I THOUGHT

Today's reading: Psalm 72-74

"Then one day I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I thought about the destiny of the wicked." Psalm 73:17 NLT

I'll admit that upon reading this verse, my mind stopped about three-quarters of the way through it...

'Then one day I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I thought...'

That's where my focus ended.

That's where my attention took a swerve.

That's where I believe God spoke to me.

You see, when I go into His house--the one where I worship with other believers AND the one where I pause for the morning in my prayer chair--I seldom, if ever, just think.

I praise.

I confess.

I ask.

Then I ask some more.

Then I ask for even more than that.

I never just think.

Ponder.

Reflect.

Meditate.

Sadly, even in the presence of God, I don't stop.

I don't stop considering the circumstances around me.

Or the needs I want to see met.

Or the many, many ways I fall short of honoring Him.

I sure don't think about the wicked and their destinies and how I might be a part of their detour.

I want to begin simply being in His presence, thinking about Who it is I'm sitting before, considering deeply the privilege and the power of the throne where I'm bowed low. 

SUBTRACTION NOT SUBSTITUTION

Today's reading: 1 Kings 14-18

"He banished the shrine prostitutes from the land and removed all the idols his ancestors had made." 1 Kings 15:12 NLT

King Asa can be applauded for taking a stand against idolatry and attempting to draw the people of Israel back to God.

He tried.

He really tried.

He cleaned house, he straightened things up and he set about restoring godliness.

But the thing is...

What we're all guilty of...

What never works...

When it comes to the heart, it's never about subtraction, it's about substitution.

If we take something out of our heads, hearts, lives (subtraction), it will be filled in with something else.

Asa didn't institute God worship as a substitute for idol worship.

Everyone is made with a deep down desire to worship. A desire to worship some thing or some one.

While King Asa's attempts were noble and nationwide, they were short lived and soon the people turned back to what had previously held important places in their hearts--idols.

We all need to fill in God things in the places we're pulling out godless things. We need to begin godly habits where we remove ungodly habits.

It takes effort, but it's about substitution, not subtraction.

THE SIN OFFERING

Today's reading: Leviticus 4-6

"When any of the people become aware of their guilt in any of these ways, they must confess their sin and bring to the Lord as their penalty a female from the flock, either a sheep or a goat. This will be a sin offering to remove their sin, and the priest will make atonement for them." Leviticus 5:5-6 NLT

It's not a matter of 'if', but 'when'.

When we choose to go against God's law, God's leading or God's heart, we sin.

Confession is a heartfelt admission of the guilt we feel for dishonoring God with that sin.

But since the Cross...

Because of Jesus's ultimate sacrifice for us...

We, in our guilt and repentant state of heart, don't have to wrestle a goat or lamb to the Temple for a priest to offer in our stead.

We can talk to God.

We can seek His forgiveness and grace.

We can approach the throne of His holiness and power and make amends because of Jesus!

 

GET RID OF

Today's reading: Ephesians 4-6

"Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of malicious behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:31 NLT

'Get rid of'...

'Put away from'...

'Be removed'...

Just how does one 'do' that?

How does one get rid of emotion, feeling and deep-seated sentiment?

It's not as easy as a surgical procedure to remove the infected area.

Or a matter of having enough positive vibes to make it happen.

It doesn't even help to know all the verses, King James English or otherwise, that tell you to do it.

So how does it get done? How does one rid one's self of bitterness, rage, anger and the like?

Well, it will only happen when we determine to prioritize peace.

When we want a settled heart more than we want to hang on to whatever sinful feeling we are justifying filling our lives with.

When we don't just 'wish it away', but spend time in prayer each and every time the emotion rears its ugly head.

When we consider the Cross. 

Let Jesus's work on the cross- the example He set for us, the lengths He went to, the love He showed in that single act-be our example to follow.

This verse isn't asking us to conceal how we feel...

It's not even asking us to not feel...

It's asking us to confront it, replace it and trust Him with it.

It's not easy....but neither is carrying the baggage of those negative emotions around all day!

 

REAL LIFE

Today's reading: Luke 11-12

"Then he said, Beware! Don't be greedy for what you don't have. Real life is not measured by how much we own." Luke 12:15 NLT

Are you content?

If you attained nothing more in life than what you have now--would you be utterly and completely satisfied?

It would be easy to say that 'in this day and time' we all struggle with materialism, but by Jesus himself speaking these words to the crowds that followed Him, I ascertain that it was a problem then, too.

We all know real life isn't measured by the number of things you have, but do our actions align with those beliefs?

Are we more driven to getting more, having more, accumulating more than we are to spend time in prayer?

Are we more excited about a new deposit of Amazon packages on our front porch than we are about getting in the Word?

Are we more intent upon scheduling time to play with our 'toys' than we are attending worship?

Real life is not measured by how much we own. 

It's truly not.

PICKED UP
Today's reading: Ezekiel 1-6

"Then the Spirit lifted me up..." Ezekiel 3:12, 14 NLT

This morning, this is my prayer for you...

That the Spirit lift you up.

-Up and out of the shadows of fear.

-Up and out of the pit of depression.

-Up and out of the gutter of helplessness.

-Up and out of the grasp of the enemy's lies.

-Up and out of the state of complacency.

I pray that your soul be encouraged, revived, restored, reminded and renewed by the Spirit placing its 'hands' on you and picking you up.

It's what we all need.

 

A FATHER'S ADVICE

Today's reading: Proverbs 4

"My father told me, Take my words to heart. Follow my instructions and you will live." Proverbs 4:4 NLT

It's no coincidence that today, Father's Day, God has me in a chapter labeled, A Father's Wise Advice.

I won't go so far as to wrongly assume we have all had great, godly fathers. I won't even paint a picture that leads us to think we have all even had nice fathers. 

But we have all had fathers.

Fathers that we can learn something from. Fathers whose lives will teach us lessons. Fathers who we can mimic or fathers we can use as 'what not to do' role models.

Blessed are those of us with good, God-led dads, but also blessed are those of us who were given the gift of life by men who did not pour into our lives their influence and impact.

 

 THE RIGHT PASSION

Today's reading: Psalm 69-71

"Passion for your house burns within me, so those who insult you are also insulting me." Psalm 69:9 NLT

What are some of the things you get worked up about?

Politics? Rights? Sports? A hobby?

What an impact the Church would make if our passions were united, consolidated and merged for God, His kingdom and godliness!

What stirred us up would be living for Jesus...

What got our blood boiling was the offensiveness of sin--our own and that of others...

What moved us and motivated us was a desire to see people know our Lord...

What set us off was what bothers God...

We are an easily inconvenienced, riled and irritated people, but I'm not sure it's usually about the right things.

LISTENING?

Today's reading: 1 Kings 10-13

"He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the Lord's command." 1 Kings 11:10 NLT

In reading about Solomon I see myself.

Oh, not in the wisdom that the man had...

Or in the mounds of money he gathered...

Or in the grand palace he had built for himself...

Where I see Solomon in my life is the fact that disobedience comes awfully naturally to my heart and mind.

After all the instructions God had given him...

After all the promises God had made him...

After all the blessings God had bestowed upon him...

After having been made king over God's chosen people...

Solomon thought he knew better.

Solomon thought he knew better!

Solomon thought he knew better?

That, friend, is where I find myself with 'Solomon characteristics'.

I think...

Just this once...

One little bit...

This time, but not again...

Solomon, and I, both thought/think we are in control--when all the while God knows we aren't capable of controlling anything--at all!

THE HARD PART OF SACRIFICE

Today's reading: Leviticus 1-3

I'm reading this morning about the effort, time, expense and mess that was involved in Old Testament sacrifices.

There were details given that ensured what was offered would be found pleasing to the Lord.

It wasn't easy. It required following instructions. It took strength and might to wrangle an animal to the Temple. It provided no room to fudge on giving to the Lord what was needed.

There was, no doubt, blood, sweat and tears involved.

As I read through the passage, knowing full well I probably couldn't/wouldn't be able to follow all the directives, I am ever so glad One Sacrifice was provided for me!

Jesus offered himself up.

Jesus provided what was needed to cover my sins.

Jesus willingly laid down his life for me.

Jesus paid a debt owed by all of humanity in his one act of love.

WHILE

Today's reading: Ephesians 1-3

"But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much, that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's special favor that you have been saved!) Ephesians 2:4 NLT

No matter the situation God found you in when you were saved...

-the darkest, deepest gutter.

-the childlike excitement of a child at the end of a Vacation Bible School lesson.

-the hard sought and hard won battle between your will and His.

-the pig pen of a prodigal journey.

-the altar call ending a Sunday morning service or a hellfire and brimstone revival meeting.

Where ever it was, who ever you were, how ever He found you--He did His work WHILE you were in the state of need.

Not after you had cleaned up your act.

Not following a transformative season of self-improvement.

Not on the tail of a grand heart and soul remodel of your own doing.

While.

While you were dirty, smelly and covered in sin.

While your desires didn't line up with His, your ways didn't glorify Him and your heart didn't have the want-to.

While...

"But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners." Romans 5:8 NLT

 

WHO DO YOU SAY I AM?

Today's reading: Luke 9-10

"Then He asked them, Who do you say I am?.." Luke 9:20 NLT

 How would you answer the same question, friend?

Great Physician, after a good report at the doctor's?

Friend, while the world seems to keep you at arm's length?

Savior, as you are new to faith?

Father, as you have leaned heavy into His loving arms?

Who we say He is is important.

It's important to us. It's important to those who are watching us.

But is who we say He is backed up by how we live? What we say? How entirely we trust Him?

Is the One True God the only One who has our hearts?

Is the Good Shepherd depended upon completely with every care we have?

Is the Savior capable of saving us to the uttermost, or are there still some areas you don't believe He has rescued you from?

Is the God of Peace the God of your peace, or just everyone else's?

Who does your life say God is to you?

Do we live based upon who He says He is, or are we living by who we 'feel' He is at the moment?

Let's spend some time today looking into our answer to that question. The honest answer. The proved by our life answer.

WONDERFULLY GOOD
Today's reading: Lamentations

"The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him." Lamentations 3:25 NLT

How has it worked for you to rush ahead of God and try to 'help' Him with what He is up to?

He doesn't need our assistance...

He doesn't require our aid...

He doesn't ask for our hand in His plans--only our faith and obedience.

When we pause...

When we pray...

When we scour the Scriptures...

When we follow the leading of the Holy Spirit...

It's then that we see where He is at work and join Him in it, or where we step into peace that carries us through.

The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for Him and seek Him!

Where is it you need to prayerfully sit back and watch expectantly?

What areas of your life do you need 'to take your hands off' and put your faith entirely in Him?

CRY OUT

Today's reading: Proverbs 2-3

"Cry out for insight and understanding." Proverbs 2:3 NLT

God could have unscrewed the tops of our heads and filled them with all the wisdom we would ever need at the altar where we prayed the prayer of forgiveness and asked Him to be the Savior of our lives.

He could have.

But He didn't.

He desires that we seek after Him with urgency, intensity and desire.

He wants us to want to know the best way to live a life that glorifies Him.

So He asks that we cry out.

That we look for the answers.

That we scour the Scriptures.

That we spend time on our knees.

Not just sit and soak it in.

Not just arrive at church and expect the pastor to fill us in.

Not just believe singing a few praise and worship songs will insure a deposit into your wisdom account.

Make the effort.

Cry out for wisdom and understanding!

 

PRAYER & PRAISE

Today's reading: Psalm 66-68

"For I cried out to Him for help, praising Him as I spoke." Psalm 66:17 NLT

While my Bible states that the author of this particular psalm, and this particular verse, is unknown--we do know this: he was full aware to Whom he prayed and he provides us with a great template for our own prayers.

You see, this psalmist stresses the idea that God HAS what we need because He IS what we need. Prayer, and praise while we are praying, states that.

-Help me, great Deliverer.

-Fix the situation I've gotten myself in, my Redeemer.

-Hear me, One who is everywhere and in everything.

-Guide me, Good Shepherd.

-Save me, Savior.

-Be near me, Friend.

-Do a mighty work, Creator and Sustainer.

When you pray for your needs, restate to God just who you know Him to be. It's not at all that He needs the reminder--but maybe you do!

 WITHOUT THE SOUND

Today's reading: 1 Kings 5-9

"The stones used in the construction of the Temple were prefinished at the quarry, so the entire structure was built without the sound of hammer, ax, or any other iron tool in the building site." 1 Kings 6:7 NLT

Imagine a construction project the size of Solomon's Temple being built without anyone hearing it?

No clashing of pick against rock. No sound of ax against timber. No sound of hammer against nail.

And still every day, there was progress. One stone being set upon another upon another upon another.

Isn't that how God chooses to work in a whole lot of our heart's requests?

We don't see our prayers being answered...

We don't hear much to rejoice over in regards to our hearts being lightened of its burdens...

We don't always catch a glimpse of God at work...

But silently?

Behind the scenes?

Out of our eyesight?

In ways we know nothing about?

In realms far too other-worldly for us to comprehend?

Battling against spirits that intend evil and harm against us?

God is at work.

God is orchestrating, renovating, creating, redeeming and building hopes that give us a future and Him all the glory!

GOD OF DETAILS

Today's reading: Exodus 37-40

As I read through the verses that discuss the dimensions, weights, heights and quantities of the Ark, the Tabernacle furnishings and the clothing for the priests--I am amazed!

Lots of facts--yes.

Lots of information--yes.

Lots of bits of knowledge that I probably won't ever jot down in a card or use to build my faith--yes.

But as I read through each and every item listed and the specifications regarding them, I see that our God is the God of details!

From creation to Revelation, and every verse in between, He has specifically and intricately woven His attention to detail into the entirety of the Bible.

So why would we EVER doubt He isn't in the details of our lives?

Ever?

In the goings-on of our days. In the specifics of our decisions we are called to make. In the moment by moment activities of our faith walks.

The God of details is our God of our details! And why is that? So that He will have a place in every aspect of our lives!

"Then the cloud covered the Tabernacle, and the glorious presence of the Lord filled it. Moses was no longer able to enter the Tabernacle because the cloud had settled down over it, and the Tabernacle was filled with the awesome glory of the Lord." Exodus 37:34-35 NLT

CHILDREN OF THE PROMISE

Today's reading: Galatians 4-6

"And you, dear brothers and sisters, are children of the promise, just like Isaac." Galatians 4:28 NLT

Do you need a reminder this morning of just who you are? 

As a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, you are a child of the promise.

A child of the impossible.

A child of the King.

A child of the One True God.

A child of the Creator of the world.

A child of the Triune God.

A child with an inheritance not held in earthly boundaries.

A child with eternity in your future.

A child of the One who longs to give us exceedingly abundantly more than we might ever ask for.

A child unworthy, yet chosen.

A child who is a vessel of the love and spirit of God.

It's vitally important that we remember just who we are--so we can live just as we are called to live--in order that we might remind others of who they can be in Christ! 

WHO IS THIS?

Today's reading: Luke 7-8

"...And they were filled with awe and amazement. They said to one another, Who is this man, that even the winds and waves obey him?" Luke 8:25 NLT

The motley crew of disciples had already ridden some rough patches with Jesus...

Crowds wanting to crucify Him.

Priests looking down upon Him.

Towns completely disregarding His teachings.

But this boat trip? 

On this adventure they saw a facet of Jesus that had never before seen!

Healer--they had seen it.

Powerful speaker--they had heard His words.

Miracle worker--they had eaten some leftover bread and fish.

But the winds and the waves? Nature itself? Absolute control of the elements? Peace in the words He spoke?

Their words revealed the thoughts of their hearts--Who truly is this man?

And we? When we choose to look deeply into all He is doing around us, will ask the same question--Who is this man? 

 

THEN

Today's reading: Jeremiah 47-52

"Then the people of Israel and Judah will join together, says the Lord, weeping and seeking the Lord their God. They will ask the way to Jerusalem and will start back home again. They will bind themselves to the Lord with an eternal covenant that will never again be broken." Jeremiah 50:4 NLT

The Old Testament tells us of God's special mark on Israel--the people and the land.

It goes on to tell us about their decision to turn to gods other than the One True God.

They forfeited their relationship with God and chose instead captivity, deportment and exile.

But the words of their history doesn't stop there.

When they realize the error of their ways...

When they have been meted out the portion of their discipline...

When they turn back to the Lord...

They are restored to their relationship and their country.

That's not a story just for the Jews, it's our story, too.

When we realize the mess we've made...

When we are sick and tired of the problems we are bringing on ourselves...

When we turn to the Lord, our God and Savior...

He begins writing a new story for us that includes His forgiveness, grace, mercy and love!

 

 TURN MY BACK

Today's reading: Proverbs 1

"My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!" Proverbs 1:10 NLT

It's not as hard as I think...

Saying 'no'.

It starts with an idea--one that usually doesn't settle well within my spirit.

Or a thought that seemingly hides in the shadows of shame.

Or an urge that I know doesn't need fulfilled.

Or a temptation that hangs before me with as much allure as Eve's 'apple'.

I know when it's sin.

That's not the problem.

Telling myself to just say 'no' is where I have the hang-up.

It's not easy.

It's not fun.

It's not a natural bent of mine to deny myself.

But if I just say 'NO'.

Or 'Nope!'

Or 'Not this time.'

Or even 'No way, Hosea!'

If I would just turn my back on the temptation, the thought, the idea or the opportunity...I'll be doing the will of God.

LYING AWAKE

Today's reading: Psalm 63-65

"I lie awake thinking of you, meditating on you through the night." Psalm 63:6 NLT

What if...

Our long nights were caused by us not being able to stop thinking about the Lord and His greatness?

Sleep eluded us as we pondered His love for us?

Zzzz's were kept at bay because we couldn't get God off our minds?

Not that we were being kept up by looming decisions...

Or those unpaid bills...

Or what 'so and so' said/did...

Or the things we can't fix...

Or worrying about the things we don't know...

What would our days look like if we allowed thoughts of God to keep us up at night?

What would our ministries, and we all have one, look like if our minds were constantly and consistently on the goodness of God? 

LIKE A LITTLE CHILD

Today's reading: 1 Kings 1-4

"O, Lord my God, you have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn't know his way around. And here I am among your own chosen people, a nation so great they are too numerous to count! Give me an understanding mind so that I can govern your people well..." 1 Kings 3:7-9 NLT

Solomon, in all his wisdom, admitted when he was in over his kingly head.

He had been raised in the palace. He had been trained in the ways of the monarchy. He had been given all the education a little prince could be offered.

But now?

As a man?

As the one wearing the crown?

As the one holding the scepter?

As the one sporting the kingly robe?

He, in his own words, felt like a little child--and needed God's help in doing all required of him.

Isn't that where we stand before God, believing friends?

Our King has crowned us as sons and daughters of His...

He has bestowed upon us powers that can shake up the world...

He gives us peace to walk in, a Gospel to share and love knowing no boundaries...

And we stand before Him with robes of righteousness too big for us to wear, shoes of peace that are our Father's size and tasks that loom before us.

Are we asking each morning, as Solomon did, for God to direct us in our tasks? In our roles as priests in this dark world? In our mission fields?

Because we are like little children on a big adventure! 

NO TREATIES

Today's reading: Exodus 33-36

"Be very careful to never make treaties with the people in the land where you are going. If you do, you soon will be following their evil ways." Exodus 34:12 NLT

I looked into a digital thesaurus to find a few synonyms for the word 'treaty.

Concessions. Compromise. Allowance. Agreement. Bargain. Arrangement.

While I can't say I have ever made a treaty, in the worldly sense, between another country and our 15 acres of a farm, I have to confess I have in my personal life.

I've conceded to some ploys of the devil.

I've compromised on some firm stances I have taken.

I've allowed sin to creep into places I never wanted it to gain a foothold.

I've agreed to, bargained over and re-arranged a few things in my life to make room for what my enemy promised he would provide.

And because of all of that...I see exactly why God told us not to make treaties.

Sadly, where I thought I was in control--I clearly wasn't for too long.

In the instances when I seemingly had the reins--I soon found myself being reined in by my oppressor.

In regards to the areas I let sin stick its hairy toe over the line--I find it has moved in, and brought friends!

God, as usual, was so right.

THE SAME GOD

Today's reading: Galatians 1-3

"For the same God who worked through Peter for the benefit of the Jews, worked through me for the benefit of the Gentiles." Galatians 2:8 NLT

God hasn't changed from Paul's time to now.

He hasn't changed ever.

The God of Adam...

Is the God of Daniel...

Is the God of Mary...

Is the God of Peter and Paul...

Is the God of Martin Luther...

Is the God of Billy Graham...

Is the God of you--right now, in your situation and on your mission field.

Nothing about God has changed, don't forget that!

When He asks you to go and do--go and do in His unchanging strength and power.

When He asks you to wait--wait knowing He has good plans.

When He asks you to speak--speak the words He has given through the ages, words of truth and hope.

When He asks you to repent--repent knowing He loves you enough to sacrifice His Son for your sins.

The same God who worked through Peter and Paul works through you--today--where you are!

BUT IF YOU SAY SO

Today's reading: Luke 5-6

"Master, Simon replied, we worked hard all last night and didn't catch a thing. But if you say so, we'll try again." Luke 5:5 NLT

Maybe you're just rising.

Or have been up long enough to shower and grab a cup of coffee.

Or maybe, just maybe, you had a long night, one that counting sheep, melatonin or being weary didn't ease your tiredness.

Not to use a pun, but you're in the same boat Simon was in...

You're waking to another day of trying.

Trying to do what's right...

Attempting to follow God's commands...

Making an effort to honor God in all your choices...

Pursuing righteousness in all your actions and reactions...

Doing your dead level best to manage and appreciate all your God given blessings...

Tackling the task of being the only one honoring some vows taken...

You're worn out from trying, but know God has asked you to do it.

So you will do it again.

You will give it another go.

You will pursue obedience.

You are my kind of people! You are God's kind of people! You are the kind of people this world needs more of!

Maybe you're worn out from trying--can I ask you--Won't you try one more day? This could be the day God 'fills your nets', answers your prayers, changes the trajectory of your requests or proves He is God by giving you just enough strength to do it again! 

TODAY

Today's reading: Jeremiah 42-46

"Buckle on your armor and advance into battle!" Jeremiah 46:3 NLT

Today's the day you will need the armor of God.

So put it on.

Strap it in place.

Slip into every single piece of it--

Because the battle for the Lord's army goes on every single day, and will go on until He returns!

It's not Sunday attire.

It's not to be pulled out of the closet when a prayer need arises.

It's not for when the pastor comes for dinner.

It's for every day use, because every day we must stand firm against our enemy and his attacks!

Buckle on your armor and advance into battle! 

LIVING OUT YOUR OBITUARY

Today's reading: Job 41-42

"Job lived 140 years after that, living to see four generations of his children and grandchildren. Then he died, an old man who had lived a long, good life." Job 42:16-17 NLT

Do you read obituaries? Either in the newspaper, or online? Do you ever have the occasion to peruse the 150 words or less accounts of the lives lead by recently deceased people?

They are interesting.

They are eye-opening.

And sometimes, for those who lived life the hardest and deepest, they are inspiring.

Had Job only been known for his 'Job-years', that would have been a mere chapter in the story of his life.

His final days, surely accounted for in his 'obituary', would have pointed folks to the faithfulness and love of God the Father for him.

We all are writing our obituaries as we live.

We're living out what will be recorded of our lives.

We are breathing into our life accounts with every choice.

What's your obituary saying about you so far?

God follower?

Independent?

Successful according to the measuring sticks of the world?

Faith filled and spilling over?

WAITING QUIETLY

Today's reading: Psalm 60-62

"I wait quietly before God, for my salvation comes from Him." Psalm 62:1 NLT

"I wait quietly before God, for my hope is in Him." Psalm 62:5 NLT 

For a 'chatty-Cathy' like myself, I often need the reminder to be still before the Lord.

To stop and listen.

To wait quietly for Him to answer.

My incessant ramblings don't move Him.

My non-stop chatter doesn't sway His will.

My never-ending complaints don't change God's timetable of events.

My quietness, however, refocuses my heart and mind on Him.

My choice to wait quietly can re-instill my complete dependence upon Him.

My decision to hold my tongue as I wait for Him to appear on the stage sets Him up to receive all the glory and for me to exercise my faith muscles.

Today I'm going to begin to wait quietly.

Shhh.

WISE ADVICE

Today's reading: 2 Samuel 20-24

"Then the woman went to the people with her wise advice, and they cut off Sheba's head and threw it out to Joab. So he blew the trumpet and called his troops back from the attack, and they all returned to their homes. Joab returned to the king at Jerusalem." 2 Samuel 20:22 NLT

What will your words do today?

In the case of the woman of Abel, her wise words kept a city from being completely destroyed for one man's sins.

Will yours mend fences?

Soothe angry hearts?

Offer hope?

Stop gossip in its tracks?

Correct a misunderstanding?

Pour kindness into someone's day?

Studies show we speak anywhere from 10,000 to 30,000 words a day--are your words helpful, kind, godly, wise? 

GOD MAKERS
Today's reading: Exodus 29-32

"When Moses failed to come back down the mountain right away, the people went to Aaron. Look, they said, Make us some gods who can lead us..." Exodus 32:1 NLT 

I've heard it said we are more intelligent, more skillful and have more knowledge available to us now that any other time on earth.

But are we any better off?

You see, the Israelites Moses was leading to the Promised Land, some 6000 year ago, were little god makers--are we any different?

When things don't go as we plan, we make gods.

When plans don't proceed according to our timetables, we make gods.

When circumstances leave us feeling as if our hands are tied, we make gods.

When we don't get what we want, we make gods.

When God doesn't do what we presume/assume/pray He should, we make gods.

More intelligent? I don't think so!

More advanced? Nope!

We have in our beings the exact same desire, the exact same tendency--we're all little god makers.

THEN I AM STRONG

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 11-13

"Since I know it is all for Christ's good, I am quite content with my weaknesses and with insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:10 NLT

Have you ever prayed for weakness? For insults? Hardships? Or calamities?

Have you ever stopped and asked God to show the world what a basket case you are? How untogether you truly are? How much of a mess you are?

Maybe it's time we prayed that exact prayer.

Lord, show the world how undone I am--so they can see how very good You are!

We have a tendency to want to walk around in our 'Sunday selves', done up, made up, cleaned up and straightened up...but that's not what the world needs to see.

They need to see Jesus.

In us.

On us.

Through us.

All over us.

Shining through the cracks in our character. Flowing from the holes in our self-control. Beaming from the chinks in our self-made armor.

Because when our weaknesses are on exhibition, our God and His grace are showcased!

 

JESUS'S LINEAGE

Today's reading: Luke 3-4

In turning the pages of my Bible this morning, I will be honest--I let out a sigh as I saw that Luke 3 held several verses of 'begats'.

The hard to stay focused on, of little interest, consisting of names that are tough to read, passages of Scripture that trace lineage and ancestry.

It's kind of like reading the code lines of DNA--possible, but a little dry and requires some background to truly appreciate it.

But as I read through the list of Jesus's grandparents, I see this:

Who we come from matters as much as who follows us.

Jesus was born out of many, many God ordained relationships.

And God willing, we will bear offspring who know and love the Lord.

It's very important to remember who we are AND the mark we will leave behind. 

STILL LEFT
Today's reading: Jeremiah 37-41

"So Jeremiah returned to Gedaliah son of Ahikam at Mizpah and lived in Judah with the few who were still left in the land." Jeremiah 40:6 NLT

Israel had been captured by the Babylonians and all but the sick and poor were carted off to Babylon as prisoners of war.

Jeremiah stayed behind to continue to serve the Lord and the remnant of people left.

Why?

It's true they still needed to hear from the Lord.

And they continued in the land that had God's personalized mark upon it.

But I also believe Jeremiah was asked to remain because the Lord had promised that after 70 years, Israel would return--and they would need God, and God's people, to meet them when it happened.

The same is true of us.

Maybe you are one of only a handful of godly people in your workplace--God's there because of you!

Maybe you are one of a very few believers in your family--God's there because of you!

Maybe you are one of the minority in your neighborhood that honor the Lord--God's brought into your community because of you!

Display Him where ever you are.

Speak of Him in all the ways you can.

Honor Him in all that you do.

If enough of us do what He is asking us to do, no matter where it is He has asked us to be/work/live, it won't be long before there are more of us...and more...and more. 

DAVID'S KINDNESS TO BARZILLAI

Today's reading: 2 Samuel 15-19

"...But here is my son Kinham. Let him go with you and receive whatever good things you want to give him." 2 Samuel 19:31-40 NLT

This portion of Scripture always touches my momma heart.

Barzillai, too old to travel and rightly receive the king's honor, bestows the gift of graciousness to his boy.

Because isn't that what we parents want--better for our children than we ever had?

David accepted Barzillai's decline of his offer and brought Kinham into his kingdom and into his care.

I'm so very glad this morning that the King I serve has enough to offer me AND my son.

My heart doesn't have to choose between God's gift of salvation for me OR Him gifting my son with that precious forgiveness. We can both have it fully, completely and entirely/

Enough for us both--and for a whole world more!

 OH, THE DETAILS

Today's reading: Exodus 25-28

Oh, the details I read about in God's instructions for the Tabernacle He has asked the Israelites to build for Him!

The color of thread.

The specific lengths.

The construction particulars.

Verse after verse of detailed guidance in making an earthly home for God.

He loves us that much.

He desired to be with us that much.

He wanted our devotion and obedience and honor that much!

HE PROVIDES

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 9-10

"For God is the one who gives seed to the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will give you many opportunities to do good, and he will produce a great harvest of generosity in you." 2 Corinthians 9:10 NLT

God provides the seed.

From the seed, God provides the bread to eat.

In all that He asks of us, He does not expect us to muster the ability, to manufacture the outcome or to take on the burden of being the provider of His expected purpose.

All that He asks of us He has placed within us.

All that He desires to provide for us He has placed the possibility in our hearts.

We don't make the seed--we merely offer up a fertile heart in which the seed, in His time, will germinate and produce.

 

HE TOOK NOTICE

Today's reading: Luke 1-2

"Mary responded, Oh, how I praise the Lord. How I rejoice in God my Savior! For he took notice of his lowly servant girl, and now generation after generation will call me blessed." Luke 1:46-48 NLT 

This young Jewish girl was chosen for a task that would impact mankind. She was selected from among many for a role that would change history. She accepted the mission given her and her acceptance would eventually save the world.

Her prayer, called the Magnificat, places all glory and honor on God--for taking notice of her!

For acknowledging her existence.

For seeing her among the masses.

For selecting her from among many.

Isn't her song of praise one we should be singing at the tops of our lungs?

For Him taking notice of us sinners...

For Him sending His Son to die for our sins...

For Him allowing the Holy Spirit to come to us, to help us, to make us, to direct us...

In all that He does, controls, orchestrates, manages--He took notice of us!

Oh, how I praise the Lord!

THE HOPE OF HIS WILL

Today's reading: Jeremiah 32-36

"They will be my people, and I will be their God." Jeremiah 32:38 NLT

If I might borrow these words from Jeremiah, God's prophet...

Words that can ignite a fire to burn for those completely lost in sin.

Expectation that can rekindle the embers of prayer for a prodigal.

Anticipation that can stir up the coals of prayers that have been prayed for years--and years--and years.

The hope of 'will', in regards to all God wants to do, should excite us to the core of our beings!

Bringing our loved ones to a saving knowledge of God and an intimate relationship with Him is His desire.

It's what He wants.

It's His will.

We don't have to talk Him into it...

We don't have to convince Him of it...

We don't have to nudge Him into wanting it...

It's His will that none should perish.

There is hope in His will!

STOP AND CONSIDER

Today's reading: Job 37-38

"Listen, Job; stop and consider the wonderful miracles of God!" Job 37:14 NLT

Do you hear God speaking those same things to you...

Stop and consider the wonderful miracles I have done.

When life is harried.

When life is good.

When life knocks you down, runs over you--and then backs up and does it again.

When the skies are blue.

When thunder and lightning strike too closely for comfort.

Do you stop and consider the wonderful miracles of God?

They are everywhere.

They can been seen in everything.

They can be viewed in the faces of those around you.

When you stop and consider them, that is.

 

BUT WHEN I AM AFRAID

Today's reading: Psalm 54-56

"But when I am afraid, I put my trust in you." Psalm 56:3 NLT

Does fear ever grip your heart, steal your next breath or shadow the hope you should have?

Do circumstances leave you wringing your hands, picking up pieces of well-laid plans or send you to a corner to hide?

It happens to us all.

Life happens to us all.

It's what we do in those moments that will turn the tide of events--in our heads and in our hearts.

We must put our trust in God.

Not in the strongest loved ones we know. Or in doctors. Or in titles, degrees, bank accounts or pedigrees.

Our hope is in the Lord.

And when we choose to remind ourselves of that simple, yet world changing, fact...

When we consciously focus on that truth..

As we take the next step, and the next step, and the next step, in that confidence... 

We will find that hope pushes out the fear.

WORSHIP THE LORD

Today's reading: 2 Samuel 10-14

"Then David got up from the ground, washed himself, put on lotions, and changed his clothes. Then he went to the Tabernacle and worshiped the Lord..." 2 Samuel 12:20 NLT

I don't know where you are today.

Grieving? Flat out on the ground from brokenness? Dirty as all get out? 

Did you know worshiping the Lord can change your position in life?

From grieving to joy.

From face down to face aglow in His goodness.

From stained to white as snow.

Just a glimpse God's way.

Just a simple decision to choose worship.

Just a choice to honor Him in the way He is owed.

No matter how you are feeling...

No matter the place you're at...

No matter the state of your heart or mind...

Choose worship! 

A LITTLE AT A TIME
Today's reading: Exodus 21-24

"I will send my terror upon all the people whose lands you invade, and they will panic before you. I will send hornets ahead of you to drive out the Hivites, Canaanites, and Hittites. But I will not do this all in one year because the land would become a wilderness, and the wild animals would become too many to control. I will drive them out a little at a time until your population has increased enough to fill the land." Exodus 23:27-30 NLT

Just this week I read this quote...

Idols cannot be removed, they must be replaced.

Meaning a hole in our desires, our inborn need to worship something, will be filled by something.

God gave us an example of that in his instructions to the Israelites as they entered their new land.

He could have wiped everything clean before they arrived...

He could have removed any trace of the former occupants...

He could have taken care of any and all obstacles that might have stood in their way...

But He desired that they invest a little sweat equity.

He wanted His people to know how hard won this new land was, how much of a gift it was from His hands and how very, very important it would be for them to stay close to Him through it all.

For every victory they experienced, He wanted their hearts to be filled with gratitude for Him.

For every hard fought battle, He wanted their allegiance.

For every accomplishment, He wanted their love.

A little at a time.

HOW PROUD

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 6-8

"I had told him how proud I was of you--and you didn't disappoint me..." 2 Corinthians 7:14 NLT

Paul had told Titus all about the love and faithfulness of the Corinthians.

He had regaled their acts of good deeds, applauded their work in the community and told story after story of how they had cared for Paul himself.

And when Titus finally met them--he found it all to be completely and utterly true!

I want that of myself.

I want God's love to flow out of me, at all time, to such a degree that others love God because of it!

I want my faith to be so strong that others are infected by it!

I want my love for my Savior to so completely imbed all I do to the point people around me are introduced to the Good News!

I want, one day, to stand before God and hear Him say this to me--you didn't disappoint me! 

That's what I want, and I want to arrange my life and actions and words around that single goal.

What do you want out of life--or better yet, eternity?

OUR CONVERSATIONS

Today's reading: Mark 15-16

"On the way they were discussing who would roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb." Mark 16:3 NLT

Let me ask you this question...

The question that God asked me as I read this passage of Scripture...

The question that arose from reading this single verse, about the women's conversation as they went to the tomb that first Easter morning...

What do your words say about your faith?

Really, what do they say?

Are your conversations littered more with dread, fear, doubt and impatience than they are faith?

Do you ramble on and on about the immensity of the situation, the burden of the prayer request or the overwhelming size of your need--or do you talk in positive future tense about when the Lord will answer?

Do you refer to 'when God answers' and 'as soon as God moves in this matter' when it comes to your prayer requests?

These women had probably seen Jesus heal the sick.

They might have eaten some of the meal Peter's mother-in-law prepared.

They might have witnessed firsthand the vitality of Jairus's daughter as she played.

They might have eaten from the baskets of leftovers from the little boy's lunch.

They were there as the day turned to night at his crucifixion.

They had sat under the sound of His voice as He spoke with wisdom and authority.

And still they worried about the stone?

And still we worry about _____?

TOO STRONG FOR THEM

Today's reading: Jeremiah 29-31

"For the Lord has redeemed Israel from those too strong for them." Jeremiah 31:11 NLT

Read that single verse again...

"For the Lord has redeemed Israel from those too strong for them." Jeremiah 31:11 NLT

And again, with emphasis I have placed...

"For the Lord has redeemed Israel from THOSE TOO STRONG FOR THEM." Jeremiah 31:11 NLT

It's never been, is not now and will never be about any enemy being too strong for the Lord!

God has/can/will always redeem us from an enemy that is too strong for us. 

We cannot do it.

We don't have enough willpower, even if we borrowed it from another.

We don't have enough discipline to live a life worthy of redeeming ourselves.

We don't have enough soap to clean our slate to start again.

It's about God's strength, God's love and God's desire that we be His!

So hear this friend: You aren't strong enough to defeat your enemy, but your God is!

 

 LISTENING AND CONCERNED

Today's reading: Job 35-36

"But it is wrong to say God doesn't listen, to say the Almighty isn't concerned." Job 35:13 NLT

Maybe you've muttered the phrase, God just isn't listening to me!

Or you've bemoaned the fact that the Lord doesn't seem to care about your needs, wants and desires.

Might it be that you are wrongly accusing God of not being who He claims He is and not doing what He promises He can do?

Could it be that the more accurate statement of your faith is that you are impatient to see God work?

Do you truly believe He doesn't hear--or is He not answering in your allotted time frame?

Do you really think He isn't concerned--or are your own uncaring character traits rising to the surface as you wait for Him to do a work?

Be reminded of this: God hears and God cares.

Always.

In regards to all things.

CREATE IN ME

Today's reading: Psalm 51-53

"Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me." Psalm 51:10 NLT

One of my favorite activities with the Awana Cubbie kids was 'playdoh' night.

The Cubbie leaders and I would present each child with a ball of playdoh and instruct them to make various things--a snake, a cookie, a dinosaur, etc.

Then we would collect the playdoh and ask them to create something--an elephant, a tree, a person.

They would look at us like we had two heads and quickly tell us they couldn't do what was asked because they didn't have the materials.

Creating is making something out of nothing.

That's not something any of us can do!

So when we pause to think about God creating a clean heart in us--we should stand in utter amazement!

It's not that He's re-working the heart we have...

Or taking over where we've begun a heart renovation...

It's about Him making something (a clean heart) out of nothing (our hearts before Him)!

 

GETTING AHEAD OF OURSELVES

Today's reading: 2 Samuel 5-9

"...So David went there and brought the Ark to the City of David with a great celebration. After the men who were carrying it had gone six steps, they stopped and waited so David could sacrifice an ox and a fattened calf." 2 Samuel 9:12-13 NLT

As a child, I don't know how many times I was warned, Now don't get ahead of yourself!

I would rush into matters.

I would hurry to accomplish a task.

I would race to get a job done like I was in a firetruck heading to a fire.

The warning was given to me in order that I not miss the details, that I would not hurry past the heart of the matter and that I wouldn't forget the 'why' of what I was attempting to do.

Our 'Ark-bearers' are a prime example of making sure to go at a pace that pleases the Lord and make the journey enjoyable.

I understand that every time they went six steps, they paused and worshiped.

Could they have gotten the Ark from Gath to Jerusalem much quicker--oh, yes!

But would they have honored God as intentionally, sought Him as desperately and promoted the sanctity of the Ark as emphatically--no!

Isn't that what we do when we rush through life?

We assume we'll have tomorrow, we hurry by all the small blessings God desires to reveal to us and we don't make the time to invite others into the pilgrimage to heaven.

I want to take on an 'every six steps' attitude in regards to how I live.

I desire that I make the effort to honor Him more often than every seven days, before I eat a meal or when I find myself in a pickle.

Lord, help me not to get ahead of myself!

 

MORE THAN ORDINARY

Today's reading: Exodus 17-20

"Now if you will obey me and keep my covenant, you will be my own special treasure from among all the nations of the earth; for all the earth belongs to me." Exodus 19:5 NLT

If you're tired of being ordinary...

Bored with mediocre...

If you're worn out from fitting in and just being part of the crowd...

Obey the Lord!

Following Christ, wholeheartedly surrendering to God, being led by the Holy Spirit will make you extraordinary!

God will bless and keep you.

People will notice the stark contrast of your life to the world.

You will see attitudes, desires and priorities change in your heart and mind.

Don't settle for so-so anymore--you can be a special treasure of the Lord's! 

EVALUATE YOUR WORDS
Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 4-5

"We don't go around preaching about ourselves; we preach Christ Jesus, the Lord. All we say about ourselves is that we are your servants because of what Jesus has done for us." 2 Corinthians 4:5 NLT

I'm challenged this morning, by this verse, to evaluate my words.

The 10,000-20,000 expressions I make during my waking hours.

Am I talking more about myself, or the Lord?

Am I a continual loop of advertisements for my abilities, emotions and opinion, or do I promote my Savior?

With all He has done for me, how in the world can I ever speak of anything other than Him?

Does my appreciation, thankfulness and gratitude for His saving grace permeate my speech?

Am I intentional in making it less about me and more about Him?

Today I am going to evaluate all the words I speak in an effort to let others know I am merely a servant who wholeheartedly adores their King!

 

EASILY DISTRACTED

Today's reading: Mark 13-14

"As Jesus was leaving the Temple that day, one of his disciples said, Teacher, look at these tremendous buildings! Look at the massive stones in the walls!" Mark 13:1 NLT

Imagine with me for a moment that you are tele-ported to a time and place that allows you to be an actual disciple of Jesus. 

One that lives with him. Learns from him. Walks with him. Experiences his miracles first hand.

One that witnessed the baskets of leftover bread and fish. Saw the crippled man jump up and walk. Heard the authority, power and love of his voice.

One that sang hymns with him. Heard the Scriptures read about him--with him sitting beside you in the pew.

One that heard what he said, not from reading what the Bible has written in red, but from his own lips!

That being said, now notice that you very easily could have been the disciple that, with Jesus right beside you, takes your eyes off of Him to admire the architecture around you.

Rocks? With Jesus right beside you? Your Savior, Friend, Redeemer and Good Shepherd being in your presence?

It happens, doesn't it?

Something shiny distracts our attention.

Circumstances derail our focus.

People get our time and affection.

All the while, Jesus is with us--and we are preoccupied with other things.

Oh friends, I'm convicted by my short attention span this morning as I read this verse. I'm embarrassed to count how many times, already this morning, I've looked past Jesus to worldly things.

Let's remember who is with us. Who walks beside us. Who leads, guides and directs us--not from a heavenly vantage point, but from the headquarters of our hearts!

 

I HAVE FOUND OUR PURPOSE
Today's reading: Jeremiah 22-26

"This is what the Lord says: Be fair minded and just. Do what is right! Help those who have been robbed, rescue them from their oppressors. Quit your evil deeds! Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans and widows." Jeremiah 22:3 NLT

Summed up in one single verse is our purpose as the Church!

Be fair minded.

Be just.

Help those robbed--robbed of dignity, robbed of eternity, robbed of a place of belonging.

Rescue--the prisoners of sin, the captives of the enemy, those bound in chains of doubt.

Quit our evil deeds.

Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans or widows--those lacking someone to stand up and stand in for them.

That's a mighty tall order for us to carry out.

But isn't it essential?

Isn't it the only proper response for people who have had that done for them? 

CHANGED MINDS
Today's reading: Job 33-34

"He causes them to change their minds, he keeps them from pride." Job 33:17 NLT

I don't have to look as far back and the book of Job to know the truth this verse holds.

I've have watched as God has changed my heart and mind in regards to people, views, opinions and old habits.

I've seen Him work miracles in this stubborn heart of mine.

I've experienced complete turn-a-rounds in regards to people I had 'written off'.

I've had my desires changed, my habits shattered and my boldness for Him amplified.

Think God can't do it--try Him!

Ask Him to do a work in your heart and mind.

Don't worry about 'them'.

Seek God out in regards to all He desires to do in you--and you'll be surprised about how your view of 'them' changes!

TRUE THANKS

Today's reading: Psalm 48-50

"I don't need the bulls you sacrifice; I don't need the blood of goats. What I want instead is your true thanks to God; I want you to fulfill your vows to the Most High." Psalm 50:13-14 NLT

Saturday is my Sunday-prep day.

I will review the lesson for Sunday School. I will lay out clothes for church. I will take steps towards our Sunday lunch. I will have my Sunday-bag packed and ready for service. I will check, and double-check my alarm clock.

I want to be ready.

And to a degree, I believe God appreciates that.

He sees my effort.

He knows my desire to arrive on time, at peace and in the right frame of mind.

He sees my heart in regards to the opportunities He presents me with to minister for Him.

But am I thankful as I do it?

Has preparation become so routine that I fail to appreciate the ''why"?

Am I so intent on getting my ducks in a row, so that I look good and godly, that I forget it's not at all about me?

He doesn't need my preparatory efforts, my organized appearances or my timely arrival--He desires that my soul, the inner most being of me, be worshiping Him before Sunday ever arrives.

For me, I'm needing to remember that not only is Sunday the Lord's Day--but Saturday is, too. As well as Friday, Thursday, Wednesday, Tuesday and Monday!

 

THAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP

Today's reading: 2 Samuel 1-4

"After this, David asked the Lord, Should I move back to Judah? And the Lord replied, Yes. Then David asked, What town should I go to? And the Lord replied, Hebron." 2 Samuel 2:1 NLT

David, referred to as a man after God's own heart, intrigues me.

His obedience.

His courage.

His all-in demeanor.

His accepting of personal blame.

His worship.

And...

The relationship he had with God.

An association that sought to honor God in all (he was entirely human, so we'll say--almost all) that he did.

Just this morning I read that he simply asked questions of the Lord.

Not in a doubting manner, but in a way that showed he truly sought to do what God wanted him to do.

I want that!

I want to seek God's opinion.

I want to ask God's permission.

I want to know God's will.

I want to know which way God wants me to turn.

I want to avoid what God desires that I avoid.

I want the kind of relationship that leans more to the side of asking His guidance than to always having to seek forgiveness.

JUST STAND

Today's reading: Exodus 13-16

"But Moses told the people, Don't be afraid. Just stand where you are and watch the Lord rescue you. The Egyptians that you see today will never be seen again. The Lord himself will fight for you. You won't have to lift a finger in your defense!" Exodus 14:13-14 NLT

Some of us need to get up.

From the fetal positions we're curled up into.

From the beds where we have chosen to stay buried under the blankets.

From the corners of shame others have pushed us into.

From the positions of pride we have camped out at.

We need to stand.

Not only to follow His commands, but to have a better viewpoint of the victory coming our way!

And to be quite clear about the command--we 'just' have to stand.

Simply stand.

We can stand shaking in our boots.

We can stand with doubts and questions swirling around us like tornadoes.

We can stand while others remain in their sitting positions.

We can stand with tears in our eyes.

We can stand not knowing what will be asked of us next.

But we have to stand.

Using all that's in us.

Mustering energy we didn't think we had.

With the help of others.

Let's stand so that WHEN the prison bars are opened...

..the shackles are removed from our hearts...

...the answers to our prayers are laid before us...

...the enemy lays beneath our feet...

God will find us standing before Him in praise, adoration and thanks!

STILL LOVE HIM

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 1-3

"I am not overstating it when I say that the man who caused all the trouble hurt your entire church more than he hurt me. He was punished enough when most of you were united in your judgement against him. Now it is time to forgive him and comfort him. Otherwise he may become so discouraged that he won't be able to recover. Now show him that you still love him." 2 Corinthians 2:5-8 NLT

When God pointed out my need for a Savior...

On the days He convicts my heart of sins I commit, or omit, against Him...

When He places on my heart the need for forgiveness because of wrongs I have done...

He doesn't leave me in that state.

Condemned. Convicted, Guilty.

He allows me to come to Him as I am.

Dirty. Sin-filled. Wrong.

He forgives me.

He cleanses my heart.

He washes the black-icky-sticky-yucky sins of my heart white as snow!

And He loves me.

He loves on me.

He loves me despite me.

Shouldn't we do that to the ones who have sinned against us? 

THE PROBLEM IS

Today's reading: Mark 11-12

"Jesus replied, Your problem is that you don't know the Scriptures, and you don't know the power of God." Mark 12:24 NLT

Lord,

Jesus was right when He diagnosed my problem.

All those years ago, He spoke the truth that I needed to hear this morning.

My problem isn't with a fallen world, sin-sick people or even with my enemy himself.

My issue is that I don't know Your Word well enough to know Your power!

I worry, when Scripture tells me not to--and why.

I doubt, when my Bible clearly states Your Word is infallible and inerrant.

I attempt to do it all on my own, when the Bible tells me it's a matter of coming alongside You and doing what only You ask.

Forgive me for not believing what You say.

Forgive me for not standing on what Your Word promises.

Forgive me for not sharing with the world the cure that's held in Scripture.

Forgive me for not immersing myself in the pages of my Bible for help, hope, direction and incentive.

Move within me to change that starting today!

EVEN THEIR CHILDREN

Today's reading: Jeremiah 17-21

"Even their children go to worship at their sacred altars and Asherah poles, beneath every green tree and on every high hill." Jeremiah 17:2 NLT

What gods have we passed on to our children?

The idols we lean very heavily upon...

The traditions we uphold and revere...

The unwritten rules we follow and judge others upon...

The rituals we believe make us more godly...

Are we, are they, leaning on anything other than the Lord?

Those who follow us learn by example.

 

EASTER MORNING
Today's reading: Luke 24

"But very early on Sunday morning the women came to the tomb, taking with them the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone covering the entrance had been rolled aside/" Luke 24:2 NLT

The Luke 24 women came to the cemetery that morning to worship a fallen king.

They prepared to honor the shell of a man they had loved, and had been loved by.

They scheduled into their day a time to pay respects to one who had touched their lives, and the lives of so many others.

They walked to the garden tomb to pray, to weep, to mourn.

Jesus had other plans!

Jesus intended to step into their lives in a way He had not formerly done.

He wanted them to know the depths of His love for them.

The heights He would go for them.

The depths He would travel for them.

The widths He would cross for them.

The power He would demonstrate to them.

He was not their fallen king, He was their Risen Lord!

 

PEN OF A SKILLFUL POET

Today's reading: Psalm 45-47

"My heart overflows with a beautiful thought! I will recite a lovely poem to the king, for my tongue is like the pen of a skillful poet." Psalm 45:1 NLT

Hmmm...

Is my tongue like the pen of a skillful poet?

Is that what God hears when I open my mouth?

Does He hear beautiful words? Does He hear kind words? Do my words sound like music to His ears?

Or are my words like graffiti sprayed on a dark alley wall?

Or a child's scribbles off the coloring page and onto the dining room table?

Or the scratchy illegible writings from a pen that's not been used in a while?

The choir director that wrote the words of this psalm have certainly got me to thinking about what my words might sound like to the Lord! 

GOD'S WILL AND GOD'S WAY

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 26-31

"Surely the Lord will strike Saul down someday, or he will die in battle or of old age." 1 Samuel 26:10 NLT

David's life had been on 'pause' since the day in his childhood when Samuel arrived in his village with a vial of anointing oil destined for the head of the next king of Israel.

This young man had continued, even after his ordination in to the Lord's service, to watch sheep.

Then he killed a giant.

Then he played a harp for his predecessor.

Then he led countless armies into battle.

Then he spent years running for his life from the very man he would assume the throne from.

And in this portion of his life?

As he and his fellow soldier stood over the sleeping bodies of Saul and his personal body guard...

As he and his family lived in the land of the Philistines...

As he watched Saul lead Israel lower and lower into idolatry on a daily basis...

As he attempted to govern his mighty men in the ways of the Lord...and His will and His way...

David waited for God to act.

He didn't take matters into his own hands.

He didn't attempt to 'help the Lord out'.

He continued to wait patiently for the day and time God had set aside as the moment for David to assume the throne and the role of king.

Quite the example for this rush in, take over, get things done-and get things done quickly, kind of gal!

THIS NIGHT

Today's reading: Exodus 9-12

"This night had been reserved by the Lord to bring his people out from the land of Egypt, so this same night now belongs to him. It must be celebrated every year, from generation to generation to remember the Lord's deliverance." Exodus 12:42 NLT

I've read, all my life, about the Passover.

The specific details about the lamb and its blood smeared on the doorposts.

About the instructions for the Israelites to have their traveling shoes on and their belongings packed.

And I've remembered the verses that talk about the wailing that could be heard across the land of Egypt as death was experienced.

But I've never, in all these years, noticed today's verse.

'This night had been reserved by the Lord...'

While God's people endured 430 years of slavery, God knew the day and time He had set for their deliverance!

God knows when my prayers will be answered, too.

Every. Single. One. Of. Them.

The day. The time. The orchestration of events that will lead up to its happening. The who. The what.

I need not worry.

I can trust that He has a time reserved.

A time that will shine with His glory.

A day that will be marked in my memory forever.

A moment that I will talk about for generations to come!

A night reserved by the Lord!

RISKING OUR LIVES

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 15-16

"And why should we ourselves be continually risking our lives, facing death hour by hour?" 1 Corinthians 15:30 NLT

Barna studies say that twelve Christians are killed for their faith every single day.

Twelve believers.

Every day.

In 2025!

That's hard to believe in our very comfortable, free to worship as we please US of A. 

So why might God have chosen to write these words knowing they would be read by a gal in southern Illinois who faces no religious persecution? By a good Sunday School gal? By someone who is probably 11th or 12th generation, if not more, Christian? A believer who works around other believers on a daily basis?

Because risking our lives means different things to different people.

Would you risk your close-knit family relationships in order that you know for sure where a loved one is going to spend eternity? 

Would you risk the life of your friendships, because it might get awkward, in order to make sure a dear friend knows the Lord?

Would you risk your standing at your workplace in order that you evangelize on your 'mission field'?

Would you risk stirring up trouble at your church by standing up against a tradition that isn't Bible-based?

Would you risk being known as a 'Christian' in your community by your actions and your refusals?

While we may never be killed for believing in Christ, our comfort levels might be pulled out from under us for sharing Him with others.

Are you willing to risk losing an easy life in order to live a life of evangelism?

PETER, JAMES AND JOHN

Today's reading: Mark 9-10

"Six days later Jesus took Peter, James and John to the top of a mountain. No one else was there. As the men watched, Jesus' appearance changed and his clothing became dazzling white, far whiter than any earthly process could ever make it." Mark 9:2-3 NLT

I'm wondering this morning--why were Peter, James and John the only ones to go with Jesus that day?

It says, 'Jesus took them'--does that mean, Jesus chose OR did Jesus ask all of them, and only these three accept His offer?

Were they Jesus's closest followers prior to this moment on the mountain--or did seeing Jesus in this different light seal their endearing friendships?

These 3 must have had a mighty hard time attempting to explain all they experienced with the other followers. You see, some moments of our faith walks are meant to be experienced, not merely described.

Here is what I'm asking myself after reading this portion of Scripture and allowing it to soak in...

1. Do I hear Him asking me to steal away with Him for some time just the two of us? Do I hear Him speaking to me at all? Are there too many other noises vying for my attention?

2. Am I laying aside all other things for time with Jesus? We are all busy, but too busy for time with our Lord?

3. How might my relationship with Him be changed if I did? What would I experience? How would I see Him differently? What will my testimony be after?

 

ALL WILL BE WELL WITH YOU
Today's reading: Jeremiah 12-16

"The Lord replied, All will be well with you, Jeremiah. Your enemies will ask you to plead on their behalf in times of trouble and distress." Jeremiah 15:11 NLT

Jeremiah had the tough job of proclaiming God's judgement on the nation of Israel because they had chosen other gods.

Jeremiah had begged them. He had pleaded with them. He had reminded them of God's faithfulness. He had spent many hours on his knees on behalf of his country and countrymen.

To no avail.

They wouldn't listen.

They wouldn't unclench their fists from the idols they had fashioned.

Jeremiah tried. Oh, how he tried.

God's reward to Jeremiah?

For his determination...

For his boldness...

For his obedience...

For his bravery...

For his faithfulness...

God was Jeremiah's reward.

God's favor would be his pension plan.

God's hand of protection would remain upon him--no matter what anyone else did.

Christian friend, I pray the same be said of us!

Oh, that God will find us faithful in all He asks of us...

That He will see us as obedient servants...

That He will have plenty to reward us for in our efforts to share His gospel message...

That He will see us standing, no matter what all those around us are bowing to...

 

HAVE YOU NOTICED MY SERVANT JOB?

Today's reading: Job 29-30

For years I have wondered about the pre-book-of-Job Job.

Who he was before he was afflicted with his testimony?

What he had done in order for God to truly notice him and ask Satan to consider him for his experiment?

How he had impacted the world before signing off on his life story being published for thousands of years to come?

I think I found out!

I believe I have read what pushed him to the top, made him stand out, caused the houselights to fall on him...

"I helped those who had lost hope, and they blessed me. And I caused the widow's hearts to sing for joy." Job 29:13 NLT

Job shared from his heart. A heart filled with God's love. A heart that couldn't keep the love of God to himself. A heart filled with hope.

That's what made Job notable, outstanding, significant, remarkable in God's eyes.

He shared the hope he had with those he met.

Shouldn't we be doing the same? Don't we have that shared hope? Doesn't the world need to know about Him?

GENERATIONAL

Today's reading:  Psalm 42-44

"O God, we have heard it with our own ears--our ancestors have told us of all you did in other days, in days long ago." Psalm 44:1 NLT

I don't know where you fall in your family tree of faith...

Maybe you are several generations baptized--your parents, grandparents, great-grandparents and great-great grandparents all walked and talked with the Lord.

Maybe you are the offspring of someone new to the Lord and His ways.

Quite possibly you are a first generation believer, one who is blazing a brand new trail.

Where ever you find yourself in this ancestral breakdown, you have either...

1. Heard the Lord praised and applauded for all your years. Your faith walk has been strengthened and solidified by their testimonies. And you get to continue the family tradition!

OR...

2. New things begin with you! A new way of doing things starts with you. A new way of talking. A new path to walk. A brand-spanking new set of traditions to commence! 

How exciting to be either one or the other...to be entrusted with 'family treasures' OR to begin the collection of 'family treasures'!

A REAL FRIEND
Today's reading: 1 Samuel 21-24

"Jonathan went to find David and encouraged him to stay strong in his faith in God." 1 Samuel 23:16 NLT

Now, that's a true friend!

Jonathan didn't urge David to dig deep and use his own strength.

He didn't push David into some self-help program.

He didn't persuade David to give in and serve King Saul.

He didn't slip him a few dollars to run even farther away from the 'mad king'.

No, Jonathan did what every true friend should do--he pointed David to God!

I can imagine the conversation teetered on the edge of being sermon-like.

David knew.

David had heard.

David lived it out.

But Jonathan chose to remind him of all he knew, had heard and had experienced.

Are you doing that for your friends? Do your nearest and dearest know that any and all advice you will provide will sound a whole lot like Scripture? Will all you encourage them to do lead them closer to the Lord?

If not, they need a new friend--or you need a change of heart. 

AND GOD CONTINUED

Today's reading: Exodus 5-8

"And God continued, I am the Lord." Exodus 6:2 NLT

As Moses stood before Him wringing his hands in dismay...

As the Israelites scurried about attempting to find the straw needed to meet their quota of bricks...

As the Hebrew people remained in captivity, slavery and bondage...

God continued--in His way, in His time, in His truth--

And said, simply...

I am the Lord.

Nothing Moses could bring before Him was too big for Him to handle.

Nothing the Israelites could tell Him was news to Him. 

Nothing an enemy king could do would tie His hands.

God continued, I am the Lord.

I don't know about you, but there are so many areas of my life that need those words spoken over them.

In my heartache--God continued, I am the Lord!

In my doubts and questioning--God continued, I am the Lord!

In my fears--God continued, I am the Lord!

In all the impending, over-the-top ministry opportunities He is asking me to team up with Him on--God continued, I am the Lord!

Nothing, and no one, can stop God. He continues. He remains. He is, was and will be.

REAL HELP

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 13-14

"Since you are so eager to have spiritual gifts, ask God for those that will be of real help to the whole church." 1 Corinthians 14:12 NLT

I'd love to be able to sing in a way that amazes and draws people to God.

I'd like to have the gift of speech that enthralls, convicts and encourages large auditoriums of people.

I'd be thrilled to teach in a way that enlightens and inspires the Word of God.

I'd like to have a heart that gives with no strings attached, prays with power and loves no matter what.

Those gifts would surely be of help to the Church!

But in order to have, seek and receive those gifts, I need to put me aside.

I can't desire the applause more than the moving of the Spirit.

I can't seek the spotlight more than the Light of the World.

I can't teach in an effort to impress others with my knowledge.

I can't give for recognition, pray for personal gain or love only those who love me.

So I must ask God to make me aware of the gifts He has given me that will reach others for Him.

I have to request that He put my personal needs and wants on the back burner.

I need to humble myself before the One who has higher, grander, bigger, more encompassing plans than I do.

That's how I will be used to help the Church!

CONFRONTING JESUS

Today's reading: Mark 7-8

"One day some Pharisees and teachers of religious law arrived from Jerusalem to confront Jesus." Mark 7:1 NLT

My usual routine is to read through the suggested daily Bible portion, then return to the verses that 'jumped off the page' at me. Consider them a little more thoroughly. Write about what God speaks to my heart.

This morning, however, I couldn't get past the first verse.

The audacity of the Pharisees and religious teachers!

Who in the world do they think they are?

To confront Jesus? To approach Him with questions about His motives? To appear to need an explanation from Him as to what He was doing?

Why does the mere thought of their boldness raise my blood pressure and square my shoulders?

Is it because I feel Jesus needs help defending Himself? No.

Is it because I feel these men of the church are ignorant of what's correct in regards to religion? No, if anyone, they knew--or at least should have.

Is it because I saw myself in their boldness?

In their impudence?

In their brazenness? 

While I have no right whatsoever to question God's ways, God's timing or God's will--I find myself approaching Him with a confrontational attitude at times.

Like I need an answer.

As if I deserved a response.

Feeling as if He owed me an explanation.

Assuming He has forgotten who I was.

Reminding Him of my desire that He serve me--with a few of His own verses in hand!

See why I had to stop at verse one this morning?

The 'little Pharisee' in me caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror of Scripture and needed to make some changes before continuing on! I needed an attitude adjustment. I needed to be reminded of rank and file--who I am and who God is.

(I pray you don't have a clue as to what I'm talking about. That you cannot understand the audacity of myself and the Pharisees. That you 'would never' stoop so low.

But if you do understand...

If you can relate...

If you, too, see yourself in the passage--pause and pray. Pause and repent. Pause and re-adjust your position before the Lord! Pause and let Him pour into you His spirit!)

SCARECROWS

Today's reading: Jeremiah 7-11

"There stands their god like a helpless scarecrow in a garden! It cannot speak, and it needs to be carried because it cannot walk. Do not be afraid of such gods, for they can neither harm you nor do you any good." Jeremiah 10:5 NLT

How many 'scarecrows' do I have set up in the garden of my life?

'Scarecrows' that I am leaning heavily upon?

That I use to validate my identity? 

The 'scarecrow' of money that makes me feel secure.

The 'scarecrow' of church membership that makes me look good on Sunday.

The 'scarecrow' of goodness that gives me a mask to hide behind.

The 'scarecrow' of plans I have in place to insure my way at all costs.

While one might think using the term 'scarecrow' makes it a little less ungodly, it doesn't.

These 'scarecrows' are carried around with me...

They speak to my insecurities and lack of faith...

They get propped up in my life where my trust is lacking...

They are seemingly harmless, until they take over and I find them holding the reins to my life...

They take the place only ever intended for God to hold in my heart, mind and life...

I'm asking God to help me knock down 'scarecrows' today. Every. Single. One.

 HE DETERMINES

Today's reading: Job 27-28

"He made the winds blow and determined how much rain should fall." Job 28:25 NLT

This week alone there have been, according to the local weather channel, over 700 weather watches/warnings issued!

Thunderstorms.

Flash floods.

Tornadoes.

Lighning.

Hail.

We have had over 8 inches of rain in just the last 3 days.

So when I read the words of Job this morning, I am assured--we'll only get what God ordains!

He orders the winds--where and how hard they will blow.

He sets a limit on the rain that will fall--and where it will fall.

Even in the storm, we can see that God's power is at work. Always. Completely. Without question!

TRY

Today's reading: Psalm 39-41

"O Lord my God, you have done many miracles for us. Your plans for us are too numerous to list. If I tried to recite all your wonderful deeds, I would never come to the end of them." Psalm 40:5 NLT

Has the Lord been good to us? Absolutely, He has!

In innumerable ways? Yes, oh yes!

But shouldn't we, despite the enormity of the task, attempt to list our reasons to thank Him?

Shouldn't we try?

Wouldn't it be worth some effort?

Might it take a long time to list all the things He has done? Yes, but wouldn't the effort required to even attempt such a task be worth every ounce of time and energy?

If you are thankful for all He has done for you, tell Him!

For as many things as you can think of.

As often as you can.

Try to let Him know you have appreciated being the recipient of His blessings! 

PREPARED LIKE DAVID

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 16-20

This morning as I read through the beginning of David's life as God's appointed one, I am encouraged!

You see, David was placed by God into various positions to learn, to grow and to experience what it would eventually be like as God's king over the Israelites.

His being the youngest of several brothers taught him about the importance of unity, gave him tenacity and undoubtedly grew in him true grit.

His occupation as shepherd provided him time to hone his skills at quiet time with the Lord, listening for the Lord's guidance and of course, battle tactics in regards to the lions and bears that attempted to snatch from his flock.

His friendship with Jonathan provided David with an insider's look at happenings around the palace--the good, the bad and the ugly.

His musical talents, at possibly mom's insistence that he learn to play the harp, provided David with solace, Saul with entertainment and us the psalms! 

As I think over all I have been exposed to in life, all I am in the process of enduring and all I have learned, I can't help but believe God is at work in making me into who He wants me to be.

Fully equipped.

Entirely able.

Some experience gathered.

A testimony written.

God is with His people--in the big things and in all the little things leading up to the big things!

 STANDING AT A DISTANCE

Today's reading: Exodus 1-4

"The baby's sister then stood at a distance, watching to see what would happen to him." Exodus 2:4 NLT

I can see Miriam peeking over the tall river grasses.

I can imagine her weaving strands of the bulrushes as she watched the little baby-filled ark bob in the Nile waters.

I can picture her keeping a close eye on the little vessel as it approached the bathing princess.

Was she appointed to keep an eye out for the little fella? Or did she sneak off down to the river to watch what her mom and dad's God would do in this situation?

It's made me think about all the people standing on the riverbank today.

Waiting to see what God will do...

Watching to see how we will react...

Wondering if this 'faith' of ours will sink or float...

Spectators to our walk with the Lord.

An audience of not-yet-believers.

On-lookers on the verge of committing their lives to the Christ we serve.

They're watching as we pray through tough seasons.

They're surveying our response to the diagnosis we just received.

They're gawking as we pray prodigals out of far places.

They're staring as we turn our habits, addictions and sinful tendencies over to the Lord--again and again and again.

We can't usually see them watching us, but they're there.

They are very, very interested in what our God will do!

MOST HELPFUL GIFTS

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 11-12

"And in any event, you should desire the most helpful gifts..." 1 Corinthians 12:31 NLT

Paul has just devoted a chapter of his letter to the church at Corinth to the topic of spiritual gifts.

Gifts that show the Holy Spirit at work in the world we walk, talk, live and work in.

Gifts that point to the goodness of God.

Gifts that draw men to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

The thing is, Paul ends this chapter in stating we should desire the most helpful gifts.

The ones that will work best in the circle of influence we are in.

The gifts that speak to the crowd you will witness to.

The gifts that will most greatly impact your family, neighborhood and community.

Do we do that? Do we desire the most helpful gifts?

Or do we want the ones that bring the most applause?

The most stage time?

The most notoriety?

What an impact we would have on our lost and dying world if every morning we asked God...

Lord, give me the gifts that will be most helpful to the people You will place in my path.

UNTIL JESUS
Today's reading: Mark 5-6

Mark 5 gives the account of a man who was possessed by demons.

It says of this man,

"Whenever he was put into chains and shackles--as he often was--he snapped the chains from his wrists and smashed the shackles. No one was strong enough to control him." Mark 5:4 NLT

No one could help him.

No one could subdue him.

No one could give him rest from his demons.

No one, that is, until Jesus!

We all have 'things', or legions of things, that leave us seemingly out of control.

Addictions that rule us.

Habits that lead us.

Personality traits that guide us.

Sins that keep us from opening up and sharing our lives with others--for fear they will find out.

We think we won't find help.

We think we can't change.

We don't see how things will ever be different.

The answer to our problem: Jesus.

Jesus saves.

Jesus delivers.

Jesus calms.

Jesus settles.

Jesus redeems.

Jesus heals.

Jesus, when you seek Him, will be found to be enough, more than enough!

 

 TOUCH MY MOUTH

Today's reading: Jeremiah 1-6

"Then the Lord touched my mouth and said, See, I have put my words in your mouth!" Jeremiah 1:9 NLT

God,

Help me remember that You have touched my mouth, too.

In every conversation, let me share what You have filled me with--heart and mind.

Allow me to speak of You. With excitement. With clarity. With wonder.

Let me talk of the goodness of You, my God. Oh, there is so much I could say!

Give me boldness to bring You up in a conversation. Where ever  it is I am. Whoever I speak to.

Guide me with wisdom as to who needs to hear about Your love and mercy and forgiveness.

Let me be so filled with Your testimony that I don't have time or desire to speak idle words, unkind words, unnecessary words.

Let Your words flow from my mouth today, Lord.

-Amen

SO GLORIOUS

Today's reading: Job 25-26

"God is so glorious that even the moon and stars scarcely shine compared to him." Job 25:5 NLT

Remember when, as a child, you would attempt to stare into the sun?

It lasted only a few seconds--it was just too much to handle.

The brilliance.

The brightness.

The radiance.

It was more than we could take in and we would eventually have to close our eyes.

To think God's glory shines even brighter!

We can attempt to stare at Him, and it overwhelms us.

We can try to look into His goodness and might, but our eyes, or hearts, cannot take it in.

God is so glorious! 

 LIFE AND LIGHT

Today's reading: Psalm 36-38

"For you are the fountain of life, the light by which we see." Psalm 36:9 NLT

Life and light, the two gifts God gives us.

Life--true life, not just living. Not just being. Not just breathing. But life in all its abundance.

Sight--seeing things for what they truly are. Not just vision, but discernment. Not just being able to notice things, but being able to look deeply into the eternity of the matters at hand.

Only through God do we have both gifts.

Only by way of God can we pass these gifts on to another.

STANDING HERE QUIETLY

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 11-15

"Now stand here quietly before the Lord as I remind you of all the great things the Lord has done for you and your ancestors." 1 Samuel 12:7 NLT

How often do you pause in your day to consider all the blessings God has poured into your life?

For most of us, it's not often enough.

It's a practice that we, as Americans, tend to save for the Thanksgiving season--or maybe, if we're truly focused, the whole month of November. 

But shouldn't quiet amazement for God and all He has done be a part of our every day?

--In thanks for what the day before brought us through.

--In appreciation for all He has provided us.

--In gratitude for His promises to never leave or forsake us.

In this fast paced, planner filled, running from one appointment to the next, world we live in, let's stand quietly today and be reminded of all the great things the Lord has done for us.

THE PORTION I TOOK

Today's reading: Genesis 48-50

"Then Jacob said to Joseph, I am about to die, but God will be with you and will bring you again to Canaan, the land of your ancestors. And I give you an extra portion beyond what I have given your brothers--the portion I took from the Amorites with my sword and bow." Genesis 28:21-22 NLT

In this passage, Jacob, as in 'Abraham-Isaac-Jacob', was about to die and was speaking to his son, Joseph.

With his dying breaths he was extending a blessing to his son, a blessing that went above and beyond that which he would give to Joseph's other brothers.

It was a portion of the inheritance that Jacob has taken from his enemy and held on to for this moment in time.

He gifted Joseph with something he had fought hard to win...

Something he had risked life and limb to lay hold of...

Something that his enemy never intended to let go of...

Maybe, just maybe, you are able to pass along such a 'gift' to your loved ones.

An inheritance that cost you plenty...

An inheritance that the enemy never intended for you to procure...

An inheritance that breaks all generational curses and sets a new course for your life and the life of your family...

An inheritance that is undeserved, unending and unattainable by any means other than the Lord working in and around you...

An inheritance that will surpass any accumulated wealth, any stockpile of material things, any bank-full of money--all at the expense of your enemy!

 

 A JEALOUS GOD

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 9-10

"What? Do you dare to rouse the Lord's jealousy as Israel did?.." 1 Corinthians 10:22 NLT

Paul writes to the church at Corinth about the fractious nature of serving idols.

He reviews with them, in chapter 10, a little history lesson as he discusses the failures of the Israelites as they wandered through the wilderness.

While they had a pillar of cloud before them, a pillar of fire behind them, the Lord with them and saw miracles of all sorts--they still chose to worship idols.

Still chose to worship idols?!

Might we be doing the same thing?

We have the inerrant Word of God at our fingertips...

We are free to worship publicly with brothers and sisters in Christ...

We are offered the gift of salvation through the blood of Jesus...

We have testimonies that display God's unending and relentless pursuit of our hearts...

And we still have tendencies to turn to idols.

To things that comfort us...

To things that make us feel secure...

To things that entertain us...

To things that numb us...

To things that we think we can control...

To things that turn our attention off of God...

What part/parts of your daily life might be rousing the jealousy of our God? What might you need to put away/put down/put out/put behind you--in order that your full attention be on your Savior?

ALREADY IN THE BOAT

Today's reading: Mark 3-4

"As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, Let's cross to the other side of the lake. He was already in the boat, so they started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed)." Mark 4:35-36 NLT

These are the verses preceding the known to everyone words, Peace, be still!

Disciples.

A boat.

Jesus.

As believers, we've probably read the passage hundreds of times. Heard many a sermon preached on this particular portion of Scripture. Maybe even remember the flannelgraph version presented to you as a child.

But this morning, I noticed an order of events I'd never seen before...

...He was already in the boat...

Jesus wasn't asking them to do something He wouldn't be with them in.

Jesus didn't ask them to go anywhere He wasn't going, too.

Jesus never requested something of his loved ones that they would have to do alone.

And He doesn't of us either.

If He asks us to head our boats into a storm--know He will be with us.

If He needs us to step into a situation--know we don't do it alone.

If He presents us with a scary season--know He is already there--in it, with us, orchestrating events that will change lives.

Jesus was already in the boat, what a peace giving thought!

 

SOON LORD, SOON

Today's reading: Isaiah 62-66

"The Lord says, People who never before inquired about me are now asking about me. I am being found by people who were not looking for me. To them I have said, I am here." Isaiah 65:1 NLT

Aren't we all ready for those we're praying for to 'finally and fully' turn to the Lord?

The loved ones who seem aloof to His judgement...

The friends who are good, but are not saved...

The neighbors who have disregarded the Gospel presented to them...

The church attenders who aren't sold out to the cause of Christ...

The prodigals who are wallowing in their pig pens...

The agnostics who won't see the goodness of God right before their eyes...

Soon Lord, let this verse come to a revival-like reality, soon!