Read: Romans 3:9-20
There is none righteous, no, not one. --- Romans 3:10
The Bible In One Year:
Romans 1-4
Proverbs 21:22-31
I had been driving in Singapore for 34 years when I received my first summons for speeding! It was not the first time I had exceeded the speed limit, but it was the first time I had been fined for doing so.
My first reaction was one of disgust. But as I contemplated the spiritual lesson, I realized that no matter how long I had been driving without a ticket, I was still accountable.
If I can break such a clearly defined law as a speed limit, think how easy it is to break God's perfect law, which covers every aspect of life. No one, no matter how moral or religiously fervent, can keep it perfectly.
Paul wrote, "By the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin" [Rom. 3:20]. Keeping the law can't save us; rather, through the law we become aware of our sin [3:7-12]. That's why God sent His Son to save us. We need the righteousness of Jesus, because we can't be justified through our good deeds. Paul concluded, we are "justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law" [v.28].
If you have put your faith in Christ, you can say with Paul, "Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; blessed is the man to whom the LORD shall not impute sin" [Rom. 4:7-8]. --- C.P. Hia
And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior's blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued? --- Wesley
GOD'S LAW SHOWS US A NEED THAT ONLY GOD'S GRACE CAN SUPPLY.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Saturday, May 30, 2009
From Here To Heaven
Read: Ephesians 2:1-10
We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. --- Ephesians 2:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Proverbs 21:11-21
Pro athletes and coaches sometimes get something for nothing. Let's say a coach signs a 3-year contract, and the team agrees to pay him $1 million a year. But in his first season, the team is terrible and management fires him. So, the coach leaves but still has 2 more years of pay left coming to him. He gets the next $2 million without doing a thing.
We as Christians have to be careful that we don't view our saving faith like that. We must never think, "Hey, I'm saved. I've got eternal riches coming my way. I don't have to do anything for God."
That's partially right but very wrong. In one regard, our journey from here to heaven is paid for in full by Jesus' sacrifice. There's nothing we can do to earn salvation. But there's another part of this that we must consider.
In Ephesians 2:8-9, after Paul clearly says that we do not have to "do" anything and that salvation is a "gift of God," he goes on. Verse 10 says we indeed have a job to do. As believers, we are "created in Christ Jesus for good works." God has tasks planned for us to do while we are on this earth --- not to pay our debt but to honor our Savior.
Life from here to heaven is not a vacation cruise --- it's a wonderful privilege and calling to serve God. --- Dave Branon
Must I be carried to the skies
On flowery beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize
And sailed through bloody seas? --- Watts
WE ARE NOT SAVED BY GOOD WORKS BUT FOR GOOD WORKS.
We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works. --- Ephesians 2:10
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 4-6
Proverbs 21:11-21
Pro athletes and coaches sometimes get something for nothing. Let's say a coach signs a 3-year contract, and the team agrees to pay him $1 million a year. But in his first season, the team is terrible and management fires him. So, the coach leaves but still has 2 more years of pay left coming to him. He gets the next $2 million without doing a thing.
We as Christians have to be careful that we don't view our saving faith like that. We must never think, "Hey, I'm saved. I've got eternal riches coming my way. I don't have to do anything for God."
That's partially right but very wrong. In one regard, our journey from here to heaven is paid for in full by Jesus' sacrifice. There's nothing we can do to earn salvation. But there's another part of this that we must consider.
In Ephesians 2:8-9, after Paul clearly says that we do not have to "do" anything and that salvation is a "gift of God," he goes on. Verse 10 says we indeed have a job to do. As believers, we are "created in Christ Jesus for good works." God has tasks planned for us to do while we are on this earth --- not to pay our debt but to honor our Savior.
Life from here to heaven is not a vacation cruise --- it's a wonderful privilege and calling to serve God. --- Dave Branon
Must I be carried to the skies
On flowery beds of ease,
While others fought to win the prize
And sailed through bloody seas? --- Watts
WE ARE NOT SAVED BY GOOD WORKS BUT FOR GOOD WORKS.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Finally Home
Read: John 14:1-6
If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. --- John 14:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Proverbs 21:1-10
Jan and Hendrikje Kasper sailed into United States waters in January 1957. Their family of 12, along with other Dutch immigrants on board the Grote Beer. crowded on deck to catch their first glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor.
That initial view of Lady Liberty was exciting --- and emotional. They had just endured an arduous 11-day journey across the sea on a no-frills voyage. They had left many friends and family members behind in The Netherlands. They had experienced rough seas brought on by a hurricane and had dealt with seemingly endless seasickness. But now --- finally --- they had arrived. This would become their new home.
Someday, those of us who have trusted Jesus Christ as our personal Savior will leave this life and go to the place He has prepared for us [John 14:3]. The journey may be difficult or uncomfortable, but we certainly look forward to the final destination.
Composer Don Wyrtzen wrote the music for a wonderful song that pictures our earthly life as a "tempestuous sea." It ends with these words:
Just think of stepping on shore --- and finding it heaven!
Of touching a hand --- and finding it God's!
Of breathing new air --- and finding it celestial!
Of waking up in glory --- and finding it home!
When we see Jesus face to face for the first time --- we will be "finally home." --- Cindy Hess Kasper
THOSE WHO LOVE AND SERVE GOD ON EARTH WILL BE RIGHT AT HOME IN HEAVEN.
If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. --- John 14:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Kings 1-3
Proverbs 21:1-10
Jan and Hendrikje Kasper sailed into United States waters in January 1957. Their family of 12, along with other Dutch immigrants on board the Grote Beer. crowded on deck to catch their first glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor.
That initial view of Lady Liberty was exciting --- and emotional. They had just endured an arduous 11-day journey across the sea on a no-frills voyage. They had left many friends and family members behind in The Netherlands. They had experienced rough seas brought on by a hurricane and had dealt with seemingly endless seasickness. But now --- finally --- they had arrived. This would become their new home.
Someday, those of us who have trusted Jesus Christ as our personal Savior will leave this life and go to the place He has prepared for us [John 14:3]. The journey may be difficult or uncomfortable, but we certainly look forward to the final destination.
Composer Don Wyrtzen wrote the music for a wonderful song that pictures our earthly life as a "tempestuous sea." It ends with these words:
Just think of stepping on shore --- and finding it heaven!
Of touching a hand --- and finding it God's!
Of breathing new air --- and finding it celestial!
Of waking up in glory --- and finding it home!
When we see Jesus face to face for the first time --- we will be "finally home." --- Cindy Hess Kasper
THOSE WHO LOVE AND SERVE GOD ON EARTH WILL BE RIGHT AT HOME IN HEAVEN.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Are We Listening?
Read: Psalm 119:41-48
Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. --- James 1:22
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Proverbs 20:21-30
A fascinating film made in 1950, The Next Voice You Hear, tells a story of a family with a typical amount of trials and tensions. Then, one night, the voice of God speaks on the radio. But not just their radio --- God's voice is heard throughout the world on every radio, saying the same thing at the same time.
At first people react with disbelief, then fear. After several days of hearing "The Voice," however, people's attitudes, actions, and priorities begin to change. The impact of what God was saying directly affected how they lived their lives.
I have heard people say, "If only God would talk to me! If He would just tell me what to do, I would do it." The simple fact is that God has already spoken to us through His Word, the Bible. Do we listen to Him as He speaks?
The psalmist desired to obey God's Word "continually forever and ever" [119:44]. And James warned about ignoring it when he said, "Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" [James 1:22].
How would you respond if God began to speak to you on your radio? We can be thankful that God does speak to us --- not on the radio but in the Scriptures. May we be wise enough to listen and obey. --- Bill Crowder
Instill within my heart, dear Lord,
A deep desire to know Your Word;
I want to learn to hear Your voice
So that Your will becomes my choice. --- D. De Haan
IN GOD'S WORKS WE SEE HIS HAND; IN HIS WORD WE HEAR HIS HEART.
Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. --- James 1:22
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 21-22
Proverbs 20:21-30
A fascinating film made in 1950, The Next Voice You Hear, tells a story of a family with a typical amount of trials and tensions. Then, one night, the voice of God speaks on the radio. But not just their radio --- God's voice is heard throughout the world on every radio, saying the same thing at the same time.
At first people react with disbelief, then fear. After several days of hearing "The Voice," however, people's attitudes, actions, and priorities begin to change. The impact of what God was saying directly affected how they lived their lives.
I have heard people say, "If only God would talk to me! If He would just tell me what to do, I would do it." The simple fact is that God has already spoken to us through His Word, the Bible. Do we listen to Him as He speaks?
The psalmist desired to obey God's Word "continually forever and ever" [119:44]. And James warned about ignoring it when he said, "Be doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves" [James 1:22].
How would you respond if God began to speak to you on your radio? We can be thankful that God does speak to us --- not on the radio but in the Scriptures. May we be wise enough to listen and obey. --- Bill Crowder
Instill within my heart, dear Lord,
A deep desire to know Your Word;
I want to learn to hear Your voice
So that Your will becomes my choice. --- D. De Haan
IN GOD'S WORKS WE SEE HIS HAND; IN HIS WORD WE HEAR HIS HEART.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Can We Really Hear From God?
Read: 1 King 19:9-12
Be still, and know that I am God. --- Psalm 46:10
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Proverbs 20:11-20
A friend of mine who leads spiritual retreats once told me that not one person who has followed his regimen of a silent retreat has failed to hear from God. Intrigued and a bit skeptical, I signed up for a 5-day retreat. We had much free time and just a few requirements, such as the assignment to spend 2 hours praying each day.
I doubt I had devoted more than 30 minutes to prayer at any one session in my life. The first day I wandered to a a meadow and sat against a tree. How long will I stay awake? I wondered. To my great fortune, a herd of 147 elk wandered into the very field where I was sitting. To watch 147 elk in their natural habitat is enthralling and, eventually, boring. Yet after a while the very placidly of the scene began to affect me. Over the next few days I said many words to God. I was turning 50, and I asked for guidance on how I should prepare my soul for the rest of life. Many things came to mind while sitting in a field for hours at a time. I had to agree that I had indeed heard from God.
When Elijah stood before the Lord on Mount Horeb, he didn't meet Him in the wind, earthquake, or fire. Rather, God spoke in a "still small voice" [1 Kings 19:11-12].
I'm more convinced than ever that God finds ways to communicate to those who truly seek Him --- especially when we lower the volume of the surrounding static. --- Philip Yancey
Speak, Lord, in the stillness, while I wait on Thee;
Hushed my heart to listen, in expectancy. --- Grimes
GOD SPEAKS TO THOSE WHO ARE QUIET BEFORE HIM.
Be still, and know that I am God. --- Psalm 46:10
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 19-20
Proverbs 20:11-20
A friend of mine who leads spiritual retreats once told me that not one person who has followed his regimen of a silent retreat has failed to hear from God. Intrigued and a bit skeptical, I signed up for a 5-day retreat. We had much free time and just a few requirements, such as the assignment to spend 2 hours praying each day.
I doubt I had devoted more than 30 minutes to prayer at any one session in my life. The first day I wandered to a a meadow and sat against a tree. How long will I stay awake? I wondered. To my great fortune, a herd of 147 elk wandered into the very field where I was sitting. To watch 147 elk in their natural habitat is enthralling and, eventually, boring. Yet after a while the very placidly of the scene began to affect me. Over the next few days I said many words to God. I was turning 50, and I asked for guidance on how I should prepare my soul for the rest of life. Many things came to mind while sitting in a field for hours at a time. I had to agree that I had indeed heard from God.
When Elijah stood before the Lord on Mount Horeb, he didn't meet Him in the wind, earthquake, or fire. Rather, God spoke in a "still small voice" [1 Kings 19:11-12].
I'm more convinced than ever that God finds ways to communicate to those who truly seek Him --- especially when we lower the volume of the surrounding static. --- Philip Yancey
Speak, Lord, in the stillness, while I wait on Thee;
Hushed my heart to listen, in expectancy. --- Grimes
GOD SPEAKS TO THOSE WHO ARE QUIET BEFORE HIM.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Gone The Sun
Read: Isaiah 60:17-22
Your sun shall no longer go down ... for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and the days of your mourning shall be ended. --- Isaiah 60:20
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Proverbs 20:1-10
In 1862, during the US Civil War, General Daniel Butterfield wanted a new melody for "lights out." And so, without any musical training, he composed one in his head.
Years later, the general wrote, "I called in someone who could write music, and practiced a change in the call of 'Taps' until I had it suit my ear, and then ... got it to my taste without being able to write music or knowing the technical name of any note, but, simply by ear, arranged it." General Butterfield gave the music to the brigade bugler, and the rest is history.
While there are no official lyrics to the hauntingly familiar strains of "Taps," here is a commonly accepted version of one verse:
Day is done, gone the sun,
From the hills, from the lake, from the sky;
All is well, safety rest, God is nigh.
What a comforting lyric as faithful members of the military are laid to rest! And what hope in the acknowledgment that God is near, even --- especially --- in death!
At a time when death and evil reigned, the prophet Isaiah anticipated a day when death itself would die. "Your sun shall no longer go down," he wrote to Israel, "for the LORD will be Your everlasting light" [60:20].
For those who follow Jesus, the strains of "Taps" are not a funeral dirge but a song of hope. "The days of your mourning shall be ended" [v.20]. All is well. God is nigh. --- Tim Gustafson
SUNSET IN ONE LAND IS SUNRISE IN ANOTHER.
Your sun shall no longer go down ... for the LORD will be your everlasting light, and the days of your mourning shall be ended. --- Isaiah 60:20
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 16-18
Proverbs 20:1-10
In 1862, during the US Civil War, General Daniel Butterfield wanted a new melody for "lights out." And so, without any musical training, he composed one in his head.
Years later, the general wrote, "I called in someone who could write music, and practiced a change in the call of 'Taps' until I had it suit my ear, and then ... got it to my taste without being able to write music or knowing the technical name of any note, but, simply by ear, arranged it." General Butterfield gave the music to the brigade bugler, and the rest is history.
While there are no official lyrics to the hauntingly familiar strains of "Taps," here is a commonly accepted version of one verse:
Day is done, gone the sun,
From the hills, from the lake, from the sky;
All is well, safety rest, God is nigh.
What a comforting lyric as faithful members of the military are laid to rest! And what hope in the acknowledgment that God is near, even --- especially --- in death!
At a time when death and evil reigned, the prophet Isaiah anticipated a day when death itself would die. "Your sun shall no longer go down," he wrote to Israel, "for the LORD will be Your everlasting light" [60:20].
For those who follow Jesus, the strains of "Taps" are not a funeral dirge but a song of hope. "The days of your mourning shall be ended" [v.20]. All is well. God is nigh. --- Tim Gustafson
SUNSET IN ONE LAND IS SUNRISE IN ANOTHER.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Building Bridges
Read: Acts 9:17-27
Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. --- Acts 9:27
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 60-62
A new believer recently attended our worship service. He had long, multicolored, spiked hair. He was dressed in dark clothes and had many piercings and tattoos. Some gaped, and others just gave him that "It's good to see you in church, but please don't sit next to me" smile. Yet there were some during the greeting time who went out of their way to welcome and accept him. They were bridge builders.
Barnabas was that bridge builder for Saul [also called Paul]. When Saul arrived in Jerusalem 3 years after his conversion, many disciples were afraid of him and doubted his transformation [Acts 9:26]. He didn't receive a warm welcome from the Jerusalem church greeters for good reason. Saul had a terrible reputation for persecuting Christians! But Barnabas, a Jewish convert, believed God's work of grace in Saul's life and became a bridge between him and the apostles [v.27].
Saul needed someone to come alongside him to encourage and teach him, and to introduce him to other believers. Barnabas was that bridge. As a result, Saul was brought into deeper fellowship with the disciples in Jerusalem and was able to preach the gospel there freely and boldly.
New believers need a Barnabas in their lives. Find ways that you can be a bridge in the lives of others. --- Marvin Williams
Oh, I would be to others
A cheering ray of light,
Inspiring them with courage
To climb some newfound height! --- Bosch
BE A BRIDGE OF ENCOURAGEMENT TO SOMEONE TODAY.
Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. --- Acts 9:27
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 60-62
A new believer recently attended our worship service. He had long, multicolored, spiked hair. He was dressed in dark clothes and had many piercings and tattoos. Some gaped, and others just gave him that "It's good to see you in church, but please don't sit next to me" smile. Yet there were some during the greeting time who went out of their way to welcome and accept him. They were bridge builders.
Barnabas was that bridge builder for Saul [also called Paul]. When Saul arrived in Jerusalem 3 years after his conversion, many disciples were afraid of him and doubted his transformation [Acts 9:26]. He didn't receive a warm welcome from the Jerusalem church greeters for good reason. Saul had a terrible reputation for persecuting Christians! But Barnabas, a Jewish convert, believed God's work of grace in Saul's life and became a bridge between him and the apostles [v.27].
Saul needed someone to come alongside him to encourage and teach him, and to introduce him to other believers. Barnabas was that bridge. As a result, Saul was brought into deeper fellowship with the disciples in Jerusalem and was able to preach the gospel there freely and boldly.
New believers need a Barnabas in their lives. Find ways that you can be a bridge in the lives of others. --- Marvin Williams
Oh, I would be to others
A cheering ray of light,
Inspiring them with courage
To climb some newfound height! --- Bosch
BE A BRIDGE OF ENCOURAGEMENT TO SOMEONE TODAY.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Getting What You Want
Read: Luke 12:15, 22-34
One's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. --- Luke 12:15
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 23-28
Proverbs 19:16-29
There's a popular idea floating around about how to get whatever you want. It's called "the law of attraction." Just think and feel what you want to attract, and "the law will use people, circumstances, and events to magnetize what you want to you, and magnetize you to it." This positive-thinking philosophy teaches that the "energy" of your dominant thoughts "attracts" your circumstances.
You won't find that idea anywhere in the Bible! As believers, we have good reason to be positive in our thinking, but it's because our heavenly Father understands our needs and meets them. Because He cares for us, we don't have to be anxious [Luke 12:29-30]. Life doesn't consist "in the abundance of the things [we possess]" [v.15], so we make it our aim instead to be "rich toward God" [v.21]. We do that by seeking His kingdom and purpose [v.31] and by laying up treasures in heaven, not for ourselves in this life.
Jesus said, "Take heed and beware of covetousness" [v.15] because one day, like the rich fool in the parable in Luke 12, we will leave it all behind. That's when we'll have more than we ever dreamed of. In the meantime, God promises to care for our needs --- no matter what the circumstances. And that's no secret. --- Anne Cetas
I know not by what methods rare
The Lord provides for me;
I only know that all my needs
He meets so graciously. --- Adams
GOD HAS PROMISED TO SUPPLY ALL OUR NEEDS, NOT ALL OUR WANTS.
One's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. --- Luke 12:15
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 23-28
Proverbs 19:16-29
There's a popular idea floating around about how to get whatever you want. It's called "the law of attraction." Just think and feel what you want to attract, and "the law will use people, circumstances, and events to magnetize what you want to you, and magnetize you to it." This positive-thinking philosophy teaches that the "energy" of your dominant thoughts "attracts" your circumstances.
You won't find that idea anywhere in the Bible! As believers, we have good reason to be positive in our thinking, but it's because our heavenly Father understands our needs and meets them. Because He cares for us, we don't have to be anxious [Luke 12:29-30]. Life doesn't consist "in the abundance of the things [we possess]" [v.15], so we make it our aim instead to be "rich toward God" [v.21]. We do that by seeking His kingdom and purpose [v.31] and by laying up treasures in heaven, not for ourselves in this life.
Jesus said, "Take heed and beware of covetousness" [v.15] because one day, like the rich fool in the parable in Luke 12, we will leave it all behind. That's when we'll have more than we ever dreamed of. In the meantime, God promises to care for our needs --- no matter what the circumstances. And that's no secret. --- Anne Cetas
I know not by what methods rare
The Lord provides for me;
I only know that all my needs
He meets so graciously. --- Adams
GOD HAS PROMISED TO SUPPLY ALL OUR NEEDS, NOT ALL OUR WANTS.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Heart Disease
Read: Zechariah 7:8-14
Do not harden your hearts. --- Psalm 95:8
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 13-15
Proverbs 19:1-15
Pharmaceutical companies make billions of dollars selling drugs that prevent hardening of the arteries, a condition that can lead to heart attacks, which kill thousands of people every year.
A more serious condition than hardening of the arteries, however, is hardening of the heart, and it cannot be prevented by any wonder drug. The prophet Zechariah warned the Israelites about it. They had hardened their hearts and refused to listen to the words of the Lord. Symptoms of this deadly condition were their refusal to execute true justice and their failure to show mercy and compassion [Zech. 7:9]. As a result, the Lord became angry and stopped listening to them [v.13].
While it's important to keep plaque from forming in our arteries, it's even more important to keep our hearts from becoming callous to people who are important to God: widows, orphans, aliens, and the poor [v.10].
It's crucial to follow our doctor's orders to keep our arteries from hardening. But it's even more crucial to obey God to keep our hearts from becoming hardened to the needs of others.
Ask God to bring to mind a person who needs the help of someone with a soft heart. --- Julie Ackerman Link
If I can right a human wrong,
If I can help to make one strong,
If I can cheer with smile or song,
Lord, show me how. --- Kleiser
TO LOVE CHRIST IS TO HAVE A HEART FOR OTHERS.
Do not harden your hearts. --- Psalm 95:8
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 13-15
Proverbs 19:1-15
Pharmaceutical companies make billions of dollars selling drugs that prevent hardening of the arteries, a condition that can lead to heart attacks, which kill thousands of people every year.
A more serious condition than hardening of the arteries, however, is hardening of the heart, and it cannot be prevented by any wonder drug. The prophet Zechariah warned the Israelites about it. They had hardened their hearts and refused to listen to the words of the Lord. Symptoms of this deadly condition were their refusal to execute true justice and their failure to show mercy and compassion [Zech. 7:9]. As a result, the Lord became angry and stopped listening to them [v.13].
While it's important to keep plaque from forming in our arteries, it's even more important to keep our hearts from becoming callous to people who are important to God: widows, orphans, aliens, and the poor [v.10].
It's crucial to follow our doctor's orders to keep our arteries from hardening. But it's even more crucial to obey God to keep our hearts from becoming hardened to the needs of others.
Ask God to bring to mind a person who needs the help of someone with a soft heart. --- Julie Ackerman Link
If I can right a human wrong,
If I can help to make one strong,
If I can cheer with smile or song,
Lord, show me how. --- Kleiser
TO LOVE CHRIST IS TO HAVE A HEART FOR OTHERS.
Friday, May 22, 2009
The Ascension
Read: Acts 1:1-11
I go to prepare a place for you...I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. --- John 14:2-3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 10-12
Proverbs 18:13-24
The repeated appearances of Jesus after His death and resurrection brought His followers so much joy that they must have wanted the visits to continue indefinitely. But on the 40th day after His resurrection, having given His disciples final instructions, Jesus slowly ascended and a cloud hid Him from view.
Jesus could have vanished instantly, as He had done previously [Luke 24:31]. But He chose to ascend visibly to impress on His followers that this was the end of His visits. His bodily presence would soon be replaced by "another Helper," the Holy Spirit promised in John 14:16. Jesus' ascension marked the dawn of a new era.
In His glorified human body, the Lord Jesus ascended, entered heaven, sat down at the right hand of God, sent the Holy Spirit [John 14:16-18; Acts 2:33], and now intercedes for us [Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25]. He permeates the whole universe with His spiritual presence and power [Col. 1:15-23; Eph. 4:10].
An ancient writing says that Jesus ascended bodily into heaven "our entrance to secure, and our abode to prepare." That's true. But it's also true that as God, He is always spiritually present with us and will be "to the end of the age" [Matt. 28:20]. What a wonderful Savior we have! --- Herb Vander Lugt
The Lord ascended bodily
From earth to heaven's throne;
Now He is there to intercede
For those who are His own. --- Sper
JESUS WENT AWAY SO THE HOLY SPIRIT COULD COME TO STAY.
I go to prepare a place for you...I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. --- John 14:2-3
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 10-12
Proverbs 18:13-24
The repeated appearances of Jesus after His death and resurrection brought His followers so much joy that they must have wanted the visits to continue indefinitely. But on the 40th day after His resurrection, having given His disciples final instructions, Jesus slowly ascended and a cloud hid Him from view.
Jesus could have vanished instantly, as He had done previously [Luke 24:31]. But He chose to ascend visibly to impress on His followers that this was the end of His visits. His bodily presence would soon be replaced by "another Helper," the Holy Spirit promised in John 14:16. Jesus' ascension marked the dawn of a new era.
In His glorified human body, the Lord Jesus ascended, entered heaven, sat down at the right hand of God, sent the Holy Spirit [John 14:16-18; Acts 2:33], and now intercedes for us [Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25]. He permeates the whole universe with His spiritual presence and power [Col. 1:15-23; Eph. 4:10].
An ancient writing says that Jesus ascended bodily into heaven "our entrance to secure, and our abode to prepare." That's true. But it's also true that as God, He is always spiritually present with us and will be "to the end of the age" [Matt. 28:20]. What a wonderful Savior we have! --- Herb Vander Lugt
The Lord ascended bodily
From earth to heaven's throne;
Now He is there to intercede
For those who are His own. --- Sper
JESUS WENT AWAY SO THE HOLY SPIRIT COULD COME TO STAY.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Spelling Bee
Read: Psalm 119:9-16
Your Word I have hidden in my heart. --- Psalm 119:11
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 7-9
Proverbs 18:1-12
My wife and I stayed up late to watch a TV program we found exciting --- the Scripps National Spelling Bee. It was fascinating to watch middle-school children as they recited the correct spelling for some of the most difficult words imaginable.
Anticipation grew as one contestant after another was disqualified. Finally, only 13-year-old Katharine Close remained. One word stood between her and the world championship. With little hesitation, Katharine correctly spelled the word ursprache.
Obviously, Katharine can spell! But it's possible to know how to spell a word, yet not understand its meaning.
As believers in Jesus Christ, it's vital for us to know God's Word, the Bible. Our goal is not to accumulate knowledge but to internalize His Word so that we can be equipped in our walk of faith.
When we know God's Word, it keeps our spiritual walk from slipping [Ps. 37:31]. It satisfies the hunger of our souls [Jer. 15:16]. And it is a key weapon in facing temptations and trials [Matt. 4:1-11; Eph. 6:10-18].
Let's make it our aim to know the Word. Then, when facing life's challenges, we can be ready for any situation [2 Tim. 3:16-17]. --- Dennis Fisher
My hunger for the truth He satisfies;
Upon the Word, the Living Bread, I feed:
No parching thirst I know, because His grace,
A pool of endless depth, supplies my need. --- Sanders
TO THE WISE, GOD'S WORD IS SUFFICIENT.
Your Word I have hidden in my heart. --- Psalm 119:11
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 7-9
Proverbs 18:1-12
My wife and I stayed up late to watch a TV program we found exciting --- the Scripps National Spelling Bee. It was fascinating to watch middle-school children as they recited the correct spelling for some of the most difficult words imaginable.
Anticipation grew as one contestant after another was disqualified. Finally, only 13-year-old Katharine Close remained. One word stood between her and the world championship. With little hesitation, Katharine correctly spelled the word ursprache.
Obviously, Katharine can spell! But it's possible to know how to spell a word, yet not understand its meaning.
As believers in Jesus Christ, it's vital for us to know God's Word, the Bible. Our goal is not to accumulate knowledge but to internalize His Word so that we can be equipped in our walk of faith.
When we know God's Word, it keeps our spiritual walk from slipping [Ps. 37:31]. It satisfies the hunger of our souls [Jer. 15:16]. And it is a key weapon in facing temptations and trials [Matt. 4:1-11; Eph. 6:10-18].
Let's make it our aim to know the Word. Then, when facing life's challenges, we can be ready for any situation [2 Tim. 3:16-17]. --- Dennis Fisher
My hunger for the truth He satisfies;
Upon the Word, the Living Bread, I feed:
No parching thirst I know, because His grace,
A pool of endless depth, supplies my need. --- Sanders
TO THE WISE, GOD'S WORD IS SUFFICIENT.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Productive Pain
Read: Romans 8:18-30
All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. --- Romans 8:28
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 4-6
Proverbs 17:15-28
I'll never forget when our youngest child Matthew fell and broke his wrist. It was grotesque! His arm took a sharp left turn at his wrist and then turned again to resume its normal journey to his hand.
We rushed him to the hospital where the doctor began to set his wrist. I watched as the physician pulled and twisted Matthew's arm. I wanted to jump up and pull him away from my son! But I simply sat and watched, knowing that the agony was necessary to make Matt whole again.
If we trust earthly doctors to do that for our children, how much more we should be willing to trust God, the Great Physician, to reset our broken lives "to be conformed to the image of His Son" [Rom. 8:29]. One of God's purposes in pain is to brand the image of Jesus in our hearts. Can we weep with those who weep? God may need to stain our cheeks with our own tears so that we can genuinely empathize with others as Jesus did. Are we self-sufficient? God may need to strip away our security to conform us to the God-sufficiency that Christ displayed. Are we faithless? It may require a tragedy to teach us to trust the Father as Jesus did.
Next time you feel broken, don't panic --- praise Him! God is at work! --- Joe Stowell
Life's fractures can be mended
By faith in Christ the Lord ---
At first the pain but then the gain
And usefulness restored. --- Hess
GOD'S PURPOSE IN PAIN IS TO BRAND HIS IMAGE IN OUR HEARTS.
All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. --- Romans 8:28
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 4-6
Proverbs 17:15-28
I'll never forget when our youngest child Matthew fell and broke his wrist. It was grotesque! His arm took a sharp left turn at his wrist and then turned again to resume its normal journey to his hand.
We rushed him to the hospital where the doctor began to set his wrist. I watched as the physician pulled and twisted Matthew's arm. I wanted to jump up and pull him away from my son! But I simply sat and watched, knowing that the agony was necessary to make Matt whole again.
If we trust earthly doctors to do that for our children, how much more we should be willing to trust God, the Great Physician, to reset our broken lives "to be conformed to the image of His Son" [Rom. 8:29]. One of God's purposes in pain is to brand the image of Jesus in our hearts. Can we weep with those who weep? God may need to stain our cheeks with our own tears so that we can genuinely empathize with others as Jesus did. Are we self-sufficient? God may need to strip away our security to conform us to the God-sufficiency that Christ displayed. Are we faithless? It may require a tragedy to teach us to trust the Father as Jesus did.
Next time you feel broken, don't panic --- praise Him! God is at work! --- Joe Stowell
Life's fractures can be mended
By faith in Christ the Lord ---
At first the pain but then the gain
And usefulness restored. --- Hess
GOD'S PURPOSE IN PAIN IS TO BRAND HIS IMAGE IN OUR HEARTS.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
A Question Of Motive
Read: Hebrews 4:11-16
The Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword .. and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. --- Hebrews 4:12
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 1-3
Proverbs 17:1-14
My wife and I were stopped at a railroad crossing to allow a train to pass. As we waited in the line of cars, the driver next to us suddenly darted through a nearby parking lot and headed in the direction of the next available railroad crossing.
I turned to Marlene and said, with some righteous indignation, "Look at that guy. He's trying to get around the train instead of waiting like the rest of us." As soon as I said those words, the man, camera in hand, hopped from his car to take pictures of the oncoming train. I had judged his motives, and I was dead wrong.
Although we can observe behavior and outward appearance, only God can see what's in the heart. That is one reason we all need the Word of God so desperately. Hebrews 4:12 says, "The Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
When we find ourselves ready to judge another person's motives, let's pause and remember --- only God can see the heart, and only His Word can expose its motives. Our responsibility is to let the Lord and His Word convicts us about our own hearts. --- Bill Crowder
The Bible is a lamp from God,
A sword of truth and light;
It searches heart and soul and mind,
And helps us know what's right. --- Bosch
PEOPLE WILL BE JUDGED BY THE WAY GOD SEES THEM NOT BY THE WAY WE SEE THEM.
The Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword .. and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. --- Hebrews 4:12
The Bible In One Year:
1 Kings 1-3
Proverbs 17:1-14
My wife and I were stopped at a railroad crossing to allow a train to pass. As we waited in the line of cars, the driver next to us suddenly darted through a nearby parking lot and headed in the direction of the next available railroad crossing.
I turned to Marlene and said, with some righteous indignation, "Look at that guy. He's trying to get around the train instead of waiting like the rest of us." As soon as I said those words, the man, camera in hand, hopped from his car to take pictures of the oncoming train. I had judged his motives, and I was dead wrong.
Although we can observe behavior and outward appearance, only God can see what's in the heart. That is one reason we all need the Word of God so desperately. Hebrews 4:12 says, "The Word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
When we find ourselves ready to judge another person's motives, let's pause and remember --- only God can see the heart, and only His Word can expose its motives. Our responsibility is to let the Lord and His Word convicts us about our own hearts. --- Bill Crowder
The Bible is a lamp from God,
A sword of truth and light;
It searches heart and soul and mind,
And helps us know what's right. --- Bosch
PEOPLE WILL BE JUDGED BY THE WAY GOD SEES THEM NOT BY THE WAY WE SEE THEM.
Monday, May 18, 2009
God's Strong Hands
Read: Genesis 32:22-30
Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. --- Genesis 32:24
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 57-59
In Genesis, it seems that almost every person and family mentioned is dysfunctional. The text is filled with accounts of jealousy, anger, violence, and deception that leave a trail of damaged relationships. Even Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob --- lauded as heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 --- display flawed character and spiritual lapses. But God never leaves them that way.
Jacob defrauded his older twin Esau, who swore to kill him [Gen. 27:41]. Then, before the estranged brothers would face each other after 20 years, Jacob wrestled with God. When asked his name, the conniving younger brother finally admitted who he was: 'Jacob' --- the deceiver [vv. 24-27]. That marked a spiritual turning point.
Noted preacher Carlyle Marney said that because God doesn't give up on us, we should not give up on ourselves . "The last person on earth you will forgive a weakness is yourself," Dr. Marney wrote: "Only in the gospel can men go on loving themselves. Wait on God! See what His strong hands will fashion out of your defection."
When we have turned back, God can turn us around. When we have destroyed, God can rebuild. "Christ in the strong hands of God conquering my defection. This is the gospel." --- David McCasland
Though weak and helpless in life's fray
God's mighty power shall be our stay;
Without, within, He'll set us free ---
His strength will give us victory. --- D. De Haan
THERE IS VICTORY IN SURRENDER WHEN WE ARE CONQUERED BY CHRIST.
Jacob was left alone; and a Man wrestled with him until the breaking of day. --- Genesis 32:24
The Bible In One Year:
Psalms 57-59
In Genesis, it seems that almost every person and family mentioned is dysfunctional. The text is filled with accounts of jealousy, anger, violence, and deception that leave a trail of damaged relationships. Even Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob --- lauded as heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 --- display flawed character and spiritual lapses. But God never leaves them that way.
Jacob defrauded his older twin Esau, who swore to kill him [Gen. 27:41]. Then, before the estranged brothers would face each other after 20 years, Jacob wrestled with God. When asked his name, the conniving younger brother finally admitted who he was: 'Jacob' --- the deceiver [vv. 24-27]. That marked a spiritual turning point.
Noted preacher Carlyle Marney said that because God doesn't give up on us, we should not give up on ourselves . "The last person on earth you will forgive a weakness is yourself," Dr. Marney wrote: "Only in the gospel can men go on loving themselves. Wait on God! See what His strong hands will fashion out of your defection."
When we have turned back, God can turn us around. When we have destroyed, God can rebuild. "Christ in the strong hands of God conquering my defection. This is the gospel." --- David McCasland
Though weak and helpless in life's fray
God's mighty power shall be our stay;
Without, within, He'll set us free ---
His strength will give us victory. --- D. De Haan
THERE IS VICTORY IN SURRENDER WHEN WE ARE CONQUERED BY CHRIST.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Seize The Day
Read: Hebrews 3:7-15
My times are in Your hand. --- Psalm 31:15
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 18-22
Proverbs 16:22-33
Before entering the broadcasting field, Jim Valvano led the North Carolina State University basketball team to a national championship. Then cancer developed in his lower back. Invited to address the Duke University squad, Jim had this to say: "Life changes when you least expect it to. The future is uncertain. So, seize this day, seize this moment, and make the most of it."
God gives us an urgent directive in Hebrews 3:13, "Exhort one another daily, while it is called 'Today,' lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Why is there such a strong insistence on today?
It may be that today, this very day, could be the last one in our time here on earth. Today may be your last opportunity to accept God's gift of salvation, or if you know the Lord already, to share His love with a friend or loved one.
James has this warning about presuming upon our tomorrows: "You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away" [4:14].
Seize the opportunities that God gives you today. That's sound advice --- not just for basketball players, but for all of us. --- Vernon Grounds
Redeem the time --- God only knows
How soon our little life may close;
As every passing moment flows,
Redeem the time! --- Anon.
PLAN AS THOUGH YOU'LL BE LIVING FOR A CENTURY; LIVE AS THOUGH YOU'LL BE LEAVING TODAY.
My times are in Your hand. --- Psalm 31:15
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 18-22
Proverbs 16:22-33
Before entering the broadcasting field, Jim Valvano led the North Carolina State University basketball team to a national championship. Then cancer developed in his lower back. Invited to address the Duke University squad, Jim had this to say: "Life changes when you least expect it to. The future is uncertain. So, seize this day, seize this moment, and make the most of it."
God gives us an urgent directive in Hebrews 3:13, "Exhort one another daily, while it is called 'Today,' lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Why is there such a strong insistence on today?
It may be that today, this very day, could be the last one in our time here on earth. Today may be your last opportunity to accept God's gift of salvation, or if you know the Lord already, to share His love with a friend or loved one.
James has this warning about presuming upon our tomorrows: "You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away" [4:14].
Seize the opportunities that God gives you today. That's sound advice --- not just for basketball players, but for all of us. --- Vernon Grounds
Redeem the time --- God only knows
How soon our little life may close;
As every passing moment flows,
Redeem the time! --- Anon.
PLAN AS THOUGH YOU'LL BE LIVING FOR A CENTURY; LIVE AS THOUGH YOU'LL BE LEAVING TODAY.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Dragon Skin
Read: Ephesians 4:17-24
Put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. --- Ephesians 4:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 22-24
Proverbs 16:12-21
In the fifth Chronicle of Narnia, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Edmund, Lucy, and their spoiled cousin Eustace are summoned to help on a quest in the Eastern Sea. Along the way, Eustace is tempted by enchanted treasure and turned into a dragon. The desperate dragon accepts the help of the great lion Aslan, king of Narnia. But Eustace can only be freed by allowing Aslan's claws to painfully tear off the dragon's flesh. Grateful for his deliverance, Eustace chooses to become a better boy.
Receiving God's gift of salvation through Christ is a one-time event, but to become like Him often requires suffering and struggle. It involves putting off old sinful habits and replacing them with new godly ones. Paul wrote, "Put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt ... [and] put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness" [Eph. 4:22-24].
What is troubling you today? God may be using the kind rebuke of a friend or a painful trial to prompt you to get rid of a sinful habit and to replace it with godly character [Rom. 8:29; 1 Peter 4:1-2].
The process of becoming like Christ is sometimes painful, but it's always worth it. --- Dennis Fisher
To be like Jesus is our goal,
Though it doesn't happen fast;
We trust the Spirit as our Guide
Till we're glorified at last. --- Branon
THE CONVERSION OF A SOUL IS THE MIRACLE OF A MOMENT; THE GROWTH OF A SAINT IS THE WORK OF A LIFETIME.
Put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. --- Ephesians 4:24
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 22-24
Proverbs 16:12-21
In the fifth Chronicle of Narnia, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, Edmund, Lucy, and their spoiled cousin Eustace are summoned to help on a quest in the Eastern Sea. Along the way, Eustace is tempted by enchanted treasure and turned into a dragon. The desperate dragon accepts the help of the great lion Aslan, king of Narnia. But Eustace can only be freed by allowing Aslan's claws to painfully tear off the dragon's flesh. Grateful for his deliverance, Eustace chooses to become a better boy.
Receiving God's gift of salvation through Christ is a one-time event, but to become like Him often requires suffering and struggle. It involves putting off old sinful habits and replacing them with new godly ones. Paul wrote, "Put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt ... [and] put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness" [Eph. 4:22-24].
What is troubling you today? God may be using the kind rebuke of a friend or a painful trial to prompt you to get rid of a sinful habit and to replace it with godly character [Rom. 8:29; 1 Peter 4:1-2].
The process of becoming like Christ is sometimes painful, but it's always worth it. --- Dennis Fisher
To be like Jesus is our goal,
Though it doesn't happen fast;
We trust the Spirit as our Guide
Till we're glorified at last. --- Branon
THE CONVERSION OF A SOUL IS THE MIRACLE OF A MOMENT; THE GROWTH OF A SAINT IS THE WORK OF A LIFETIME.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Surprise Me!
Read: Ephesians 3:14-21
"My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. --- Isaiah 55:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 19-21
Proverbs 16:1-11
When our family went out for an ice cream cone, my dad would ask my mother what flavor she'd like. Often she would reply, "Surprise me!" She told me she was rarely disappointed in his choice.
Do you like surprises? Would you ever dare say, "Surprise me!" to God? A lot of us are a little scared to do that. Yes, we have faith that God is good and that He loves us. Yet we're afraid we won't like what He chooses for us.
Throughout the Bible we read that God delights in doing the unexpected. Sometimes it's folding back the waters for His people to cross a sea on dry ground [Ex. 14:21-22]. Or forgiving and embracing those who repent of their sin [Ps. 130:1-4]. Jesus' time on earth was filled with amazing events that pointed people to His Father --- He turned water into wine, calmed storms, healed the sick, and raised the dead.
What kind God do we serve? One who is not confined by our finite imagination [Eph. 3:20]. God's thoughts and ways are not like ours [Isa. 55:8], and He wants to bless us with far more than a special flavor of ice cream. He delights in His children who trust Him and are willing to say, "Surprise me, Lord!" --- Cindy Hess Kasper
O Lord, give me the grace to be
Content with what You give to me,
No! More than that, let me rejoice
In all You send me --- it's Your choice! --- Anon.
THOSE WHO LET GOD PROVIDE WILL ALWAYS BE SATISFIED.
"My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways," says the LORD. --- Isaiah 55:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 19-21
Proverbs 16:1-11
When our family went out for an ice cream cone, my dad would ask my mother what flavor she'd like. Often she would reply, "Surprise me!" She told me she was rarely disappointed in his choice.
Do you like surprises? Would you ever dare say, "Surprise me!" to God? A lot of us are a little scared to do that. Yes, we have faith that God is good and that He loves us. Yet we're afraid we won't like what He chooses for us.
Throughout the Bible we read that God delights in doing the unexpected. Sometimes it's folding back the waters for His people to cross a sea on dry ground [Ex. 14:21-22]. Or forgiving and embracing those who repent of their sin [Ps. 130:1-4]. Jesus' time on earth was filled with amazing events that pointed people to His Father --- He turned water into wine, calmed storms, healed the sick, and raised the dead.
What kind God do we serve? One who is not confined by our finite imagination [Eph. 3:20]. God's thoughts and ways are not like ours [Isa. 55:8], and He wants to bless us with far more than a special flavor of ice cream. He delights in His children who trust Him and are willing to say, "Surprise me, Lord!" --- Cindy Hess Kasper
O Lord, give me the grace to be
Content with what You give to me,
No! More than that, let me rejoice
In all You send me --- it's Your choice! --- Anon.
THOSE WHO LET GOD PROVIDE WILL ALWAYS BE SATISFIED.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
True Trust
Read: John 9:1-11
Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. --- John 9:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 16-18
Proverbs 15:22-33
If you didn't know him, you might think Nick Vujicic has everything going for him. Nick has never had a sore arm. He's never had knee problems. He's never smashed his finger in a door, stubbed his toe, or banged his shin against a table leg.
But that's because Nick doesn't have a shin. Or a toe. Or a finger. Or a knee. Or an arm. Nick was born with no arms and no legs. Before you begin to feel sorry for Nick, read his words. "God won't let anything happen to us in our life unless He has a good purpose for it all. I completely gave my life to Christ at the age of 15 after reading John 9. Jesus said that the reason the man was born blind was 'so that the works of God may be revealed through him.' ... I now see that glory revealed as He is using me just the way I am and in ways others can't be used." Nick travels the world to spread the gospel and love of Jesus.
Nick says, "If I can trust in God with my circumstances, then you can trust in God with your circumstances....The greatest joy of all is having Jesus Christ in my life and living the godly purpose He has for me."
Can we say that? Can we look beyond our limitations and have the same trust in God that transformed a man with no arms or legs into a missionary for Jesus? --- Dave Branon
Lord, shape my life as only You can,
Guiding each day by Your loving plan;
Take what You need and give what You will;
My life is Yours to use and to fill. --- Branon
TRUSTING GOD TURNS PROBLEMS INTO OPPORTUNITIES.
Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. --- John 9:3
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 16-18
Proverbs 15:22-33
If you didn't know him, you might think Nick Vujicic has everything going for him. Nick has never had a sore arm. He's never had knee problems. He's never smashed his finger in a door, stubbed his toe, or banged his shin against a table leg.
But that's because Nick doesn't have a shin. Or a toe. Or a finger. Or a knee. Or an arm. Nick was born with no arms and no legs. Before you begin to feel sorry for Nick, read his words. "God won't let anything happen to us in our life unless He has a good purpose for it all. I completely gave my life to Christ at the age of 15 after reading John 9. Jesus said that the reason the man was born blind was 'so that the works of God may be revealed through him.' ... I now see that glory revealed as He is using me just the way I am and in ways others can't be used." Nick travels the world to spread the gospel and love of Jesus.
Nick says, "If I can trust in God with my circumstances, then you can trust in God with your circumstances....The greatest joy of all is having Jesus Christ in my life and living the godly purpose He has for me."
Can we say that? Can we look beyond our limitations and have the same trust in God that transformed a man with no arms or legs into a missionary for Jesus? --- Dave Branon
Lord, shape my life as only You can,
Guiding each day by Your loving plan;
Take what You need and give what You will;
My life is Yours to use and to fill. --- Branon
TRUSTING GOD TURNS PROBLEMS INTO OPPORTUNITIES.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Reframing The Picture
Read: Deut. 32:7-12
As an eagle stirs up its nest, hovers over its young, spreading out its wings, ... so the LORD alone led [Jacob]. --- Deut. 32:11-12
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 13-15
Proverbs 15:12-21
For 3 months I had a ringside seat --- or should I say a bird's-eye view --- of God's amazing handiwork. Ninety feet above the floor of Norfolk Botanical Garden, workers installed a web-cam focused on the nest of a family of bald eagles, and online viewers were allowed to watch.
When the eggs hatched, Mama and Papa Eagle were attentive to their off-spring, taking turns hunting for good and guarding the nest. But one day when the eaglets still looked like fuzz-balls with beaks, both parents disappeared. I worried that harm had come to them.
My concern was unfounded. The web-cam operator enlarged the camera angle, and there was Mama Eagle perched on a nearby branch.
As I pondered this "reframed" picture, I thought of times when I have feared that God had abandoned me. The view in the forest heights of Virginia reminded me that my vision is limited. I see only a small part of the entire scene.
Moses used eagle imagery to describe God. As eagles carry their young, God carries His people [Deut. 32:11-12]. Despite how it may seem, God "is not far from each one of us" [Acts 17:27]. This is true even when we feel abandoned. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Under His wings I am safely abiding;
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him --- I know He will keep me;
He has redeemed me and I am His child. --- Cushing
BECAUSE THE LORD IS WATCHING OVER US, WE DON'T HAVE TO FEAR THE DANGERS AROUND US.
As an eagle stirs up its nest, hovers over its young, spreading out its wings, ... so the LORD alone led [Jacob]. --- Deut. 32:11-12
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 13-15
Proverbs 15:12-21
For 3 months I had a ringside seat --- or should I say a bird's-eye view --- of God's amazing handiwork. Ninety feet above the floor of Norfolk Botanical Garden, workers installed a web-cam focused on the nest of a family of bald eagles, and online viewers were allowed to watch.
When the eggs hatched, Mama and Papa Eagle were attentive to their off-spring, taking turns hunting for good and guarding the nest. But one day when the eaglets still looked like fuzz-balls with beaks, both parents disappeared. I worried that harm had come to them.
My concern was unfounded. The web-cam operator enlarged the camera angle, and there was Mama Eagle perched on a nearby branch.
As I pondered this "reframed" picture, I thought of times when I have feared that God had abandoned me. The view in the forest heights of Virginia reminded me that my vision is limited. I see only a small part of the entire scene.
Moses used eagle imagery to describe God. As eagles carry their young, God carries His people [Deut. 32:11-12]. Despite how it may seem, God "is not far from each one of us" [Acts 17:27]. This is true even when we feel abandoned. --- Julie Ackerman Link
Under His wings I am safely abiding;
Though the night deepens and tempests are wild,
Still I can trust Him --- I know He will keep me;
He has redeemed me and I am His child. --- Cushing
BECAUSE THE LORD IS WATCHING OVER US, WE DON'T HAVE TO FEAR THE DANGERS AROUND US.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
A Child's Wonder
Read: Psalm 78:1-8
That they may arise and declare [God's law] to their children, that they may set their hope in God. --- Psalm 78:6-7
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 10-12
Proverbs 15:1-11
In 19th-century Scotland, a young mother observed her 3-year-old son's inquisitive nature. It seemed he was curious about everything that moved or made a noise. James Clerk Maxwell would carry his boyhood wonder with him into a remarkable career in science. He went on to do groundbreaking work in electricity and magnetism. Years later, Albert Einstein would say of Maxwell's work that it was "the most fruitful that physics has experienced since the time of Newton."
From early childhood, religion touched all aspects of Maxwell's life. As a committed Christian, he prayed: "Teach us to study the works of Thy hands ... and strengthen our reason for Thy service." The boyhood cultivation of Maxwell's spiritual life and curiosity resulted in a lifetime of using science in service to the Creator.
The community of faith has always had the responsibility to nurture the talent of the younger generation and to orient their lives to the Lord, "that they may arise and declare [God's law] to their children, that they may set their hope in God" [Ps. 78:6-7].
Finding ways to encourage children's love for learning while establishing them in the faith is an important investment in the future. --- Dennis Fisher
Our children are a gift from God
On loan from heaven above,
To train and nourish in the Lord,
And show to them His love. --- Sper
WE SHAPE TOMORROW'S WORLD BY WHAT WE TEACH OUR CHILDREN TODAY.
That they may arise and declare [God's law] to their children, that they may set their hope in God. --- Psalm 78:6-7
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 10-12
Proverbs 15:1-11
In 19th-century Scotland, a young mother observed her 3-year-old son's inquisitive nature. It seemed he was curious about everything that moved or made a noise. James Clerk Maxwell would carry his boyhood wonder with him into a remarkable career in science. He went on to do groundbreaking work in electricity and magnetism. Years later, Albert Einstein would say of Maxwell's work that it was "the most fruitful that physics has experienced since the time of Newton."
From early childhood, religion touched all aspects of Maxwell's life. As a committed Christian, he prayed: "Teach us to study the works of Thy hands ... and strengthen our reason for Thy service." The boyhood cultivation of Maxwell's spiritual life and curiosity resulted in a lifetime of using science in service to the Creator.
The community of faith has always had the responsibility to nurture the talent of the younger generation and to orient their lives to the Lord, "that they may arise and declare [God's law] to their children, that they may set their hope in God" [Ps. 78:6-7].
Finding ways to encourage children's love for learning while establishing them in the faith is an important investment in the future. --- Dennis Fisher
Our children are a gift from God
On loan from heaven above,
To train and nourish in the Lord,
And show to them His love. --- Sper
WE SHAPE TOMORROW'S WORLD BY WHAT WE TEACH OUR CHILDREN TODAY.
Monday, May 11, 2009
The Power Of Penticost
Read: Acts 2:1-17
You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me. --- Acts 1:8
The Bible In One Year:
Psalm 54-56
A pastor I know and love is discouraged. Although he is diligent in prayer and works hard, his church remains small while a new congregation nearby is rapidly developing into a megachurch. Yet when I think of the alcoholics, drug addicts, and sexually immoral people he has led to the Savior and a new way of life, I see him as one who witnesses in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Because of what happened on the Day of Pentecost [described in Acts 2], we tend to associate the Holy Spirit's presence and power with amazing phenomena and large numbers. We forget that a little later the same people filled with the same Holy Spirit were rejected, flogged, imprisoned, even executed. But through it all they were powerful witnesses!
The Holy Spirit's presence and power can be evidenced in a dynamic preacher who attracts great audiences. But it is seen as well in the volunteer who carries on a one-on-one prison ministry, in the person who witnesses to a co-worker or a neighbor, and in the Sunday school teacher who faithfully teaches week after week.
The power of Penticost is not especially reserved for the highly gifted. Rather, it is available to all believers in Christ who want to serve Him. --- Herb Vander Lugt
God's guidance and help that we need day to day
Are given to all who believe;
The Spirit has come and He is the source
Of power that we can receive. --- Branon
THE POWER OF GOD'S SPIRIT GIVES POWER TO OUR WITNESS.
You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me. --- Acts 1:8
The Bible In One Year:
Psalm 54-56
A pastor I know and love is discouraged. Although he is diligent in prayer and works hard, his church remains small while a new congregation nearby is rapidly developing into a megachurch. Yet when I think of the alcoholics, drug addicts, and sexually immoral people he has led to the Savior and a new way of life, I see him as one who witnesses in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Because of what happened on the Day of Pentecost [described in Acts 2], we tend to associate the Holy Spirit's presence and power with amazing phenomena and large numbers. We forget that a little later the same people filled with the same Holy Spirit were rejected, flogged, imprisoned, even executed. But through it all they were powerful witnesses!
The Holy Spirit's presence and power can be evidenced in a dynamic preacher who attracts great audiences. But it is seen as well in the volunteer who carries on a one-on-one prison ministry, in the person who witnesses to a co-worker or a neighbor, and in the Sunday school teacher who faithfully teaches week after week.
The power of Penticost is not especially reserved for the highly gifted. Rather, it is available to all believers in Christ who want to serve Him. --- Herb Vander Lugt
God's guidance and help that we need day to day
Are given to all who believe;
The Spirit has come and He is the source
Of power that we can receive. --- Branon
THE POWER OF GOD'S SPIRIT GIVES POWER TO OUR WITNESS.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Best Mum
Read: Prov. 31:10-12, 28-31
Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. --- Proverbs 31:28
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 12-17
Proverbs 14:25-35
On Mother's Day, 2007, British national television ran an intriguing story. Peggy Bush's daughter had died, so Peggy absorbed the responsibility of caring for her daughter's three children while her son-in-law worked. Then, tragically, her son-in-law also died. With both parents gone, Peggy took her three grandchildren in and raised them as if they were her own.
In a world where wrong is glamorized and the lurid is presented as appealing, we seldom hear of the good things that happen. Yet this woman's love and sacrifice were recognized, acknowledged, and honored as the nation took note of her as Britain's "Best Mum" for 2007.
Today is Mother's Day in the US. Most of the efforts, sacrifices, and expressions of love our mothers have given us will not be the lead story on the news. Their recognition will be more personal. But what matters is not the scope of the appreciation but its genuineness.
On this special day, may we thank God for the mothers who have molded our hearts. As we honor them, we fulfill the truth of Proverbs 31:28, "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." --- Bill Crowder
A Christian mother's love contains
A gospel all its own,
Because the King of love has found
Her heart an ample throne. --- Crawford
NOTHING TOUCHES A CHILD LIKE A MOTHER'S LOVE.
Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. --- Proverbs 31:28
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 12-17
Proverbs 14:25-35
On Mother's Day, 2007, British national television ran an intriguing story. Peggy Bush's daughter had died, so Peggy absorbed the responsibility of caring for her daughter's three children while her son-in-law worked. Then, tragically, her son-in-law also died. With both parents gone, Peggy took her three grandchildren in and raised them as if they were her own.
In a world where wrong is glamorized and the lurid is presented as appealing, we seldom hear of the good things that happen. Yet this woman's love and sacrifice were recognized, acknowledged, and honored as the nation took note of her as Britain's "Best Mum" for 2007.
Today is Mother's Day in the US. Most of the efforts, sacrifices, and expressions of love our mothers have given us will not be the lead story on the news. Their recognition will be more personal. But what matters is not the scope of the appreciation but its genuineness.
On this special day, may we thank God for the mothers who have molded our hearts. As we honor them, we fulfill the truth of Proverbs 31:28, "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her." --- Bill Crowder
A Christian mother's love contains
A gospel all its own,
Because the King of love has found
Her heart an ample throne. --- Crawford
NOTHING TOUCHES A CHILD LIKE A MOTHER'S LOVE.
Saturday, May 09, 2009
Horsepower
Read: Jeremiah 6:16-21
Ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls. --- Jeremiah 6:16
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 7-9
Proverbs 14:12-24
On a cold winter day in Michigan, a woman in labor was being rushed to the hospital when the unthinkable happened. The ambulance slid off an icy road into a ditch. A passing four-wheel drive truck stopped and tried to haul the emergency vehicle out but couldn't get a grip.
That's when help arrived. An Amish man driving a two-horse team stopped to offer help. He told the ambulance service that the horses' shoes had been sharpened so they would bite into the ice. Once he hooked up the horses to the ambulance, they walked it right out of the ditch.
By today's standards, this young mother received help from a source of strength that was old-fashioned and outmoded. But on that day, old ways helped to ensure the safe arrival of new life into the world.
Most of us wouldn't want to return to the old-fashioned ways. But more than 2,500 years ago, Jeremiah reminded us that there is nothing more relevant than the truth of the past. Even though he was regarded as a relic of his time, he urged his neighbors to walk in the old paths of truth so that they would find peace and rest for their souls [Jer. 6:16]. Today, we can still find rest and peace in Jesus, our eternal source of truth [Matt. 11:28]. --- Mart De Haan
Upon Thy Word I rest, so strong, so sure;
So full of comfort blest, so sweet, so pure,
Thy Word that changest not, that faileth never!
My King, I rest upon Thy Word forever. --- Havergal
THE OLD TRUTH OF GOD'S WORD IS EVER NEW.
Ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; then you will find rest for your souls. --- Jeremiah 6:16
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 7-9
Proverbs 14:12-24
On a cold winter day in Michigan, a woman in labor was being rushed to the hospital when the unthinkable happened. The ambulance slid off an icy road into a ditch. A passing four-wheel drive truck stopped and tried to haul the emergency vehicle out but couldn't get a grip.
That's when help arrived. An Amish man driving a two-horse team stopped to offer help. He told the ambulance service that the horses' shoes had been sharpened so they would bite into the ice. Once he hooked up the horses to the ambulance, they walked it right out of the ditch.
By today's standards, this young mother received help from a source of strength that was old-fashioned and outmoded. But on that day, old ways helped to ensure the safe arrival of new life into the world.
Most of us wouldn't want to return to the old-fashioned ways. But more than 2,500 years ago, Jeremiah reminded us that there is nothing more relevant than the truth of the past. Even though he was regarded as a relic of his time, he urged his neighbors to walk in the old paths of truth so that they would find peace and rest for their souls [Jer. 6:16]. Today, we can still find rest and peace in Jesus, our eternal source of truth [Matt. 11:28]. --- Mart De Haan
Upon Thy Word I rest, so strong, so sure;
So full of comfort blest, so sweet, so pure,
Thy Word that changest not, that faileth never!
My King, I rest upon Thy Word forever. --- Havergal
THE OLD TRUTH OF GOD'S WORD IS EVER NEW.
Friday, May 08, 2009
Moody Artwork
Read: 1 Peter 3:8-12
Be tenderhearted, be courteous. --- 1 Peter 3:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 4-6
Proverbs 14:1-11
British and American computer scientists have created artwork that changes according to how the viewer feels. The computer program analyzes the position and shape of the mouth, the angle of the brows, the openness of the eyes, and five other facial features to determine the viewer's emotional state. The artwork then alters, based on the viewer's mood. If joy is seen on the face, the artwork will show up in bright colors. If there's a scowl, the image will become dark and somber.
Our moods can also affect the people around us --- our family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. Our life touches people, whether for good or bad. Each person is responsible for his or her own reaction to us, of course. Yet the way we behave makes a difference in others' lives.
The apostle Peter encouraged us to have compassion for others, to love, to be tenderhearted and courteous, and not to return evil for evil but rather blessing [1 Peter 3:8-9]. Following his instructions may be difficult for us on a day when we feel cranky. By depending on the Holy Spirit, we can have a positive impact on everyone we meet --- even if all we do is smile or listen.
Let's paint our world in bright colors today. --- Anne Cetas
My life will touch a dozen lives
Before this day is done,
Leave countless marks for good or ill
Before the setting sun. --- Anon.
A HEART TOUCHED BY GRACE BRINGS JOY TO THE FACE.
Be tenderhearted, be courteous. --- 1 Peter 3:8
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 4-6
Proverbs 14:1-11
British and American computer scientists have created artwork that changes according to how the viewer feels. The computer program analyzes the position and shape of the mouth, the angle of the brows, the openness of the eyes, and five other facial features to determine the viewer's emotional state. The artwork then alters, based on the viewer's mood. If joy is seen on the face, the artwork will show up in bright colors. If there's a scowl, the image will become dark and somber.
Our moods can also affect the people around us --- our family, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances. Our life touches people, whether for good or bad. Each person is responsible for his or her own reaction to us, of course. Yet the way we behave makes a difference in others' lives.
The apostle Peter encouraged us to have compassion for others, to love, to be tenderhearted and courteous, and not to return evil for evil but rather blessing [1 Peter 3:8-9]. Following his instructions may be difficult for us on a day when we feel cranky. By depending on the Holy Spirit, we can have a positive impact on everyone we meet --- even if all we do is smile or listen.
Let's paint our world in bright colors today. --- Anne Cetas
My life will touch a dozen lives
Before this day is done,
Leave countless marks for good or ill
Before the setting sun. --- Anon.
A HEART TOUCHED BY GRACE BRINGS JOY TO THE FACE.
Thursday, May 07, 2009
Do Unto Others
Read: Matthew 7:7-12
Whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. --- Matthew 7:12
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 1-3
Proverbs 13:13-25
In May 2006, David Sharp set off from base camp to make his third attempt on Mount Everest. He actually reached the summit, but on his way down he ran out of oxygen. As he lay on the side of the mountain dying, 40 climbers passed him by.
Some say that at such oxygen-deprived altitudes, rescues are too perilous. But others say that climbers are too eager to reach the top and too selfish to help those in trouble.
I wonder what would have happened if someone who passed that stricken climber had said, "I will treat him the way I want to be treated."
In Matthew 7:12, the golden rule, Jesus gave His disciples the secret to fulfilling the entire Old Testament relational regulations --- love others and live for their benefit. He said this in the larger context of all the radical principles that He had taught up tho this point in His sermon [5:17-7:11].
As difficult as it is to live for the benefit of others, Jesus knew His followers could consistently live out this ethic as they drew strength from a righteousness that went beyond duty and outward conformity to rules [5:20]. It is a righteousness that can come only from God Himself.
If we are Jesus-followers, let's walk in His steps --- loving others and living for their benefit. --- Marvin Williams
Love is an attitude, love is a prayer;
For someone in sorrow, a heart in despair;
Love is good will for the gain of another,
Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. --- Anon.
LOVE IS THE DEBT WE OWE ONE ANOTHER.
Whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. --- Matthew 7:12
The Bible In One Year:
2 Samuel 1-3
Proverbs 13:13-25
In May 2006, David Sharp set off from base camp to make his third attempt on Mount Everest. He actually reached the summit, but on his way down he ran out of oxygen. As he lay on the side of the mountain dying, 40 climbers passed him by.
Some say that at such oxygen-deprived altitudes, rescues are too perilous. But others say that climbers are too eager to reach the top and too selfish to help those in trouble.
I wonder what would have happened if someone who passed that stricken climber had said, "I will treat him the way I want to be treated."
In Matthew 7:12, the golden rule, Jesus gave His disciples the secret to fulfilling the entire Old Testament relational regulations --- love others and live for their benefit. He said this in the larger context of all the radical principles that He had taught up tho this point in His sermon [5:17-7:11].
As difficult as it is to live for the benefit of others, Jesus knew His followers could consistently live out this ethic as they drew strength from a righteousness that went beyond duty and outward conformity to rules [5:20]. It is a righteousness that can come only from God Himself.
If we are Jesus-followers, let's walk in His steps --- loving others and living for their benefit. --- Marvin Williams
Love is an attitude, love is a prayer;
For someone in sorrow, a heart in despair;
Love is good will for the gain of another,
Love suffers long with the fault of a brother. --- Anon.
LOVE IS THE DEBT WE OWE ONE ANOTHER.
Wednesday, May 06, 2009
Anti-Aging Power
Read: Isaiah 40:25-41:1
Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength. --- Isaiah 40:31
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 30-31
Proverbs 13:1-12
Americans spend more than $20 billion annually on various anti-aging products that claim to cure baldness, remove wrinkles, build muscle, and renew the powers of youth. Can those products deliver what they promise? Dr. Thomas Perls of Boston University School of Medicine says there is "absolutely no scientific proof that any commercially available product will stop or reverse aging."
But there is a promise of spiritual vitality that defies the ravages of time. "Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint" [Isa. 40:30-31].
Isaiah used the eagle as a symbol of freedom and endurance, held aloft by a source of power outside itself. As we put our hope and trust in the Lord, we are carried along by His strength and not our own. The psalmist said it is the Lord who nourishes us so that our "youth is renewed like the eagle's" [Ps. 103:5].
Are we taking advantage of God's anti-aging power? It's promised to all who put their trust in Him for strength of heart, vigor of spirit, and energy of soul. --- David McCasland
The ravages of time cannot be stopped;
Yes, outwardly we perish every day;
But inner strength of heart can be renewed
By trusting in the Lord to light our way. --- Sper
GROWING OLD IS A BLESSING WHEN YOU'RE GROWING CLOSER TO GOD.
Those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength. --- Isaiah 40:31
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 30-31
Proverbs 13:1-12
Americans spend more than $20 billion annually on various anti-aging products that claim to cure baldness, remove wrinkles, build muscle, and renew the powers of youth. Can those products deliver what they promise? Dr. Thomas Perls of Boston University School of Medicine says there is "absolutely no scientific proof that any commercially available product will stop or reverse aging."
But there is a promise of spiritual vitality that defies the ravages of time. "Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, but those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint" [Isa. 40:30-31].
Isaiah used the eagle as a symbol of freedom and endurance, held aloft by a source of power outside itself. As we put our hope and trust in the Lord, we are carried along by His strength and not our own. The psalmist said it is the Lord who nourishes us so that our "youth is renewed like the eagle's" [Ps. 103:5].
Are we taking advantage of God's anti-aging power? It's promised to all who put their trust in Him for strength of heart, vigor of spirit, and energy of soul. --- David McCasland
The ravages of time cannot be stopped;
Yes, outwardly we perish every day;
But inner strength of heart can be renewed
By trusting in the Lord to light our way. --- Sper
GROWING OLD IS A BLESSING WHEN YOU'RE GROWING CLOSER TO GOD.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
The Debt Of Leadership
Read: Psalm 86
Save Your servant who trusts in You! --- Psalm 86:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 28-29
Proverbs 12:15-28
Examine the words of Psalm 86, and you might forget that you are reading the musings of a good leader. King David prayed, "O LORD, hear me; for I am poor and needy" [v.1]. Then the king of Israel refers to himself as a "servant" and pleads for mercy. Think of it! This was the man God had chosen to lead His people, pleading for God's help. Wow!
As we think about the role of leaders --- whether centuries ago or today --- it's vital that we review what leadership means. According to businessman and author Max De Pree, whose leadership moved his company near the top of the Fortune 500: "The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between the two, the leader must become a servant and a debtor. That sums up the progress of an artful leader." Those two words, servant and debtor, describe David's view of himself as he asked God for help during his time of leadership.
All of us who are in a leadership position --- whether leading a family, a church, a classroom, or a business --- need the humble words of Psalm 86 as our guide. The "poor and needy" [v.1] servant-leader who trusts God is the one who, in the end, can say as David did, "You, LORD, have helped me and comforted me' [v.17]. --- Dave Branon
Controlling other people's lives
Is not a godly leader's trait;
But serving other people's needs
Is what the Lord considers great. --- Sper
THE ONLY LEADERS QUALIFIED TO LEAD ARE THOSE WHO HAVE LEARNED TO SERVE.
Save Your servant who trusts in You! --- Psalm 86:2
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 28-29
Proverbs 12:15-28
Examine the words of Psalm 86, and you might forget that you are reading the musings of a good leader. King David prayed, "O LORD, hear me; for I am poor and needy" [v.1]. Then the king of Israel refers to himself as a "servant" and pleads for mercy. Think of it! This was the man God had chosen to lead His people, pleading for God's help. Wow!
As we think about the role of leaders --- whether centuries ago or today --- it's vital that we review what leadership means. According to businessman and author Max De Pree, whose leadership moved his company near the top of the Fortune 500: "The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between the two, the leader must become a servant and a debtor. That sums up the progress of an artful leader." Those two words, servant and debtor, describe David's view of himself as he asked God for help during his time of leadership.
All of us who are in a leadership position --- whether leading a family, a church, a classroom, or a business --- need the humble words of Psalm 86 as our guide. The "poor and needy" [v.1] servant-leader who trusts God is the one who, in the end, can say as David did, "You, LORD, have helped me and comforted me' [v.17]. --- Dave Branon
Controlling other people's lives
Is not a godly leader's trait;
But serving other people's needs
Is what the Lord considers great. --- Sper
THE ONLY LEADERS QUALIFIED TO LEAD ARE THOSE WHO HAVE LEARNED TO SERVE.
Monday, May 04, 2009
The Next Generation
Read: 2 Timothy 2:1-13
The things that you have heard from me ... commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. --- 2 Timothy 2:22
The Bible In One Year:
Psalm 51-53
A man who played double-bass in the Mexico City Philharmonic told me that the finest instruments are made of wood that has been allowed to age naturally to remove the moisture. "You must age the wood for 80 years then play the instrument for 80 years before it reaches its best sound," said Luis Antonio Rojas. "A craftsman must use wood cut and aged by someone else, and he will never see any instrument reach its peak during his own lifetime."
Many important things in life are "next generation" matters --- teaching, training, and parenting are among them. The apostle Paul invested himself in people whose spiritual influence would continue long after he was gone. He wrote to Timothy: "The things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" [2 Tim. 2:2]. Paul, Timothy, "faithful men," and "others" represent four spiritual generations built on the enduring foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Are we living only for today and the short term, or are we giving ourselves to others who will continue the faith after our race is run? Living for Christ and making disciples are all about the next generation. --- David McCasland
Day by day perform your mission,
With Christ's help keep at your tasks;
Be encouraged by His presence ---
Faithfulness is all He asks. --- Bosch
WE INFLUENCE FUTURE GENERATIONS BY LIVING FOR CHRIST TODAY.
The things that you have heard from me ... commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. --- 2 Timothy 2:22
The Bible In One Year:
Psalm 51-53
A man who played double-bass in the Mexico City Philharmonic told me that the finest instruments are made of wood that has been allowed to age naturally to remove the moisture. "You must age the wood for 80 years then play the instrument for 80 years before it reaches its best sound," said Luis Antonio Rojas. "A craftsman must use wood cut and aged by someone else, and he will never see any instrument reach its peak during his own lifetime."
Many important things in life are "next generation" matters --- teaching, training, and parenting are among them. The apostle Paul invested himself in people whose spiritual influence would continue long after he was gone. He wrote to Timothy: "The things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also" [2 Tim. 2:2]. Paul, Timothy, "faithful men," and "others" represent four spiritual generations built on the enduring foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Are we living only for today and the short term, or are we giving ourselves to others who will continue the faith after our race is run? Living for Christ and making disciples are all about the next generation. --- David McCasland
Day by day perform your mission,
With Christ's help keep at your tasks;
Be encouraged by His presence ---
Faithfulness is all He asks. --- Bosch
WE INFLUENCE FUTURE GENERATIONS BY LIVING FOR CHRIST TODAY.
Sunday, May 03, 2009
China's Billy Graham
Read: Philippians 3:1-11
What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. --- Philippians 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 7-11
Proverbs 12:1-14
In 1927, John Sung boarded a ship from the US bound for Shanghai. He had been in the States for more than 7 years, earning three degrees in that time, including a Ph.D.
As the ship neared its destination, Sung threw all his diplomas, medals, and fraternity keys overboard, keeping only his doctorate diploma to show his father. He had received Jesus Christ and was determined that for the rest of his life he would live only for what counted for eternity.
Many older Christians still living in East and Southeast Asia came to know Christ through the ministry of John Sung, who has been called China's Billy Graham for his evangelic work. His actions demonstrate what Paul wrote in Philippians 3:7, "What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ."
Not everyone can do what John Sung did. But, like Paul, we all should regard the things of this life "as rubbish" [v.8], and live our lives so that they will count for eternity.
There are people within your sphere of influence whose lives you can impact for God. He has placed them within your reach to be a witness to point them to Jesus.
Think of someone whom you can speak to about Jesus Christ and what He has done for you. --- C.P. Hia
Let my hands perform His bidding,
Let my feet run in His ways,
Let my eyes see Jesus only,
Let my lips speak forth His praise. --- James
ONLY ONE LIFE, 'TWILL SOON BE PAST; ONLY WHAT'S DONE FOR CHRIST WILL LAST.
What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. --- Philippians 3:7
The Bible In One Year:
Acts 7-11
Proverbs 12:1-14
In 1927, John Sung boarded a ship from the US bound for Shanghai. He had been in the States for more than 7 years, earning three degrees in that time, including a Ph.D.
As the ship neared its destination, Sung threw all his diplomas, medals, and fraternity keys overboard, keeping only his doctorate diploma to show his father. He had received Jesus Christ and was determined that for the rest of his life he would live only for what counted for eternity.
Many older Christians still living in East and Southeast Asia came to know Christ through the ministry of John Sung, who has been called China's Billy Graham for his evangelic work. His actions demonstrate what Paul wrote in Philippians 3:7, "What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ."
Not everyone can do what John Sung did. But, like Paul, we all should regard the things of this life "as rubbish" [v.8], and live our lives so that they will count for eternity.
There are people within your sphere of influence whose lives you can impact for God. He has placed them within your reach to be a witness to point them to Jesus.
Think of someone whom you can speak to about Jesus Christ and what He has done for you. --- C.P. Hia
Let my hands perform His bidding,
Let my feet run in His ways,
Let my eyes see Jesus only,
Let my lips speak forth His praise. --- James
ONLY ONE LIFE, 'TWILL SOON BE PAST; ONLY WHAT'S DONE FOR CHRIST WILL LAST.
Saturday, May 02, 2009
No Good Deed
Read: 1 Samuel 25:32-39
Blessed be the LORD, who has pleaded the cause of my reproach. --- 1 Samuel 25:39
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 25-27
Proverbs 11:22-31
Playwright and US Congresswoman Clare Boothe Luce [1903-1987] once said, "No good deed goes unpunished." Sadly, it sometimes seems as if this aphorism is true.
David, soon to be king of Israel, had an experience that corroborates this idea. While hiding from Saul, he and his men watched over the property of a rich landowner named Nabal. But later, when David asked a favor of Nabal, he was met with scorn. "Surely in vain I have protected all that this fellow has," said David. "He has repaid me evil for good" [1 Sam. 25:21].
Before David could carry out revenge, Nabal's wife intervened and kept David from acting rashly. Soon, God struck Nabal dead [v. 38]. Then David praised God for keeping him from evil and for returning "the wickedness of Nabal on his own head" [v. 39].
Perhaps you've had an experience when kindness was repaid with ingratitude, a generous gift was treated as an entitlement, kind actions were interpreted as an attempt to control, or well-intended advice was received with scorn.
David's story reminds us that even when it seems as if we're being repaid with evil for doing good, we don't have to take matters into our own hands; we can trust God with the outcome. --- Julie Ackerman Link
This is my Father's world ---
O let me ne'er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong
God is the Ruler yet. --- Babcock
ONE DAY GOD WILL RIGHT EVERY WRONG.
Read: 1 Samuel 25:32-39
Blessed be the LORD, who has pleaded the cause of my reproach. --- 1 Samuel 25:39
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 25-27
Proverbs 11:22-31
Playwright and US Congresswoman Clare Boothe Luce [1903-1987] once said, "No good deed goes unpunished." Sadly, it sometimes seems as if this aphorism is true.
David, soon to be king of Israel, had an experience that corroborates this idea. While hiding from Saul, he and his men watched over the property of a rich landowner named Nabal. But later, when David asked a favor of Nabal, he was met with scorn. "Surely in vain I have protected all that this fellow has," said David. "He has repaid me evil for good" [1 Sam. 25:21].
Before David could carry out revenge, Nabal's wife intervened and kept David from acting rashly. Soon, God struck Nabal dead [v. 38]. Then David praised God for keeping him from evil and for returning "the wickedness of Nabal on his own head" [v. 39].
Perhaps you've had an experience when kindness was repaid with ingratitude, a generous gift was treated as an entitlement, kind actions were interpreted as an attempt to control, or well-intended advice was received with scorn.
David's story reminds us that even when it seems as if we're being repaid with evil for doing good, we don't have to take matters into our own hands; we can trust God with the outcome. --- Julie Ackerman Link
This is my Father's world ---
O let me ne'er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong
God is the Ruler yet. --- Babcock
ONE DAY GOD WILL RIGHT EVERY WRONG.
Friday, May 01, 2009
He's Waiting
Read: Psalm 34:1-15
I sought the LORD, and He heard me. --- Psalm 34:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 22-24
Proverbs 11:12-21
Jane Welsh, secretary to Scottish essayist Thomas Carlyle [1795-1881], married him and devoted her life to him and his work. He loved her deeply but was so busy with his writing and speaking that he often neglected her. Some time into their marriage, she became ill and suddenly died.
In a new book by John Ortberg, I read that after the funeral Thomas went alone to Jane's room and looked at her diary. He found these words that she had written about him: "Yesterday he spent an hour with me and it was like heaven. I love him so." On another day, she wrote, "I have listened all day to hear his steps in the hall, but not it is late. I guess he will not come today." He wept brokenly, realizing his neglect of her and her desire just to talk to him.
As I read that, I couldn't help but think, God loves me dearly and waits for me to fellowship with Him. How many days do I forget Him?
The Lord welcomes our worship, our prayer, our praise. He has told us in His Word to pray all the time [1 Thess. 5:17]. As He did with the church in Laodicea in Revelation 3, Christ knocks on the door of our heart and patiently waits [v.20]. He listens attentively for our call, our cry, our prayer. How often does He wait in vain? --- Dave Egner
We can know that God is watching,
Always present, everywhere,
And with hope and joy and patience
He is waiting for our prayer. --- Roworth
TALK WITH GOD --- HE LONGS TO HEAR FROM YOU.
I sought the LORD, and He heard me. --- Psalm 34:4
The Bible In One Year:
1 Samuel 22-24
Proverbs 11:12-21
Jane Welsh, secretary to Scottish essayist Thomas Carlyle [1795-1881], married him and devoted her life to him and his work. He loved her deeply but was so busy with his writing and speaking that he often neglected her. Some time into their marriage, she became ill and suddenly died.
In a new book by John Ortberg, I read that after the funeral Thomas went alone to Jane's room and looked at her diary. He found these words that she had written about him: "Yesterday he spent an hour with me and it was like heaven. I love him so." On another day, she wrote, "I have listened all day to hear his steps in the hall, but not it is late. I guess he will not come today." He wept brokenly, realizing his neglect of her and her desire just to talk to him.
As I read that, I couldn't help but think, God loves me dearly and waits for me to fellowship with Him. How many days do I forget Him?
The Lord welcomes our worship, our prayer, our praise. He has told us in His Word to pray all the time [1 Thess. 5:17]. As He did with the church in Laodicea in Revelation 3, Christ knocks on the door of our heart and patiently waits [v.20]. He listens attentively for our call, our cry, our prayer. How often does He wait in vain? --- Dave Egner
We can know that God is watching,
Always present, everywhere,
And with hope and joy and patience
He is waiting for our prayer. --- Roworth
TALK WITH GOD --- HE LONGS TO HEAR FROM YOU.
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