PETER, JAMES AND JOHN

Today's reading: Mark 9-10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

To no avail.

They wouldn't listen.

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

Jeremiah tried. Oh, how he tried.

God's reward to Jeremiah?

For his determination...

For his boldness...

For his obedience...

For his bravery...

For his faithfulness...

God was Jeremiah's reward.

God's favor would be his pension plan.

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

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

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

That He will see us as obedient servants...

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

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

 

HAVE YOU NOTICED MY SERVANT JOB?

Today's reading: Job 29-30

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

Who he was before he was afflicted with his testimony?

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

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

I think I found out!

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

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

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

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

He shared the hope he had with those he met.

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

GENERATIONAL

Today's reading:  Psalm 42-44

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OR...

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

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

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

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

Now, that's a true friend!

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

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

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

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

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

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

David knew.

David had heard.

David lived it out.

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

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

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

AND GOD CONTINUED

Today's reading: Exodus 5-8

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

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

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

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

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

And said, simply...

I am the Lord.

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

Nothing the Israelites could tell Him was news to Him. 

Nothing an enemy king could do would tie His hands.

God continued, I am the Lord.

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

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

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

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

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

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

REAL HELP

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 13-14

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

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

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

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

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

Those gifts would surely be of help to the Church!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CONFRONTING JESUS

Today's reading: Mark 7-8

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

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

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

The audacity of the Pharisees and religious teachers!

Who in the world do they think they are?

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

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

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

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

Is it because I saw myself in their boldness?

In their impudence?

In their brazenness? 

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

Like I need an answer.

As if I deserved a response.

Feeling as if He owed me an explanation.

Assuming He has forgotten who I was.

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

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

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

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

But if you do understand...

If you can relate...

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

SCARECROWS

Today's reading: Jeremiah 7-11

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

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

'Scarecrows' that I am leaning heavily upon?

That I use to validate my identity? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 HE DETERMINES

Today's reading: Job 27-28

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

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

Thunderstorms.

Flash floods.

Tornadoes.

Lighning.

Hail.

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

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

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

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

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

TRY

Today's reading: Psalm 39-41

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

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

In innumerable ways? Yes, oh yes!

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

Shouldn't we try?

Wouldn't it be worth some effort?

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

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

For as many things as you can think of.

As often as you can.

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

PREPARED LIKE DAVID

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 16-20

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fully equipped.

Entirely able.

Some experience gathered.

A testimony written.

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

 STANDING AT A DISTANCE

Today's reading: Exodus 1-4

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

I can see Miriam peeking over the tall river grasses.

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

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

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

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

Waiting to see what God will do...

Watching to see how we will react...

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

Spectators to our walk with the Lord.

An audience of not-yet-believers.

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

They're watching as we pray through tough seasons.

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

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

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

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

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

MOST HELPFUL GIFTS

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 11-12

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

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

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

Gifts that point to the goodness of God.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The most stage time?

The most notoriety?

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

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

UNTIL JESUS
Today's reading: Mark 5-6

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

It says of this man,

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

No one could help him.

No one could subdue him.

No one could give him rest from his demons.

No one, that is, until Jesus!

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

Addictions that rule us.

Habits that lead us.

Personality traits that guide us.

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

We think we won't find help.

We think we can't change.

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

The answer to our problem: Jesus.

Jesus saves.

Jesus delivers.

Jesus calms.

Jesus settles.

Jesus redeems.

Jesus heals.

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

 

 TOUCH MY MOUTH

Today's reading: Jeremiah 1-6

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

God,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Let Your words flow from my mouth today, Lord.

-Amen

SO GLORIOUS

Today's reading: Job 25-26

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

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

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

The brilliance.

The brightness.

The radiance.

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

To think God's glory shines even brighter!

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

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

God is so glorious! 

 LIFE AND LIGHT

Today's reading: Psalm 36-38

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

Life and light, the two gifts God gives us.

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

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

Only through God do we have both gifts.

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

STANDING HERE QUIETLY

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 11-15

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

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

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

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

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

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

--In appreciation for all He has provided us.

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

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

THE PORTION I TOOK

Today's reading: Genesis 48-50

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An inheritance that cost you plenty...

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

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

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

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

 

 A JEALOUS GOD

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 9-10

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

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

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

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

Still chose to worship idols?!

Might we be doing the same thing?

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

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

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

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

And we still have tendencies to turn to idols.

To things that comfort us...

To things that make us feel secure...

To things that entertain us...

To things that numb us...

To things that we think we can control...

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

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

ALREADY IN THE BOAT

Today's reading: Mark 3-4

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

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

Disciples.

A boat.

Jesus.

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

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

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

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

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

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

And He doesn't of us either.

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

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

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

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

 

SOON LORD, SOON

Today's reading: Isaiah 62-66

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 AND WHEN

Today's reading: Job 23-24

"...And when he has tested me like gold in a fire, he will pronounce me innocent. For I have stayed in God's paths; I have followed his ways and not turned aside." Job 23:10-11 NLT

That's my prayer...

To be able to stand say, at the end of any trial, any storm or any doubt-filled season of my life--that I have not turned away from Him.

I want to continue to cling to Him, no matter what life brings my way.

I want to be able to endure the heat of the refining fire, because I know He controls the heat.

I want to absolutely trust Him with my life, because of the good plans He has for it.

I want to stand innocent before Him one day--not because I was perfect in all that I did, but because I accepted His Son's blood over my life and walked with Him daily.

TESTIFY

Today's reading: Psalm 33-35

"Then I will thank you in front of the entire congregation, I will praise you before all the people." Psalm 35:18 NLT

Do others know what all God has done for you?

The storms He has walked you through?

The dry seasons when He has kept you watered and flourishing?

Do they even know you are His? 

NOT SURE WHAT TO DO WITH GOD

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 6-10

"So they sent messengers to the people at Kiriath-jearim and told them, The Philistine have returned the Ark of the Lord. Please come here and get it!" 1 Samuel 6:21 NLT

Let's be honest, too much God makes people nervous.

It causes them to become uncomfortable in their skin.

It makes them stand up straighter, walk more worthily and love more deeply.

It's unnatural.

It's a little awkward.

It's somewhat anxiety-producing.

It's personal.

It's convicting.

It's at that moment of discomfort, we must assess our hearts...

We must ask God to make changes.

We must request that the Lord remove our sins.

We must pray that God gets to the bottom of our conviction.

God wants to get much, much closer to us than we currently allow Him to be. He desires to crawl into our hearts and lives and make earth-shaking changes. He created us to long for Him as much as He loves us.

What will you do when God gets too close to you?

GIVING BLESSINGS
Today's reading: Genesis 44-47

"Then Joseph brought his father, Jacob, and presented him to Pharoah, and Jacob blessed Pharoah. How old are you, Pharoah asked him. Jacob replied, I have lived for 130 hard years, but I am not nearly as old as many of my ancestors. Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh again before he left." Genesis 47:7-10 NLT 

Here's what I want us to do today...

When in positions of any sort today, look for ways to bless someone.

If you are in line at the customer service counter, look for ways to bless the customer service representative.

If you are selling your wares to a customer, look for ways to bless them-whether they buy from you or not.

If you are being helped by a doctor or nurse, ask God for a way to bless their day while you are in their presence.

If you are busy about your home, ask God for eyes to see ways in which you can bless those in your household-ways beyond the usual tasks of laundry, meal prep and taxi service.

Pharoah held in his possession what Jacob and his family needed that day- land, food, employment and acceptance. Jacob, however, in his needy position held God in his heart and was able to bless from the abundance he experienced.

Look for ways to bless any and all you can.

NOT AN ABSOLUTE RULE
Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 7-8

"This is only my suggestion. It's not meant to be an absolute rule." 1 Corinthians 7:6 NLT

Paul, writer of so many God ordained things, tells his audience, and us, that there are some things he adheres to that are not hard and fast rules, but what works for him and his Christian walk.

Decisions he has made that help his faith to remain strong and steadfast.

Choices he has come to and crossed over that enable him to remain faithful.

But he isn't giving them as commandments to follow or instructions needing to be kept.

He merely offers suggestions.

We can do that, Christian friends.

We can talk amongst ourselves and discover what works, and what doesn't.

Then we can share our findings. Here are a few ideas...

-morning devotion times

-accountability partners

-prayer journaling

-no television

-a certain translation of Scripture

-being involved in small group Bible studies

What we need to be very, very careful about is considering anything other than God's Word to be God's determination on how or why to do something. There are plenty of things He asks us to do, and we should be doing--and then there are those things that we get to do, personally, that help us fan the flames He has ignited inside us.

 

KNOWING GOD IS PLEASED

Today's reading: Mark 1-2

"And a voice came from heaven saying, You are my beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with you." Mark 1:11 NLT

Ever wished for a voice from heaven confirming your choices, your path, your decisions?

As a grown-up, sometimes I think it would be quite helpful to be given a grade for the day--a grade that would denote if I were on the right path, or standing in great need of improvement.

Maybe even being issued a gold star for accomplishments throughout the day.

Or coming across a verse that says, Atta boy!

It's usually the days I am rushing through that I need the assurance the most.

The days when I pray haphazardly...

The days I drop my list of needs with Him and go...

The days I bow my head momentarily...

The days I merely perform a mental checklist...

Today I'm slowing down.

I'm stopping in my tracks.

I'm pausing to pray.

And to listen.

SILENT WATCHDOGS
Today's reading: Isaiah 56-61

"For the leaders of my people--the Lord's watchmen, his shepherds--are blind to every danger. They are like silent watchdogs that give no warning when danger comes. They love to lie around, sleeping and dreaming." Isaiah 56:10 NLT

We have livestock guardian dogs on our little farm.

They are big. They are intimidating. They are barkers.

A run away leaf flitting from our neighbor's yard to our own will send them in to fits of barking.

A bird flying over their 'assigned area' will lead them to alarming us of the intruder.

Someone walking (for exercise) down the road will cause them to alert us to 'imminent danger'.

And the neighborhood cat walking just outside of their boundary lines--what a commotion!

Unless they are sleeping.

And when they are sleeping, nothing rouses them.

They slumber. They snore. They drool. They stretch out. They lay oblivious to the world at large.

Are we like that, Church?

We are spending our time barking at the wrong things--and sleeping through the issues God wants us to be fully aware of?

Are we raising our voices to indecencies committed against us while the world is slipping off into a dark, hot, God-less eternity?

Are we arguing gray areas and not spreading the Gospel message?

Are we silent watchdogs worn out from the wrong fight?

EVANGELISM

Today's reading: Job 21-22

"Listen closely to what I am saying. You can console me by listening to me." Job 21:2 NLT

Christian brothers and sisters,

In our hurry to follow the Great Commission--

In our excitement to share the Romans Road--

In our speediness to proclaim the Good News--

Maybe, just maybe, we need to begin with listening.

We have a world full of people who need to get some things off their chests.

Some folks who don't have a shoulder to cry on.

Person after person who needs a trustworthy ear to share their hurts with.

Maybe it's time we start listening more.

Allow ourselves to step through the door God opens into their lives by merely pausing long enough to hear what it is they have to say.

It's what Job needed. 

IN THE MORNING
Today's reading: Psalm 30-32

"...but joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5 NLT

We've had a very long night waiting out severe weather here on the prairie.

Thunderstorms, tornado warnings, winds howling, hail and rain.

We've kept the TV on for weather reports.

We've gathered flashlights.

We've made sure our 'safe spot' was ready for us if needed.

We've listened as things crashed around us outside.

We've spent time on the front porch looking at the night sky.

And now?

Now we await the sunrise.

We wait for a glimpse of what was done in the dark.

We stand together as a family, safe and sound--waiting for the first sight of all God kept us from.

We're rejoicing that 'joy comes in the morning'.

The sun always rises!

The dawn always breaks!

The day always begins again!

The Lord always lets us see Him! 

 DEALING WITH GOD

Today's reading: 1 Samuel 1-5

"At that time Israel was at war with the Philistines. The Israelite army was camped near Ebenezer, and the Philistines were at Aphek. The Philistines attacked and defeated the army of Israel, killing 4,000 men. After the battle was over, the troops retreated to their camp, and the elders of Israel asked, “Why did the Lord allow us to be defeated by the Philistines?” Then they said, “Let’s bring the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord from Shiloh. If we carry it into battle with us, it[a] will save us from our enemies.” So they sent men to Shiloh to bring the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, who is enthroned between the cherubim. Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli, were also there with the Ark of the Covenant of God. When all the Israelites saw the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord coming into the camp, their shout of joy was so loud it made the ground shake! “What’s going on?” the Philistines asked. “What’s all the shouting about in the Hebrew camp?” When they were told it was because the Ark of the Lord had arrived, they panicked. “The gods have[b] come into their camp!” they cried. “This is a disaster! We have never had to face anything like this before! Help! Who can save us from these mighty gods of Israel? They are the same gods who destroyed the Egyptians with plagues when Israel was in the wilderness. Fight as never before, Philistines! If you don’t, we will become the Hebrews’ slaves just as they have been ours! Stand up like men and fight!” 1 Samuel 4:1-9 NLT

This is one of my favorite passages of Scripture that deals with our enemy--and his fear of our great, big God!

If you take a minute or two to read these nine verses, you will see...

1.That the enemy is scared to death of God.

2. That the enemy knows God's track record.

3. That the enemy knows when God steps on the scene, their defeat is inevitable.

4. That the enemy cannot afford to lose us, we're his slaves.

The thing is, we know as much as the enemy knows--and yet, we don't live like we believe it.

We think the enemy is too powerful for us--wrong!

We think the victories of God are limited to Bible times and Bible people--wrong!

We think that this time God might not follow through--wrong!

We think that when we choose sin we remain in control of the enemy, we hold the reins, we are in the driver's seat--wrong!

Friends, I think it would serve us well to believe at least as much about our God as the enemy does!

IN YOUR OWN PRISON

Today's reading: Genesis 40-43

"The next morning Joseph noticed the dejected look on their faces. Why do you look so worried today? he asked." Genesis 40:6-7 NLT

The cup-bearer and the baker had both had dreams. Disturbing, leaving them with questions kind of dreams.

They apparently, that day in the prison, wore their look of angst on their faces.

Probably not an uncommon look for a prison.

Probably not an out-of-the ordinary emotion to be felt.

Here's the thing: God gave Joseph the eyes to see it.

And the heart to ask about it.

And the gift to help.

ALL IN THE PRISON!

Joseph wasn't there doing prison ministry--he was there as a prisoner!

In his own prison, he helped.

Serving his own sentence, he cared for others.

Behind bars, he chose to give a hand, not sit and sulk.

It's made me ask myself, What am I doing?

We all have a 'prison' or tough time we're going through. One that leaves us needing, wanting and hurting--but can't we serve others during it? Can't we lift our downcast eyes to notice the needs of others? 

Joseph did.

THE CONTAGIOUS NATURE OF MY SIN
Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 5-6

"How terrible that you should boast about your spirituality, and yet you let this sort of thing go on. Don't you realize that if even one person is allowed to go on sinning, soon all will be affected?" 1 Corinthians 5:6 NLT

Before reading, slowly and intentionally reading, this verse, I could have given you an entire list of reasons why my sin was my sin and you didn't need to worry about it.

-It only affects me.

-What I do in my own life is my business.

-You take care of you and I'll take care of me.

-I'll stand before God with my 'stuff', not you.

Perhaps these are all true statements. Factual in nature...but missing the mark of what Paul is telling us in this passage.

My sins are contagious.

They are 'catchy'.

They very well may start with me, but before long--they will infect everyone around me.

How, you ask?

Well, eventually I'll okay my sin for you.

In a matter of time, I'll commit my sin publicly because it will be so rooted in my life.

Before long I may even invite you into my sin.

Or, and this is quite possible, I will become so convicted about my sin that I withdraw from life--from interacting with you. I'll no longer wish to have godly influence in my life. I will hide in the darkness of my enemy's lies.

The effects are widening.

The effects are maddening.

The effects are encompassing.

My sins are contagious. So are yours.

Let's make sure we deal with them through Jesus!

 

 FOR THEM

Today's reading: Matthew 26-28

"Very early in the morning, the leading priests and other leaders met again to discuss how to persuade the Roman government to sentence Jesus to death." Matthew 27:1 NLT

I don't know much about the fellas that met that early morning.

No names are given.

No reasons are provided.

What is told to us is that these were influential guys.

They were men who were held in high esteem in their communities.

They were schooled in the scrolls of God.

But not schooled enough...

Their reasons were tainted with sin.

Their lives were full of bitterness and hatred.

Their actions were conniving and murderous.

Would it have made a difference to them to know Jesus had already decided he would die?

Would they have done things differently had they known about Jesus's night at the Garden of Gethsemane?

Would they have been in such a hurry to commit this crime against one who had already given his will over to God?

Would they have had changes in their hearts to know Jesus was dying FOR them?

 MONDAY, MONDAY

Today's reading: Isaiah 51-55

"For I am the Lord your God, who stirs up the sea, causing its waves to roar. My name is the Lord Almighty. And I have put my words in your mouth and hidden you safely within my hand. I set all the stars in space and established the earth. I am the one who says to Israel, You are mine!" Isaiah 51:15-16 NLT

I'm not sure of your opinion of Mondays, but I love them!

I am pumped up from yesterday's worship...

My spiritual tank has been refilled...

I have received encouragement from Christian brothers and sisters...

I have heard the Word of the Lord spoken over me...

I have gotten to sing some of my favorite worship songs with friends and family...

I am ready for the week ahead!

And if what I received yesterday wasn't enough, God speaks to me this morning through His Word.

He tells me He is mine.

He reminds me of His immense power and creativity.

He has assured me that He is with me and that His words are in my heart.

He has brought it to my attention the power He holds.

And He has called me His!

Watch out week, I'm coming for you!

SEE HIM FOR MYSELF
Today's reading: Job 19-20

"I will see him for myself. Yes, I will see him with my own eyes. I am overwhelmed at the thought!" Job 19:27 NLT

In the early 1980's there was a PBS program called Reading Rainbow.

The host of the made-for-kids television show was Lavar Burton. He would present a different book each day in an effort to promote literacy. At the close of every day's episode he would make one statement--But you don't have to take my word for it.

He urged those of us watching in rapt attention to pick up books for ourselves and see if what he was saying wasn't true.

Job had the same idea in mind when he spoke of seeing God face to face.

Maybe he had heard read to him from the prophets.

Quite possibly he had sat through many a Sabbath services where the scrolls were read.

Could it be he had a background of God-fearing family that had spoke of God often and with much regard?

Job knew what he had heard, but couldn't wait to see God for himself.

What about you?

Are you taking a pastor's word for it?

Depending upon what you were told in Sunday School as a child?

Staking all you know and believe upon a page from your revered picture Bible?

Believing all you will ever need to know has come from the words written by the apostle John, Matthew or Luke?

Or do you daydream of the moment in time when you will see your Savior as He truly is?

We can ponder the powerful nature of the One whom we serve!

We can anticipate the awe our first meeting will entail!

We can attempt to conjure in our minds how it will all play out when we stand before our Maker!

We can try--but I don't believe our finite minds can grasp the enormity of the moment.

As a child of the Most High God, we don't have to take any one else's word for it--we have the hope and the promise of experiencing it for ourselves!

Does that overwhelm you, too? 

THE VOICE OF GOD

Today's reading: Psalm 27-29

"The voice of the Lord echoes above the sea. The God of glory thunders. The Lord thunders over the might sea. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty. The voice of the Lord splits the mighty cedars; the Lord shatters the cedars of Lebanon." Psalm 29:3-5 NLT

I don't know if you have lost loved you are waiting for God to draw near...

Or prodigals wandering in far countries...

Or friends who won't listen to your testimony about the Gospel...

Know this: When God speaks, they will hear.

When He raises His voice, there will be no doubt as to what they are being called to do.

When He whispers their name, they will know it's Him.

His voice shakes the foundations of our hearts and calms the doubts of our minds.

I pray He speaks to those near and dear to us!

TRUE GRIT

Today's reading: Ruth

"So Ruth gathered barley there all day, and when she beat out the grain that evening, it came to about half a bushel. She carried it back into town and showed it to her mother-in-law. Ruth also gave her the food that was left over from her lunch." Ruth 2:17-18 NLT

The account of Ruth is often referred to a love story.

Or a redemption narrative.

Or a come-back account.

I believe it's a story about true grit.

Ruth had to be tough.

She had to be fearless.

She had to be relentless.

Nothing, nothing at all, about her life after was easy.

Marrying into a God-fearing family.

Being widowed.

Leaving.

Cleaving.

Working.

Sharing.

Trusting.

Dealing with a bitter mother-in-law.

Settling into a new home.

And yet, with God in her, she did not fail to provide us with a stalwart example of integrity and faith at work in a life dedicated to God.

May all of our stories be full of grit and determination to grab hold of all God has to offer us.

Who knows, we might inspire another generation with our example.

GRADING SINS
Today's reading: Genesis 36-39

"But Reuben came to Joseph's rescue. Let's not kill him, he said. Why should we shed his blood? Let's just throw him alive into this pit here. That way he will die without us having to touch him..." Genesis 37:21-22 NLT

How easy it is to validate sin in our life.

How quickly we grade sins, rank sins, evaluate sins based on the guilt incurred by committing them.

Whether Joseph had been killed OR placed in the pit as he was, sins were committed against him--and against God.

We would never kill someone, but we gossip about them.

We would never refuse to give a person a cup of cold water, but we withhold telling them about our Jesus.

We would never steal from a friend, but our hearts sometimes covet to the point we rob them of the blessing they have been given.

Sin is sin.

Little while lies, tall tales and blatant untruths...

Disregard for another, disrespect and murder...

There is little difference between 'killing them' and putting them in a pit.

One might keep our hands clean, but our hearts are dirtied all the same.

 

 WATCH YOUR BEHAVIOR

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 3-4

"...You are acting like people who don't belong to the Lord." 1 Corinthians 3:3 NLT

Paul was reprimanding the church at Corinth for a hot topic dividing the church.

Church folks were arguing about which teacher was better, which spiritual father they claimed as best, which apostle was of highest regard.

Could have easily been about the color of the carpet, the type of music or the translation of the Bible--they were allowing something to divide them when they should have been drawing together.

We would never allow that to happen!

Would we?

Do we?

Every Sunday we allow personal preferences to keep us from unity with others inside our churches. 

Each church service we sit, talk, mingle and mix with those within our church houses that have common likes and dislikes as us.

We stay tucked into our comfort zones each worship service depending upon the greeters to take care of the new faces--and make sure they don't sit in our pew.

Not a Sunday goes by there are folks left on the margin of inclusion, feeling very alone in a crowded congregation.

Are we acting like we belong to Jesus when we allow that to happen?

REMAIN FOREVER

Today's reading: Matthew 23-25

"Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will remain forever." Matthew 24:35 NLT

The time will come when we cannot hold the Word of God in our hands.

Bibles will be banished, confiscated, gathered up and taken from us.

Scripture won't permitted in the public square or to be printed for the masses.

Couldn't happen, you say?

Never, not in our great nation, you mutter?

God's Word itself says it will come to pass.

Will you still have it hidden in your heart?

Will you be able to draw comfort from what you've memorized, experienced, read, heard and learned?

Are you so intent on being in God's Word that God's Word will remain in you forever? 

I don't believe God ever intended for the Holy Scriptures to be memorialized in a thousand libraries as much as He desired it be treasured in the hearts of man.

CHOOSE WISELY

Today's reading: Isaiah 45-50

"...You will get no help from them at all. Their hearth is not a place to go for warmth." Isaiah 47:14 NLT

Dear Adult Audience,

My prayer is that you are very, very particular about who your friends are.

Who influences you.

Who impacts your life.

Who you allow at your table.

We're influenced by the people we spend time with.

No, it's not just kids that fall at the weight of peer pressure--it's us, too.

Watch for folks who lead you into conversations that bash or gossip.

Beware of people who lean on you to sway your beliefs. Never in blatant ways. Never outright. Subtly. Slowly. 

Be cautious of those who you hear badmouth others, because at some point in time--you may be the topic of their conversation.

As Isaiah puts it, 'Their hearth is not a place to go for warmth.'

TRY AGAIN!

Today's reading: Job 17-18

"As for all of you, come back and try again!.." Job 17:10 NLT

I don't know what your life is full of right now...

Maybe it's brimming with blessings, good times and sunshine filled days!

Maybe you are bailing water out of a sinking ship!

Know this: if you are God's, satan can try to beat you, defeat you, break you and take from you all you have--but God will only allow him to go so far!

God has satan on a leash.

Believing friend, you can stand up, in the name of God, and tell satan he can try again, if he wants--because you are backed by God!

Try again--but the promises God made you will stand firm!

Try again--but your heart is held by its Creator!

Try again--but victory is already held by your Savior!

Yes, your enemy can try again, but it won't do him any good!

 

MY SOUL

Today's reading: Psalm 24-26

"To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul." Psalm 25:1 NLT

Here you have it, Lord--

The seat of my emotions.

The center of me.

The part of me that will live eternally.

My soul.

It's the control panel for all I do, think, say and believe.

It governs my actions and reactions.

My soul is the very best, and the very worst, of me.

But I want you to have it.

To have it as Yours.

To have it to rein in and spur on.

I lift it up to you, Lord--knowing the love and care You will put into it. 

IT'S ALWAYS BEEN

Today's reading: Judges 17-21

"So Micah's carved image was worshiped by the tribe of Dan as long as the Tabernacle of God remained at Shiloh." Judges 18:31 NLT

The tribe of Dan was faithful. The tribe of Dan honored tradition. The tribe of Dan were committed.

But...

Just because something is faithfully done does not mean it is of God.

Just because something is done inside a church does not mean it is God ordained.

Just because someone attends a church regularly does not mean they are a Christian.

I am urged by this portion of Scripture to look deeply into the 'why' of all I do in the name of being God's child.

Why I worship the way I do.

Why I attend the church I attend.

Why I believe what I believe.

Why I hold dear the traditions I keep.

Why I follow who I follow.

If it's out of tradition, or as one might say, Because grandpa did it this way, I need to evaluate--and pray.

Just because it's always been is not Biblical.

 YOU SAID

Today's reading: Genesis 32-35

Then Jacob prayed, “O God of my grandfather Abraham, and God of my father, Isaac—O Lord, you told me, ‘Return to your own land and to your relatives.’ And you promised me, ‘I will treat you kindly.’  I am not worthy of all the unfailing love and faithfulness you have shown to me, your servant. When I left home and crossed the Jordan River, I owned nothing except a walking stick. Now my household fills two large camps! O Lord, please rescue me from the hand of my brother, Esau. I am afraid that he is coming to attack me, along with my wives and children. But you promised me, ‘I will surely treat you kindly, and I will multiply your descendants until they become as numerous as the sands along the seashore—too many to count.’” Genesis 32:9-12 NLT

As we listen to Jacob pray, we have to remember...

-Jacob didn't have 3.2(a 2024 average in American homes) printed Bibles laying about his home.

-Jacob probably couldn't read if he had owned the 3.2 Bibles.

-Jacob would have needed servants to carry the scrolls of Scripture any 1 Bible might require, let alone 3.2 of them.

Jacob held God's words in his heart.

A place where they were stored as treasures.

A place where they were safe from anyone stealing them away.

Jacob was able to pray with confidence the words God had spoken to him.

Word for word.

In context.

God's promises, not a preacher's homiletic presentation, an author's commentary or a 'story passed down from friend to friend'.

Jacob spoke God's promises back him because he held them so near and dear to his heart.

Friend, shouldn't we do the same?

Shouldn't our Bibles be poured over, searched through and studied so in depth that we know God's words by heart--so much so, that we use His own words in all our requests?

Dust off your Bibles.

Hide His words in your heart.

Know Him well enough to quote Him!

BY INVITATION

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 1-2

"God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." 1 Corinthians 1:9 NLT

If you are a believer, one who has prayed the prayer of faith, believe in the virgin birth, perfect life, unwarranted death and miraculous resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ--you have done it by invitation only.

God wooed you to Himself.

God beckoned you to a relationship with Him.

God drew your soul to His spirit.

God solicited your attention to your need for a Savior.

God bid you come to Him for forgiveness.

Interestingly, He did so knowing all there was to know about you!

Your past.

At the time, your present.

All your future.

Knowing all of that, He invited you into a friendship with Him that would change your life!

You are His by invitation only.

Specially selected.

Lovingly chosen.

Hand-picked.

Blessed.

MY CHURCH

Today's reading: Matthew 21-22

"Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the merchants and their customers. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the stalls of those selling doves. He said, The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be called a place of prayer', but you have turned it into a den of thieves!" Matthew 21:12-13 NLT 

I'll be so forward enough to ask of you what I hear God asking of me...

What have I turned His temple into?

     The church I attend.

     The house of God where I worship.

     The pew I occupy.

     The fellowship of believers I call my family.

Is it the house of prayer He intended it to be?

     Or is it a social club where I meet up with my cliques?

     Or a place where I occasionally volunteer--when it's not ball season, vacation season or a busy season?

     Or a place of prominence in the facade I'm wanting my life to have?

     Or a box to check off in my list of 'things to do as a Christian'?

     Or a spot where all the juicy gossip is offered for the taking? 

These verses have made me think. Made me examine my heart. Made me question my attitude and heart as I participate in church.

     May my church be blessed because I have prayed for it, over it, with it and in it.

     May the outreaches of my church be impactful because I know the Savior we're 'handing out' to others.

     May my church leadership be lifted up and encouraged by my support of them.

     May my church grow because I choose to grow spiritually through the week.

     May my church be honored because of the life I lead outside its doors.

    May the God my church worships be glorified because of my determination to live a holy life.

Lots to think about in terms of what I am doing to my church...

     

SHOUT

Today's reading: Isaiah 40-44

"A voice said, Shout! I asked, What should I shout? Shout that the people are like the grass that dies away. Their beauty fades as quickly as the beauty of the flowers in a field. The grass withers, and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the Lord. And so it is with people. The grass withers, and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:6-8 NLT

If you are wondering, Christian brother or sister, what you should be doing--Shout!

Shout out the words of God.

Shout out the promises of the Bible.

Shout out the way of salvation provided by Jesus Christ.

Shout out the impending torment, devastation and judgement that is to come.

Don't whisper.

Don't attempt to work them into conversations.

Don't wait until asked about them.

Time is too short.

Death is not always a date several calendar pages away.

Life, to be lived as fully as God intends, requires Him in it.

So, Shout!

SHOUT!!

MY WORDS
Today's reading: Job 15-16

"But that's not what I would do. I would speak in a way that helps you. I would try to take away your grief."

Job 16:5 NLT

Watch what you say to people.

In their time of need...

In their time of pain...

In their time of grief...

In their time of conviction...

Watch what you say.

Because the most well meaning of us...

The most sincere of us...

The most loving of us...

Will undoubtedly say something wrong, something not quite appropriate, something that comes across more like criticism than comfort, something that pours salt in their wounds.

Even when it's a verse quoted, in context, directly out of the Word.

Let's all choose to follow God's leading in what to say to hurting friends. Let's allow His love to flow through us and into them. Let's not assume we need to say anything at all--and go from there.

IN THE PRESENCE OF MY ENEMIES

Today's reading: Psalm 21-23

"My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me..." Psalm 22:16 NLT

"You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies..." Psalm 23:5 NLT

It doesn't take watching too many action movies to know you don't turn your back on your enemies.

In order to fight them, you must keep your eye on them--face them, eye to eye.

David knew about these types of enemies, those he fought in the shepherd's field and those he fought politically.

He didn't turn his back on any of them.

But David notices that while the pack of dogs, the prowling lion and/or the jealous king stalked him, God had his back turned to it all--preparing a feast for him.

Setting the table.

Arranging the knives and forks.

Preparing a seating arrangement.

Folding the napkins.

Placing steaming bowls of food out for a banquet.

Fixing individual favorite foods.

And still David was protected. 

God was well aware of the enemy at hand...

God was well aware of the power He held...

God was well aware of the victory He already held over any and all enemies--of His and of David's.

And it's the same for us!

God doesn't need to be tending to enemies, He doesn't have any! 

What He wants us to see is that while we are worrying about those against us, He is preparing a table for us--in the presence of our enemies!

CHANGE OF WORDING

Today's reading: Judges 12-16

"One day when Samson was in Timnah, he noticed a certain Philistine woman. When he returned home, he told his father and mother, I want to marry a young Philistine woman I saw in Timnah." Judges 14:1 NLT

Just this morning...

This very day...

I saw it.

I saw where Samson's story went wrong.

His saddening downfall started within the first 2 words he spoke in this narrative of his life...

I want.

It was downhill from there. The crossing of tribal lines. The falling head over heels with the wrong gal. The deception. The heartache. The tryst with Delilah. The capture. The imprisonment. The collapse.

And it very well could be for us, too.

If we want something God doesn't want for us.

If we go after something God doesn't intend for us to have.

If we seek things God doesn't intend for our lives to hold.

If we desire our way above His.

Those two words can lead to turmoil and chaos in our lives.

But if we changed the wording...

If with our heart we choose to say, I want what God wants for me...

Horizons broaden. Heights are limitless. Promises are upheld. Miracles are observed. Lives are lived to the full potential of the One who created them. Hearts are changed. Eternity is secured.

Oh, that we would choose what He wants, rather than what we want!

BUT GOD HAS SEEN 

Today's reading: Genesis 28-31

"...But God has seen your cruelty and my hard work..." Genesis 32:42 NLT

The account of Jacob is full of ups and downs, twists and turns, hard work and unfairness.

Our lives are like that, too, aren't they?

Jacob felt God with him.

Jacob called upon the Lord in times of need.

Jacob referenced the Almighty in regards to all the blessings he had received.

Jacob listened and obeyed as God directed him to stay, or to go.

And in the end, despite the turmoil with his father-in-law, Jacob remembered what we all need to keep in mind...

God has seen.

Those three words evoke hope in our hearts.

They should stir up faith in our deepest core.

The enormity of them will get us through the toughest of times.

Nothing we endure goes unseen by our Father.

Nothing anyone does to us slips under His radar.

Nothing comes into our lives without having first being known by Him.

Even today.

Even now.

Even 'this', whatever your 'this' might currently be.

OVERFLOW WITH HOPE 

Today's reading: Romans 15-16

"So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 NLT

A short phrase in this single verse has given my heart pause this morning.

'Overflow with hope'.

To overflow means to have more than enough to fill.

Overflow means to have enough that it spills over...going outside the original receptacle.

Overflow, in regards to hope, tells me that while I wait in hopeful anticipation of all that God is going to do for me, I have enough hope to pour into the lives of others.

Others who are possibly lacking in faith.

Others who might be wasting away with worry.

Overflowing in hope will look like me being confident in God's eventual answer to my prayer requests AND my assistance in helping another carry their burden until their petition is taken care of.

So, do you overflow with hope?

Do you have enough to keep you going AND encourage another in their wait?

 

WHEN YOU'RE ONE OF THE 99

Today's reading: Matthew 17-19

"If a shepherd has 100 sheep, and one wanders away and is lost, what will he do? Won't he leave the  99 others and go out into the hills to search for the lost one? And if he finds it, he will surely rejoice over it more than over the 99 that didn't wander away!" Matthew 18:12-13 NLT

I'll be more than a little honest with you...

Until this morning, I never considered it honorable, worth mentioning or something to be proud of, that I am one of the 99.

My testimony isn't littered with a whole lot of adjectives and adverbs.

My story doesn't have a lot of mountains and valleys.

My faith walk doesn't have passport stamps from 'far off countries'.

Is that something to be proud of?

Yes, in a God honoring way, of course.

And, no. No it isn't. It's really nothing I've done or can take credit for.

I stayed in the fold.

I stuck close to the Shepherd.

I remained in the presence of the other sheep.

But in my little 'part of the fold', I've also whispered the name of lost sheep to the Lord.

I've been there to cheer on, welcome in and help facilitate new sheep to the family.

I've cried with bitter tears over fellow sheep who chose to leave the safety of our Father's presence.

I've worked alongside other brothers and sisters to make sure our 'barn' is a safe place to live, to grow, to multiply and to learn daily how well cared for we are in the Good Shepherd's care.

I've been reminded, on numerous occasions, that I'm only in the fold because of God's grace, the Holy Spirit's drawing and Jesus's sacrifice.

But I've also had to watch my attitude when a returning sheep receives more attention than I'm currently receiving,

I've had to pray over my heart when I consider myself to be of any more worth than any other sheep walking on this great big blue and green orb.

I've had to ask forgiveness for taking for granted all the green pastures and still waters my Daddy provides for me.

I've had to constantly and continually keep a sledge hammer in hand to break down any walls my heart and mind might build between myself and other sheep within the fold.

I'm glad to be a 99--and I'm tickled to celebrate with the 1's as they come back home!

 

FOR US ALL

Today's reading: Isaiah 34-39

"Say to those who are afraid, Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you. And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the bling and unstop the ears of the deaf." Isaiah 35:3-5 NLT

Our verses today clearly tell my heart that sharing God's Word is beneficial in two distinct ways...

Firstly, sharing what Scripture says gives comfort to those who are afraid and being stalked by our enemy.

Secondly, speaking Scripture reminds us of God' promise to one day do a work so big that the blind will see and the deaf will hear clearly.

Don't you know someone who is scared to death right now? Maybe they've had a diagnosis show up out of nowhere. Maybe a financial difficulty has arrived on their doorstep. Maybe life's been hard on them and their glimmer of hope needs fanned back into a flame.

Share God's Word. You don't have to come up with some witty words of your own--share His. They are powerful, they are encouraging, they are life-changing!

And you?

Is there someone you're praying will see and hear the Truth before it's too late? A loved one who has thrown in the towel of faith. A child who wanders aimlessly in the far country. A spouse who doesn't have the relationship with God that you wish they would.

Trust the Word. Continue believing, even when you cannot see a thing happening. Keep on the straight and narrow, knowing God will when God determines it best. Speak the words of God over and to those who won't listen to you--He promises that His Word will not return void.

God's Word is for us to give and to take, to hand out and to take to heart, to share and to live.

Are you using it to its full potential?

 

EXAMINING SELF
Today's reading: Job 13-14

"Tell me, what have I done wrong? Show me my rebellion and my sin." Job 13:23 NLT

As many mysteries as there are in the Word of God, we have one answer that we cannot question, cannot doubt, cannot have to debate...

We know why Job was experiencing all that he was.

Chapter 1 tells us the confidence God placed in Job, his faith walk and his integrity. This confidence is what allowed God to say 'yes' to the enemy's test.

But, Job didn't know this single, most important fact.

Job didn't know the 'why'.

But in his integrity...

In his desperate loyalty to the Lord...

In his heartfelt desire to please God...

He asks God, What have I done wrong?

He places himself before the Lord for examination.

He isn't blaming the Lord.

He isn't blaming the Chaldeans.

He isn't blaming the winds that swooped across the plains and knocked down the house his children were in.

He sought God about his own heart.

Do we do the same?

Instead of blame-placing, do we place ourselves before the Lord?

Instead of pointing the finger at another, do we draw God's attention to our own hearts?

Do we take the time, with all sincerity, to ask the Lord--what about my heart?

 

WELL, IS HE?

Today's reading: Psalm 18-20

"The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold." Psalm 18:2 NLT

Let's be completely honest here...

While we may agree with David in what he states in this particular verse, do our words and actions line up with the statement?

Is the Lord your rock and fortress?

Is He where you run at the first sign of trouble?

Is He the very first one you call upon when trouble arrives on the scene? 

Is He where your strength comes from?

Is He the solid foundation your salvation is based upon?

Listen to your words--do they reflect your confidence in Him?

Look at your actions--do they portray what your hearts actually feels?

Watch your worries--do they pop up more often than your faith?

David says God is his rock and stronghold, and I believe we all can agree that he lived out that truth--just think about fighting the bears and the lions and the giants...

Maybe you say it, too--do your actions back up what you say?

YOUR ENEMY IS AFRAID

Today's reading: Judges 7-11

"Gideon crept up just as a man was telling a friend a dream. The man said, I had this dream, and in my dream a loaf of barley bread came tumbling down into the Midianite camp. It hit a tent, turned it over, and knocked it flat! His friend said, Your dream can mean only one thing--God has given Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite, victory over all the armies united with Midian! When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he thanked God. Then he returned to the Israelite camp and shouted--Get up! For the Lord has given you victory over the Midianites!" Judges 7:13-15 NLT

Gideon and a few from his army had crept up to his enemy's camp.

The silence of the dark night amplified the words he heard one of the opposing soldiers saying.

The conversation was just enough for Gideon, and his men, to know the enemy was afraid and they knew victory would not be theirs in the battle they were quickly approaching.

Gideon used his words, and the message in them, to convey confidence and encouragement to his men for the fight ahead.

Not that I advocate listening to your enemy on a regular basis, but there might be a few occasions where IF you did, you'd find out his words, his tactics, his repetitive attacks are stemming from one single, solitary emotion--fear!

Our enemy knows every single thing he does against us will be in all reality against God himself.

He knows in the epic battle of life, he is a loser.

He is well aware of his final destiny.

He still has the chains, bruises and location to prove his defeat.

He is also fully comprehending how tied his hands truly are in regards to our lives and his attacks on them.

In the dark of the night when you hear your enemy whispering doubts into your mind, stop and listen--he's the one that's afraid and wanting your company in feeling that way! 

STANDING OUR GROUND

Today's reading: Genesis 24-27

"The servant asked, But suppose I can't find a young woman who will travel so far from home? May I then take Isaac there to live among your relatives?

No! Abraham warned. Be careful never to take my son there. For the Lord, the God of heaven, who took me from my father's house and my native land, solemnly promised to give this land to my offspring. He will send his angel ahead of you, and he will see to it that you find a young woman there to be my son's wife." Genesis 24:5-7 NLT

May we have a round of applause for Abraham and his stance on not wavering...

For not moving...

For not bending his rules...

For standing his ground...

For relying enough on God's promises to not move a muscle from the place God told him would be a promised inheritance...

It would have been easier to change his mind, for the servant, maybe for Isaac, and certainly for Rebekah.

It would have been understood in his social circles.

It might have seemed alright at the time.

But Abraham chose to believe God--for himself and for his family.

Do you have some rules you are firm on? A patch of ground(choice) you'll not waver from?  Do your friends and family know you've never budge on certain things?

May we all have stands we take that aren't there because we're bull-headed or stubborn, but because we know what the Word of God states!

BELONGING TO THE LORD

Today's reading: Romans 13-14

"While we live, we live to please the Lord. And when we die, we go to be with the Lord. So in life and in death, we belong to the Lord." Romans 14:8 NLT

Do you recall being in grade school and having to shop for school supplies?

Pencils--#2 only, crayons, glue (or paste, if you are old enough), filler paper and kleenex?

Maybe as you progressed in the grades, you were also asked to purchase pocket folders, specific colors for specific classes?

What I recall most vividly was the time and effort it required for Mom, then myself as I got older, to get our name written on each item. Owner identification was required on every yellow pencil, on every box of crayons, on every bottle of glue and on every folder.

If the teacher found a runaway pencil on the floor--she knew who it belonged to.

If a box of crayons was found lingering on a shelf or a desktop--she knew the owner.

If a folder needed returned--she knew just who to get it to.

Isn't that what this verse says?

As believers, our lives are stamped with His name!

We should live in such a way that no matter where we are found throughout our day, people should see God's identification on us.

In the grocery store...

In the meeting...

In the midst of heated discussions or helping with homework...

Up to our elbows in dirty dishes...

Biting our tongue when He hasn't asked us to speak...

Accepting constructive criticism from a godly mentor...

People should see that we belong to the Lord--and we should remember that people can see it.

 

YOU DON'T HAVE MUCH FAITH

Today's reading: Matthew 14-16

"...So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he looked around at the high waves, he was terrified and began to sink. Save me, Lord! he shouted. Instantly, Jesus reached out his hand and grabbed him. You don't have much faith, Jesus said, Why did you doubt me?" Matthew 14:29-31 NLT

How often do you hear Jesus whisper to you, You don't have much faith. Why did you doubt me?

...When the storms rage.

...When the sea is beginning to churn.

...When the lake water is as still as glass, but you anxiously dread what's ahead.

It's a simple statement of fact: You don't have much faith.

The question He asks is harder on the heart...

Why did you doubt me?

Why do we doubt Him?

The One who died on the cross for our sins.

The Good Shepherd that has never failed to show up and guide us, feed us, protect us.

The Friend who always has our backs.

The Bread of Life that provides all we need until we dwell with Him in heaven where we will spend eternity.

The Light of the World that lives inside us and SO desires to shine outwardly toward a dark, lost world.

But to take the question one level deeper...

Why do we doubt Him?

We trust ourselves and we trust others, and we trust medicine, and we trust our plans--but Jesus, why do we ever doubt Jesus?'

We trust our power companies to provide 'at a touch' electricity, we trust our cars to start, we trust our banks to hold our money safely--but trust Jesus? With everything?

Knowing His track record.

Having been the recipients of His grace and mercy and rescue.

Being aware of all He is and all He has done.

Believing that He is perfect, loving, kind and generous.

Why do we not trust Jesus?

THIS WORLD IS NOT OUR HOME

Today's reading: Isaiah 29-33

"My people will live in safety, quietly at home. They will be at rest." Isaiah 32:18 NLT

While Isaiah speaks to a time when the nation of Israel will be at peace, I am taking it more personally.

I'm claiming this statement of the Lord's to be my own.

To be for me.

To be in regards to my home--and this world isn't it!

But when I get to heaven?

When I arrive in my heavenly home, I will be completely safe, entirely at rest, I will have no need for doctors, medicines, umbrellas, kleenex or a bed!

This world, even on its best days, is a mere layover on a grander, greater, more glorious journey.

To borrow a few lines from an old hymn...

This world is not my home, I'm just a passing through

My treasures are laid up, Somewhere beyond the blue

The angels beckon me from heaven's open door

And I can't feel at home in this world anymore

LIFE
Today's reading: Job 11-12

"For the life of every living this is in his hand, and the breath of all humanity." Job 12:10 NLT

Maybe you have just returned from a 5-mile run.

Or you have just gotten home from the gym and an extensive workout with weights.

Or have just carried three fifty-pound bags of feed out to the barn. 

Maybe your strength was revealed in the fact that you got out of bed this morning, on your own--even when you didn't want to.

Or that you have gone 'X' number of days without a drink, or a cigarette, or an ounce of flour or sugar.

How strong you are!

And yet...

In your muscle-y strength, your next heart's beat and your next breath are given to you by God.

Anything at all you do, is through Him.

Don't you think that in our pride and arrogance, and forgetfulness, we absentmindedly remove that truth from our thinking.

We are nothing without God.

We have nothing without God.

We can do nothing without God.

The live we live and the breaths we take--all are from His hand!

WHO MAY WORSHIP

Today's reading: Psalm 15-17

"Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?

Those who lead blameless lives and do what is  right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.

Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord and keep their promises even when it hurts.

Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever." Psalm 15

Well, according to David, none of us would be allowed into God's presence.

None of us lead blameless lives.

None of us are enough on our own.

Or always speak truth from sincere hearts.

Or never speak ill of others.

None of us are intolerant to sin, especially our own.

There are few, if any, absolute promise keepers among us.

And most of us are easily swayed by something, whether it be money or pride or being accepted.

But we have Jesus!

For those of us who have accepted His gift of salvation, He makes it possible for us to approach God!

Jesus's blood has made us right.

His 'enoughness' makes us good enough to come to God with any and all requests and praises.

 YOUR PART

Today's reading: Judges 1-6

"The angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bokim with a message for the Israelites. He told them, I brought you out of Egypt into this land that I swore to give your ancestors, and I said I would never break my covenant with you. For your part, you were not to make any covenants with the people living in this land; instead you were to destroy their altars. Why, then, have you disobeyed my command?" Judges 2:1-2 NLT

Maybe you feel as if what God's asking of you is hard.

Maybe what He is asking you to give up will be gut wrenching.

Maybe where He is asking you to go will be way outside of you comfort zone.

Maybe who He is asking you to forgive is unforgiveable.

Here is what I see in the verses jumping off the page at me this morning: we have the easy part!

The only thing we are asked, by God, to do i/st to obey.

He has to follow through...

He has to make a blessing out of a curse...

He has to open doors and hearts and minds...

He has to orchestrate events that change lives and seal souls for eternity...

He has to enhance our tiny efforts and turn them into something gloriously God-sized...

Our part is simple.

Our part is easy.

Our part is only made do-able because we are His!

Truthfully, there is no reason in the world (or in the next) that we cannot do our part.

A RAM CAUGHT BY ITS HORNS

Today's reading: Genesis 20-23

"Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a bush. He took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering on the altar in place of his son." Genesis 22:13 NLT

Abraham was a goat herder. He raised them for food, for sacrifice and for trade.

Let's be safe to say, Abraham had a good eye for what made a good goat--what qualities a doe needed, what character traits a good ram required, if a newly born kid had potential.

That being said, I don't believe Abraham ever saw such a fine ram as he saw caught in the bushes that particular day! 

One perfect for sacrifice.

One absolutely right for the job at hand.

One that would take the place of his only son in an act of obedience required of him by God!

Ever been in such a place?

To have 'the check arrive at the time in order that you might pay the bill'?

To have 'a particular someone say a particular statement that allowed you to follow God's particular way'?

To have 'specific doors to close in your face'?

To have 'avenues opened up to you that were never opened before'?

To have the Word of God spoken to your heart at a pivotal moment in your life?

To see God's hand of protection on you at what could only be a God-ordained time?

Where have you seen your 'ram caught in the bush'? What have you seen God do, that only God could have done?

Either you have had one, or two, or you haven't asked for them in your life.

Which is it?

Would you dare to ask God to answer in such a God-sized way? Would you risk looking for the answer you've asked for?