou, dear Lamb, will be my Guide
Throughout eternity. --- Kendrie
THE LAMB WHO DIED TO SAVE US IS THE SHEPHERD WHO LIVES TO LEAD US.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
The Greatest Gift
Read: Job 2
They sat down with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him. --- Job 2:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 13-15
Proverbs 10:12-21
We lightly disparage Job's three friends for their insensitive response to his suffering. Yet when they came, they sat in silence beside Job for 7 days before speaking. As it turned out, those were the most eloquent moments they spent with him.
Instinctively, I shrink back from people who are in pain. Who can know whether they want to talk about their predicament or not? Do they want to be consoled, or cheered up? What good can my presence possibly do?
Tony Campolo tells of going to a funeral. By mistake he ended up in the wrong parlor. It held the body of an elderly man, and his widow was the only mourner present. She seemed so lonely that Campolo decided to stay for the funeral. He even drove with her to the cemetery.
At the conclusion of the graveside service, Campolo finally confessed that he had not known her husband. "I thought as much," said the widow. "But it doesn't really matter. You'll never, ever, know what this means to me."
Most often those who suffer remember the quiet, unassuming person. Someone who was there when needed, who listened, who didn't keep glancing at a watch, who hugged, touched, and cried. In short, someone who was available and came on the sufferer's terms, not their own. --- Philip Yancey
In our shattered times, anguish relents
Not at mere idle words spoken in vain,
But rather from the silent eloquence
Bestowed by those rare souls who share our pain. --- Evans
OFTEN, THE BEST COMFORT IS JUST BEING THERE.
They sat down with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him. --- Job 2:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 13-15
Proverbs 10:12-21
We lightly disparage Job's three friends for their insensitive response to his suffering. Yet when they came, they sat in silence beside Job for 7 days before speaking. As it turned out, those were the most eloquent moments they spent with him.
Instinctively, I shrink back from people who are in pain. Who can know whether they want to talk about their predicament or not? Do they want to be consoled, or cheered up? What good can my presence possibly do?
Tony Campolo tells of going to a funeral. By mistake he ended up in the wrong parlor. It held the body of an elderly man, and his widow was the only mourner present. She seemed so lonely that Campolo decided to stay for the funeral. He even drove with her to the cemetery.
At the conclusion of the graveside service, Campolo finally confessed that he had not known her husband. "I thought as much," said the widow. "But it doesn't really matter. You'll never, ever, know what this means to me."
Most often those who suffer remember the quiet, unassuming person. Someone who was there when needed, who listened, who didn't keep glancing at a watch, who hugged, touched, and cried. In short, someone who was available and came on the sufferer's terms, not their own. --- Philip Yancey
In our shattered times, anguish relents
Not at mere idle words spoken in vain,
But rather from the silent eloquence
Bestowed by those rare souls who share our pain. --- Evans
OFTEN, THE BEST COMFORT IS JUST BEING THERE.
Monday, April 27, 2009
God's Refreshing Word
Read: Isaiah 55:8-11
My word ... shall not return to Me void. --- Isaiah 55:11
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 48-50
When I was a boy, our family would occasionally travel across Nevada. We loved the desert thunderstorms. Accompanied by lightning bolts and claps of thunder, huge sheets of rain would blanket the hot sand as far as the eye could see. The cooling water refreshed the earth --- and us.
Water produces marvelous changes in arid regions. For example, the pin-cushion cactus is completely dormant during the dry season. But after the first summer rains, cactuses burst into bloom, displaying delicate petals of pink, gold, and white.
Likewise, in the Holy Land after a rainstorm, dry ground can seemingly sprout vegetation overnight. Isaiah used rain's renewal to illustrate God's refreshing Word: "As the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it" [Isa. 55:10-11].
Scripture carries spiritual vitality. That's why it doesn't return void. Wherever it encounters an open heart, it brings refreshment, nourishment, and new life. --- Dennis Fisher
God's Word is like refreshing rain
That waters crops and seed;
It brings new life to open hearts,
And meets us in our need. --- Sper
THE BIBLE IS TO A THIRSTY SOUL WHAT WATER IS TO A BARREN LAND.
My word ... shall not return to Me void. --- Isaiah 55:11
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 48-50
When I was a boy, our family would occasionally travel across Nevada. We loved the desert thunderstorms. Accompanied by lightning bolts and claps of thunder, huge sheets of rain would blanket the hot sand as far as the eye could see. The cooling water refreshed the earth --- and us.
Water produces marvelous changes in arid regions. For example, the pin-cushion cactus is completely dormant during the dry season. But after the first summer rains, cactuses burst into bloom, displaying delicate petals of pink, gold, and white.
Likewise, in the Holy Land after a rainstorm, dry ground can seemingly sprout vegetation overnight. Isaiah used rain's renewal to illustrate God's refreshing Word: "As the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and do not return there, but water the earth, and make it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; it shall not return to Me void, but it shall accomplish what I please, and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it" [Isa. 55:10-11].
Scripture carries spiritual vitality. That's why it doesn't return void. Wherever it encounters an open heart, it brings refreshment, nourishment, and new life. --- Dennis Fisher
God's Word is like refreshing rain
That waters crops and seed;
It brings new life to open hearts,
And meets us in our need. --- Sper
THE BIBLE IS TO A THIRSTY SOUL WHAT WATER IS TO A BARREN LAND.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Respect
Read: Esther 1:1-5, 9-12
You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor. --- Psalm 8:5
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 1-6
Proverbs 10:1-11
In 1967, American vocalist Aretha Franklin topped the charts with her hit single "Respect." The song became an inspirational anthem for the civil rights movement and for others who demanded to be treated with respect.
Long before Aretha's hit record, Queen Vashti topped the Persian charts with her own version of "Respect." The book of Esther begins with King Ahasuerus hosting a great celebration. In addition to displaying his wealth and power, he also wanted to showcase his wife's beauty. So he commanded that Queen Vashti be brought before him and his guests.
If she obeyed, she would have allowed the king to degrade and disrespect her. If she refused, she risked losing her life. She refused. What courage! Vashti didn't want to compromise her character by being reduced to a piece of property. Her desire for respect led to her banishment. We have no record that Vashti feared the Lord. But her courage shows that she understood the God-given dignity accorded to every human being.
God created us in His image and crowned us with glory and honor, having made us "a little lower than the angels" [Ps. 8:5]. Out of love and reverence for Him, let us treat ourselves and others with honor, dignity, and respect. --- Marvin Williams
Man's crowning glory lies in this:
God stamped on him His image rare;
No other creatures have that gift
Nor living things with man compare. --- D. De Haan
EVEN THE MOST DIFFICULT PEOPLE WE KNOW BEAR THE IMAGE OF GOD.
You have made him a little lower than the angels, and You have crowned him with glory and honor. --- Psalm 8:5
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 1-6
Proverbs 10:1-11
In 1967, American vocalist Aretha Franklin topped the charts with her hit single "Respect." The song became an inspirational anthem for the civil rights movement and for others who demanded to be treated with respect.
Long before Aretha's hit record, Queen Vashti topped the Persian charts with her own version of "Respect." The book of Esther begins with King Ahasuerus hosting a great celebration. In addition to displaying his wealth and power, he also wanted to showcase his wife's beauty. So he commanded that Queen Vashti be brought before him and his guests.
If she obeyed, she would have allowed the king to degrade and disrespect her. If she refused, she risked losing her life. She refused. What courage! Vashti didn't want to compromise her character by being reduced to a piece of property. Her desire for respect led to her banishment. We have no record that Vashti feared the Lord. But her courage shows that she understood the God-given dignity accorded to every human being.
God created us in His image and crowned us with glory and honor, having made us "a little lower than the angels" [Ps. 8:5]. Out of love and reverence for Him, let us treat ourselves and others with honor, dignity, and respect. --- Marvin Williams
Man's crowning glory lies in this:
God stamped on him His image rare;
No other creatures have that gift
Nor living things with man compare. --- D. De Haan
EVEN THE MOST DIFFICULT PEOPLE WE KNOW BEAR THE IMAGE OF GOD.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
It's Not A Game
Read: Mark 8:31-38
Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. --- Mark 8:34
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 10-12
Proverbs 9:10-18
My former neighbor often talked about "the game of life," and I can understand why he did. It's part of human nature to approach life as one big game made up of a lot of little games. Competing can be fun, exciting, and stimulating.
But life is a whole lot more than a game --- especially for a follower of Jesus Christ. When a believer needs to own the biggest house, drive the largest SUV, get the promotion first, and win every argument, something's terribly wrong from God's point of view. It's not right to run over people's feelings, bend or break the rules, and gloat over victories.
To approach life as one big game that you always have to win is to live in hopeless delusion and fantasy. While material possessions, professional success, and personal victories are enjoyable, they last only for this life. Then they're all left behind.
Jesus instructed His disciples to deny themselves, identify with His cross, and follow Him in self-denial, and for some that even meant death [Mark 8:34-35]. He made it clear to His disciples that artificial victories in "the game of life" don't count for much. What really counts is what's done for the Lord. --- Dave Egner
If I have but Jesus, only Jesus ---
Nothing else is all the world beside ---
O then everything is mine in Jesus;
For my needs and more He will provide. --- Olander
THOSE WHO LIVE FOR GOD ARE THE REAL WINNERS IN LIFE.
Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. --- Mark 8:34
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 10-12
Proverbs 9:10-18
My former neighbor often talked about "the game of life," and I can understand why he did. It's part of human nature to approach life as one big game made up of a lot of little games. Competing can be fun, exciting, and stimulating.
But life is a whole lot more than a game --- especially for a follower of Jesus Christ. When a believer needs to own the biggest house, drive the largest SUV, get the promotion first, and win every argument, something's terribly wrong from God's point of view. It's not right to run over people's feelings, bend or break the rules, and gloat over victories.
To approach life as one big game that you always have to win is to live in hopeless delusion and fantasy. While material possessions, professional success, and personal victories are enjoyable, they last only for this life. Then they're all left behind.
Jesus instructed His disciples to deny themselves, identify with His cross, and follow Him in self-denial, and for some that even meant death [Mark 8:34-35]. He made it clear to His disciples that artificial victories in "the game of life" don't count for much. What really counts is what's done for the Lord. --- Dave Egner
If I have but Jesus, only Jesus ---
Nothing else is all the world beside ---
O then everything is mine in Jesus;
For my needs and more He will provide. --- Olander
THOSE WHO LIVE FOR GOD ARE THE REAL WINNERS IN LIFE.
Friday, April 24, 2009
A Sailing Ship
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. --- 2 Corinthians 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 7-9
Proverbs 9:1-9
Dorothy, an elderly woman, was near death. She loved the Lord and longed to be with Him. The nurse told her family that Dorothy would probably hold on until she could see her daughter, who was on her way to say goodbye. The nurse said, "It's as if Dorothy has one foot here and the other in heaven. She wants to take that last step soon."
That reminds me of the following beautiful description of dying by Henry Van Dyke:
"I am standing at the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck of white cloud, just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other....And just at the moment when someone at my side says: 'There, she is gone!' there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: 'Here she comes!' And that is dying."
Even more comforting for the loved ones of a believer who dies are the words of the apostle Paul: "If our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" [2 Cor. 5:1]. We can rejoice in our sorrow knowing our departed loved ones are now present with the Lord [v.8]. --- Anne Cetas
The death of people whom we love
Brings sorrow and deep pain;
But if our loved ones know the Lord,
Our loss becomes their gain. --- Sper
BECAUSE CHRIST LIVES, DEATH IS NOT TRAGEDY BUT TRIUMPH.
We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord. --- 2 Corinthians 5:8
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 7-9
Proverbs 9:1-9
Dorothy, an elderly woman, was near death. She loved the Lord and longed to be with Him. The nurse told her family that Dorothy would probably hold on until she could see her daughter, who was on her way to say goodbye. The nurse said, "It's as if Dorothy has one foot here and the other in heaven. She wants to take that last step soon."
That reminds me of the following beautiful description of dying by Henry Van Dyke:
"I am standing at the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. I stand and watch her until, at length, she hangs like a speck of white cloud, just where the sea and sky come to mingle with each other....And just at the moment when someone at my side says: 'There, she is gone!' there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: 'Here she comes!' And that is dying."
Even more comforting for the loved ones of a believer who dies are the words of the apostle Paul: "If our earthly house, this tent, is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens" [2 Cor. 5:1]. We can rejoice in our sorrow knowing our departed loved ones are now present with the Lord [v.8]. --- Anne Cetas
The death of people whom we love
Brings sorrow and deep pain;
But if our loved ones know the Lord,
Our loss becomes their gain. --- Sper
BECAUSE CHRIST LIVES, DEATH IS NOT TRAGEDY BUT TRIUMPH.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Driven By Gratitude
Read: Acts 20:22-24
Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. --- 1 Corinthians 15:58
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 4-6
Proverbs 8:32-36
What's the greatest novel ever written? Many readers would vote for Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, which, depending on the edition, can run well over 1,000 pages. Even after his novel was finished, Tolstoy continue to write --- often until he was on the brink of exhaustion, unable to sleep, and on the verge of a breakdown.
One day a friend asked him why he kept writing and driving himself to the edge of exhaustion. He reminded Tolstoy that he was a wealthy Russian count with servants at his beck and call, and that he had a secure future.
Tolstoy explained that he kept writing because he was the slave of an inner compulsion and had a consuming desire deep within his bones. He felt that he had to keep writing or else he would go mad.
The apostle Paul experienced a similar compulsion, except that his drive was God-motivated. As he explained to his friends in Corinth, "the love of Christ compels us" [2 Cor. 5:14]. His was a burning passion, an emotional fire, a spiritual force that made him share the good news of Jesus and His death and resurrection.
Such dedicated zeal has characterized many of our Lord's followers throughout the years. May a spark of that fire burn in our own hearts. --- Vernon Grounds
Fill Thou my life, O Lord my God,
In every part with praise,
That my whole being may proclaim
Thy being and Thy ways. --- Bonar
THE GOOD NEWS IS TOO GOOD TO KEEP TO YOURSELF.
Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. --- 1 Corinthians 15:58
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 4-6
Proverbs 8:32-36
What's the greatest novel ever written? Many readers would vote for Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, which, depending on the edition, can run well over 1,000 pages. Even after his novel was finished, Tolstoy continue to write --- often until he was on the brink of exhaustion, unable to sleep, and on the verge of a breakdown.
One day a friend asked him why he kept writing and driving himself to the edge of exhaustion. He reminded Tolstoy that he was a wealthy Russian count with servants at his beck and call, and that he had a secure future.
Tolstoy explained that he kept writing because he was the slave of an inner compulsion and had a consuming desire deep within his bones. He felt that he had to keep writing or else he would go mad.
The apostle Paul experienced a similar compulsion, except that his drive was God-motivated. As he explained to his friends in Corinth, "the love of Christ compels us" [2 Cor. 5:14]. His was a burning passion, an emotional fire, a spiritual force that made him share the good news of Jesus and His death and resurrection.
Such dedicated zeal has characterized many of our Lord's followers throughout the years. May a spark of that fire burn in our own hearts. --- Vernon Grounds
Fill Thou my life, O Lord my God,
In every part with praise,
That my whole being may proclaim
Thy being and Thy ways. --- Bonar
THE GOOD NEWS IS TOO GOOD TO KEEP TO YOURSELF.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Happy Earth Day
Read: Psalm 148
His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven. --- Psalm 148:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 1-3
Proverbs 8:12-31
You don't have to tour Resurrection Bay in Alaska to appreciate the natural marvels of our earth, but it helps. You don't have to snorkel the warm waters of Jamaica to be impressed with the hidden beauty of our planet's seas, but it helps. You don't have to view the Rockies, experience the Rock of Gibraltar, or gaze at Mount Fuji to realize how awe-inspiring are the vistas of our globe, but it helps.
Experiencing firsthand the majesty of the mountains and the glory of the oceans can leave us breathless as we ponder how spectacular our big blue marble really is.
Today is Earth Day, a commemoration of our global home and a reminder of our responsibility to be careful stewards of this orb. But celebrating the greatness of our unique home among the planets can take on a dangerous slant if we leave out one key element. Contemplating the grandeur of earth should remind us that we are merely "the people of His pasture" [Ps. 95:7], and we must worship "our Maker" [v.6]. The creation was flung into space to point to God and His greatness, power, and majesty. He alone deserves our praise and worship [Ps. 148:5]. Thank You, Lord, for such an awe-inspiring reminder to worship You! --- Dave Branon
All nature sings her song of praise,
She shows her thanks in many ways;
Can I, for all God's gifts do less
Than sing my hymn of gratefulness? --- Michael
HOW FOOLISH TO WORSHIP THE CREATION, WHEN THE CREATOR IS SO MUCH GREATER.
His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven. --- Psalm 148:13
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 1-3
Proverbs 8:12-31
You don't have to tour Resurrection Bay in Alaska to appreciate the natural marvels of our earth, but it helps. You don't have to snorkel the warm waters of Jamaica to be impressed with the hidden beauty of our planet's seas, but it helps. You don't have to view the Rockies, experience the Rock of Gibraltar, or gaze at Mount Fuji to realize how awe-inspiring are the vistas of our globe, but it helps.
Experiencing firsthand the majesty of the mountains and the glory of the oceans can leave us breathless as we ponder how spectacular our big blue marble really is.
Today is Earth Day, a commemoration of our global home and a reminder of our responsibility to be careful stewards of this orb. But celebrating the greatness of our unique home among the planets can take on a dangerous slant if we leave out one key element. Contemplating the grandeur of earth should remind us that we are merely "the people of His pasture" [Ps. 95:7], and we must worship "our Maker" [v.6]. The creation was flung into space to point to God and His greatness, power, and majesty. He alone deserves our praise and worship [Ps. 148:5]. Thank You, Lord, for such an awe-inspiring reminder to worship You! --- Dave Branon
All nature sings her song of praise,
She shows her thanks in many ways;
Can I, for all God's gifts do less
Than sing my hymn of gratefulness? --- Michael
HOW FOOLISH TO WORSHIP THE CREATION, WHEN THE CREATOR IS SO MUCH GREATER.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Return On Investment
Read: 1 Cor. 6:12-20
You were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit. --- 1 Corinthians 6:20
The Bible In One Year:
Ruth 1-4
Proverbs 8:1-11
Long before the US professional baseball season begins each spring, team owners and managers are busy negotiating trades and contracts. They'll pay large sums of money to get the athlete who will help them win the championship. When the season starts, all eyes are on the newly acquired talent to see if he was worth the cost. The ultimate measure of the player's success is whether his contribution to the team is a good return on the investment.
In 1 Corinthians 6:20, Paul reminds us that we too have been "bought at a price." The context paints a compelling picture of Christ's great sacrifice. He liberated us from the cruel slave-master of sin by buying us with the high price of His own life.
Getting a grip on God's great and loving the investment in us should motivate us to gladly consider making His sacrifice rich in dividends. How is that return on His investment measured? By living to bring glory to Him! Our eyes, hands, feet, thoughts, dreams, and desires have been purchased to reflect the wondrous glory of God's will and wisdom. In other words, we are no longer our own.
Paul concluded, "Therefore glorify God in your body" [v.20]. Living to reflect His glory is the return on investment that makes the Owner of our lives look good! --- Joe Stowell
Redemption's price our Savior paid
When all our sins on Him were laid;
He took our guilt, He bore our shame
That we may glorify His name. --- D. De Haan
OUR CHOICE TO BRING GLORY TO GOD YIELDS A GREAT RETURN ON CHRIST'S INVESTMENT.
You were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit. --- 1 Corinthians 6:20
The Bible In One Year:
Ruth 1-4
Proverbs 8:1-11
Long before the US professional baseball season begins each spring, team owners and managers are busy negotiating trades and contracts. They'll pay large sums of money to get the athlete who will help them win the championship. When the season starts, all eyes are on the newly acquired talent to see if he was worth the cost. The ultimate measure of the player's success is whether his contribution to the team is a good return on the investment.
In 1 Corinthians 6:20, Paul reminds us that we too have been "bought at a price." The context paints a compelling picture of Christ's great sacrifice. He liberated us from the cruel slave-master of sin by buying us with the high price of His own life.
Getting a grip on God's great and loving the investment in us should motivate us to gladly consider making His sacrifice rich in dividends. How is that return on His investment measured? By living to bring glory to Him! Our eyes, hands, feet, thoughts, dreams, and desires have been purchased to reflect the wondrous glory of God's will and wisdom. In other words, we are no longer our own.
Paul concluded, "Therefore glorify God in your body" [v.20]. Living to reflect His glory is the return on investment that makes the Owner of our lives look good! --- Joe Stowell
Redemption's price our Savior paid
When all our sins on Him were laid;
He took our guilt, He bore our shame
That we may glorify His name. --- D. De Haan
OUR CHOICE TO BRING GLORY TO GOD YIELDS A GREAT RETURN ON CHRIST'S INVESTMENT.
Monday, April 20, 2009
The Enduring Word
Read: 1 Peter 1:17-25
Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. --- Mark 13:31
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 45-47
At Dublin Castle in Ireland is the Chester Beatty Library, named for an industrialist who gave generously to charity. The beautiful library includes a quaint coffee shop and a variety of exhibits.
The exhibit that grabbed my attention was the ancient manuscripts. I slowly walked through the area and viewed fragments of the New Testament Gospels dating back to the third century AD. The scrolls were among the oldest known biblical texts until the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in the mid-20th century. God's Word, preserved through the years!
As I looked at those portions of inspired text, I was moved by the permanence of the Word of God. It is because of the enduring nature of God's Word that we can have confidence in the message it contains. Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away" [Mark 13:31]. Later, Jesus' disciple Peter would write, "All flesh is as grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the Word of the LORD endures forever" [1 Peter 1:24-25].
God's Word, enduring through the ages, is still the most trusted guide for living. --- Bill Crowder
The Bible stands, and it will forever
When the world has passed away;
By inspiration it has been given ---
All its precepts I will obey. --- Lillenas
LIKE A COMPASS, THE BIBLE ALWAYS POINTS YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.
Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away. --- Mark 13:31
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 45-47
At Dublin Castle in Ireland is the Chester Beatty Library, named for an industrialist who gave generously to charity. The beautiful library includes a quaint coffee shop and a variety of exhibits.
The exhibit that grabbed my attention was the ancient manuscripts. I slowly walked through the area and viewed fragments of the New Testament Gospels dating back to the third century AD. The scrolls were among the oldest known biblical texts until the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls in the mid-20th century. God's Word, preserved through the years!
As I looked at those portions of inspired text, I was moved by the permanence of the Word of God. It is because of the enduring nature of God's Word that we can have confidence in the message it contains. Jesus said, "Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away" [Mark 13:31]. Later, Jesus' disciple Peter would write, "All flesh is as grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the Word of the LORD endures forever" [1 Peter 1:24-25].
God's Word, enduring through the ages, is still the most trusted guide for living. --- Bill Crowder
The Bible stands, and it will forever
When the world has passed away;
By inspiration it has been given ---
All its precepts I will obey. --- Lillenas
LIKE A COMPASS, THE BIBLE ALWAYS POINTS YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Pretend
Read: John 17:6-19
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child ... but when I became a man, I put away childish things. --- 1 Corinthians 13:11
The Bible In One Year:
John 16-21
Proverbs 7:6-27
Our 3-year-old grandson loves to play pretend games with grandma. He comes over to our home once a week, and Ma-Ma [that's what he calls her] takes him to the supermarket, to the botanical gardens to feed fish and turtles, and to ride the underground train --- all without leaving our home! He guards this game of pretend so jealously as something between Ma-Ma and him that one day when we rode the real train, he asked, "Why are there other people in our train?"
Pretending is normal for a 3-year-old. But some carry the habit of pretending into adulthood when they attend church. What they do in church has no bearing on what they do the rest of the week. On Sunday they praise God heartily, but on Monday they become different people. What they express in worship is not seen in their behavior.
Our Lord Jesus Christ knows that we can fall into this trap easily. That is why in His prayer to His Father, He said, "I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one" [John 17:15].
God has placed us here to make a difference in our world. As He protects us from falling for the wiles of the evil one, He wants us to live by the same consistent standards in every aspect of our lives --- not just on Sunday. --- C.P. Hia
Consistency! How much we need
To walk a measured pace,
To live the life of which we speak,
Until we see His face. --- Anon.
SOME PEOPLE HAVE HEAVEN ON THEIR TONGUES, BUT THE WORLD IN THEIR HEARTS.
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child ... but when I became a man, I put away childish things. --- 1 Corinthians 13:11
The Bible In One Year:
John 16-21
Proverbs 7:6-27
Our 3-year-old grandson loves to play pretend games with grandma. He comes over to our home once a week, and Ma-Ma [that's what he calls her] takes him to the supermarket, to the botanical gardens to feed fish and turtles, and to ride the underground train --- all without leaving our home! He guards this game of pretend so jealously as something between Ma-Ma and him that one day when we rode the real train, he asked, "Why are there other people in our train?"
Pretending is normal for a 3-year-old. But some carry the habit of pretending into adulthood when they attend church. What they do in church has no bearing on what they do the rest of the week. On Sunday they praise God heartily, but on Monday they become different people. What they express in worship is not seen in their behavior.
Our Lord Jesus Christ knows that we can fall into this trap easily. That is why in His prayer to His Father, He said, "I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one" [John 17:15].
God has placed us here to make a difference in our world. As He protects us from falling for the wiles of the evil one, He wants us to live by the same consistent standards in every aspect of our lives --- not just on Sunday. --- C.P. Hia
Consistency! How much we need
To walk a measured pace,
To live the life of which we speak,
Until we see His face. --- Anon.
SOME PEOPLE HAVE HEAVEN ON THEIR TONGUES, BUT THE WORLD IN THEIR HEARTS.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Forgiven!
Read: Psalm 103:1-12
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. --- Psalm 32:1
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 19-21
Proverbs 7:1-5
A little boy had just been tucked into bed by his mother, who was waiting to hear his prayers. But he had been naughty that day, and now it was bothering him. So he said, "Mama, I wish you'd go now and leave me alone. I want to pray by myself."
Sensing that something was wrong, she asked, "Bobby, is there anything you ought to tell me?" "No, Mommy," he replied. "You would just scold me, but God will forgive me and forget about it."
That little boy understood one of the greatest salvation benefits of all --- the reality of sins forgiven. The Bible indicates that in Christ "we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins" [Col. 1:14]. We who have received the Lord Jesus as Savior enjoy freedom from sin's eternal condemnation [Rom. 8:1], and we can also have daily forgiveness and cleansing [1 John 1:9].
The apostle Paul said that salvation provides these added benefits: we are justified [Rom. 3:24], and we are at peace with God [5:1].
We should never get the idea that our sins are taken lightly by the Lord. But when we acknowledge our guilt with true repentance, God is ready to forgive because of what Jesus did on the cross. It's up to us to accept it. --- Richard De Haan
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small:
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all. --- Watts
WHEN GOD FORGIVES A SIN, HE NEVER BRINGS IT UP AGAIN.
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. --- Psalm 32:1
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 19-21
Proverbs 7:1-5
A little boy had just been tucked into bed by his mother, who was waiting to hear his prayers. But he had been naughty that day, and now it was bothering him. So he said, "Mama, I wish you'd go now and leave me alone. I want to pray by myself."
Sensing that something was wrong, she asked, "Bobby, is there anything you ought to tell me?" "No, Mommy," he replied. "You would just scold me, but God will forgive me and forget about it."
That little boy understood one of the greatest salvation benefits of all --- the reality of sins forgiven. The Bible indicates that in Christ "we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins" [Col. 1:14]. We who have received the Lord Jesus as Savior enjoy freedom from sin's eternal condemnation [Rom. 8:1], and we can also have daily forgiveness and cleansing [1 John 1:9].
The apostle Paul said that salvation provides these added benefits: we are justified [Rom. 3:24], and we are at peace with God [5:1].
We should never get the idea that our sins are taken lightly by the Lord. But when we acknowledge our guilt with true repentance, God is ready to forgive because of what Jesus did on the cross. It's up to us to accept it. --- Richard De Haan
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small:
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all. --- Watts
WHEN GOD FORGIVES A SIN, HE NEVER BRINGS IT UP AGAIN.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Imperfect Gifts
Read: James 1:2-18
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights. --- James 1:17
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 16-18
Proverbs 6:20-35
When I was a child, I wondered why I had to thank God for food I didn't want to eat. In my immature mind, gratitude was a response to receiving something I wanted --- like a hamburger and French fries, not asparagus. So why did I have to be thankful for something I didn't want?
In the human realm, my thinking was logical. Not everything people give us is for our good. And of course not everything we want is good.
But the situation with God is different. As Christ reminded us, loving parents do not give their children a stone rather than bread, a snake instead of a fish. And God is far more loving than our earthly parents [Matt. 7:9-11].
This doesn't mean that God's children can expect a pain-free, stress-free life. James tells us not only that every good gift comes from our heavenly Father [1:17], but also that we are to "count it all joy" when we "fall into various trials." The testing of our "faith produces patience," and the work of patience makes us "perfect and complete, lacking nothing" [vv. 2-4].
Even when we receive something that doesn't seem good, we can be grateful because we know there is more to it than we can see. What seems like an imperfect gift may be the means by which God perfects us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Beauty for ashes and gold for my dross;
Joy for my sorrow, a crown for my cross;
Peace for my heartache, a balm for my pain;
Sunshine for shadows, a bow after rain. --- Widmeyer
A TRIAL MAY BE GOD'S GOOD GIFT IN DISGUISE.
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights. --- James 1:17
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 16-18
Proverbs 6:20-35
When I was a child, I wondered why I had to thank God for food I didn't want to eat. In my immature mind, gratitude was a response to receiving something I wanted --- like a hamburger and French fries, not asparagus. So why did I have to be thankful for something I didn't want?
In the human realm, my thinking was logical. Not everything people give us is for our good. And of course not everything we want is good.
But the situation with God is different. As Christ reminded us, loving parents do not give their children a stone rather than bread, a snake instead of a fish. And God is far more loving than our earthly parents [Matt. 7:9-11].
This doesn't mean that God's children can expect a pain-free, stress-free life. James tells us not only that every good gift comes from our heavenly Father [1:17], but also that we are to "count it all joy" when we "fall into various trials." The testing of our "faith produces patience," and the work of patience makes us "perfect and complete, lacking nothing" [vv. 2-4].
Even when we receive something that doesn't seem good, we can be grateful because we know there is more to it than we can see. What seems like an imperfect gift may be the means by which God perfects us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Beauty for ashes and gold for my dross;
Joy for my sorrow, a crown for my cross;
Peace for my heartache, a balm for my pain;
Sunshine for shadows, a bow after rain. --- Widmeyer
A TRIAL MAY BE GOD'S GOOD GIFT IN DISGUISE.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Defining Moment
Read: Genesis 50:15-21
You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good...to save many people alive. --- Genesis 50:20
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 13-15
Proverbs 6:12-19
Two years ago, people around the world were stunned by a shooting rampage that left 32 victims dead on the campus of Virginia Tech University. In the aftermath, the mother of one critically wounded student who survived said she did not want the ordeal to become the defining moment in her son's life. Instead, she hoped it could be "something positive, some great celebration of his life."
When the unthinkable happens, it may seen impossible to believe that anything can overcome the emotional scars. Yet, the life of Joseph offers a powerful illustration of God's transforming power [Gen. 37:50]. The brothers who sold him into slavery were sure he would take revenge on them [50:15-17]. But Joseph told them, "You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive" [v.20].
When we place our desire for revenge in God's hands, we become participants in the remarkable process described by Paul: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" [Rom. 12:21].
The defining moments of our lives are not determined by the evil done to us, but by our response through the grace and power of God. --- David McCasland
When rough the path from day to day,
When sorrows fill our eyes hope in Christ
Can lift our soul and calm our fears. --- D. De Haan
LET DANGER DRIVE YOU TO JESUS.
You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good...to save many people alive. --- Genesis 50:20
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 13-15
Proverbs 6:12-19
Two years ago, people around the world were stunned by a shooting rampage that left 32 victims dead on the campus of Virginia Tech University. In the aftermath, the mother of one critically wounded student who survived said she did not want the ordeal to become the defining moment in her son's life. Instead, she hoped it could be "something positive, some great celebration of his life."
When the unthinkable happens, it may seen impossible to believe that anything can overcome the emotional scars. Yet, the life of Joseph offers a powerful illustration of God's transforming power [Gen. 37:50]. The brothers who sold him into slavery were sure he would take revenge on them [50:15-17]. But Joseph told them, "You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive" [v.20].
When we place our desire for revenge in God's hands, we become participants in the remarkable process described by Paul: "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good" [Rom. 12:21].
The defining moments of our lives are not determined by the evil done to us, but by our response through the grace and power of God. --- David McCasland
When rough the path from day to day,
When sorrows fill our eyes hope in Christ
Can lift our soul and calm our fears. --- D. De Haan
LET DANGER DRIVE YOU TO JESUS.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Honest Doubts
Read: Matthew 28
When they saw [Jesus], they worshiped Him; but some doubted. --- Matthew 28:17
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 10-12
Proverbs 6:1-11
Our experience tells us that people do not return from the grave. At the heart of our desolation when death strikes is the awful certainty that in this life we will not see our loved ones again. We attend funerals to honor their memory and grieve our loss, but we do not expect to be greeted at the door by the person who has died.
In light of this, it should not seen surprising that Jesus' disciples were reluctant to believe that He had risen from the dead. Following the testimony of the women who had seen an angel, an empty tomb, and Jesus Himself [Matt. 28:1-10], "the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted" [vv. 16-17].
Among those who were closest to the Lord and had heard His remarkable teaching and witnessed His powerful miracles, some doubted that Jesus was actually alive again. But the honest doubts of the disciples soon turned to joy and hope as they embraced the reality of their risen Lord.
What do we doubt about Jesus body? Does our experience tell us that our past mistakes, present, struggles, or future prospects can't be changed? With fresh memories of Easter, trust that He can do all things. --- David McCasland
Where Jesus reigns there is no fear;
No restless doubt, no hopeless tear;
No raging sea nor tempest dread,
But quietness and calm instead. --- Anon.
ONE LOOK TO CALVARY CAN DISPEL YOUR DOUBTS.
When they saw [Jesus], they worshiped Him; but some doubted. --- Matthew 28:17
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 10-12
Proverbs 6:1-11
Our experience tells us that people do not return from the grave. At the heart of our desolation when death strikes is the awful certainty that in this life we will not see our loved ones again. We attend funerals to honor their memory and grieve our loss, but we do not expect to be greeted at the door by the person who has died.
In light of this, it should not seen surprising that Jesus' disciples were reluctant to believe that He had risen from the dead. Following the testimony of the women who had seen an angel, an empty tomb, and Jesus Himself [Matt. 28:1-10], "the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted" [vv. 16-17].
Among those who were closest to the Lord and had heard His remarkable teaching and witnessed His powerful miracles, some doubted that Jesus was actually alive again. But the honest doubts of the disciples soon turned to joy and hope as they embraced the reality of their risen Lord.
What do we doubt about Jesus body? Does our experience tell us that our past mistakes, present, struggles, or future prospects can't be changed? With fresh memories of Easter, trust that He can do all things. --- David McCasland
Where Jesus reigns there is no fear;
No restless doubt, no hopeless tear;
No raging sea nor tempest dread,
But quietness and calm instead. --- Anon.
ONE LOOK TO CALVARY CAN DISPEL YOUR DOUBTS.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
The Tomb Of Jesus
Read: Luke 24:1-12
He is not here, but is risen! --- Luke 24:6
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 7-9
Proverbs 5:15-23
In his documentary The Last Tomb of Jesus, Simcha Jacobovici claims archaeological evidence that disproves the resurrection of Christ. He says that the words "Jesus son of Joseph" found on a burial container near Jerusalem refer to Jesus of Nazareth. He also claims to have identified Jesus' DNA.
How valid are these conclusions? The Israel Antiquities Authority calls them "nonsense." Other secular and religious scholars agree. Jesus and Joseph were common names in first-century Judea. And Jacobovici needs DNA samples from Jesus to compare with the bones in the tomb. Obviously, that's impossible!
But there are strong arguments in favor of Jesus' resurrection. Most compelling is the fact that every disciple except John died a martyr's death. Central to their message was Jesus' resurrection [Acts 2:29-32]. If Christ had not been raised from the dead, why did the disciples choose to die rather than deny it?
Assaults on our faith and on the Scriptures come and go. Don't be shaken by these baseless attacks. Two thousand years ago, the disciples were eyewitnesses to the real tom of Jesus. The angels told them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen!" [Luke 24:5-6]. --- Dennis Fisher
Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o'er His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign. --- Lowry
THE RESURRECTION IS A FACT OF HISTORY THAT DEMANDS A RESPONSE OF FAITH.
He is not here, but is risen! --- Luke 24:6
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 7-9
Proverbs 5:15-23
In his documentary The Last Tomb of Jesus, Simcha Jacobovici claims archaeological evidence that disproves the resurrection of Christ. He says that the words "Jesus son of Joseph" found on a burial container near Jerusalem refer to Jesus of Nazareth. He also claims to have identified Jesus' DNA.
How valid are these conclusions? The Israel Antiquities Authority calls them "nonsense." Other secular and religious scholars agree. Jesus and Joseph were common names in first-century Judea. And Jacobovici needs DNA samples from Jesus to compare with the bones in the tomb. Obviously, that's impossible!
But there are strong arguments in favor of Jesus' resurrection. Most compelling is the fact that every disciple except John died a martyr's death. Central to their message was Jesus' resurrection [Acts 2:29-32]. If Christ had not been raised from the dead, why did the disciples choose to die rather than deny it?
Assaults on our faith and on the Scriptures come and go. Don't be shaken by these baseless attacks. Two thousand years ago, the disciples were eyewitnesses to the real tom of Jesus. The angels told them, "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen!" [Luke 24:5-6]. --- Dennis Fisher
Up from the grave He arose,
With a mighty triumph o'er His foes;
He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
And He lives forever with His saints to reign. --- Lowry
THE RESURRECTION IS A FACT OF HISTORY THAT DEMANDS A RESPONSE OF FAITH.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Just Jewelry?
Read: Matthew 27:22-26
God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. --- Galatians 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 42-44
Some Christians make it a habit to wear a cross. It may be a necklace or a lapel pin. It may be worn thoughtlessly as a decoration or prayerfully to let people know of the wearer's personal faith.
In April 2006, a Methodist church in the city of Dudley, England, found out that it would have to pay a fee to put a cross on its new building. Yes, a fee was required because under British law the cross is an advertisement. In proclaims to the world, whether on a person or a building, that the blood-stained cross of Calvary is our only hope of forgiveness and salvation.
Our Bible reading today tells us of the cross --- the instrument of execution used on our Savior [Matt. 27:22-26]. The crowd in anger shouted, "Let Him be crucified!" The cross is a sign of His death, and must not be taken lightly. This should cause us to examine what the cross means to us. Is it a witness to our eternal hope in the saving death of Jesus on Calvary?
While wearing the cross may be a challenging mark of discipleship, far more challenging is our Lord's command that we "take up [our] cross daily" and learn what it means to follow in His footsteps [Luke 9:23]. And that includes a willingness to practice costly discipleship. --- Vernon Grounds
"Take up thy cross and follow Me,"
I hear the blessed Savior call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave His all? --- Ackley
BECAUSE JESUS BORE THE CROSS FOR US, WE SHOULD BE WILLING TO TAKE IT UP FOR HIM.
God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. --- Galatians 6:14
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 42-44
Some Christians make it a habit to wear a cross. It may be a necklace or a lapel pin. It may be worn thoughtlessly as a decoration or prayerfully to let people know of the wearer's personal faith.
In April 2006, a Methodist church in the city of Dudley, England, found out that it would have to pay a fee to put a cross on its new building. Yes, a fee was required because under British law the cross is an advertisement. In proclaims to the world, whether on a person or a building, that the blood-stained cross of Calvary is our only hope of forgiveness and salvation.
Our Bible reading today tells us of the cross --- the instrument of execution used on our Savior [Matt. 27:22-26]. The crowd in anger shouted, "Let Him be crucified!" The cross is a sign of His death, and must not be taken lightly. This should cause us to examine what the cross means to us. Is it a witness to our eternal hope in the saving death of Jesus on Calvary?
While wearing the cross may be a challenging mark of discipleship, far more challenging is our Lord's command that we "take up [our] cross daily" and learn what it means to follow in His footsteps [Luke 9:23]. And that includes a willingness to practice costly discipleship. --- Vernon Grounds
"Take up thy cross and follow Me,"
I hear the blessed Savior call;
How can I make a lesser sacrifice
When Jesus gave His all? --- Ackley
BECAUSE JESUS BORE THE CROSS FOR US, WE SHOULD BE WILLING TO TAKE IT UP FOR HIM.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
We Believe
Read: Romans 8:11-18
Blessed be the God ... [who] has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. --- 1 Peter 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
John 11-15
Proverbs 5:1-14
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina put New Orleans underwater. But an unlikely event gave the city a new lease on life just 17 months later. The New Orleans Saints, a perennially woeful football team, made a run at the Super Bowl championship. The whole region grasped the excitement. Signs saying "We Believe" reflected a new day.
Commenting on the phenomenon, producer Quint Davis said, "When the season is over, the miles of devastation are still going to be devastated." But he added, "If this can happen for New Orleans, this miracle, then anything can happen for New Orleans."
The Saints fell one game short, but the idea remained enticing. An "impossibility" had so captured the hearts of a people, they began thinking anything was possible.
In an infinitely more important way, this is what we have in Jesus' bodily resurrection from the dead. Christ defeated death on mortality's own turf, declaring the power of God to give us new life and hope. Paul wrote, "He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" [Rom. 8:11].
No other event in human history is more significant. No other event is so full of immediate hope and ultimate victory for the saints in Christ Jesus. --- Mart De Haan
Jesus Christ today is risen,
And o'er death triumphant reigns;
He has burst the grave's strong prison,
Leading sin herself in chains. --- Luther
CHRIST'S RESURRECTION IS THE BUD OF PROMISE --- OUR RESURRECTION IS THE FLOWER OF FULFILLMENT.
Blessed be the God ... [who] has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. --- 1 Peter 1:3
The Bible In One Year:
John 11-15
Proverbs 5:1-14
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina put New Orleans underwater. But an unlikely event gave the city a new lease on life just 17 months later. The New Orleans Saints, a perennially woeful football team, made a run at the Super Bowl championship. The whole region grasped the excitement. Signs saying "We Believe" reflected a new day.
Commenting on the phenomenon, producer Quint Davis said, "When the season is over, the miles of devastation are still going to be devastated." But he added, "If this can happen for New Orleans, this miracle, then anything can happen for New Orleans."
The Saints fell one game short, but the idea remained enticing. An "impossibility" had so captured the hearts of a people, they began thinking anything was possible.
In an infinitely more important way, this is what we have in Jesus' bodily resurrection from the dead. Christ defeated death on mortality's own turf, declaring the power of God to give us new life and hope. Paul wrote, "He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you" [Rom. 8:11].
No other event in human history is more significant. No other event is so full of immediate hope and ultimate victory for the saints in Christ Jesus. --- Mart De Haan
Jesus Christ today is risen,
And o'er death triumphant reigns;
He has burst the grave's strong prison,
Leading sin herself in chains. --- Luther
CHRIST'S RESURRECTION IS THE BUD OF PROMISE --- OUR RESURRECTION IS THE FLOWER OF FULFILLMENT.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
A Virtuoso Ignored
Read: Romans 1:18-23
Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen. --- Romans 1:20
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 4-6
Proverbs 4:18-27
A man wearing jeans, a T-shirt, and a baseball cap positioned himself against a wall beside a trash can at the L'Enfant Plaza station in Washington, DC. He pulled out a violin and began to play. In the next 43 minutes, as he performed six classical pieces, 1,097 people passed by, ignoring him.
No one knew it, but the man playing outside the Metro was Joshua Bell, one of the finest classical musicians in the world, playing some of the most elegant music ever written on a $3.5 million Stradivarius. But no crowd gathered for the virtuoso. "It was a strange feeling, that people were actually...ignoring me," said Bell.
God has sovereignly planted evidence of His existence in the very nature of man And creation delivers an unmistakable message about His creativity, beauty, power, and character. Although God has revealed His majesty, many refuse to acknowledge and thank Him. But God will hold everyone responsible for ignoring who He is and what He has revealed: "They are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful" [Rom. 1:20-21].
Let us acknowledge and thank the Virtuoso of heaven, who has wonderfully revealed Himself to us. --- Marvin Williams
The treasures of the crystal snows,
And all the wonders nature shows,
Speak of a mighty Maker's hand
That all in love and wisdom planned. --- Bosch
ALL CREATION IS AN OUTSTRETCHED FINGER.
Since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen. --- Romans 1:20
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 4-6
Proverbs 4:18-27
A man wearing jeans, a T-shirt, and a baseball cap positioned himself against a wall beside a trash can at the L'Enfant Plaza station in Washington, DC. He pulled out a violin and began to play. In the next 43 minutes, as he performed six classical pieces, 1,097 people passed by, ignoring him.
No one knew it, but the man playing outside the Metro was Joshua Bell, one of the finest classical musicians in the world, playing some of the most elegant music ever written on a $3.5 million Stradivarius. But no crowd gathered for the virtuoso. "It was a strange feeling, that people were actually...ignoring me," said Bell.
God has sovereignly planted evidence of His existence in the very nature of man And creation delivers an unmistakable message about His creativity, beauty, power, and character. Although God has revealed His majesty, many refuse to acknowledge and thank Him. But God will hold everyone responsible for ignoring who He is and what He has revealed: "They are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful" [Rom. 1:20-21].
Let us acknowledge and thank the Virtuoso of heaven, who has wonderfully revealed Himself to us. --- Marvin Williams
The treasures of the crystal snows,
And all the wonders nature shows,
Speak of a mighty Maker's hand
That all in love and wisdom planned. --- Bosch
ALL CREATION IS AN OUTSTRETCHED FINGER.
Friday, April 10, 2009
Remember Me?
Read: Luke 23:39-43
Remember me when You come into Your kingdom. --- Luke 23:42
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 1-3
Proverbs 4:1-17
Matthew Henshaw got his name into the Guinness Book of World Records in an unusual way. After swallowing a 15.9-inch sword, Henshaw attached a 40-pound sack of potatoes to the handle of the sword and held it for 5 seconds. [This is not recommended].
Henshaw and others like him have gone to extraordinary lengths to have their names memorialized in the world's most famous record book. The longing for immortality compels people to do many things --- some remarkable, and some bizaare.
The immortality Jesus offers has nothing to do with anything we do. In fact, after giving His disciples the authority to do truly remarkable things [Luke 10:17-19], Jesus said, "Do not rejoice...that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven" [v.20].
At Golgotha, an unnamed thief believed that message just in time [Luke 23:40-42]. He understood that eternal life had nothing to do with what he had done --- good or bad. It had to do with what Jesus was doing --- giving His own life so that even the undeserving could be welcomed into heaven by God. The important thing is being remembered not by others, but by God. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood ---
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah, what a Savior! --- Bliss
OUR LIVES MATTER BECAUSE GOD LOVES US.
Remember me when You come into Your kingdom. --- Luke 23:42
The Bible In One Year:
Judges 1-3
Proverbs 4:1-17
Matthew Henshaw got his name into the Guinness Book of World Records in an unusual way. After swallowing a 15.9-inch sword, Henshaw attached a 40-pound sack of potatoes to the handle of the sword and held it for 5 seconds. [This is not recommended].
Henshaw and others like him have gone to extraordinary lengths to have their names memorialized in the world's most famous record book. The longing for immortality compels people to do many things --- some remarkable, and some bizaare.
The immortality Jesus offers has nothing to do with anything we do. In fact, after giving His disciples the authority to do truly remarkable things [Luke 10:17-19], Jesus said, "Do not rejoice...that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven" [v.20].
At Golgotha, an unnamed thief believed that message just in time [Luke 23:40-42]. He understood that eternal life had nothing to do with what he had done --- good or bad. It had to do with what Jesus was doing --- giving His own life so that even the undeserving could be welcomed into heaven by God. The important thing is being remembered not by others, but by God. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Bearing shame and scoffing rude,
In my place condemned He stood ---
Sealed my pardon with His blood:
Hallelujah, what a Savior! --- Bliss
OUR LIVES MATTER BECAUSE GOD LOVES US.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Who Holds The Cup?
Read: Matthew 26:36-46
Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me? --- John 18:11
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 22-24
Proverbs 3:27-35
Are you being called to taste some bitter cup of pain or loss? Are you tempted to push it away? You may be wondering, Is God in this situation? If so, recall the dark and distressing experience of Jesus and His example on the night of His betrayal.
We must never forget that Jesus was the God-Man, with both divine and human natures. He therefore recoiled from the prospect of agonizing crucifixion and the ordeal of having the world's sin heaped on His sinless soul. And worst of all, He shuddered at the thought of being abandoned by His Father. So He pleaded, "If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me" [Matt. 26:39]. Yet after that He said in trustful submission, "Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?" [John 18:11]. He knew that the hand, which would for our redemption hold the cup to His lips, was not the hand of Judas or Caiaphas or Pilate. It was the hand of His loving Father intent on redeeming our lost human race.
Baffled by the mystery of such love, we take our stand on Calvary and believe that any cup we drink is held to our lips by the Father of fathomless love and wisdom. Our prayer is that of trustful submission because we believe that even life's most bitter cup is held in the Father's hand. --- Vernon Grounds
Death and the curse were in our cup
O Christ, 'twas full for Thee!
But Thou has drained the last dark drop ---
Now blessings there for me. --- Anon
WE LEARN THE LESSON OF TRUST IN THE SCHOOL OF TRIAL.
Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me? --- John 18:11
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 22-24
Proverbs 3:27-35
Are you being called to taste some bitter cup of pain or loss? Are you tempted to push it away? You may be wondering, Is God in this situation? If so, recall the dark and distressing experience of Jesus and His example on the night of His betrayal.
We must never forget that Jesus was the God-Man, with both divine and human natures. He therefore recoiled from the prospect of agonizing crucifixion and the ordeal of having the world's sin heaped on His sinless soul. And worst of all, He shuddered at the thought of being abandoned by His Father. So He pleaded, "If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me" [Matt. 26:39]. Yet after that He said in trustful submission, "Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?" [John 18:11]. He knew that the hand, which would for our redemption hold the cup to His lips, was not the hand of Judas or Caiaphas or Pilate. It was the hand of His loving Father intent on redeeming our lost human race.
Baffled by the mystery of such love, we take our stand on Calvary and believe that any cup we drink is held to our lips by the Father of fathomless love and wisdom. Our prayer is that of trustful submission because we believe that even life's most bitter cup is held in the Father's hand. --- Vernon Grounds
Death and the curse were in our cup
O Christ, 'twas full for Thee!
But Thou has drained the last dark drop ---
Now blessings there for me. --- Anon
WE LEARN THE LESSON OF TRUST IN THE SCHOOL OF TRIAL.
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
A Fragile Lamb?
Read: 1 Cor. 11:23-26
He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. --- Isaiah 53:5
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 19-21
Proverbs 3:11-26
After the Easter eggs were located and the Easter baskets had been opened, Uncle Jay felt compelled to find out whether the white chocolate lamb was hollow or solid. Without thinking of the potential consequences, he squeezed the lamb. Suddenly Jay's whole body stiffened, as if he'd ingested some paralyzing poison. Finally his eyes moved to see if anyone had witnessed the deed, his thumb, however, remained stuck in the side of the lamb.
We waited for the reaction. A wail. A howl. A cry of anguish over the crushed chocolate candy. As the adults in the room scrambled for words that would soothe the sorrow of 3-year-old Jenna, she calmly spoke words that soothed us. "That's okay, Uncle Jay. The lamb would have been broken when I ate him anyway."
While we adults tried to make sacred memories out of Easter traditions, a 3-year-old made a sacred moment for us. She reminded us that Easter is about the perfect Lamb of God, broken so that we can be whole. Her youthful wisdom reminds me of the words we recall at communion: "This is My body which is broken for you." May we taste and see that the life He offers is sweeter than anything we concoct for ourselves. --- Julie Ackerman Link
See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown. --- Watts
NOTHING SPEAKS MORE CLEARLY OF GOD'S LOVE THAN THE CROSS.
He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. --- Isaiah 53:5
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 19-21
Proverbs 3:11-26
After the Easter eggs were located and the Easter baskets had been opened, Uncle Jay felt compelled to find out whether the white chocolate lamb was hollow or solid. Without thinking of the potential consequences, he squeezed the lamb. Suddenly Jay's whole body stiffened, as if he'd ingested some paralyzing poison. Finally his eyes moved to see if anyone had witnessed the deed, his thumb, however, remained stuck in the side of the lamb.
We waited for the reaction. A wail. A howl. A cry of anguish over the crushed chocolate candy. As the adults in the room scrambled for words that would soothe the sorrow of 3-year-old Jenna, she calmly spoke words that soothed us. "That's okay, Uncle Jay. The lamb would have been broken when I ate him anyway."
While we adults tried to make sacred memories out of Easter traditions, a 3-year-old made a sacred moment for us. She reminded us that Easter is about the perfect Lamb of God, broken so that we can be whole. Her youthful wisdom reminds me of the words we recall at communion: "This is My body which is broken for you." May we taste and see that the life He offers is sweeter than anything we concoct for ourselves. --- Julie Ackerman Link
See, from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down;
Did e'er such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown. --- Watts
NOTHING SPEAKS MORE CLEARLY OF GOD'S LOVE THAN THE CROSS.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Why? Why? Oh, Why?
Read: Proverbs 3:1-12
If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons. --- Hebrews 12:7
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 16-18
Proverbs 3:1-10
Why must I suffer disappointment, sorrow, and tribulation? What have I done that God should send me trials? Is He displeased with me? These questions are constantly asked by God's dear children.
Much of this fear and questioning is due to our misunderstanding of God's dealings with His own. He has His good reasons. And one of those reasons is for our spiritual discipline. We should be far more afraid of being left alone than of God's chastening, for He wastes no time on worthless objects that give no promise of fruitfulness.
On the shores of Lake Michigan are great barren sand dunes that have never felt the point of a plow. But in the rick lowlands beyond them, the farmer is constantly cultivating the soil. The farmer knows what he is doing, so he keeps on breaking up the soil. The deeper the plow works and the more the sharp harrow, the more precious the crop will be when harvest time comes.
God's plow goes deep, but it is only that in the end we may forget the plowing and rejoice in the blessing of bearing much fruit for Him. "No chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it" [Heb. 12:11]. --- M.R. De Haan, M.D.
When blades of distress cut deep in the soul,
Breaking up ground that was untouched before,
The Lord is preparing soil to bear fruit
Fit for the harvest to feed many more. --- Hess
ALL SUNSHINE AND NO RAIN MAKE A DESERT.
If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons. --- Hebrews 12:7
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 16-18
Proverbs 3:1-10
Why must I suffer disappointment, sorrow, and tribulation? What have I done that God should send me trials? Is He displeased with me? These questions are constantly asked by God's dear children.
Much of this fear and questioning is due to our misunderstanding of God's dealings with His own. He has His good reasons. And one of those reasons is for our spiritual discipline. We should be far more afraid of being left alone than of God's chastening, for He wastes no time on worthless objects that give no promise of fruitfulness.
On the shores of Lake Michigan are great barren sand dunes that have never felt the point of a plow. But in the rick lowlands beyond them, the farmer is constantly cultivating the soil. The farmer knows what he is doing, so he keeps on breaking up the soil. The deeper the plow works and the more the sharp harrow, the more precious the crop will be when harvest time comes.
God's plow goes deep, but it is only that in the end we may forget the plowing and rejoice in the blessing of bearing much fruit for Him. "No chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it" [Heb. 12:11]. --- M.R. De Haan, M.D.
When blades of distress cut deep in the soul,
Breaking up ground that was untouched before,
The Lord is preparing soil to bear fruit
Fit for the harvest to feed many more. --- Hess
ALL SUNSHINE AND NO RAIN MAKE A DESERT.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Nest In The Greatness
Read: Genesis 2:1-15
The LORD God ... put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. --- Genesis 2:15
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 39-41
In his historical novel Chesapeake, James Michener tells the story of multiple generations living near a marsh. One character, Chris Pflaum, is introduced as a restless 13-year-old sitting in class waiting for summer break. But when the teacher reads a poem by Sidney Lanier, the boy's heart is stirred.
As the march-hen secretly builds
on the water sod,
Behold I will build me a nest
on the greatness of God:
I will fly int he greatness of God
as the marsh-hen flies
In the freedom that fills all the space
'twixt the marsh and the skies.
When Chris grew up, this poem motivated him to work tirelessly to preserve the precious wetlands and the wildlife he loved.
The poem's words stir the heart because they use nature as a springboard of praise to the Creator. But, unfortunately, our living planet can be neglected and exploited. God's mandate to Adam has been passed on to all believers. "The LORD God ... put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it" [Gen. 2:15]. The words tend and keep mean "to cultivate as servants."
We are to care for and guard God's creation as responsible stewards. --- Dennis Fisher
The natural world that God has made
Must not be used at whim;
We serve as stewards of His earth,
Responsible to Him. --- D. De Haan
TO MISTREAT GOD'S CREATION IS TO OFFEND THE CREATOR.
The LORD God ... put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it. --- Genesis 2:15
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 39-41
In his historical novel Chesapeake, James Michener tells the story of multiple generations living near a marsh. One character, Chris Pflaum, is introduced as a restless 13-year-old sitting in class waiting for summer break. But when the teacher reads a poem by Sidney Lanier, the boy's heart is stirred.
As the march-hen secretly builds
on the water sod,
Behold I will build me a nest
on the greatness of God:
I will fly int he greatness of God
as the marsh-hen flies
In the freedom that fills all the space
'twixt the marsh and the skies.
When Chris grew up, this poem motivated him to work tirelessly to preserve the precious wetlands and the wildlife he loved.
The poem's words stir the heart because they use nature as a springboard of praise to the Creator. But, unfortunately, our living planet can be neglected and exploited. God's mandate to Adam has been passed on to all believers. "The LORD God ... put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it" [Gen. 2:15]. The words tend and keep mean "to cultivate as servants."
We are to care for and guard God's creation as responsible stewards. --- Dennis Fisher
The natural world that God has made
Must not be used at whim;
We serve as stewards of His earth,
Responsible to Him. --- D. De Haan
TO MISTREAT GOD'S CREATION IS TO OFFEND THE CREATOR.
Sunday, April 05, 2009
What Changed?
Read: Matthew 21:1-11
Behold, your King is coming to you. --- Matthew 21:5
The Bible In One Year:
John 6-10
Proverbs 2:12-22
Jesus put a damper on His own party. On Sunday, He entered Jerusalem as the triumphant king, welcomed into the city by throngs of worshipers shouting, "Hosanna!" and honoring Him by waving palm branches. The healer of the sick and the giver of great wisdom had come, and the masses adored Him.
What went wrong that week? What changed the "Hosannas" to "Crucify Him"? It started to go bad when Jesus told the people what they didn't want to hear. Look at what He did. He threw the money changers out of the temple area [Matt. 21:12]. He taught that tax collectors and prostitutes could enter the kingdom of heaven before the religious [21:31]. He told the people to pay taxes [22:21]. Then He pronounced a series of woes against the religious leaders: "Woe to you, scribes and Pha-risees" [23:13-31].
But this is Jesus. The righteous One. The only perfect Man. God in the flesh. He was not in town for a popularity contest. His task was to proclaim the truth and provide salvation. And it cost Him His life.
Think about Jesus' up-and-down week in Jerusalem. Then praise Him for His perfection and His love --- love that took Him all the way to the cross. --- Dave Branon
Jesus, Thou art my righteousness,
For all my sins were Thine;
Thy death hath bought of God my peace,
Thy life hath made Him mine. --- Anon
THE NAILED-PIERCED HANDS OF JESUS REVEAL THE LOVE-FILLED HEART OF GOD.
Behold, your King is coming to you. --- Matthew 21:5
The Bible In One Year:
John 6-10
Proverbs 2:12-22
Jesus put a damper on His own party. On Sunday, He entered Jerusalem as the triumphant king, welcomed into the city by throngs of worshipers shouting, "Hosanna!" and honoring Him by waving palm branches. The healer of the sick and the giver of great wisdom had come, and the masses adored Him.
What went wrong that week? What changed the "Hosannas" to "Crucify Him"? It started to go bad when Jesus told the people what they didn't want to hear. Look at what He did. He threw the money changers out of the temple area [Matt. 21:12]. He taught that tax collectors and prostitutes could enter the kingdom of heaven before the religious [21:31]. He told the people to pay taxes [22:21]. Then He pronounced a series of woes against the religious leaders: "Woe to you, scribes and Pha-risees" [23:13-31].
But this is Jesus. The righteous One. The only perfect Man. God in the flesh. He was not in town for a popularity contest. His task was to proclaim the truth and provide salvation. And it cost Him His life.
Think about Jesus' up-and-down week in Jerusalem. Then praise Him for His perfection and His love --- love that took Him all the way to the cross. --- Dave Branon
Jesus, Thou art my righteousness,
For all my sins were Thine;
Thy death hath bought of God my peace,
Thy life hath made Him mine. --- Anon
THE NAILED-PIERCED HANDS OF JESUS REVEAL THE LOVE-FILLED HEART OF GOD.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
What Should I Do?
Read: Proverbs 2:1-9
The LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. --- Proverbs 2:6
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 13-15
Proverbs 2:1-11
My friend Krista is struggling with a decision: Should she keep her old car with its continual maintenance problems or buy a newer model? She wants to be a good steward of her finances and desires to make a wise decision. And most of all, she wants to honor God.
Financial decisions can be tough to make. Billy Graham even says, "If a person gets his attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out almost every other area in his life."
Here are a few ideas to consider about wisdom in money matters:
Do a checkup to be sure you're following God's priorities. Are you giving to Him and to others? [1 Cor. 16:2]. Taking care of family needs? [1 Tim. 5:8]. Not letting money control you? [Luke 16:13].
Research the topic. Consider all the options and the pros and cons of each one.
Ask God for wisdom. Pray, pray, and pray some more. He will direct you [Prov. 2:6].
Trust God and make the decision. Use the knowledge and wisdom you've gained, and commit your decision to Him.
Obedience to God nurtures a growing love-and-trust relationship with Him. What's most important is that we see each decision as an opportunity to draw closer to Him. --- Anne Cetas
When you're facing a decision
And it seems a daunting task,
Trust the Lord for true discernment ---
He'll give wisdom if you ask. --- Hess
THE CLOSER WE WALK WITH GOD, THE CLEARER WE SEE HIS GUIDANCE.
The LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. --- Proverbs 2:6
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 13-15
Proverbs 2:1-11
My friend Krista is struggling with a decision: Should she keep her old car with its continual maintenance problems or buy a newer model? She wants to be a good steward of her finances and desires to make a wise decision. And most of all, she wants to honor God.
Financial decisions can be tough to make. Billy Graham even says, "If a person gets his attitude toward money straight, it will help straighten out almost every other area in his life."
Here are a few ideas to consider about wisdom in money matters:
Do a checkup to be sure you're following God's priorities. Are you giving to Him and to others? [1 Cor. 16:2]. Taking care of family needs? [1 Tim. 5:8]. Not letting money control you? [Luke 16:13].
Research the topic. Consider all the options and the pros and cons of each one.
Ask God for wisdom. Pray, pray, and pray some more. He will direct you [Prov. 2:6].
Trust God and make the decision. Use the knowledge and wisdom you've gained, and commit your decision to Him.
Obedience to God nurtures a growing love-and-trust relationship with Him. What's most important is that we see each decision as an opportunity to draw closer to Him. --- Anne Cetas
When you're facing a decision
And it seems a daunting task,
Trust the Lord for true discernment ---
He'll give wisdom if you ask. --- Hess
THE CLOSER WE WALK WITH GOD, THE CLEARER WE SEE HIS GUIDANCE.
Friday, April 03, 2009
Right Place
Read: Proverbs 16:1-9
A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps. --- Proverbs 16:9
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 10-12
Proverbs 1:20-33
They were in the right place, on the wrong day. Or so it would seem.
The Dayspring Chorale, a traveling high school singing group, arrived at a nursing home for a Thursday concert. However, the folks at the home were expecting them on Friday. But they said if the group could get set up fast, they could sing for 20 minutes. Then they'd have to stop for a memorial service for one of the residents.
The chorale hurriedly got ready and sang, and as they did, the son of the man who had died heard them. When they were done, he asked if they could sing at his dad's service. They gladly agreed and ministered hope and truth to all who attended. God used these young people in a special way --- all because of a secretarial error. But was it a mistake?
We carefully make schedules so we can be where we think we should be. But we always need to keep in mind the words of Solomon, "A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps" [Prov. 16:9].
Do we seek ministry in life's unplanned schedule changes? Do we turn detours into guided tours of what He wants to do through us? If we're doing God's will, we'll be in the right place. Then, wherever we are, we can point people to Him. --- Dave Branon
Sometimes our plan does not unfold
The way we thought it would;
But God is always in control
To use it for our good. --- Sper
UNEXPECTED CHANGES ARE OPPORTUNITIES IN DISGUISE.
A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps. --- Proverbs 16:9
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 10-12
Proverbs 1:20-33
They were in the right place, on the wrong day. Or so it would seem.
The Dayspring Chorale, a traveling high school singing group, arrived at a nursing home for a Thursday concert. However, the folks at the home were expecting them on Friday. But they said if the group could get set up fast, they could sing for 20 minutes. Then they'd have to stop for a memorial service for one of the residents.
The chorale hurriedly got ready and sang, and as they did, the son of the man who had died heard them. When they were done, he asked if they could sing at his dad's service. They gladly agreed and ministered hope and truth to all who attended. God used these young people in a special way --- all because of a secretarial error. But was it a mistake?
We carefully make schedules so we can be where we think we should be. But we always need to keep in mind the words of Solomon, "A man's heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps" [Prov. 16:9].
Do we seek ministry in life's unplanned schedule changes? Do we turn detours into guided tours of what He wants to do through us? If we're doing God's will, we'll be in the right place. Then, wherever we are, we can point people to Him. --- Dave Branon
Sometimes our plan does not unfold
The way we thought it would;
But God is always in control
To use it for our good. --- Sper
UNEXPECTED CHANGES ARE OPPORTUNITIES IN DISGUISE.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
Michael Cardinal
Read: Matthew 6:25-34
Look at the birds of the air ... - Matthew 6:26
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 7-9
Proverbs 1:8-19
Twig by twig a cardinal constructed a bowl-shaped home in the bush outside my office window. Soon she laid an egg and kept it warm until it hatched. I named the little bird Michael. Although he was tiny, he had a huge appetite. His parents worked hard to keep him fed and safe. In a few months, Michael was ready to leave, and I was there to witness the amazing event.
When Michael left, so did mom and dad. The nest remained empty until the next spring. When mama cardinal returned, I was happy to see her but also sad. We had sold our house and I was concerned that the new owners might chop down the bush. But my concern soon turned to amazement. As I dismantled my office, mama cardinal dismantled her nest. By the time we left, so had the cardinal family. Mama cardinal's God-given instincts had told her to move.
This brought to mind another nature lesson. Using birds and lilies as examples, Jesus urged people not to worry. Since God takes care of birds, surely He will take care of His people [Matt. 6:23-30].
When concern for our own well-being leads to anxious thoughts, we can look at the birds and be assured of our value to God and of His care for us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
I sing because I'm happy,
I sing because I'm free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me. --- Martin
WE NEED NOT FEAR THE PERILS AROUND US BECAUSE THE EYE OF THE LORD IS ALWAYS UPON US.
Look at the birds of the air ... - Matthew 6:26
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 7-9
Proverbs 1:8-19
Twig by twig a cardinal constructed a bowl-shaped home in the bush outside my office window. Soon she laid an egg and kept it warm until it hatched. I named the little bird Michael. Although he was tiny, he had a huge appetite. His parents worked hard to keep him fed and safe. In a few months, Michael was ready to leave, and I was there to witness the amazing event.
When Michael left, so did mom and dad. The nest remained empty until the next spring. When mama cardinal returned, I was happy to see her but also sad. We had sold our house and I was concerned that the new owners might chop down the bush. But my concern soon turned to amazement. As I dismantled my office, mama cardinal dismantled her nest. By the time we left, so had the cardinal family. Mama cardinal's God-given instincts had told her to move.
This brought to mind another nature lesson. Using birds and lilies as examples, Jesus urged people not to worry. Since God takes care of birds, surely He will take care of His people [Matt. 6:23-30].
When concern for our own well-being leads to anxious thoughts, we can look at the birds and be assured of our value to God and of His care for us. --- Julie Ackerman Link
I sing because I'm happy,
I sing because I'm free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me. --- Martin
WE NEED NOT FEAR THE PERILS AROUND US BECAUSE THE EYE OF THE LORD IS ALWAYS UPON US.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
In The Driver's Seat
Read: Matthew 5:13-16
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. --- Matthew 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 4-6
Proverbs 1:1-7
I love the story of the stressed-out woman who was tailgating a man as they drove on a busy boulevard. When he slowed to a stop at a yellow light, the woman hit the horn, cussing and screaming in frustration and gesturing angrily. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a police officer who ordered her to exit the car with her hands up. He took her to the police station and placed her in a holding cell.
An hour later, the officer returned and said, "I'm sorry, Ma'am. This has been a big mistake. When I pulled up behind you, I noticed your 'What Would Jesus Do?' license plate holder and your 'Follow Me to Sunday School' bumper sticker. I assumed the car was stolen!"
Satan doesn't care so much if you're a Christian as long as you don't act like one. If he can get you to live by his signals, he can damage and disarm you every time and dishonor the name of Christ in the process.
Instead, Jesus calls believers to be "salt" and to "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" [Matt. 5:16].
With Jesus in the driver's seat of our lives, we can show off the love and glory of God. --- Joe Stowell
Called to be salt and light in this world,
Called to preserve and to shine,
Called to reflect the glory of God ---
Oh, what a calling is mine! --- Fitzhugh
DON'T LET SATAN MANAGE THE DETAILS OF YOUR LIFE.
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. --- Matthew 5:16
The Bible In One Year:
Joshua 4-6
Proverbs 1:1-7
I love the story of the stressed-out woman who was tailgating a man as they drove on a busy boulevard. When he slowed to a stop at a yellow light, the woman hit the horn, cussing and screaming in frustration and gesturing angrily. As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a police officer who ordered her to exit the car with her hands up. He took her to the police station and placed her in a holding cell.
An hour later, the officer returned and said, "I'm sorry, Ma'am. This has been a big mistake. When I pulled up behind you, I noticed your 'What Would Jesus Do?' license plate holder and your 'Follow Me to Sunday School' bumper sticker. I assumed the car was stolen!"
Satan doesn't care so much if you're a Christian as long as you don't act like one. If he can get you to live by his signals, he can damage and disarm you every time and dishonor the name of Christ in the process.
Instead, Jesus calls believers to be "salt" and to "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" [Matt. 5:16].
With Jesus in the driver's seat of our lives, we can show off the love and glory of God. --- Joe Stowell
Called to be salt and light in this world,
Called to preserve and to shine,
Called to reflect the glory of God ---
Oh, what a calling is mine! --- Fitzhugh
DON'T LET SATAN MANAGE THE DETAILS OF YOUR LIFE.
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