JOHN 3:17

Today's reading: John 3-4

"God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it." John 3:17 NLT

While so many of us stop and ponder the enormity of truth in John 3:16, this morning I have been given pause in regards to the verse that follows it...

The verse that is as powerful...

The verse that straightens our feelings for facts...

The verse that points to our rescue, or salvation...

God did not send Jesus to mark us as sinners. He did not allow His One and Only Son to walk this earth to merely pass judgement. He did not send our Good Shepherd to merely wrangle a bunch of witless sheep.

God allowed Jesus to state the truth of our sinful state and provide a hope in His gift of salvation!

Were we all rightly judged as sin filled? Yes!

Are we all given the opportunity to have those sins forgiven and our souls cleansed? YES! Praise God, YES!

This morning I'm thanking God that He didn't just send Jesus into this world to condemn us, but to save us--fully, completely, entirely, wholeheartedly and eternally!

AS USUAL

Today's reading: Daniel 1-6

"But when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God." Daniel 6:10 NLT

What's your 'as usual'? Your 'go to'? Your habit?

When the world presses in, or hammers down, or completely falls apart in your hands--what's your 'as usual' response'?

For Daniel, it was prayer.

Talking to God.

Listening for God.

Being away from all else and any one else, but God.

How I pray that single response would become my knee jerk reaction to the happenings of life!

When tough times come--I pray.

When stormy clouds boil above me--I pray.

When blessings pour down on me--I pray.

When I don't know what to do--I pray.

What a difference there would be in the worlds if we developed the 'as usual' discipline of prayer! 

EXAMINING OUR MOTIVES

Today's reading: Proverbs 16

"People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives." Proverbs 16:2 NLT

How long has it been since you've given God full access to you?

To your motives...

To the closet where you hide all your skeletons...

To the deepest depths of your heart...

To the cave of thoughts that determine your actions...

How long has it been since you've allowed God to look at the 'real you'?

Not the church attender...

Not the Sunday School teacher...

Not the committee member...

Not the faithful tither...

How long has it been since you have asked God to take a deeper look at your soul?

To xray your every desire...

To explore your past...

To be completely all up in your business...

To take the reins...

We may look good, fulfill all the tasks, and fool a whole lot of people--but God knows us better than we know ourselves! 

MIGHTIER THAN THESE

Today's reading: Psalm 93-95

"The mighty oceans have roared, O Lord. The mighty oceans roar like thunder; the mighty oceans roar as they pound the shore. But mightier than the violent raging of the seas, mightier than the breakers on the shore--the Lord above is mightier than these! " Psalm 93:3-4 NLT

I don't know about you, but some days, a whole lot of days actually, I need reminded that God is greater, bigger, stronger, kinder, more loving and more powerful than the tough things I am going through!

He is mightier than the doctor's diagnosis.

He is greater than the worry than keeps us up at night.

He is kinder than the betraying friend.

He is more faithful than even the morning daybreak.

He loves more than our nearest and dearest.

He is stronger than the pull of the world and all of sin's temptations.

We need to have on repeat in our head, and on our lips--The Lord above is mightier than these!

THE NAMES AFTER YOURS
Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 1-4

As I read the first four chapters of 1 Chronicles, I am presented with a list of names. A genealogy. A family tree.

Name after name.

Descendant upon descendant.

I've read them before. I've skimmed over the list a time or two. I've entirely skipped these chapters on numerous occasions.

But this morning?

This morning, I paused...

And I listened for God to speak...

And I heard this spoken to my heart...

One day, living for Me, walking with Me, introducing others to Me--your name will have many names after it.

What an exciting thing to think about--being able to impact others, descendants, generations after me with my relationship with the Lord!

I cannot wait to start doing that when I am 'old'. I cannot sit and sulk over wasted opportunities in my past. I am given today and all it holds in regards to me walking through doors God will open for me to impact someone for Him.

I think it's important to consider the spiritual imprint we will leave on those who follow us! 

I WILL ORDER MY BLESSING

Today's reading: Leviticus 25-27

"But you might ask, What will we eat during the seventh year, since we are not allowed to plant or harvest crops that year? The answer is, I will order my blessing for you in the sixth year, so the land will produce a bumper crop, enough to support you for three years." Leviticus 25:20-21 NLT 

God's people have just been given an entire chapter filled with instructions on how to treat the new land He brought them into.

In these instructions were commands about the Sabbath years, or fallow years, they were to take and details about the Year of Jubilee.

And their response to these instructions...in this new land...where they have seen God bring them...for which God preserved them...about which God promised them?

They were worried about what they would eat in the years when the land was to rest.

God's reply?

God's reply to us when we question IF He is enough...

'I will order my blessing for you.'

He promises to supply when we obey.

He assures us He will provide when we follow His instructions.

He guarantees there will always be enough when we believe Him.

'I will order my blessing for you.'

We must simply obey.

ALL MADE POSSIBLE

Today's reading: 2 Thessalonians

"And so we keep on praying for you, that our God will make you worthy of the life to which he called you. And we pray that God, by his power, will fulfill all your good intentions and faithful deeds. Then everyone will give honor to the name of our Lord Jesus because of you, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the undeserved favor of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ." 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12 NLT

Can you list the things that 'have all been made possible because of the undeserved favor of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ"?

Do you have enough paper and ink?

Are you soberly assessing His gracious hand on your life and how very little you have had to do with any of it?

Do you realize that you are His only by His grace and calling?

It's only when we have a firm grasp on this amazing grace that our lives can impact others for Christ. It's then, and only then, that we value it, accept it wholeheartedly and want to share it with others.

It's when we bow in awe of God's saving grace that we see it for what it truly is--undeserved favor!

 

SIX WATERPOTS

Today's reading: John 1-2

"Six stone waterpots were standing there; they were used for Jewish ceremonial purposes, and held twenty to thirty gallons each. Jesus told the servants, Fill the jars with water. When the jars had been filled to the brim, he said, Dip some out and take it to the master of ceremonies. So they followed his instructions." John 2:6-8 NLT

We are given here the account of Jesus's very first miracle...water into wine.

While I have always been amazed by His abilities to change the water, His acceptance of His mother's challenge to help out and His means of introduction into His ministry...what most catches me off guard is that He asked the servants to be a part of it all.

He asked the servants to fill the waterpots.

He asked them to participate in what He was about to do.

Jesus could have, easily, wiggled His godly nose and the waterpots filled themselves.

Jesus could have, without any regard to the law of nature, snapped His heavenly fingers and bottles of wine appeared upon the tables.

He could have done so many more miracles than turning water into wine!

But He chose to let others participate...to get into the miracle itself...to be eye witnesses to what He chose to do.

He still does that today!

He gives us opportunity to come alongside Him on His miracle working missions.

He lets us walk hand in hand with Him from one miraculous event to another.

He lets us get dirty in the process of Him performing miracles in the lives of others.

Are we saying 'Yes' to His invitation? 

PUTTING AWAY IDOLS

Today's reading: Ezekiel 43-48

"Now let them put away their idols and the sacred pillars erected to honor their kings, and I will live among them forever." Ezekiel 43:9 NLT

Lord,

What would you have me put away in order that You be my highest, greatest priority?

What idols am I bowing to, bending to, carrying closer to my heart than You?

In what ways am I worshiping things more than I worship You?

Am I honoring my self, my ways, my plans, more than I am You?

What habitation of the Spirit am I forfeiting with my idolatry?

Would you open my eyes, and heart, to all things idol-like in my life? Would you use the scalpel of Your Word to divide and remove what doesn't need to be in my life?

Place me under Your conviction.

Give me to the desire to be changed into the image of Your Son.

Clear out what's needed for you to live among me--in all I do.

Amen.
 

RELAXED

Today's reading: Proverbs 14-15

"A relaxed attitude lengthens life; jealousy rots it away." Proverbs 14:30 NLT

Sometimes in order to grasp the meaning of a proverb, one must look at its opposite.

While we know what relaxed means--at ease, carefree, unstressed, have you considered what decriptors there might be for not being relaxed, or the absence of relaxation...

Nervous.

Fidgety.

Agitated.

Worried.

Stressed.

Edgey.

Jumpy.

Tense.

Just reading over that list allows us to see how a relaxed attitude would lengthen one's life. 

So what about your life?

How are you living it?

I'm not asking what circumstances you find yourself in, or what others have done to you--I'm asking what attitude you are choosing to take through it all?

I'm not asking how many vacation getaways you take, how often you book a day at the spa or whether or not you spend some time in yoga--I'm asking which frame of mind you determine to camp out in.

One will give you a better life, the other will suck the life out of you.

SATISFY US
Today's reading: Proverbs 90-92

"Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, so we may sing for joy to the end of our lives." Psalm 90:14 NLT

I don't know if you are a morning person, or not.

I am.

I like to be up before the sun arrives for duty, before the rooster crows to wake the dawn, before busyness crowds in on a day.

Mornings are when I do my quiet time with the Lord.

It's peaceful. It's seldom filled with interruptions. It's just God and I.

It sets the pace for the day ahead.

It determines the tone of my next 24 hours.

It gets my head and heart in the right place for what may lie ahead.

And at the end of the day? As I lay my head on my pillow and consider the day's accomplishments, deeds, decisions and detours--I am satisfied.

Oh, not always in myself! Not even in the day's events. Not even in everyone I bumped in to throughout the day!

I'm satisfied because I started the day off with the Lord. I chose to partake of His love and kindness. I made the decision to seek Him out. I spent some time just my Savior and I.

That, dear friends, is satisfying! 

MONKEY SEE, MONKEY DO

Today's reading: 2 Kings 21-25

"He followed the example of his father, worshiping the same idols that his father had worshiped." 2 Kings 21:21 NLT

For a parent,...

No, let me restate that...

For anyone who has influence over anyone, which includes all of us, this single verse should strike fear in our hearts, bring conviction to our souls and challenge us to live godlier lives.

We set an example for someone!

There is always another who is watching us, noticing our actions, taking note of our every deed, paying attention to all we say.

Here is the question the Holy Spirit spoke into my heart upon reading this verse...

What worship habit are you willing to pass on to _____?

'You do you' as you fill in the blank on that question. Consider your life, your tendencies, your patterns and routines as you think about your influence on those who hear some of what you say but watch every move.

Let me re-word the question...

What habit will I continue that I would be proud to see passed on to the next generation?

What response technique am I modeling for him/her to repeat in their own lives?

What recurring sin am I falling prey to every time the enemy presents it to me, and is it one I am willing to let another struggle with throughout their life?

What custom do I have that might be hard to break now, but by its absence will make life easier for those who follow me?

What example am I setting in what/who/how I worship?

Thinking through this verse and these questions should make us all stop and consider how our idol worship might impact those who follow after us.

 

A WORTHY OFFERING

Today's reading: Leviticus 22-24

As I'm reading through Leviticus, I come across the subtitle, Worthy and Unworthy Offerings.

This portion of Scripture, Leviticus 22:17-33, gives the priests the specific instructions in regards to which animals can be offered to the Lord and which ones can't. The list is quite detailed. It's quite long. It's quite exclusive.

To be acceptable, an animal must...

-not be female.

-have no physical defects.

-cannot be blind.

-can't be injured.

-cannot be mutilated.

-cannot have a growth of any sort.

-has no open sores or scabs.

-not be from a foreigner.

What a comprehensive list! Think how few animals fit the bill. 

As an Israelite traveling to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices, would one take several animals with you--in case one wasn't up to snuff, one got injured on the way, one died?

I have to tell you, just reading this list exhausts me. The effort made to be right with God. The details required. The hope that what you present is deemed acceptable.

And...

I'm so glad Jesus was our worthy sacrifice!

He was all that was required. He was enough for me, you and everyone else. He paid the price for every one of our sins.

Worthy is the Lamb who was slain!

THINK CLEARLY

Today's reading: 1 Thessalonians 4-5

"But let us who live in the light think clearly, protected by the body armor of faith and love, and wearing as our helmet the confidence of our salvation." 1 Thessalonians 5:8 NLT

Believers, let's start thinking with our heads and our hearts, and not with our feelings.

Let's make decisions based on the facts of God's Word and the purpose of witnessing to those who don't yet know Him.

Let's respond in ways that glorify and honor our Crucified Savior.

Let's speak out of hearts that are filled with grace because our Lord has been so very gracious to us.

Let us think clearly in regards to opinions, politics, reactions and preferences.

Let's allow God to be so in us that He flows out of us with every thing we say and do--confident that the One who saved us can keep us, use us and give us opportunity to shine for Him! 

CHECK YOUR FRIENDSHIPS

Today's reading: Luke 23-24

"Herod and Pilate, who had been enemies before, became friends that day." Luke 23:12 NLT

The common denominator in Herod and Pilate's new friendship was that they had condemned and rejected Jesus.

How sad.

To have a friendship that, at its center, was based upon turning their backs on a True Friend.

I would gasp in disbelief. I might even shake my head in the shame of it all. I could even tssk-tssk their choices, but I'll be completely honest--some days I do the same thing.

As sad as it is, there are days when my choices bend me towards the friendship of the world and not of Christ.

My words, at times, betray any relationship I have with my Savior.

My fears do not portray the trust my best Friend's track record should instill in my heart.

How quickly, in tough times, inconvenient times, rough times, and times that don't go my way, I turn my back on the friendship I have with my Savior.

And when I do? When I choose another friend?

I'm left with the likes of a Pilate, or a Herod.

KNOWING HIM THAT WELL
Today's reading: Ezekiel 37-42 

"Then my people will know that I am the Lord their God--responsible for sending them away to exile and responsible for bringing them home. I will leave none of my people behind." Ezekiel 39:28 NLT

Do you know God well enough to understand the conviction of sin AND the peace a repentant heart provides?

Have you seen God allow consequences to draw you away from Him AND know the wooing love of your Savior winning you back?

Do you completely understand the enormity of Jesus's sacrifice on the cross on your behalf AND grasp the humility required to accept His precious gift of salvation?

Do you know God that well?

GODLINESS

Today's reading: Proverbs 13

"Godliness helps people all through life, while the evil are destroyed by their wickedness." Proverbs 13:6 NLT

You hear, every once in a while, about death bed confessions.

Moments at the end of a person's life in which they turn their hearts over to the Lord, before slipping off into eternity.

Hooray for them! To have settled with the Lord their sins and accepted His gift of salvation before it's too late.

But as the proverb this morning states, godliness-being led by God, directed by God, imitating God's Son, and living to please God-benefits a person the entirety of their life!

Godliness helps a person when they are young, not to make choices that leave life-long consequences.

Godliness helps a person as they 'adult', setting boundaries that lead to an honorable life.

Godliness helps a person when life throws them a curve-ball, one that might otherwise completely knock the props out from under you if not for faith.

Godliness helps a person when standing for right, needing to be courageous and when enemies attack.

Godliness is what will get a person from birth to death-- and beyond! 

KEEP PLEADING

Today's reading: Psalm 87-89

"O Lord, I cry out to you, I will keep on pleading day by day." Psalm 88:13 NLT

I consider myself to be a persistent person.

Well, maybe more of a routine-oriented person, you might say.

Except when it comes to praying.

The important prayers that is--prayers for the salvation of loved ones, prayers for a closer walk with the Lord, prayers for my church and my nation--and Israel.

And the listening part of prayer.

Especially, the listening part of prayer.

Am I persistent, pleading one might say, in leaning in to listen for God's side of my prayer conversation?

No, I am not.

I spout off the needs I have...

I speak words of praise for who He is...

I thank Him for all He's done...

I tell Him where I've messed up...

But seldom, if ever, do I stop long enough and listen for His reply--His directives--His responses.

Today I'm going to plead with myself to practice the pause needed to hear Him speak to me.

Prayer is not a one-sided conversation, I tend to forget that.

BUT NOT AS MUCH

Today's reading: 2 Kings 16-20

"He did what was evil in the Lord's sight, but not as much as the kings of Israel who ruled before him." 2 Kings 17:2 NLT

We live in a 'not as much' society.

A society where we say...

Maybe I did sin, but my sin wasn't as stinky as theirs.

Yes, I chose to follow my heart rather than God, but did you see them ____?

Sure, I did ___, but it wasn't as bad as their ____. 

Friend, did you know (or did you need reminding) that when we stand before God, we'll not be answering for anyone other than ourselves--and our answer will be a simple, YES or NO...

Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

God will not grade our sins, prioritize our foibles, weigh out our mistakes. 

He will ask...

Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

He won't ask about 'them'. He won't compare your rap sheet against theirs. He will ask you, point blank...

Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

So today, with all eyes on your own heart...

Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

FOREIGNERS

Today's reading: Leviticus 19-21

"Do not exploit the foreigners who live in your land." Leviticus 19:33 NLT

Living in the greatest country in the world leaves our nation as a goal for so many people.

People who have it hard in their homeland.

People who fear for their lives in their native countries.

People who cannot get out of a social class, a political oppression or an extremely low lifestyle where they were born.

So they reach out to our nation. They seek asylum. They seek refuge. They seek what the American dream offers.

I choose not to get political here, but I will get biblical...

Do not exploit the foreigners who live in your land. 

You'd never, you say?

I think we do when we badmouth a 'group' and don't base our assumptions on the individual.

I think we do when we assume 'they' are only worthy of low income positions or menial tasks.

I think we do when we consider ourselves to be even a smidge better than they.

I think we do when we crack jokes, make unkind comments or refer to them in a less than kind way.

When God gave the Israelites the command not to exploit the foreigners in the new land they were entering, He intended that they treat them with human decency and in a godly manner--in an attempt to win some of them over to Him.

Aren't His words true for us today?

TROUBLES

Today's reading: 1 Thessalonians 1-3

"...But, of course, you know that such troubles are going to happen to us Christians." 1 Thessalonians 3:3 NLT

Believers, especially those living in the comfort, convenience and blessing of first world countries like our own, tend to forget that troubles are what we should expect in life.

Disappointments, inconveniences, storms, hard times and bad things.

Why?

Because this world is not our home.

It's never been meant to be.

Life is a series of days, months and years of traveling on foreign soils. 'Camping out' on our way home. Roughing it, if you think about it, before we get to heaven.

So let the disgruntled moments of your life remind you of where it is you're going, instead of allowing yourself to become perturbed, hateful and rude.

Let the hard to swallow times in life steel you for what's to come--no sorrow, no pain, no tears!

 

WORN OUT FROM TRYING

Today's reading: Luke 21-22

"Watch out! Don't let me find you living in careless ease and drunkenness, and filled with the worries of this life. Don't let that day catch you unaware, as in a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on earth." Luke 21:34-35 NLT

When the Lord returns...

When you finally meet your Savior...

When you stand before God...

Will you be worn out? Exhausted? Drained? Dog-tired? Tail dragging?

And what will it be from?

Will it be from worrying? Keeping up with the Jones's? Playing catch up? Keeping plates spinning?

My prayer, actually--Jesus's prayer, is that we will enter heaven worn out from trying to bring others with us!

Tired from serving. Drained of all that's in us. Dog-tired from seeking out the lost. Tail dragging from having done all He has asked of us to do.

Take a moment to evaluate your current status. If you are tired and weary--what's it from? Is what's exhausting you of eternal consequence?

KEEPING SHEEP

Today's reading: Ezekiel 31-36

"Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds, the leaders of Israel. Give them this message from the Sovereign Lord: Destruction is certain for you shepherds who feed yourselves instead of your flocks. Shouldn't shepherds feed their sheep? You drink the milk, wear the wool, and butcher the best animals, but you let your flocks starve. You have not taken care of the weak. You have not tended the sick or bound up the broken bones. You have not gone looking for those who have wandered away and are lost. Instead, you have ruled them with force and cruelty. So my sheep have been scattered without a shepherd. They are easy prey for wild animals. They have wandered through the mountains and hills, across the face of the earth ,yet no one has gone to search for them." Ezekiel 34:2-6 NLT

Did you know we are all, as God's chosen, called to be shepherds?

Not just the pastors or the deacons. Not merely the Sunday School teachers and prayer group leaders.

As sheep that have been cared for by the Good Shepherd, we are placed in a position to shepherd others.

Lost and wandering sheep.

Sick and hurting sheep.

Errant and willful sheep.

Old and young sheep.

Sheep that don't want to be rescued and sheep that don't know they are lost.

Through shepherding we are given the opportunity to pour out what God has poured into us.

We are provided enough for ourselves and plenty to share.

Are you shepherding a few sheep? Does your sphere of influence include some sheep in need of kind words, biblical counsel, wisdom or godly advice?

Look for sheep throughout your day!

DISPENSE BANDAGES

Today's reading: Proverbs 11-12

"Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing." Proverbs 12:18 NLT

As you head out the door to church this morning, I would like you to consider this...

There will be far more people needing the healing your words can bring, versus those that need corrected of their sins.

Let's choose to pass out bandages today instead of advice, critiques or commentary.

-Maybe to the single mom who has gone through a battle royale to get her kids to church.

-Or the widower that's trying it on their own for the first time in many years.

-To the new face at church that doesn't know when to sit, when to stand, where to go and which pew isn't 'owned'.

-To the gal who sits by herself each and every week.

-To the couple whose life events have lit up the social media page, the prayer request line and the gossip group.

-To the kids-age Sunday School teacher who is still at it after many years.

-To the pastor--oh, so many things are said to the pastor--make sure what you say bandages and doesn't wound.

Pass out bandages today among your congregation. I'm pretty sure they're needed! 

SO

Today's reading: Psalm 84-86

"O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask your aid." Psalm 86:5 NLT

Might I take a few liberties with this verse?

Oh, I'm not changing the wording...

Or the content...

Or the grammatical pauses...

Allow me to change the capitalization...

O Lord, you are SO good, SO ready to forgive, SO full of unfailing love for all who ask your aid.

O Lord, you are SO good, SO ready to forgive, SO full of unfailing love for all who ask your aid.

Isn't He just?

Isn't He SO good, SO forgiving and SO full of love?

For me, I have to stop and ponder the words of Scripture a little longer some days. I have to push aside any notion that the God of the Bible is just another person. I have to remind myself of Whom I am reading, of Whom it is referring to, of Whom is speaking to me through the pages of words.

Linger over a passage today. Stop long enough to reconsider it from the Holy Spirit's viewpoint. Don't just read your Bible, let it read you.

 

TREASURES IN THE TEMPLE

Today's reading: 2 Kings 11-15

"Joash and his nurse remained hidden in the Temple of the Lord six years while Athaliah ruled over the land." 2 Kings 11:3 NLT

I see two things in this account of little Joash, who would become a godly leader in Judah's history...

1. Only the bad rulers don't frequent the Temple of God.

Sadly, the very men who carry the heaviest loads in our countries are the ones who appear to care little for their walks with God. Too busy? Too tired? Too overwhelmed? Too prideful?

2. Treasures are hidden in the Lord's house.

Millions of dollars are spent each year on self-care, entertainment and bar tabs. Families are going broke keeping their kids busy in sports and clubs. Adults are feeling the loneliest in the most crowded of place.

All the while, the house of God holds the treasures that will lead us in governing any and all area of our life and unlock a wealth of happiness in our hearts.

What extreme efforts do you make to be in the Lord's house each week? Is it scheduled in ink in your planner? Do other things get pushed around Sunday mornings so you'l have time to worship, lean on other Christians and learn?

There are churches out there that need you--and there is a church that you need!

Go find the Treasure your local church holds.

 

SCAPEGOAT

Today's reading: Leviticus 16-18

"He is to lay both of his hands on the goat's head and confess over it all the sins and rebellion of the Israelites. In this way, he will lay the people's sins on the head of the goat then he will send it out into the wilderness, led by a man chosen for this task." Leviticus 16:21 NLT 

There's a good chance our ears would burn and turn red in shame to hear all that was spoken over the scapegoat used in Tabernacle times.

The sins of individuals, the sins of families, the sins of a nation bent upon desiring all God had to offer them and gathering up little gods along their travels.

There would be confessions of pride, anger, jealousy and lying.  There would be admissions of adultery, murder and stealing. There would be acknowledgements of regret over sins committed and practices disregarded.

Spoken out loud these sins would be called what they were, the ugliness of them would be exposed and the truth would be revealed.

And then the goat, being led by a selected individual, would be led out of the community and into the wilderness carrying all those sins upon him.

Verbal confession.

Visual association.

Audible acknowledgement.

Spiritual release.

God knew the value of it all and loved us enough to provide this opportunity to us through His Son, Jesus.

 PASS IT ON
Today's reading: Colossians 3-4

"After you have read this letter, pass it on to the church at Laodicea so they can read it, too. And you should read the letter I wrote to them." Colossians 4:16 NLT

I'd never thought about it, but had the church at Colosse chosen NOT to pass along this letter to Laodicea, and to the next church, and to the next church, and to (eventually) folks traveling to settle America--I would never have ever been exposed to its teachings.

They could have held on to something near and dear to their hearts.

They could have cherished it to the point of keeping it under lock and key.

They could have prized it on a level that wouldn't allow it beyond a glass case in a special room.

Because, if you think about it, letters were treasures in this day and age. Consider the effort it took for a letter to be delivered and reach its destination intact. Consider the infrequency of mail. Think about how much time and effort went into getting a letter to where it needed to go.

This letter from Paul would have been a possession of the highest regard. The church receiving this note knew the regard Paul had for them by even writing a letter to them at all. They valued being thought of, remembered and counseled.

And then to be asked to pass it on?

To another house-church?

To people who might not appreciate it as much as they did?

To the Laodiceans--with their rival business, rival football team, with their ways that differed from those of the Colosse church?

But this treasure had to be passed on in order for it to eventually reach me!

What gift are you hoarding?

Is it your talent? Your possessions? Your enthusiasm for the Lord? Your testimony?

Pass it on!

ZACCHEUS

Today's reading: Luke 19-20

"Zaccheus quickly climbed down and took Jesus to his house in great excitement and joy. But the crowds were displeased. He has gone to be the guest of a notorious sinner, they grumbled. Meanwhile, Zaccheus stood there and said to the Lord, I will give half of my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have overcharged people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!" Luke 19:6-8 NLT

I've sang about Zaccheus for about as long as I've been able to talk.

I've heard about Zaccheus since I could sit and listen.

I've seen the account of Zaccheus on Sunday School cards, flannelgraph and acted out on a country church stage.

I've read about Zaccheus since I could read.

But today?

Today I noticed a very important word in the life of Zaccheus. A word that gave me pause. A word that the entire account hinges on...

Meanwhile...

Did you notice it...

Meanwhile...

It means, 'at the same time, or in the intervening time.'

While the people were grumbling about Jesus going to Zaccheus's house...

While the crowds were quibbling over Zaccheus's worth...

While the crowds were bemoaning the fact that Jesus chose Zaccheus AND Zaccheus chose Jesus...

While all that was going on, Zaccheus was present in Jesus's presence.

The murmuring didn't stop him.

The complaints didn't sway him.

The ridicule didn't keep him from giving his life, and his wealth, to the Lord.

Meanwhile...

What's stopping us? Who are we listening to? How are we allowing 'them' to douse the fire Jesus places in our bellies?

 

NO LONGER TEMPTED

Today's reading: Ezekiel 25-30

"Then Israel will no longer be tempted to trust in Egypt for help. Egypt's shattered condition will remind Israel of how sinful she was to trust Egypt in earlier days. Then Israel will know that I alone am the Sovereign Lord." Ezekiel 29:16 NLT

Israel had turned to the country of Israel instead of the Lord. For help. For provisions. For protection. 

That relationship brought about hardships, idolatry and slavery as the Israelites became dependent upon Egypt and Egypt flexed its muscles as to their control of God's people.

Israel found out, by harsh reality, that anything other than God cannot be trusted!

For security.

For needs to be met.

For support.

May we learn from Israel's mistakes and survey, deeply inventory, what it is we're leaning on.

Now is the time to evaluate whether our hope rests firmly and securely in the Lord, or is it placed into the unworthy and incapable hands of another.

 

GODLY INDICATOR

Today's reading: Proverbs 10

"The godly speak words that are helpful, but the wicked speak only what is corrupt." Proverbs 10:32 NLT

Imagine for a moment, that the only indicator of your Christianity was in the words you spoke.

Not the number of church services you attend.

Or the committees you serve on.

Not even the Bibles and Christian t-shirts you own.

No ranking or high scores for the Christian wall art you have hanging in your house or the number of 'church dresses' hanging in your closet.

Just your words.

What you say.

How you speak to others.

The tone you use.

Not just your telephone voice or your chirpy welcome when you serve on the greeting team on Sundays.

Your every day conversations, comments and remarks--how might you you be judged?

SO I LET THEM

Today's reading: Psalm 81-83

"But no, my people wouldn't listen. Israel didn't want me around. So I let them follow their blind and stubborn way, living according to their own desires." Psalm 81:11-12 NLT 

What sadder words are there in the Bible than these?

What more telling words?

What more poignant words?

What more eye-opening words?

To know God loves us enough to let us do what we want...

To know God has more in store for us than we do for ourselves...

To know God's love for us isn't forceful, masterful or demanding...

To know God's love for us hurts Him as He watches us hurt ourselves...

He lets us do what we want.

He allows us free will to make choices.

He watches as we choose less than the best, other than Him and against what He has shown us to be good and holy.

He lets us...all the while knowing He really shouldn't...

OPEN MY EYES

Today's reading: 2 Kings 6-10

"Don't be afraid! Elisha told him. For there are more on our side than on theirs! Then Elisha prayed, O Lord, open his eyes and let him see! The Lord opened his servant's eyes, and when he looked up, he saw that the hillside around Elisha was filled with horses and chariots of fire." 2 Kings 6:16-17 NLT

Lord,

Open my eyes that I might see where You are.

In my everyday happenings...

In the prayer requests I'm bringing to Your throne...

In the messed-up world I live in...

In the quiet moments You and I share sitting at my prayer chair...

I want to see you.

I need to see you.

Because, well some days--I don't.

But I want to.

-Amen

THE REASON FOR IT

Today's reading: Leviticus 13-15

Aah, nothing like a few chapters on skin diseases and bodily discharge to get your faith kick-started on an early morning!

Not the uplifting devotion I had expected this morning, or hoped for.

But it's there.

All three chapters and 149 verses of it.

But towards the end of the read we find the reason for such detailed focus...

"In this way, you will keep the people of Israel separate from things that will defile them, so they will not die as a result of defiling my Tabernacle that is right there among them." Leviticus 15:31 NLT

These instructions, rules, regulations and commands don't come as a way for God to show off His sovereign muscles or universe-reigning power, but as God's way for us to remain pure, holy and usable in His kingdom!

To keep us clean.

To make sure we are the healthiest and best we can be.

To set us apart as 'vessels' worthy of His grand work.

To allow His Church to be a place of healing and safety for those we bring to Him.

WHAT ARE YOU FEEDING ON?

Today's reading: Colossians 1-2

"Let your roots grow down deep into him and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done." Colossians 2:7 NLT

I will admit, I have to be very, very careful about what I allow to feed me--physically, mentally and spiritually.

Physically there are many quick, easy, grab and go offerings that don't provide the nutrients my God-created body needs.

Mentally there are many 'fillers' that I gravitate towards for accolades, for pats on the back and for security, all leaving me emptier than before.

Spiritually I lean towards the checklist of Christianity to fulfill my deepest needs, and come up thirstier and hungrier than before grabbing my pen and check off my box.

But when I intentionally choose to draw nourishment from God?

When I make the concerted effort to choose Him over all else?

When I fill my body, head and heart with His truths and determine to follow His ways?

I am nourished.

I find I have all I need.

I find more than enough to accomplish all He has asked of me--and have enough left over to spill into the lives of others.

But I have to make the effort to feed on Him. To seek Him out. To draw on His powers, not my own.

Because He is the vine and I am the branch--completely dependent, entirely reliant and utterly sustained by Him! (John 15)

 

PERSISTENT PRAYER

Today's reading: Luke 17-18

"A widow of that city came to him repeatedly, appealing for justice against someone who had harmed her. The judge ignored her for a while, but eventually she wore him out. I fear neither God nor man, he said to himself, but this woman is driving me crazy. I'm going to see that she gets justice because she is wearing me out with her constant requests!" Luke 18:3-4 NLT

Persistence. Tenacity. Grit. Doggedness. Resolution. Constancy.

I don't know about you, but reading about this praying woman stirs my heart.

To ask.

To request.

To pray.

To keep seeking.

To continue knocking.

To be so determined in prayer and so dependent upon the One to whom I pray that I don't stop.

Until I get to heaven.

And when the Lord sees me standing before Him, he says...

Girl, you are a persistent one!

BROUGHT IT ON YOURSELF

Today's reading: Ezekiel 19-24

"You brought all this on yourself by prostituting yourself to other nations, defiling yourself with all their idols." Ezekiel 23:30 NLT

Don't you hate it when God uses lewd and vile descriptions of our sinful behavior?

When He chooses to 'call it as it is'?

When He wants us to know that the sins we are dabbling in are as black as the sins we condemn others for?

Prostitution.

Idol worship.

These aren't petty offenses.

These aren't sinful slip-ups.

These are sins that require deliberation, intention and all-in participation.

It's selling ourselves, body, mind and soul to the highest bidder--or even worse to one who offers things that aren't theirs to give.

It's trading the worship of God for the worship of ourselves.

We know better.

We are offended by it in the lives of others.

Yet we participate in these acts against our Lord and Savior without much thought and with little conviction.

Until He brings it up. Points it out. Calls it for what it is.

 

NOTHING I DESIRE

Today's reading: Proverbs 8-9

"For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can be compared with it." Proverbs 8:11 NLT

If you've been on the church scene for any length of time, regardless of your denomination or music genre preference, you've probably heard the lyrics to this song...

Lord, You are more precious than silver;Lord, 

You are more costly than gold;Lord, 

You are more beautiful than diamonds;

And nothing I desire compares with You. 

This songwriter mimics the thoughts of Solomon as he asks us to seek wisdom above all else.

Prioritizing. Valuing. Ranking.

But not simply wisdom, or at least the kind that you gain from opening books, taking classes and obtaining degrees.

God's wisdom is what we need!

We need it for all we do.

Those who depend upon us need us to have it.

The world in which we live needs us to seek it and use it.

Let's spend some time seeking wisdom today in the form of a right, intimate and dependent relationship with the Lord.

SHINE ON US

Today's reading: Psalm 78-80

"Turn us again to yourself, O God. Make your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved." Psalm 80:3 NLT

Lord,

Place your loving hands upon our shoulders and re-direct us to You.

Lovingly speak into our ears, 'This way, child of Mine.'

Take the time to make Yourself known to us in the day ahead.

Give us an 'ah-ha' moment with which our entire focus is You--and You alone.

It's only when You step into our paths that we will be saved. Saved from the death and hell we deserve. Saved from the consequences of the path we're on. Saved from our selves.

Shine upon us, God!

Let the Light of your love and holiness light up the darkest corners of our lives. The places where we have let sin settle in. The corners in which we have begun to believe we've got our tendencies and desires on a leash.

Let us know You know all about those areas of our hearts that we have not allowed you to have.

Shine ever more brightly there, Lord.

Radiate the sins out of our lives.

Illuminate Yourself and draw us to You.

EXPECTATIONS

Today's reading: 2 Kings 1-5

"But Naaman became angry and stalked away. I thought he would surely come out to meet me! he said. I expected him to wave his hand over the leprosy and call on the name of the Lord his God and heal me!" 2 Kings 5:11 NLT

Oh friend, aren't our tendencies the same as that of Naaman?

We expect.

We think.

We assume.

We forecast.

We reckon.

We imagine.

We calculate.

We put our preconceived notions and plans, devised in these finite minds of ours, onto an infinite God.

A God who thinks differently...

Acts supernaturally...

Has no limits...

Is all things, at all times, in all ways, is over all...

And then we are let down when He doesn't act like we believe He should?

Isn't that our fault? Isn't the 'let-down' all on our shoulders? Aren't we to blame when we set our expectations too low, too small or too un-miraculous? Shouldn't we remind ourselves that on our best days, with our wildest imaginations, dreaming the biggest dreams we can dream--we are still too small minded to grasp God's plan?

 

MY WAY

Today's reading: Leviticus 10-12

"Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu put coals of fire in their incense burners and sprinkled incense over it. In this way, they disobeyed the Lord by burning before him a different kind of fire than he had commanded." Leviticus 10:1 NLT

Remember the Frank Sinatra song, I Did It My Way?

Chart topping. Record breaking. Known by many.

He probably made millions of dollars 'doing it his way'.

Me?

When I go about doing things in the way I want, in the time frame I want, in the order I want--I usually end up with a big mess!

Today's reading has challenged my heart to pause and seek God out on what I want to do.

The best of things I want to accomplish...

The things I desire to do in revenge, in reaction, in response...

The things I don't think I can wait one moment longer to see come to pass...

The things I'm called to do something with but have no clue as to what to do...

Because these are all things I don't want to screw up--not sure that's a proper Bible-believing follower of Jesus term, but I do believe you get what I mean!

You see, more than just getting it done...

Or getting my way...

Or doing things in the manner I want them done in...

I want to do it 'His way'. Every time.  

HE'S ALL I NEED

Today's reading: Philippians 3-4

"I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little." Philippians 4:12 NLT

Philippians 4:12 is the seldom mentioned, often ignored Siamese-twin to the most popular 'I can do all things' verse scattered among the Christian population.

It's the impetus behind 4:13...

It's the truth behind 4:13...

It's the hope of 4:13...

You see, when Christ is all we have AND when we realize that Christ is the giver of all have AND we believe that Christ knows what we need AND when we need it--we can do all things with His help.

The secret to living a blessed life or a life depending on the answers to prayer like one depends upon the next breathe, is knowing Jesus is all we need.

That goes for the times when your plate is filled to spilling over AND when you scrape enough together to nibble on bread and water.

It's knowing He's all we need when we are surrounded by things, comfort and loved ones AND when we stand alone, sit alone, cry alone and walk alone on the darkest of nights!

Yes, we can do all things through Christ who gives us the strength we need, but it's imperative that we know He's all we need to start with!

 

THE OTHER BROTHER

Today's reading:  Luke 15-16

"The older brother was angry and wouldn't go in. His father came out and begged him, but he replied, All these years I've worked hard for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time, you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends." Luke 15:28-29 NLT

The prodigal brother gets a lot of hype.

He's preached about.

He's referred to often, even in secular conversations.

He's used as a lesson in Sunday Schools, Bible schools and there's even a flannel-graph of him.

But the other brother?

The one who never wandered?

The one who remained at home?

What might be referred to as, the faithful one?

A few verses.

A few lines of poor publicity.

No regaling about his determination and commitment.

No long list of all he had accomplished in his brother's absence.

Just a telling of his heart attitude.

I believe the account of this other brother needs visited and re-visited by us faithful church-goers.

We should call to mind this fella's actions and attitudes when we are dismissed...

When we are overlooked...

When we are presumed upon...

When we aren't celebrated for staying the course...

When we don't get the applause, or the congregational handshake or even honorable mention...

Staying the course, with the proper attitude of course, will be rewarded by God.

He sees us. He knows. He credits our stick-to-it-ive-ness to our accounts with Him!

So wildly celebrate the brothers, and sisters, that come home--knowing full well that you will be celebrated one day, too!

BUT YOU THOUGHT

Today's reading: Ezekiel 13-18

"But you thought you could get along without me, so you trusted instead in your fame and beauty. You gave yourself as a prostitute to every man who came along. Your beauty was theirs for the asking! You used the lovely things I gave you to make shrines for idols, where you carried out your acts of prostitution. Unbelievable! How could such a thing ever happen?" Ezekiel 16:15-16 NLT

The world tells us to 'trust our gut'. To follow our inner leading. To let our instincts guide us.

Where has that gotten you?

Me? For myself? In my life?

I've found it to be a pot-hole filled road. A vacation on the wrong side of town. A trip to Regret-ville.

We cannot get along without the Lord.

Not for long. Not in a good way. Not and see it end well.

All we need, He has. All we want, He holds. All we desire, He carries in His plans for our lives.

Pause and pray for a while today in regards to where it is you might be saying, although probably not out loud, 'Lord, I've got this.'

MOST PRECIOUS POSSESSION

Today's reading: Proverbs 7

"Follow my advice, my son; always treasure my commands. Obey them and live! Guard my teachings as your most precious possession." Proverbs 7:1-2 NLT

What sit on the 'special shelf' of your heart?

What do you hold guarded under lock and key?

What defines you, gives you worth, labels you?

May the answer for all of us be, God's Word!

That we hold it that dear.

That we revere it so deeply.

That we cherish it greatly.

That we obey it wholeheartedly.

 

RECALL

Today's reading: Psalm 75-77

"I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago." Psalm 77:11 NLT

Let's be honest...

With all that's going on, with all the unanswered prayers, with all the sin in the world, our first response is to recoil. To suddenly flinch back in fear, horror or disgust.

But to recall God's glory? To make the decision to remember all He's done? To move past the response instinct to the recall action?

For a while today...

Yes, in the midst of all of this...

Choose to recall all God has done!

Make the decision that for a time, even in the storm that's raging, to think about the miracles God has performed.

Choose to recall, not recoil. 

ENOUGH STRENGTH

Today's reading: 1 Kings 19-22

"So he got up and ate and drank, and the food gave him enough strength to travel forty days and forty nights to Mount Sinai, the mountain of God." 1 Kings 19:8 NLT

Would you use your last ounce of strength to get into God's presence?

Your last bit of 'oomph'?

Your final breath?

How determined are we, as believers, to be in the presence of our Lord?

We spend our energy and resources on everything else.

We wear ourselves out working...

We exhaust ourselves with entertainment...

We tire ourselves out socially...

We lose sleep updating ourselves on social media...

Are we as willing to sacrifice in order to meet with our Creator, our Redeemer, our Friend?

I'm going to spend some time looking over my calendar, my planner and the widget on my phone that tracks where I spend my time--and then compare it to how much of my strength I've dedicated to getting to the 'mountain of God'. Dare to join me?

 

ME, FIRST

Today's reading: Leviticus 7-9

"Then Moses said to Aaron, Approach the altar and present your sin offering and your whole burnt offering to make atonement for yourself. Then present the offering to make atonement for the people, just as the Lord has commanded." Leviticus 9:7 NLT

Most of us have grown up attempting to squelch the 'me first' attitude within us.

'Me first', we mouthed as wee children.

'Me first', we spoke as elementary age kids.

'Me first', we mumbled as teenagers.

'Me first', we say many times as adults--except for when it comes to repentance and setting things right with the Lord.

The altar is where, sadly, we step back and say, 'You first'.

And that's not what Scripture says we are to do.

We are to confess OUR sins to the Lord.

We are to make OUR amends with God in prayer each day before we present requests and asks of Him.

We are to make sure OUR trespasses are forgiven before seeking forgiveness from others.

Be the first one at the altar of His mercy.

Every day.

In every prayer. 

EVERYTHING THAT HAS HAPPENED

Today's reading: Philippians 1-2

"And I want you to know, dear brothers and sisters, that everything that has happened to me here has helped to spread the Good News. For everyone here, including all the soldiers in the palace guard, know that I am in chains because of Christ. And because of my imprisonment, many of the Christians here have gained confidence and become more bold in telling others about Christ." Philippians 1:12-14 NLT

Oh friend, today I pray that we can all look deeply enough with God-lenses to see that everything that has happened in our lives has helped to spread the love of Christ.

The good things--like a family legacy of Christianity and devotion to the Lord, raising children who know and serve the Lord, participation in godly ministries and outreaches and how we have remained faithful and true to God. Blessings, privileges, God-sized miracles placed smack dab in the middle of your life.

But also, the bad things--how we have overcome tough times in faith, the times when our mission fields were waiting rooms and doctors' offices, the moments when we came to the end of ourselves but found He was more than enough to carry us through and the stormy seasons we've endured. Things you didn't like, didn't want, would never ask for and certainly would not want to repeat in a million years!

Maybe, like me, you've not used each and every one of those opportunities to share Jesus.

Maybe you did well to make it through.

Maybe it took looking back on some things to give you a perspective to see God in them at all.

Well, that provides new opportunities, now doesn't it?

 

NOT LOOKING TO BE REPAID

Today's reading: Luke 13-14

"Then he turned to his host, When you put on a luncheon or a dinner, he said, don't invite your friends, brothers, relatives and rich neighbors. For they will repay you by inviting you back. Instead invite the poor, the crippled, the lame and the blind. Then at the resurrection of the godly, God will reward you for inviting those who could not repay you." Luke 14:12-14 NLT

I'm challenged this morning to look for the opportunities God places in front of me to bless those who 'fly under the radar'.

Not necessarily folks who don't have two nickels to rub together.

Or people who aren't healthy enough to do specific tasks.

Oh, they need our attention, too--but today I want to be on the look out for people who I might never meet again. 

Behind the scenes kind of souls.

Quiet and seldom noticed.

Human beings that are outside of my sphere of friendship, comfort and maybe even, culture.

They are out there.

They are what Jesus refers to in other passages as 'the least of these'.

Thing is, the 'least of these' aren't always impoverished, homeless, unkempt men and women. The least of these might be wearing suits and ties, drive fancy sports cars and hold down full time jobs.

The folks I'm looking for today won't be able to repay me with a smile or a reimbursement or even a thank you.

I look forward to the challenge!

LIVING AMONG REBELS

Today's reading: Ezekiel 7-12

"Again a message came to me from the Lord: Son of man, you live among rebels who could see the truth if they wanted to, but they don't want to. They could hear me if they would listen, but they won't listen because they are rebellious." Ezekiel 12:1-2 NLT 

Ezekiel, a prophet in the Old Testament, lived among people who didn't want to hear what God had to say.

He spoke, preached, warned and gave object lessons--an they still chose not to heed God's warnings.

Sound familiar?

We, too, live among rebels.

People who are too busy for God.

People who 'know better' than God.

People who don't hold God in the high regard they should.

And yet...

Ezekiel was asked by God to continue sharing the message of hope, warning them of the consequences of their sin and pointing them to a personal relationship with their Creator.

He wasn't given an out because of the rebels he lived among. He wasn't excused from sharing the love of God. He wasn't exempted from a tough job because the people he spoke to made the job harder.

Neither are we.

NEITHER ARE WE.

 WHEREVER YOU WALK

Today's reading: Proverbs 5-6

"My son, obey your father's commands, and don't neglect your mother's teaching. Keep their words always in your heart. Tie them around your neck. Wherever you walk, their counsel can lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up in the morning, they will advise you." Proverbs 6:20-22 NLT

Our family buried my uncle yesterday.

He had lived 88 years, serving the Lord, loving his family and working with his hands.

To think that this morning, his children will be called upon to live out these verses.

All the advice he had given...

All the words he had spoken...

All the examples he had lived out before them...

All the things he had done to raise them, love them, direct them and point them to the Lord, will need to be pulled from the archives of their hearts.

The things they had stored up.

The life lessons they watched and recorded in their spirits.

May we all be careful to acknowledge that every day, every given moment, as long as we live and breathe--we are both the teacher and the student in life.

Don't neglect this precious place in which we live as we instruct others in faith choices and learn from those who walk with our Lord.

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.