BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 20-24

"David said, My son Solomon is still young and inexperienced, and the Temple of the Lord must be a magnificent structure, famous and glorious throughout the world. So I will begin making preparations for it now. So David collected vast amounts of building materials before his death." 1 Chronicles 22:5 NLT

God had told David that he wasn't going to be the one to build this great house of worship. That didn't stop David from continuing to serve, and doing it wholeheartedly. David was, in fact, thrilled that his son would have the job. So thrilled, he began warehousing the materials Solomon would need.

Are you doing the same?

The young people in your life, whether your own children or those belonging to someone else, are you preparing for their future? Are you stockpiling what they'll need to walk/live/carry out godly lives?

-Are you working on a good name for yourself? There's nothing that builds a future like being told at a casket what a fine person the world has just lost. Words like that provoke those left to carry on the tradition. What will folks say about you?

-Are you gathering up evidence that points to you having an impecable reputation? Stories float around. Tales last longer than we like. What will the accounts of your life add to the character of those coming after you?

-Are you striving towards godliness? If someone were to be asked to describe you, what words would they use? Loving? Caring? Self-centered? Hateful? What inscribed building blocks will there be ready for your predecessors to use in building their lives with Christ?

-Are you leaving behind the habit of prayer?

-Are you instituting the common sight of an open Bible in your hands?

-Are you constantly and continually practicing the art of praise?

You, whether you want to or not, are providing building materials for the next generation to build upon. Be very careful what you stockpile. Be very selective in the qualities you shelve.

CAN I PRAY THAT?
Today's reading: Numbers 13-16

"Please, Lord, prove that your power is as great as you have claimed it to be..." Numbers 14:17 NLT

Moses spoke those words. Moses. The Moses who was the vessel God used for so many of His miracles. The Moses who God chose to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. The Moses who ad beginnings in a little basket floating on the Nile.

Of course, that Moses could dare pray a prayer like that--but, could I?

Might I dare ask God to prove His power in regards to the things I'd like to see done?

In the lives of my unbelieving sisters-in law?

In the hurting heart of a very dear friend?

In regards to the huge personal requests I've made for myself?

About the doors only God could open?

Can I really ask God to prove Himself in the things closest to my heart? Do I have the right? Does He offer me that option?

Most importantly, do I want them that badly?

PERSECUTION
Today's reading: 2 Timothy 3-4

"Yes, and everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12 NLT

The definition of 'persecute'? 1. To harass or punish in a manner designed to injure, grieve or inflict: to cause to suffer because of belief. 2. To annoy with persistent or urgent approaches (as attacks, pleas or importunities): pester.

According to Paul, if you're living for Christ, wanting to grow in Christ, desiring to be like Christ--you're going to be persecuted.

According to Merriam-Webster, this persecution may be as easy as being pestered, annoyed or bothered or as difficult as being harmed, grieved or attacked--none of it pleasant, none of it desired.

So, tell me, are you being persecuted? Are God's enemies seeing your growth in Him as a threat to their hold on you? Does satan cringe when he sees you commit to prayer, open your Bible day after day, refuse to laugh at inappropriate jokes or live the way you used to live?

Is satan constantly and consistently on your back? Whispering in your ear? Throwing things in your path that annoy, hurt or get you off track?

If your answer is 'yes', then to you I give my heartiest congratulations! Keep up the good work.

If your answer is 'no', then I'm very sorry to hear that. Strengthen your determination to seek God with all you've got. Get back up and get going on the path towards godliness. Follow after God as if your life depended upon Him, because in all reality, friend, it does!

I TOLD YOU SO
Today's reading: John 10-12

"Jesus responded, Didn't I tell you that you will see God's glory if you believe?" John 11:40 NLT

Is He whispering the same thing in your ear? Is He urging you to wait to see His power at work--because it'll certainly amaze you? Has He told you it'll be worth the wait, worth the tears, worth all the faith you can muster?

Maybe you've seen it happen before. The mountain moved. The valley made a slow, but certain, incline. The disease drew family closer together, closer to God. The church split caused revival.

God's glory will be revealed in His time and in His way. Go ahead, believe it!

FORGETTING GOD
Today's reading: Hosea 8-14

"I am the Lord your God, who rescued you from your slavery in Egypt. You have no God but me, for there is no other savior. I took care of you in the wilderness, in that dry and thirsty land. But when you had eaten and were satisfied, then you became proud and forgot me." Hosea 13:4-6 NLT

You've not forgotten God, have you?

We all heard you crying out for Him in the midst of the valley you were in.

We overheard your sobs as you climbed the mountain in your path.

We were there with you at the altar as you begged Him for help, for relief, for salvation.

And He heard you, didn't He?

Have you forgotten Him now that things are rosey? Church is no longer needed, your situation is calming. Christian friends aren't as cool to be around, now that the emergency has passed. The altar, well, it hasn't been used since that need.

You've been given a drink in His name. Your belly is full from His blessings. The skies above are blue. The sun's out. And you? Have you forgotten your Savior?

HIS PLANS
Today's reading: Proverbs 20-21

"Human plans, no matter how wise or well advised, cannot stand against the Lord." Proverbs 21:30 NLT

Aaah, just what I needed to hear this morning! Just when my thoughts were leaning towards hopelessness regarding some friends and family members, He reminds me that He is God and His plans are what will prevail!

You needed that reminder, too? For your children who have wandered? For friends who are running into the arms of godlessness? For family members who believe, and live like, they don't need the Lord? For the souls who have lived for the Lord and have now turned their backs (Yes, it's still called backsliding.)?

I can look over my prayer list and give a half-smile. I can now glance past the names written and the heartache I have for each one--You see, they don't know what they have in store. God wants them back--and when God wants something, you can pretty well take it to the bank that He'll get whatever it is!

PRACTICING WHAT I PREACH
Today’s reading: Psalm 102-104

Know what disgusts me? Lung cancer doctors who smoke, policemen who live unlawful lives, politicians who break the rules they’ve written, stock companies who tell you not to diversify--and they do, uninsured insurance agents, plumbers with constantly leaking faucets, beauticians with bad hair, mechanics with broken down vehicles, devotional writers who struggle mentally and spiritually with the very things they write about …need I go on?

What brought all that on? I’ll show you:

“Praise the Lord, everything he has created, everywhere in his kingdom. As for me--I, too, will praise the Lord.” Psalm 103:22 NLT

Practicing what I preach to you each day is a tough order. I’ll be the second to admit, my husband being the first, that I fail miserably at following through with my suggestions, urgings, rantings and sermons. The encouragement I so richly dole out is quickly forgotten, or pushed aside, when life rears its ugly head. The praise I urge you to give falls silent in my day's disbursement of words. The promises of God which I quote for you to hold tightly to have a tendency to slip through my fingers as I'm falling down a slippery slope of my own poor choices and faithlessness.

But, I try. And this verse reminded me just how important my attempts are. My determination has been bolstered and my commitment invigorated.

I’m going to praise the Lord! I’m going to praise Him more, much more!

CLEANING UP OUR ACT
Today’s reading: 1 Chronicles 15-19


I could probably say without disagreement that each and every one of us are waiting for someone we know and love to clean up their act and turn to God. We anticipate the day they wash their hands of sin and give their hearts and lives over to Christ. We pray to that end. But are we expecting miracles without a little hard work on our parts?


“He said to them, You are the leaders of the Levite families. You must purify yourselves and all your fellow Levites, so you can bring the Ark of the Lord, the God of Israel, to the place I have prepared for it.” 1 Chronicles 15:12 NLT


What are you trying to carry? The love of God to a dark world? The Good News to the hurting? The gift of salvation to the unsaved? The Christian way of life to the dying?

Are you cleaned up and ready for the job? Are your hands washed of wrongdoings? Your mind cleansed of all unlovely thoughts? Your heart purified of sin?

The preparation we make for taking the gift of salvation to the world is directly proportional to the importance we place on our job.

Who are we taking it to? Strangers? Neighbors? Extended family? Our own children? Whoever it is, are they worth your whole-hearted effort?

CELEBRATING IN THE WILDERNESS
Today's reading: Numbers 9-12

"So Moses told the people to celebrate the Passover in the wilderness of Sinai as twilight fell on the appointed day. And they celebrated there, just as the Lord had commanded Moses." Numbers 9:4-5 NLT

A party in the desert? God actually wanted them to be festive while wandering? What was He thinking?

I know.

He knew the outcome. He knew about the milk and honey in the new land. He was well aware of the great things that would happen in the new land.

Same's true for us.

He doesn't want us to wait to sing until the sun's shining.

He doesn't want us to postpone praise until we're holding the blessings in our hands.

He doesn't want us to bide our time wimpering and wailing over the things we've not yet gotten.

He doesn't want us to shelve the opportunities He'll provide us to testify to His greatness, even before the prayers are answered.

Don't wait to celebrate His goodness. Do not defer the praise owed Him for a brighter day, a more preferred outcome or when your hands are full of His blessings.

Praise Him today. Yes, even in the wilderness!

WHICH ROLE TODAY?
Today’s reading: John 7-9

“Teacher, they said to Jesus, this woman was caught in the very act of adultery…” John 8:4 NLT

Three distinctly different roles in this scene: the accusers (the Pharisees), the accused (the adulterous woman) and Jesus.

Three sets of scripts. Three separate personalities. Three completely opposite character traits to portray.

Ever watched a movie or program where the actress/actor plays different roles simultaneously? Been intrigued by their acting abilities? Wowed by such technique?

It’s not that hard, you see, I know--I do it all the time.

I’ve played the role of the accused, dragged before a jury of my peers for sins committed. Embarrassed, ashamed, filled with regret. My head down. My eyes averted from their stares. And then? Then I can quickly turn it around with a pointed finger.

I can point out the flaws of others in order to make my misdemeanor look a little less than theirs. I can recall times when they had committed far greater misdeeds than I. I can preach to the knowers-of-the-law from my own expertise.

And I’ve played Jesus‘ part. I’ve been comforting. I’ve chosen not to condemn the sinner, but still call a sin a sin. I’ve refused to join in with the crowd.

Which role will I play today? I’m hoping to secure the role of Christ in all my dealings, but it’s a tough one to play.

What about you?

KNOWLEDGE IS THE KEY
Today's reading: Hosea 1-7

Campaigns are out to inform folks of the dangers of smoking. Brochures are printed en masse regarding screenings you can have to catch cancer in early stages. The past year's flu epidemic has birthed an entire advertising blitz to urge the nation to watch for signs, to get vaccinated, to wash their hands. Those who are in the 'know' know information is the key.

It's not a new concept. God's known it all along...

"My people are being destroyed because they don't know me..." Hosea 4:6b NLT

It's true, isn't it?

More time in His Word would produce stronger Christians. Christians who can stand up to temptation. Christians who know, 'thus saith the Word of God'. Information is the key!

More time on our knees would produce hearts molded by the Maker's hands. Hearts that seek to do His will. Hearts that acknowledge and respond to the slightest sin in a timely fashion. Time in His presence puts us in the know.

More time worshipping, individually and corporately, would produce the Church God intends. God's commands spoken from the pulpit would produce an informed congregation, not an appeased one. More choosing to worship would produce a closer bond with God and a blessed group of church goers, because as the song says, 'When the praises go up, the glory comes down!'

We have the opportunity to become informed, to be informed, to stay informed--and in doing so, live the abundant life He has planned for us!

WHERE WE ARE
Today's reading: Proverbs 19

"You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail." Proverbs 19:21 NLT

If a time-travel machine were real and available to me this morning, I'd like to take you for a quick jaunt back in time. I'd set the dial for ten, possibly twenty years ago and we'd zoom off to where you were at that time in your life and sit for a spell. For some of you it might be just after high school. Maybe early newlywed. Would we settle ourselves into a nursery where you're holding your firstborn? Filling out W-2's for your first job? At the bank signing papers on your first home?

We'd discuss how things had changed. We'd nibble on the delicacy of the time. We'd giggle at the clothing considered all the rage. And? Well, before we headed back to 2010, I'd have to ask--Are you where you thought you'd be?

Are you living the life you'd hoped to have? Have you experienced all the joys you'd hoped to enjoy? Do you have the material possessions you'd put on your 'When I Grow Up' list? Are you married to the man/woman of your dreams? Do you have the one, two or six children you'd decided you wanted to have?

Or are you in a different place? Somedays, maybe even a different world?

Do you catch glimpses of the reason God has you where you are today? Oh, I'm not expecting you to understand completely, but have you seen how the brushstrokes of His plan are coming together to make a beautiful masterpiece?

Has He changed your priorities? Do the things you'd hoped for in the past make you laugh? Do the dreams you'd dreamed fade in comparison to what He's actually blessed you with? Are the knights-in-shining-armor you'd waited and primped for rusting in someone else's castle--and you're very glad!

I'm not sure where you are today, but rest assured, it's just where God needs you to be! You are who you are because of the life He's chosen for you to live, good or bad. You have the testimony you have because He has allowed you to experience life, life as you know it. You are where you are today, standing on the edge of something wonderful, because His purpose always prevails!

VILE & VULGAR
Today’s reading: Psalm 99-101

I’ve got to tell you, but I don’t want to tell you. What’s bugging me, convicting me, churning my stomach and running through my mind is quite possibly going to do the same to you once I’ve spilled my guts. So consider yourself warned and here goes…

There’s nothing fit to watch on television. Unless you have a retro channel or keep your TV dial set to PBS (which I will say at times is questionable, too), you’re out of luck when it comes to a family friendly program. No, let me re-write that sentence: You’re out of luck when it comes to a program anyone should be watching.

The most popular series? Let’s start with the top few: a single girl becoming intimate, physically and emotionally, with an entire house of young men in the interest of finding her one true love or you can watch a neighborhood of desperate housewives living sinfully and in a proud manner
.
Maybe you’re on another station where vampires are all the rage. Vampires? Satan worshippers? Too harsh, you say? It’s all innocent, you rally. If it’s of the dark, on the dark side, promotes a way of living that’s not recommended by the Bible, then it’s of
satan--you see, we’re either for or against God.

Cops and robbers your thing? How’s the language? Are the scripts written in a way you’d feel comfortable with if you were to air it in church? Or have your kids repeat? The scenes? The violence? Reality or not, is it necessary and is it conducive to a closer walk with Christ?

You go for the funny stuff, huh? Comedy? Humor? All right, here's a test for you: Would God be laughing at the stuff they're filling your head with? Would you repeat every joke you are paying to watch in your Sunday School class? Final question, is sin, and its consequences, all that funny?

Let me show you what it says in God’s Word. Now, it’s not my writing, not my suggestion, not me beating you over the head with a command--it’s God.

“I will refuse to look at anything vile or vulgar…” Psalm 101:3 NLT

Want it in another translation? Okay, you asked for it.

“I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes…” Psalm 101:3 KJV

The definition of ‘vile‘? Morally despicable or of little worth or value. Hmmm.

The definition of ‘vulgar’? Oh, you think you know. It’s defined as lacking in cultivation or taste, lewd or indecent.

Now the monkey’s on your back. You are full aware of the Bible’s stance on what you watch, what will you do with that information? You are informed as to what is meant by the verses context, will it change what you view?

I told you it might be a hard one to swallow! If you're offended and want to talk about it, I'll be free each evening during prime time living what I've been convicted of.

BACKPACK PRAYER
Today’s reading: Psalm 37

Pencils have been purchased and sharpened, No. 2, of course. Large pink erasers have been taken out of their blister packs and placed in the bright green pencil box. Wide-ruled notebook paper has been loaded into the back pack, along with 2-pocket folders, crayons, boxes of Kleenex and Germ-X. New tennis shoes are sitting under the edge of my soon-to-be-a-4th-grader’s bed. Cool school clothes have been picked up at various stores touting good sales. I think we’re ready for school to begin. Well, we will be as soon as I put his verse for the year into one of his backpack’s seventeen zippered pockets.

“Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will safely in the land and prosper. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires. Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him and he will help you.” Psalm 37:3-5 NLT

I’ll pray those verses over Isaiah several times throughout the week this school year. I’ll ask God to remind him of the significance of the words, the power behind the promise and the strength he can gain from living them on a daily basis. A great reminder of God’s presence and love for him--even when he’s sitting in his desk at school.

To be quite honest, they’re good verses for his mother to memorize and apply, too

FOR GOOD REASON
Today's reading: Numbers 5-8

"The Lord said to Moses, Tell Aaron that when he sets up the seven lamps in the lampstand, he is to place them so that their light shines forward." Numbers 8:1 NLT

Lamps and lampstands were used in the Jewish faith to represent God's presence among His people. The priests were in charge of making sure the lampstands were burning brightly to signify the Tabernacle, the temple, the tent of worship was 'open for business'.

Specific directions were given as to what type of lampstand was to be fashioned, intricate detail was given to indicate the types of lamps (candles or oil-burning) were to be used--and as we read this morning, instruction as to which direction the lamp's light was to be shining.

My take on why...

As we worship, coming into our churches or knelt in our prayer closets, we must focus on the fact that God is present. Not that He was present yesterday, last week or when the Israelites roamed the wilderness, but that He's with us today. We can use the instruction given regarding the lampstand to remind us that today is illuminated with His presence. Our next step is lit up with His guiding light. What was done yesterday by the Lord is worthy of our thanks, but who He is today, in the here and now, is deserving of our praise.

Is the light of your praise for God facing forward? Are you praising Him regardless of what He's done, the miracles you've seen Him do, the ways He has blessed you in the past--or are you in awe, reverent awe, of who He continues to be?

08/15/10
ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT
Today’s reading: 1 Timothy 4-6

There are so many verses littered throughout the Bible in which I can insert my name and gain a huge amount of strength and encouragement, instruction and direction. There are the ones that spur me on to such an extent that I keep them written out on index cards and in full view of my work area and those which I have committed to memory for my heart’s sake.

But today? Today I’ve found a verse that I cannot claim, won’t humor anyone in saying is ’about’ me or honestly be able to stake a personal claim to. Read it for yourself to see if you can take a personal affinity towards…

“We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and particularly those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:10 NLT

Can you claim that verse as your own? Let’s review it…

Hard working towards the cause of Christ? Do you spend a fair amount of time evangelizing? Are you consistently outside your box, reaching beyond your sphere of influence, striving to reach others for Christ?

Suffered for the Gospel? Ever been beaten? Had your Bible taken away? Beaten? Spent much time in an uncomfortable place because of your desire to see folks come to the Lord?

No? Well, me either. I’ve sadly taken a ’take it or leave it’ attitude with what little Christ I share with the world. I hate to admit it, but unless they, the unknowing, unrepentive, unsaved of the world, come to me they won’t be bothered with my presence.
I tell you, this verse convicts me. Convicts me of what little I’ve done. What little I’ve shared. What little I’ve spoken of. What little I’ve put forth the effort to do for my Savior and the dying world He’s placed me here to reach.

Maybe I should put this verse on a recipe card and post it in prominent areas around my home and work, just as a reminder. And you? What about you?

MIRACLE MAKER
Today's reading: John 5-6

"One of the men lying there had been sick for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him and knew how long he had been ill, he asked him, Would you like to get well? I can't, sir, the sick man said, for I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred up..." John 5:5-7 NLT

Did the sick man know to whom he was speaking? Did he have a clue as to Jesus' power? Why didn't he simply answer what was in his heart--Yes, I want to be healed?

Did he? Do we?

We're provided with possible miracles on a daily basis. We're given nods from the Lord that would/could lead each and every one of us into better living, more miraculous ministries and deeper walks with the Lord. We've been provided with a Book filled with information that leads us into abundant living.

And we begin listing excuses as to why we aren't or why we can't live for Him.

Are we, like the man at the poolside, afraid of the new life He offers? The fact that it will look different, feel different, be viewed by the world differently than our present situations? Are we disgusted enough with our afflictions to seek Him, no matter what's required, for a miracle? Are we waiting for a healing that looks just like the one we want instead of the plans He has for us?

If we're sitting beside the pool, why is it? Hasn't He passed our way? Hasn't He asked us, personally if not collectively, if we want more? Put away the excuses and tell him, Yes!

WE WIN
Today's reading: Daniel 7-12

Prayer has been taken out of our schools. Crosses are being removed from public property. Legislation is being written to remove 'In God We Trust' from future coinage. Sins are being legalized. Historical facts are being re-written to exclude God's influence on the founders of our great nation.

Are you scared? Are you concerned? Is worry filling your heart? Are you anxious about what else might come to pass against the Christian community?

Good news: We win!

"But in the end, the holy people of the Most High will be given the kingdom, and they will rule forever." Daniel 7:18 NLT

Tough it out. Hang on. Muddle your way through. Grit your teeth and bear it.

Our time of victory has not yet come. Our place of rest is not yet prepared. Our turmoils, trials and testings may not end here--but in the end we will reign with Christ in heaven.

Rest assured, it's coming...and it will be worth it all!

HIGHER EDUCATION
Today's reading: Proverbs 17-18

I want to be smarter. I'd love to have a head full of useful, and not so useful, knowledge. I'd like to be able to debate with great scholars and win at least one round of Jeopardy.

I've tried wearing glasses. They made me look smarter, but did nothing to improve my IQ scores.

I could take college classes, but where would I find the small fortune required and the extra hours in the day needed?

I might spend more time in the library filling my head with page after page of encyclopedial knowledge, but life must continue--my family wants fed and my employer requires I spend some time at work before alotting me a paycheck.

Higher education isn't possible. Glasses break. The librarian frowns on me bringing in a load of laundry to fold as I have my nose in a book. So, what will I do?

I'll have to, in order to be wiser, shut my mouth!

"Even fools are thought to be wise when they keep silent; when they keep their mouths shut, they seem intelligent." Proverbs 17:28 NLT

EACH DAY
Today's reading: Psalm 96-98

"...Each day proclaim the good news that he saves." Psalm 96:2b NLT

"...Tell everyone about the amazing things he has done." Psalm 96:3b NLT

Go ahead, add these tasks to your to-do list for today.

He's given you the blank slate of a new 24 hours, the clean page of a new day, the canvas of today...will you get done what He's asking you to do?

It's not that He doesn't deserve it, is it? He is amazing. His salvation is life-changing. His love is encompassing. His peace is a thing to behold. Eternal life is something to shout about.

But will you do it?

Will someone hear from your mouth how wonderful God is or that He came to save?

Will you bend an ear telling of His greatness?

Only you knows the extent of grace it took to ransom you from an eternity lost. You are the only one privy to the depths of your sin and the heights of His sacrifice and love.

Will you tell someone today?

EACH DAY
Today's reading: Psalm 96-98

"...Each day proclaim the good news that he saves." Psalm 96:2b NLT

"...Tell everyone about the amazing things he has done." Psalm 96:3b NLT

Go ahead, add these tasks to your to-do list for today.

He's given you the blank slate of a new 24 hours, the clean page of a new day, the canvas of today...will you get done what He's asking you to do?

It's not that He doesn't deserve it, is it? He is amazing. His salvation is life-changing. His love is encompassing. His peace is a thing to behold. Eternal life is something to shout about.

But will you do it?

Will someone hear from your mouth how wonderful God is or that He came to save?

Will you bend an ear telling of His greatness?

Only you knows the extent of grace it took to ransom you from an eternity lost. You are the only one privy to the depths of your sin and the heights of His sacrifice and love.

Will you tell someone today?

BECAUSE
Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 5-9

"They cried out to God during the battle, and God answered their prayer because they trusted him." 1 Chronicles 5:20 NLT

I have to be reminded of verses just like this on numerous occasions. You see, I tend to take things into my own hands, rely upon my own strength and depend on how well organized and planned I can be.

And then the bottom drops out of what I'm doing. Or, the battle escalates. Or, my plans go awry. Or, I fall and cannot get up. Or, my organized chart has a very important step missing on it.

God answered their prayers because of absolutely nothing they did other than trust Him. I can do that. I can trust He knows. I can trust He has my best interests at heart. I can trust that He sees and knows the future. I can trust that His strength is sufficient.

I can trust. That's my part, that's all God asks of me!

INVENTORY YOUR ASSETS

Today's reading: Numbers 1-4



The first four chapters of Numbers are filled with God's instructions to the Israelites to take a census or an account of who all they had traveling with them.



Not a bad suggestion.



Today just might be the perfect day for you to take an inventory of your own assets...



Who can you count on to pray for you, to hold you accountable, to urge you in your Christian growth?



Who has your back covered from satan's attacks?



What is in your arsenal? What have you readied and at hand for the times the enemy jumps you?



What promises have you seen come to pass? What bits of history are encouraging your future?



Go ahead, take an inventory of your assets--I think you'll be quite surprised at what all you have going for you!

SO VERY THANKFUL
Today's reading: 1 Timothy 1-3

"How thankful I am to Christ Jesus our Lord for considering me trustworthy and appointing me to serve Him, even though I used to..." 1 Timothy 1:12

I know, I know, Paul wrote the words, but I take a personal claim to them--because that's my testimony in a nutshell!

To think, He's given me te privilege to lead a great group of gals in Bible study each and every Sunday morning? Amazing, considering who I once was!

And? Well, I'm holding the awesome responsibility of teaching the littlest ones in church this morning. What an opportunity for this one who was once lost!

A young boy to raise for Christ? Given to me as a gift? As if I'm supposed to know how? Someone like me should have never, ever, been given such a blessing in this life!

A family to reach for Him? A lumberyard to impact with His presence? A neighborhood to mark with His mercy? A world to minister to? A church to work in?

Never in a million years should I have been given the privileges Christ has placed in my life. I am so very thankful to God for considering me trustworthy and capable of sharing Him!

XEROXED
Today’s reading: John 3-4
“Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives new life from heaven.” John 3:6 NLT
I need to have this verse Xeroxed and it’s copies placed everywhere I go. On Sunday morning as I step into my Sunday School classroom. On Sunday evenings as I scan the crowd. On Wednesdays as I watch the door with anticipation.
You see, in the Christian brothers and sisters I have been blessed with, I want to see huge changes, life altering commitments and walks that mimic our Lord’s.
But with all the mentoring I can muster, it’s still the Holy Spirit that gives conviction.
Regardless of the encouragement I exude, it’s God who draws the human heart to Him.
In spite of the imperfect guidance I give out, our Creator’s perfection is what should be sought.
I can instruct, urge and preach to my little heart’s content--in the end, and the beginning and the middle, it will be God’s work of salvation and the Holy Spirit’s work in the individual that will give new life.
That, dear friends, does not let me off the ’hook’…on the contrary, it makes me want to double up on my efforts, strengthen my resolve and keep on keeping on till I see His creation completed in each and every life He affords me the opportunity to touch!

XEROXED
Today’s reading: John 3-4
“Humans can reproduce only human life, but the Holy Spirit gives new life from heaven.” John 3:6 NLT
I need to have this verse Xeroxed and it’s copies placed everywhere I go. On Sunday morning as I step into my Sunday School classroom. On Sunday evenings as I scan the crowd. On Wednesdays as I watch the door with anticipation.
You see, in the Christian brothers and sisters I have been blessed with, I want to see huge changes, life altering commitments and walks that mimic our Lord’s.
But with all the mentoring I can muster, it’s still the Holy Spirit that gives conviction.
Regardless of the encouragement I exude, it’s God who draws the human heart to Him.
In spite of the imperfect guidance I give out, our Creator’s perfection is what should be sought.
I can instruct, urge and preach to my little heart’s content--in the end, and the beginning and the middle, it will be God’s work of salvation and the Holy Spirit’s work in the individual that will give new life.
That, dear friends, does not let me off the ’hook’…on the contrary, it makes me want to double up on my efforts, strengthen my resolve and keep on keeping on till I see His creation completed in each and every life He affords me the opportunity to touch!

IN FRONT OF THE FURNACE
Today's reading: Daniel 1-6

"Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego replied, O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn't, Your Majesty can be sure that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up." Daniel 3:16-18 NLT

Maybe you're in the same spot the three Hebrew boys were in--feeling the heat of a raging fire, a painful trial or an awful experience. Quite possibly you're close enough that the heat from the furnace of refining is causing a sweat to break out on your upper lip.

You'd asked God to rescue you from harm, tribulations and heartache--but here you stand, in front of the fire, or the firing squad.

You'd kept your nose in the Word, seeking His face, wanting Him to know your commitment to Him, your desire to see Him act--but here you are, facing persecution.

You'd prayed. You'd asked others to pray. You'd prayed that others would pray.

And to add insult to injury, you've just watched as 'they', your enemies' have thrown another shovel of coal into the furnace.

Will you still stand strong? Will you continue to serve, praise and trust the One who has redeemed you for a purpose? Even if your request isn't answered, will you still worship Him?

You can handle the heat of the furnace if you'll remember He's holding your hand!

A NEW LANGUAGE
Today's reading: Proverbs 16

I'm in the process of learning a new language. No, there are no plans in the near future for travel. No, no missions trips planned, that I'm aware of. There are no new people in the neighborhood that speak a foreign language. And no, this is not a self-improvement whim I'm on--well, maybe it is.

It's not Chinese or French that I'm hoping to grasp, though they may be easier for me to learn than what I've set as a goal. It's not Italian or Russian that I'm hoping to speak one day with fluency. My few years of high school Spanish are of little to now help in this new project.

You see, I'm learning to speak with godliness.

I'm wanting to present God in every syllable spoken by this unruly tongue. I'm hoping to glorify my Savior with every word uttered by these unclean lips. I'm wanting to draw people to Him through what I speak, and sometimes more importantly, through what I refuse to say!

"The wise are known for their understanding, and instruction is appreciated if it's well presented." Proverbs 16:21 NLT

It's a completely new language for me. A new dialect, new pronunciations, new tenses to learn. I hope to use it in special occasions and on an everyday basis. It's going to take a lot of work on my part to un-do what I've become so accustom to, it's going to take a lot more patience on God's part to walk me through the lessons.

Want to join me on this new adventure?

Now, I wonder what the translation is for, Honey, would you please take out the trash? and, Your room really needs straightening up? Those two requests sound like good ones for me to begin with!

MY HERO
Today's reading: Psalm 93-95

"I cried out, I'm slipping! and your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer." Psalm 94:18-19 NLT

In the less than adventurous life I lead, one might easily think this verse would have little meaning to me--think again!

On a daily, and sometimes hourly basis, I'm calling out to God for help...

He is the ladder tossed over the edge of my self-dug pit.

He is the life preserver I swim towards in the ocean of my distress.

He is the emergency raft, popping up just when I take my last full breath, on the raging river of doubt.

He is my bullet-proof vest when I walk through enemy territory on my way to a mountaintop.

He is my ray of sunshine on the dreariest of days.

He is the only one in the stands cheering for me to keep going, keep believing, keep it up.

He is my knight and shining armor. He is my rescuer. He is my hero.

THE BEGATS AT 5:00AM
Today’s reading: 1 Chronicles 1-4

Nothing like page after page of begats at five in the morning to refresh, rejuvenate and restore you for the day, is there?

Oh, don’t get me wrong, family heritage is very important to me. I know Harry Jr. and Mary begat Bob and that Ernie and Mary Edna begat Nora. Bob and Nora then begat Malinda, and therefore I’m here typing.

The importance of all this genealogy? The reason for giving it room in the Big Book? I’ve found it. It was in the footnotes of my study Bible…

‘As the exiles looked forward to the day when they would return to their homeland, one of their biggest fears was that the records of their heritage would be lost. The Jews placed great importance upon their heritage because each person wanted to be able to prove they were a descendant of Abraham.’ -Life Application Study Bible

And for us? The value for us?

If the church books were lost and there was no written record of your church membership--would others know you belonged to the King of Kings?

If your bank statements were stolen and all copies of cancelled checks--would there be a record of your giving to the Way left for your children‘s children to discover?

If the publishers of the yearly church directory inadvertently left your picture out of the booklet?

If you didn’t get one of the new church t-shirts?

If your recipes in the fundraiser cookbook were put under someone else’s name?

Would the world still know you were a child of God? Would what you leave your ancestors still reveal a faith rooted in the belief that God reigns supreme? Would there be evidence of a relationship with Christ, hard evidence--enough evidence for them to speak of it at your funeral?

What’s proving your heritage, your Christian heritage?

THE REAL YOU
Today's reading: Leviticus 25-27

Do God's promises ever simply amaze you? Ever thought deeply about what He's said He'd do, and scratch your head wondering how in the world He could follow through? Does what He's promised seem far beyond what's possible or probable?

Never thought about it? Well, today's your day. Just look at the promise He's made and think through it with me...

"I will live among you, and I will not despise you." Leviticus 26:11 NLT

Just ask those living in your home how easy it would be for God to live with you and not learn to dislike you--at least a little bit.

Like when you first get out of bed in the morning, even before the first cup of coffee?

Like before you make it to the bathroom to brush your teeth?

Like the sections of the month when hormones rage, bills pile up and your attitude stinks?

Like when someone cuts you off in traffic?

When your plans are changed?

When you've overextended yourself?

When dinner burns?

When the real you shines through?

Imagine God living among you and loving you wholeheartedly the whole time? The very thought overwhelms me. I cannot see it as do-able. I don't like myself at all times, how in the world could He?

But He does. His love for His children never changes, never fades, never passes.

What about our love for Him?

SAVING IT UP
Today's reading: 2 Thessalonians

"...when he comes to receive glory and praise from his holy people. And you will be among those praising him on that day, for you believed what we testified about him." 2 Thessalonians 1:10 NLT

I'm not an outgoing person. Oh, I can yell and holler, but I rarely do. I can belly laugh and snort, but I usually chuckle. I have it in me to be the life of the party and the attention-getting promoter of projects, but usually, well usually I'm on the sidelines cheering softly or on the back row writing out a card to drop in the mailbox. What I'm feeling you can usually tell by the look on my face.

I'm of the quieter type. Pretty laid back. I get excited about a lot of things, but overly excited? Hardly ever.

I'd like to think I'm saving it up. Yes, saving it up.

I'm saving it up for when Christ returns and I get to pull up a box, get everyone's attention and praise from the top of my lungs--HE DID JUST WHAT HE SAID HE'D DO!

You see, I'm a believer. I believe each and every promise He's made in the Bible. I believe He can be trusted with my heart's deepest desires and most petty wants. I believe He's coming back for His own, that I am one of them and a mansion awaits me.

For that, I'll stand and shout. At that moment, the loudest among you will be quieted by my hooping and hollering. As I stand before my Lord and King receiving entrance in to the Holy City, everyone in heaven will hear my excitement!

But today my praises will be of a lower key. Oh, they'll still be given, but in a softer voice and in a quieter manner. I'm praising Him, but I'm also saving up energy required to shout from the rooftop of my mansion--I MADE IT, BY GOD'S GRACE, I REALLY MADE IT! THANK YOU, LORD!