TAKING COURAGE
Today's reading: Acts 27-28

"...When Paul saw them, he thanked God and took courage." Acts 28:15 NLT

The Roman Christians were a sight for Paul's sore eyes!

After false accusations, prison, shipwreck and probably beatings, he drew courage from their decision to seek him out.

Are you thankful for the Christians who bolster your faith?

The saints who pray you through?

The fellow believers who offer no more than a smile at times?

The weary soldiers marching alongside you on this pilgrim journey?

And are you an encouragement to them?

NO PLACE TO HIDE
Today's reading: Revelation 18-22

"And I saw a great white throne, and I saw the one who was sitting on it. The earth and sky fled from his presence, but they found no place to hide." Revelation 20:11 NLT

Nothing is beyond His seeing.

There is nothing He doesn't know.

That's an awe-inspiring thought this last day or so of the year.

Nothing I've done, nothing I've said, nothing I've thought is beyond His knowing.

Convicting, really.

But what the next verse holds cements my desperate need to be His...

"I saw the dead, both great and small, standing before God's throne. And the books were opened, including the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to the things written in the books, according to what they had done." Revelations 20:12 NLT

My name is written there as redeemed, bought and forgiven by Christ's blood. All I've done and will do is covered by His love. That brings a sense of inspiration to my heart as I attempt to make His purchase one that was very worth while.

Is your name written there?

REAL LOVE
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 7-8

"...If a man tried to buy love with everything he owned, his offer would be utterly despised." Song of Solomon 8:7 NLT

It takes a lot of burden off my shoulders knowing I don't have to win God's love.

He's given it to me, fully.

He's provided it for me, sacrificially.

He's proved it to me, perfectly.

He's reminded me of it, daily.

He's shown me what it looks like, in a holy way.

CROWNED
Today's reading: Psalm 149-150

"For the Lord delights in his people; he crowns the humble with victory." Psalm 149:4 NKJV

"For the Lord delights in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation." Psalm 149:4 NLT

In my top dresser drawer I keep a small tiara.

Yes, a tiara.

A sparkling, glittery, plastic tiara with pink acrylic gems mounted in plastic settings.

It's quite a nice tiara, considering it was purchased at an area dollar-merchandise store many, many years ago.

It stays in my drawer--I don't wear it out in public, or even around the house.

It's a visual reminder to me of who I am...a daughter of the King of Kings.

Seeing it in my drawer each morning reminds me to dress as a princess, to act as a princess, to speak as a princess, to believe as a princess, to conduct myself as a princess and to walk (in faith and grace and mercy and love) as a princess should.

In my humility one Easter Sunday, lots of years ago, I knelt at His throne and sought His forgiveness--and He gave it to me. I am saved. I am set apart. I am no longer bound by sin's chains. I am delighted in.

I wear a tiara--inside my heart!

HE COMES TO ME
Today's reading: Esther 6-10

In re-reading Esther this morning, I see it...

She was torn between palace protocol and pleading for the lives of her people.

She was afraid of breaking throne room rules on behalf of herself and her kinfolk.

She feared for her life, all the while knowing she had to plead for her life.

Queen Esther feared approaching the king.

She was apprehensive in approaching his chambers.

It's there that I see it--

God knows there are times I am afraid to come before Him. I am unwilling to dirty His presence with my own self I am worried if there is enough grace to cover my life when I stand before Him.

So on many occasions, so very many occasions, He comes to me!

OUR ROCK
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 32-34

"But the rock of our enemies is not like our Rock, as even they recognize." Deuteronomy 32:31 NLT

The lost realize we believers have 'something'.

The unsaved tend to notice something is missing in their own lives.

Those staying away from church, for whatever reason or excuse, know they are shortchanging themselves in some way.

We have a Rock. They have rocks.

There is a huge difference!

AT JUST THE RIGHT TIME
Today's reading: Luke 2

"And it came to pass..." Luke 2:1 KJV

Ever thought about those five simple words?

How at just the right time...

In just the right place...

In just the right stable...

On just the right night...

To just the right man and his espoused wife...

When just the right ruler was seated on a throne...

Not too late.

Not a moment too early.

Not forgotten.

Not just a legend or a myth.

It happened just when God deemed it necessary--for us to appreciate, value, worship and honor today.

Merry Christmas!

PROCLAIMING MY FORGIVENESS
Today's reading: Acts 25-26

"On Paul's arrival in court, the Jewish leaders from Jerusalem gathered around and made many serious accusation they couldn't prove. Paul denied the charges, I am not guilty, he said..." Acts 25:7-8 NLT

My enemy gathers his minions around me and shouts accusations.

He brings up mistakes from my past.

He verbalizes every fault I have, every sin I've committed, every poor choice I've made.

He likes to remind me of all I've messed up, all the times I've given up and all the serious infractions I've been part of.

Some days those accusations leave me huddled and ashamed.

Some days they make me give up trying.

Some days, like today as I read Paul's accounts, my enemy's taunts give me reason to stand and face him--to rise up--to hold my head high--to shout to him, I'm no longer guilty...

Because of Jesus!

I AM HIS
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 5-6

"I am my beloved's and he is mine..." Song of Solomon 6:3 NKJV

I grew up in the age when identity bracelets were popular.

Whether they were silver or gold, they held upon them your name (spelled correctly, I might add)--your identity.

My identity is no longer tied up in my name engraved on a piece of metal that encircles my wrist...

Or the name passed down from my grandmother on Dad's side...

Or the name that comes from being a certain man's daughter...

Or a certain man's wife...

Or a certain boy's mom...

My identity no longer comes written out on a bracelet, but written into the words of Scripture.

I am God's--and He is mine!

I TELL MYSELF
Today's reading: Psalm 146-148

"Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, I tell myself." Psalm 146:1 NLT

A lot of thoughts creep into my mind...

I can't.

It won't do any good.

It's not worth it.

It's not in me.

Who will notice anyway?

Why even try?

Any one of those thoughts can disable me, discourage me or dissuade me from giving any further attempt.

I have to be careful what I allow myself to think, because it can very easily side-track me from what it is He has purposed me to do.

What I need to do on a daily, hourly, minute-by-minute basis is tell myself, Praise the Lord!

He deserves it!

It takes my focus off of me, my inabilities, my problems.

It is what I'm made to do.

Praise the Lord!

BUT YOU
Today's reading: Esther 1-5

"If you keep quiet at a time like this, deliverance for the Jews will arise from some other place, but you and your relatives will die." Esther 4:14 NLT

Esther has been made aware of Haman's wicked plan to annihilate the Jews.

Mordecai has asked her to speak to the king on behalf of her people.

She is afraid, but has given protocol as reason not to approach the king.

Mordecai tells her, thru Hathach, the words of this verse.

I'm asking myself this morning, am I listening to and following through with all that God is asking of me?

Am I believing my obedience to Him breathes real life into my life and the lives of those around me?

Am I willing to settle for being less than blessed by my decision not to obey what He asks?

What will die within me every time I choose my own path rather than His?

WHEN WE PROSPER
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 29-31

"For I will bring them into the land I swore to give their ancestors--a land flowing with milk and honey. There they will become prosperous; they will eat all the food they want and become well nourished. Then they will begin to worship other gods; they will despise me and break my covenant." Deuteronomy 31:20 NLT

I know you're not enjoying these tough, lean valley times.

They make you weary. They stretch your faith thinner than you'd like.

You feel very alone. Very afraid. Very dependent.

But you're closer to God now than you've ever been, aren't you?

Tough times have a way of clearing out the static and allowing us to focus on one main thing--God.

It's when things go well, we have plenty, we sit and count our prizes and we're feeling mighty independent that we wander from Him.

FACE TO FACE
Today's reading: 3 John

"I have much to tell you, but I don't want to do it in a letter. For I hope to see you soon, and then we will talk face to face." 3 John 13-14 NLT

We speak to God through prayer.

We hear Him whisper to our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

We imagine the heavenly home He has prepared for us.

But to speak to Him face to face?

Unimaginable!

Beyond comprehension!

Something to look forward to!

DIVIDED
Today's reading: Acts 23-24

"Paul realized that some members of the high council were Sadducees and some were Pharisees, so he shouted, Brothers, I am a Pharisee, as were all my ancestors! And I am on trial because my hope is in the resurrection of the dead! This divided the council--" Acts 23:6-7 NLT

When you speak of the Lord, you will cause divisions.

Sometimes between your self and another believer.

Sometimes between your self and a not-yet believer.

Jesus is a dividing line. You either believe in Him fully, or you don't. You either know Him intimately, or you don't. You either trust Him implicitly, or you don't. You either are washed in His blood, or you aren't. You either are His, or you aren't. You either have Him as your future hope, or you don't.

Paul knew upon which side of Christ he stood--do you?

ALL I CAN DO
Today's reading: Revelation 7-11

"...And they fell face down before the throne and worshiped God. They said, Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and strength belong to our God forever and forever. Amen!" Revelation 7:11-12

All I can do is praise Him today.

Sure, there are still unanswered requests in my heart. There are still loved ones in the hospital. There are still plenty of character flaws I desperately need Him to continue working on. There are still things I can request. Answers I still need. Problems I still need to lug to the foot of His throne.

But this morning?

This morning I feel like the Revelation angels--all I can do is bow at His throne and praise Him! I cannot ask for a thing. I've already had my knees on the floor, my hands in the air and my face and tears in the carpet.

God is SO good!

Because I am a sinner saved by an exorbitant amount of His grace!

Because my past is covered under His blood and my future rests securely in His hands!

Because I have been created by Him, for Him, to do His will!

Because my best attempts, though worthless, are deemed honorable in His eyes!

Because He sent His Son to save me!

Because I have never had moment in time when I didn't feel Him near me!

Because I haven't been able to thoroughly thank Him enough for all He's done up until now!

Because He knows me--and still loves me!

SEEKING CHRIST
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 3-4

"One night as I lay in bed, I yearned deeply for my lover, but he did not come. So I said to myself, I will get up now and roam the city, searching for him in all its streets and squares..." Song of Solomon 3:1-2 NLT

There are a lot of 'us' who believe our pastors should shower God on us as we sit in the pews.

Or that by listening to the Christian radio station we will be sprinkled with holiness.

Or that by wearing our church t-shirts we'll be doused in Christlikeness.

Or that by carrying our Bible around with us in the car (the one we keep forgetting to take in the house after church on Sundays) godliness will flow into us.

Here's a news flash: God wants us to seek Him out.

That shows Him how very much we desire to be near Him.

Make the effort to find Him. To look for Him. To search for Him in your everyday. To pour over the Scriptures to find His message personally penned for us.

WHAT AM I SAYING?
Today's reading: Psalm 143-145

"I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and your wonderful miracles." Psalm 145:5 NLT

"I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works." Psalm 145:5 KJV

I will let you in on a little secret: What ever it is I am thinking, ends up coming out of my mouth.

Oh, don't judge--you have the same tendencies. I know you do.

When my heart bubbles over with joy, joy comes pouring out.

When my heart is being choked with doubt and fear, gloom and doom will be heard in my words.

When my heart is full of praise, praise is on my lips.

When I am overwhelmed with troubles, I'll sound a lot like Winnie-The-Pooh's equine friend.

When I am over taken with God's goodness, my eyes usually leak and my voice wavers--but you'll know in Whom I believe.

So, what are you thinking about this morning? On Whom are your thoughts dwelling? What will your conversation be?

ME, FIRST
Today's reading: Nehemiah 10-13

"The priests and Levites first dedicated themselves, then the people, the gates and the wall." Nehemiah 12:30 NLT

Before I can impact my world for Christ, I must first dedicate myself to Him.

Before any ministry I could be led to participate in would thrive, I must first dedicate myself to Him.

Before my home will be a godly one, I must first dedicate myself to Him.

Before my church will grow in godliness, I must first dedicate myself to Him.

Before anything I am involved in, love or desire to see placed firmly in God's hand will flourish--I must first dedicate myself to Him.

In this instance, it's quite alright to have a 'me first' attitude!

INCLUDING OTHERS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 26-28

"And now, O Lord, I have brought you a token of the first crops you have given me from the ground. Then place the produce before the Lord your God and worship him. Afterward go and celebrate because of all the good things the Lord your God has given you and your household. Remember to include the Levites and the foreigners living among you in the celebration." Deuteronomy 26:10-11 NLT

I love to celebrate the Lord.

To sing His praises.

To worship His name.

To lift Him up as glorious.

To tout all His wonderful deeds.

To sit in my prayer chair and have a personal conversation with Him in His throneroom.

To bow at the altar and pour out my heart to Him knowing He hears.

But to include others in that praise?

To invite them into my celebration?

To speak aloud of His mercies in such a way as to draw them to Him?

To throw a party big enough for them to be involved or encouraged or brought into the festivities so that they can taste and see that the Lord is good?

That's a tall order--but I'm feeling up to the challenge today!

LOVE
Today's reading: 2 John

"And now I want to urge you, dear lady, that we should love one another. This is not a new commandment, but one we had from the beginning." 2 John 5

I know, Lord, this was meant for me this morning.

Because I have been tolerating others, helping others, praying for others and being nice to others--but I've not been loving others as I should.

You know it's hard, and yet You still ask me to do it. Your first and most important commandment, really.

I guess loving others starts with seeing them through Your eyes. Instead of just my own. Warts, dirt, sin and all--before they are cleaned up by You. One of Your created masterpieces. One worthy of my time and effort.

Like, well, like You did for me!

WOULD THEY FIND ME?
Today's reading: Acts 21-22

"We went ashore, found the local believers,.." Acts 21:4 NLT

Fresh off the boat.

Just getting his land-lubber legs back under him.

Paul seeks out Christian fellowship.

And God points him in the right direction.

This morning I'm asking myself--and God...

Would they have found me? Would God have sent Paul my way? Would I have even registered as a local believer?

A NEW SONG
Today's reading: Revelation 1-6

"And they sang a new song with these words, You are worthy to take the scroll and break its seals and open it. For you were killed, and your blood has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation." Revelation 5:9 NLT

A new song?

Not about me?

Not about my trials?

Not about what I cannot/would not/should not do?

Not about how hard it is?

Not about the mountains in front of me?

Not about what my past held or my present is lacking?

Not about the valley I am camped out in?

Not about the others who make walking a Christian walk hard?

A new song all about God. ALL about God.

About how worthy He is!

About all He has done!

About who He is!

About the far-reaching arms of His great love!

Maybe it's time we all start singing a new song!

You, God, are worthy!!!

HOW RIGHT
Today's reading: Song of Solomon 1-2

"...How right that the young women love you!" Song of Solomon 1:4 NLT

Lord,

My prayer is that more young women would hunger and thirst after You!

That they would set their sights on You, and settle for nothing less!

That they would measure the very idea of giving away a piece of their heart against whether or not You approve!

That all they say and do would honor You!

That the attentions they seek would be tempered by You!

Because I see young women settling for things far below Your intended best for them. I watch as they allow themselves into relationships that are beneath them. Relationships that dirty them, devalue them and stain them.

Oh, that all the young women I know would fall in love with You first and foremost--and judge every relationship past that by Your standards!

Amen

SURELY
Today's reading: Psalm 140-142

"Surely the godly are praising your name, for they will live in your presence." Psalm 140:13 NLT

'Surely', an adjective used to emphasize the speaker's firm belief that what they are saying is true and that they would be utterly surprised that anyone would doubt it. A word used to denote confidence and assurance in what is being spoken.

David believes and states here that he knows without a doubt that God's people are full of praise.

Would he be surprised to find that's not always the case?

Might he roll over in his grave to hear of the grumblings, squabbles and doubt that fills the minds of some Christians?

Because it does.

Praise is not always our first response, now is it?

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AN EXAMPLE FOR ME
Today's reading: Nehemiah 5-9

"When I heard their complaints, I was very angry. after thinking about the situations, I spoke..." Nehemiah 5:6 NLT

I've always preferred Nehemiah as my Bible role model over the Proverbs 31 woman.

Oh, they're both great examples, but something about Nehemiah catches my heart and resounds with my spirit.

Something about him links my heart to his, even these thousands of years after the fact.

I believe part of it has to do with what I see as Nehemiah's biggest asset and weakest link--his mouth.

I get that.

Boy, oh boy, do I get that!

He, and what an example he is to me, practiced self control in regards to what he said, the opinions he gave and the words he offered.

Today's verse is not the only reference to this man's discipline...

"The king asked, Well, how can I help you? With a prayer to the God of heaven, I replied..." Nehemiah 2:4-5 NLT

This man of God knew his words needed to be prayed over, thought about and considered in his heart before they ever left his mouth.

What an example for me to follow.

What a high bar set for me to reach as a goal.

What a godly characteristic I want to see in my spirit.

Thank You, God, for this example and this challenge!

WHEN YOU HAVE RESTED
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 23-25

"Never forget what the Amalekites did to you as you came from Egypt. They attacked you when you were exhausted and weary, and they struck down those of you who were lagging behind. They had no fear of God. Therefore, when the Lord your God has given you rest from all you enemies in the land he is giving you as a special possession, you are to destroy the Amalekites and erase their memory from under heaven. Never forget this!" Deuteronomy 25:17-19 NLT

I have to be very careful, and maybe you do too, that I don't overwhelm myself with too many things at once. When I do, something goes undone, half-done or falls into more ruin than it began in.

I think for the Israelites, and for me, God specifically told them that a time would come--would come, for them retaliate against the Amalekites.

When you are rested, He states.

At a certain time, He instructs.

Not right now, He tells them.

For them, and for me, there is importance in fighting the good fight against the enemy or to make a conquest of some sort, but as important is maintaining what I've already been given.

Satan wants to distract me with all that needs attended to in my life, the poor habits, the lack of commitment to some Christian disciplines, the ministries I could be a part of, how quickly someone might judge me as being lazy...and while he leads me this way and that, he steals what I had already been given--usually joy. Sometimes peace. Most always patience. Every time, contentment. And sorry to say, clouds my vision enough to take my focus off God and causes me to have trouble hearing the voice of Truth.

So I have to realize if it's my time to enjoy rest, I must rest.

Maybe you do, too.

LIVING IN HIM
Today's reading: 1 John 4-5

"And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgement, but we can face him with confidence because we are like Christ here in this world." 1 John 4:17 NLT

'And as we live in God...'

Living is not having a passing knowledge of someone.

Living is not an infrequent visit with someone.

Living is not a distant relationship with someone.

Living is not an occasional Sunday morning, if nothing else is going on, kind of fellowship.

I have to ask myself, and in turn ask you, am I living in God? Truly living?

My love for Him, my love for others, my love for myself and my purpose in His eyes, will not grow more perfect unless I am living in Him.

CARING FOR THE FLOCK
Today's reading: Acts 19-20

"And now beware! Be sure that you feed and shepherd God's flock--his church purchased with his blood--over whom the Holy Spirit has appointed you as elders." Acts 20:28 NLT

Is it important to preach the Gospel and bring in the unsaved? Absolutely, it's our Great Commission.

Is it vital we seek out the wandering, back-sliding believers, bringing them back to the fold? Yes, a resounding yes!

Is it vital to our witness and to our fellowship and to our future that we care for the steadfast, committed sheep who continue to serve Sunday after Sunday, never missing a service or an opportunity to serve? It sure is, but few of us even think about that--including myself.

We have to continue to care for the healthy sheep.

We have to place opportunities before them that help in their continued growth.

We have to help shoulder burdens that could leave them lame or exhausted.

We have to provide them a safe place to rest, to work, to worship with all their hearts.

We have to be open and honest in our accountability to each other and to our Christian walks.

We have to remain true to the Word of God, never wandering from its truths, never straying from the path it leads us on, never twisting, never diluting, never using it improperly--in order that those in the care of the Great Shepherd continue to thrive so more and more will be reached.

LOVED DEEPLY
Today's reading: Malachi

"I have loved you deeply, says the Lord..." Malachi 1:2 NLT

Loved deeply.

Unfathomable for our minds.

An adjective of immensity. Not 'just' loved, but loved deeply! By God!!

Beyond our comprehension.

More than, much more than, we are capable of reciprocating.

Exceeding any human term, human example or human ability to fully grasp.

Loved deeply.

DON'T WAIT
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 11-12

"If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done." Ecclesiastes 11:4 NLT

Waiting until you have just the right words and the proper verses memorized? What if they step off into eternity before that happens?

Waiting until you feel like it? What if God cares more about your obedience than your feelings?

Waiting until a sequence of events fall into place before answering His call? What if that happens one moment after He chooses another who is willing?

Waiting until they act sorry to forgive them? And if it never happens and your resentment grows into a cancer that eats away at your life?

Waiting to begin that Christian discipline until your life settles down? What if your 'settling' only happens when He is prioritized?

Waiting to make that change, turn from that sin, break that bad habit or begin that new habit until you can do it perfectly? What are the chances that will ever occur?

Waiting until you...

Go ahead, fill in the blank.

HOW PRECIOUS
Today's reading: Psalm 137-139

"How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!" Psalm 139:17 NLT

Have you gotten that phone call when you needed it the most?

Received a text at just the right time?

Thumbed through the mail and found a handwritten card, amid the bills and sales flyers, that you really, really needed that day?

Had someone tell you they are thinking about you at just the time you were wondering if anyone at all even noticed you existed?

That's just what God does for us...

He is always thinking of us!

Continually throughout the day.

Since the beginning of time.

Before we were even 'we'.

So often that we cannot begin to count.

We are always on His mind.

SUCCESS
Today's reading: Nehemiah 1-4

"But I replied, The God of heaven will help us succeed..." Nehemiah 2:20 NLT

I believe with all my heart that Nehemiah's reply was heartfelt.

It did not come during easy circumstances.

It was not said flippantly.

It was not spoken comfortably or in ease.

The walls of his home, God's city, lay in ruins.

The task was enormous.

The enemy was near.

The fear was real.

The statement was made based not on Nehemiah's abilities, but on God's.

God could. God would. God did.

Isn't that all we need to remember?

WHAT MY FEAR DOES
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 20-22

"Then the officers of the army will address the troops and say...Is anyone terrified? If you are, go home before you frighten anyone else." Deuteronomy 20:5-8 NLT

Lord,

The phrase, 'never let them see you sweat', has hit me full in the face this morning through these verses.

My impact, what I believe I have and what I have no clue I have, is impacted by my reactions to fear.

Are others seeing me fight or run?

Are fellow believers being encouraged to march ahead with me, or hide in the foxholes until the enemy slips past?

Are my Christian brothers and sisters rising up to fight alongside me, or running home to the unsecured comforts of home as shown by my example?

I could easily say my fears only touch the life of my son...but I'd be lying to myself as I know I am also influencing littles in my church, customers in my store, Christians-to-be in my midst, growing believers in my Bible study, saints of God placed in my life for a reason and hurting folks in my line at Wal-Mart.

What my fear does to me is one thing--what I allow it to do to others is another.

Let me press on, Lord, not afraid.

SIN
Today's reading: 1 John 1-3

"Dear children, don't let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it is because they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. But when people keep on sinning, it shows they belong to the Devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy these works of the Devil." 1 John 3:7-8 NLT

I, on occasion, have to take a spiritual inventory.

I have to spend time at God's feet.

On His examining table.

Before His X-ray.

Sitting before Him, listening to Him speak to my condition.

Sometimes it involves being patted on the back.

Sometimes, it doesn't.

There are times He has to speak to my heart about my tendency to return to certain sins.

Sins that come easily to me. Sins that are comfortable to my being. Sins that He died on the cross for, and yet I choose to repeat on a regular basis.

You see, He came to defeat those tendencies in my life. To break the chains that leave me tied to repeat offenses. To separate the ties satan binds me with.

THE WHOLE TRUTH
Today's reading: Acts 19-20

"I have done the Lord's work humbly--yes, and with tears, I have endured the trials that came to me from the plots of the Jews. Yet I have never shrank from telling you the truth, either publicly or in your homes." Acts 20:19-20 NLT

Paul tells us here that he did not mince words, sugar-coat the truth or provide his listeners with a feel-good account of the Gospel.

He told the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth--by God's power.

I want to do the same.

By how I live.

By the advice I give.

By the stands I take.

By the leading of the Holy Spirit in my life, I want to present God's message of salvation and the need for repentance and turning from sin, to every one I meet--whether I think they want to hear it or not, whether they are well-liked or not, whether it goes completely against their lifestyle or personal choices.

We all need the whole Truth.

THANKSGIVING
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 9-10

"...A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes." Ecclesiastes 10:4 NLT

Be the one at your Thanksgiving table to choose love over hate, forgiveness over harboring, peace over strife and appreciation over remembering mistakes.

Choose not to sit in a sulled up manner. Opt not to allow your feelings to be hurt by every thing that is said or occurs. Participate. Fellowship. Enjoy.

Be patient.

Be loving.

Be kind.

Be thankful, above all else.

O God, when I have food,
help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,
help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home,
help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,
help me to remember those who suffer,
And remembering,
help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,
those who cry out for what we take for granted.
Amen.              -Samuel Pugh

NIGHT WATCHMEN
Today's reading: Psalm 134-136

"Oh, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, you who serve as night watchmen in the house of the Lord." Psalm 134:1 NLT

When thinking of all the things I'm thankful for, night watchmen are ever so high on my list.

The godly men and women behind the scenes of my life.

The ones who pray me through.

The ones who speak truth.

The ones who love me enough, and love God more than enough, to correct me when my choices do not reveal godliness.

The ones who use God's Word as the basis for any advice they give me.

The ones who keep myself and my family lifted up in prayer.

The ones who will call me out when I wander off God's path.

The ones who keep their lives firmly planted in the Bible in an order to serve the rest of us!

UTTER DETERMINATION
Today's reading: Ezra 6-10

"...for the gracious hand of his God was on him. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the law of the Lord and to teach those laws and regulations to the people of Israel." Ezra 7:9-10 NLT

I really thought I'd slide into my prayer chair this morning only to be blessed by the Word.

I figured I'd be handed some morsel from God that would be a good start for a wonderful blog post.

I just knew this morning He'd speak to me in a way that I couldn't help but want to share with all of you.

But He brought conviction to my heart.

In regards to this verse.

About my true desire to be in His Word daily.

About all I've discovered in the Bible and how little I've actually applied to my heart and life.

About whether or not my desire to be filled with lots of knowledge overrides my desire to be admired for having and living wisely.

About my disregard for the power, the impact, the influence and the honor I have in my hands when I pick up this Book.

Lord, thank you for the reference this morning to Ezra--and for pointing out in my heart where You and I have a lot of work left to do.

THANKFUL FOR TREES
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 16-19

"When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy these laws on a scroll for himself in the presence of the Levitical priests. He must always keep this copy of the law with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of this law. This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. This will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel." Deuteronomy 17:19-20 NLT

Today, this Monday leading up to Thanksgiving, I am thankful for trees.

For their shade. For their fruit. For their beauty. For their assistance in the oxygen-making photosynthesis process. For their majesty. For their roles in landscaping. For their being a major component in the paper-making process.

I love paper.

Empty journals. Spiral bound notebooks. Large five-subject notebooks. Notepads with lines. Stationery sets. Postcards. Looseleaf notebook paper. Greeting cards. Blank notecards with envelopes. Index cards--ooh, especially the spiral bound index card things, and post-it notes!

The spiral bound index cards and the post-it notes I have around me at all times. My computer desk is covered with notes and verses. My desk at work is littered with quotes and verses. My purse ALWAYS has a spiral bound filled with verses!

These 'bits of trees' have a way of doing for me what they did for the kings Israel selected--they keep God's Word continually before me. Reminding me. Instructing me. Humbling me. Guiding me. Allowing me to keep a constant conversation going with my God.

I'm so thankful for trees--and the paper they allow us!

APPLICATION
Today's reading: 2 Peter

"So make every effort to apply the benefits of these promises to your life. Then your faith will produce a life of moral excellence. A life of moral excellence leads to knowing God better." 2 Peter 1:5 NLT

The miracle eye cream in my cosmetics drawer does me little good if in the drawer it stays and I never apply it. My eyes will remain droopy and crepe-y unless it's applied.

The baking spray in my kitchen cupboard does little good in the cupboard if I never use it on my baking pans. The cakes will only partially come out of the pan unless it's applied.

The flea and tick medicine for our farm's polar bear-of-a-dog won't do a thing if it's kept on the shelf of our back porch. The fleas won't leave his warm, thick coat unless it's applied.

The rich, creamy lotion I have for my winter feet won't help at all if I leave it in my linen closet. My callouses will return and my cracked heels will annoy unless it's applied.

Same is true with my Bible and all the promises it holds.

Unless I apply it to my life, make every effort to use them for what they're intended, I will falter, be weak and stumble through this Christian walk.

Application is the key!

ONLY HE OPENS
Today's reading: Acts 15-16

"On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we supposed that some people met for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had come together. One of them was Lydia from Thyratira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart and she accepted what Paul was saying." Acts 16:13-14 NLT

In preparing for tomorrow's corporate worship, I must keep a few things in mind.

-People will be drawn to our congregation, as Paul and Silas were drawn to the riverbank.
-I may be called to speak to folks outside my comfort zone, as our first missionaries were in speaking to women.
-I may be one, or may be surrounded by ones who believe yet still need more of Him revealed.
-ONLY God can open hearts.

ONLY BY HIM
Today's reading: Zechariah 1-7

"...It is not by force nor by strength, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty." Zechariah 4:6 NLT

I've got to be very careful.

I am a strong-willed kind of gal who believes she can do just about anything, if I just set my mind to it.

There are problems with that--I tend to become independent and prideful. I become haughty and filled with disrespect for those 'needing a hand'. I practically break my arm in attempts to pat myself on the back.

Nothing I have, am or will ever accomplish is by by own merits.

I don't know what you're facing today, but it can be done--through Christ Jesus!

We all need Him. We all are wired to depend upon Him with all our beings. We all will come to a point in life when He is all we have--and we will find He is all we need.

So work hard today at what He has called you to do.

Try your best, your created for a great purpose best.

And the whole time, depend upon Him!

"There are three kinds of people in the world; those who have sought God and found Him and now serve Him, those who are seeking Him, but have not yet found Him, and those who neither seek Him nor find Him. The first are reasonable and happy, the second reasonable and unhappy, and the third unreasonable and unhappy."    -- Blaise Pascal

NEED A SAVIOR
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 7-8

"There is not one single person in all the earth who is always good and never sins." Ecclesiastes 7:20 NLT

There is nothing like arising at the pre-break of day, sitting down to an ancient, but timeless, manuscript and have it speak directly to your heart!

God has chosen to do that for me this morning...and I am in awe at how, once again, He has spoken directly to me in regards to just what I needed to hear.

I stood in need of a Savior.

Even at the young age at which I was saved, I had sin in my life.

Sin that separated me from Him.

So He sent His Son--His One and Only Son!

That's love. That is redeeming, grace-filled, mercy-laden, demands-a-sacrifice, kind of love.

And we all need it.

Every person I will come in contact with today, needs a Savior.

What will I do to point them in His direction? What will I say? How might I treat them having been given this morsel of knowledge this morning?

It is factual, there is no one who doesn't need God.

It is vital.

It is an urgent task.

FOR A MOMENT
Today's reading: Psalm 131-133

"But I have stilled and quieted myself..." Psalm 131:2 NLT

Lord,

With all that's going on around me--I have stilled and quieted myself at Your feet.

Despite the battles going on in my mind and heart--I have stilled and quieted myself with Your Word.

Even with what the world is telling me, that the sky is falling--I have stilled and quieted myself with Your truths.

As I put aside my to-do list--I have stilled and quieted myself in knowing You are my Creator and Sustainer.

As I look over my mile-long list of requests--I have stilled and quieted myself in knowing You know--You know.

I still and quiet myself in You. Before the day begins. Before the world bombards. Before satan throws his first dart of accusation or arrow of doubt. Before I am pulled in several directions at once. Before I fail at serving You for the first time today--I have stilled and quieted myself in You.

HE IS AT WORK
Today's reading: Ezra 1-5

"We wish to inform you that we went to the construction site of the Temple of the great God in the powerful province of Judah. It is being rebuilt with specially prepared stones, and timber is being laid in its walls. The work is going forward with great energy and success." Ezra 5:8-9 NLT

I know what the media is telling us...

I am well aware of what the Christian magazines are publishing...

I have heard what my local news agency touts as fact...

I have heard the discussion in the world...

I have even heard it spoken inside the walls of some of our nation's churches...

But here is the truth: God is alive and well!

The Kingdom is being built and is moving forward in a great way, in the places where God's people are allowing it!

There are some Bible-preaching churches that are growing by leaps and bounds!

There are, each Sunday, new faces being drawn into fellowship among our local congregations!

There is a rising up of those seeking God's face, His saving graces and a different kind of love than what the world offers!

There are people still, yes today in 2016, turning their sins and lives over to our Risen Savior!

So, don't believe everything you hear...

The work is going forward with great energy and success!!

HIS WHISPERS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 13-15

"The Lord your God will be merciful only if you obey him and keep all the commands I am giving you today, doing what is pleasing to him." Deuteronomy 13:18 NLT

I have to ask, because it's been asked of my heart this morning...

What am I expecting?

Am I seeking my own way, thinking God will bless my disobedience to Him?

Am I disregarding His calling, assuming His great love will cover a multitude of sins?

Am I blatantly sinning, and still expecting His blessing in my life?

Sure, there is grace, wonderful grace--but when He tells me obedience is vital to His blessing, what tightrope am I attempting to walk?

READY TO MOVE FORWARD
Today's reading: 1 Peter 4-5

"So then, since Christ suffered physical pain, you must arm yourselves with the same attitude he had, and be ready to suffer, too. For is you are willing to suffer for Christ, you have decided to stop sinning. And you won't spent the rest of your life chasing after evil desires, but you will be anxious to  do the will of God. You have had enough in the past of the evil things that godless people enjoy--their immorality and lust, their feasting and drunkenness and wild parties, and their terrible worship of idols." 1 Peter 4:1-3 NLT

Here's what God has spoken to me this morning...

So you claim to be Mine, He has whispered to my heart.

Prove it, He challenges--

Is your attitude right?

Have you decided to do the hard stuff, make the tough changes, take courage, in order to follow Me?

Have you renewed your mind in an order to stay away from sin and anything that offends Me?

Are you excited to do what I ask of you?

Have you had it up to 'here' with the emptiness and lies the enemy has fed you?

It's what it takes to live for Him.

PREPARING FOR TOMORROW
Today's reading: Acts 13-14

"In Iconium, Paul and Barnabas went together to the synagogue and preached with such power that a great number of both Jews and Gentiles believed. But the Jews who spurned God's message stirred up distrust among the Gentiles against Paul and Barnabas, saying all sorts of evil things about them." Acts 14:1-2 NLT

I'm praying tomorrow's service in your house of worship, and mine, is powerful, life-changing and leaves people touched by the mighty hand of God.

I'm already asking God to move in a grand way, in a miraculous way, in a saving way.

I'm also praying that the 'stirrer-uppers' in our midst be silenced.

SHAKING
Today's reading: Haggai

'For this is what the Lord Almighty says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth. I will shake the oceans and the dry land, too. I will shake all the nations, and the treasures of all the nations will come to this Temple. I will fill this place with glory, says the Lord Almighty." Haggai 6-8 NLT

There is coming a time when all we know will be shaken up, and that shaking will drive us to the Lord. People who have never given Him a thought, will come to the church. Folks who had neglected the godly training of their childhoods, will come running back to Him. Men and women, boys and girls, will finally realize their need for a Savior when their foundations are shaken to the core.

It will be bigger than an upset in the economy or a surprise electoral event.

It will shake us to the very basis of all we know, love and have.

When the shaking begins, will you have to rush to re-acquaint yourself with the Lord?

Don't wait.

WANTING FOR NOTHING
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 5-6

"Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless, it is like chasing the wind." Ecclesiastes 6:9 NLT

It's that time of year again...

Time to begin asking what our loved ones and friends might need or want, in an effort to provide them with a well thought out Christmas gift.

Here's the problem--none of us need a thing!

Our kids have more things than they could possibly ever use.

Our homes are filled to capacity with stuff we have accumulated.

Our lives are so jam-packed with appointments, meetings and ball games that we seldom have time to actually utilize all we have been given in Christmases past.

So let's enjoy what we have.

King Solomon had probably every single thing money could buy, and maybe two of them, and still he realized things were just, well--things.

SCISSORS, KNIVES, SAWS & VERSES
Today's reading: Psalm 128-130

"From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me--let Israel now say--from my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me, but they have never been able to finish me off. My back is covered with cuts, as if a farmer had plowed long furrows. But the Lord is good; he has cut the cords used by the ungodly to bind me." Psalm 129:1-4 NLT

Maybe his attacks have lasted as long as you can remember.

Maybe you're so bruised and battered that you cannot, or will not, fight any longer.

Maybe you've been told you just need to give up and give in, either by another or by that voice in your ear.

Maybe you don't see a way out, a respite or an escape...

It is there.

God cuts the cords used by the ungodly to bind us.

Sometimes it is a major act within us. Sometimes a miraculous moving in another. Sometimes it is a change of locale or circumstance. Sometimes, sometimes, it's a verse.

Look for the ways He is wanting to release you from your enemy today!

THE REAL PROBLEM
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 33-36

"As Hilkiah the high priest was recording the money collected at the Lord's Temple, he found the Book of the Law of the Lord as it had been given through Moses. Hilkiah said to Shaphan the court secretary, I have found the Book of the Law in the Lord's Temple! Then Hilkiah gave the scroll to Shaphan." 2 Chronicles 34:14-15 NLT

You've cast your vote.

You've recorded your conviction.

You've checked the ballot.

You're now, like the rest of us--waiting.

I hate to burst your bubble, but the winner isn't going to 'fix everything'.

No matter the party. No matter the gender. No matter the political experience or the business acumen.

Our problem, in this great land, is that the Word of God is not being preached in each and every church.

Sorry to break it to you, but there are churches filled to capacity every Sunday who would be surprised to discover God's Word in their midst.

Some wouldn't even know the difference between what the Bible says and a famous quote from a former president.

How sad.

How very sad--and we wonder why our country is in the shape it's in?

NOT LIKE BEFORE
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 10-12

"For the land you are about to enter and occupy is not like the land of Egypt from which you came, where you planted your seed and dug out irrigation ditches with your foot as in a vegetable garden. It is a land of hills and valleys with plenty of rain--a land that the Lord your God cares for. He watches over it day after day throughout the year!" Deuteronomy 11:10-11 NLT

If the Israelites believed they were simply re-locating their troubles, they were wrong!

They were moving out of Egypt and moving up in the world.

We tend to think like that at times.

We believe, according to what satan whispers in our ears, that things will never change. The problems we have today will be the problems we have tomorrow. The trials we are enduring right now will be with us until the end.

God has a different land planned for us, even here.

One we have never experienced.

One we may have never even allowed ourselves to imagine.

Walking in His ways, under His guidance, in His power, following His lead will be a different journey than we've ever taken before!

BUT YOU
Today's reading: 1 Peter 1-3

"...They stumble because they do not listen to God's word or obey it, and so they meet the fate that has been planned for them.
But you are not like that, for you are a chosen people. You are a kingdom of priests, God's holy nation, his very own possession. This is so you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness and into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:8-9 NLT

They stumble...but you, as His child, rise.

They seal their fate...but you, as a born-again believer in the Cross, await eternity.

They find no happiness...but you, as one who has accepted salvation, have joy.

They choose not to listen to the Bible...but you, as a believer in its words, and more importantly in its Author, desire to follow His orders.

They will perish...but you, will live forever with your Savior!

CRITICIZED
Today's reading: Acts 9-11

"Soon the news reached the apostles and other believers in Judea that the Gentiles had received the word of God. But when Peter arrived back in Jerusalem, some of the Jewish believers criticized him. You entered the home of Gentiles and even ate with them! they said." Acts 9:1-3 NLT

I don't know who I'll sit by in service tomorrow.

Not sure who God will direct to my church, my pew, my personal space.

I have no clue what their past, present or future is littered with.

I'll have to look past what they're wearing or what they've chosen to ink on their temples.

I'll have to get past all of that because they need the word of the Lord.

So, I'll share Him with them--no matter who the world has labeled them as being.

You see, one day someone looked beyond who I was, what I was doing wrong, what I wore, my rap sheet of sin, what I had allowed the world to write all over me--and they shared Him with me.

SILENCE
Today's reading: Zephaniah

"Stand in silence in the presence of the Sovereign Lord..." Zephaniah 1:7 NLT

Just to stand in God's presence.

Without saying a single thing.

Speaking no requests.

Not even attempting to praise Him for all He is worth.

Just to stand in the middle of the day, feeling the warmth of the sun, watching the cloudy wisps float by, hearing the birds chirp.

Just to stand in the dark of night, amazed by the stars, fascinated by the moon, surrounded by night sounds.

Just to stand in the doctor's office or hospital room, fully aware of Him right beside you.

Just to stand by your desk, with the peace of His presence within you.

No words.

Just silence.

GRAB A FRIEND
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 3-4

"A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken." Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT

I know you're trying to do all this on your own.

Attempting to tough it out.

Staying strong.

Giving all you have so as not to have to depend upon another.

It's a miserable existence. It's hard. It's lonely. It requires all your energy. It, some days, feels like a losing battle.

Why not grab a godly friend, or two, and share your heart?

Someone who believes in the power of prayer?

Another who knows the strength and might of the God on whom you are placing all your trust?

Shoulders to help bear the burden?

Someone who would be tickled to speak to God on your behalf?

It will help. It will strengthen you. It will give you courage. It will hold you accountable. It will be following what He asks us to do.

It will be someone to celebrate with when God answers!

FOR A WHILE
Today's reading: Psalm 125-127

"They that sow in tears shall reap in joy." Psalm 126:6 KJV

Keep serving...

Keep praying...

Keep believing...

Keep putting one foot in front of the other...

Keep reading the Word...

Keep getting out of bed each morning...

Keep sharing the Gospel...

Keep wiping the noses of the littles in your home of in the nursery...

Keep loving...

The harvest of joy is coming!
 

PRAY AND VOTE
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 29-32

"...For Hezekiah said, May the Lord, who is good, pardon those who decide to follow the Lord, the God of their ancestors, even though they are not properly cleansed for the ceremony. And the Lord listened to Hezekiah's prayer and healed the people." 2 Chronicles 30:18-20 NLT

Hezekiah was in the process of following God's lead in restoring the Temple and was about to conduct one of the great festivals required by God to be observed. The problem was, there were not enough purified priests, Levites, to do the duties needed.

So he prayed.

He admitted to the Lord that they were running short of good and godly men. He admitted to the sins of the people, determined in his heart to turn away from ungodliness and sought God's forgiveness.

God heard.

God's deep love healed them.

I see our country in this portion of Scripture.

We have sinned against God.

We have few, very few as evident in the current candidate options, godly men stepping up to direct our nation.

We can only find hope in God.

Christians, we have to let the population at large know we are here, we are sorry for where we've allowed this nation to go, we are praying for our country, we are deciding to live lives that will make a change in our country's downward spiral toward ungodliness.

We have to pray, pray hard...and we have to vote.

I believe God will hear our prayers and heal our people.

FRATERNIZING WITH THE ENEMY
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 7-9

"When the Lord your God hands these nations over to you and you conquer them, you must completely destroy them. Make no treaties with them and show them no mercy." Deuteronomy 7:2 NLT

Victory is coming, the Lord says.

If there's ever been a morning I needed reminded of that, this is the morning!

I can push away any doubt I might have in regards to God holding up His end of the bargain.

I can hope.

I can anticipate.

I can believe.

And when the victory comes?

There will be no more fraternizing with the enemy. No meddling in his midst. No taking the lure of his temptations. No walking the fence. No attempting to manage light and dark, good and bad, right and wrong. No deliberations as to whether or not I want to go back to the prison he has held me in. No debating with myself over gray areas. No attempting to put my enemy on a leash and make it a pet.

I've got to wash my hands of my enemy.

And with victory coming, it might as well start today!

JEALOUSLY
Today's reading: James 4-5

"What do you think the Scriptures mean when they say that the Holy Spirit, whom God has placed within us, jealously longs for us to be faithful?" James 4:5 NLT

It's early, but I can already see in my day where the Holy Spirit might be jealous for me...

Am I spending more time readying my appearance for the world than I am in His Word?

Am I more concerned with my plans than His?

Am I comforted more by the figures in my checkbook than the One who dwells within me?

Am I more excited about a day of rest than I am about the opportunity to gather and worship His great name?

Am I taking more time attempting to impress others than evangelize them?

Are my prayers more self-centered than outreaching?

Oh, already I can see where I have caused the Holy Spirit to doubt my faithfulness to Him. Many areas needing re-arranged!

CHANGE IN PLANS
Today's reading: Acts 9-10

"As he was nearing Damascus on this mission, a brilliant light from heaven suddenly beamed down upon him!" Acts 9:3 NLT

Any of you who know me know I have a plan for the day ahead.

For the week ahead.

Oh, I'll admit it, for the month ahead!

I keep it all in my planner, written in ink, secured at my side a majority of my waking hours. I'm constantly referring to it and if you ever ask me to do something for you and you do not see me write it down in that glorious little book, question me as to whether or not I'm really going to do it!

Saul had plans one day, too.

He was on a mission.

He had people to see and things to do.

But God changed his plans and his future with one quick blast of light.

Might be the same for us today, too.

One small change in our plans may correct our course, re-prioritize our lives or change what's written in our 'life books' completely.

Are you ready to see what God will do with your day?

RAISE UP AN ANTHEM
Today's reading: Habakkuk

"This prayer was sung by the prophet Habakkuk: I have heard all about you, Lord, and am filled with awe by the amazing things you have done. In this time of our deep need, begin again to help us, as you did in years gone by. Show us your power to save us. And in your anger, remember your mercy." Habakkuk 3:1-2 NLT

If I were a poll-taker, a statistic-collector, a procurer of specifics, I believe I could amass enough information to make this statement: Our country is weary. Worn out. Tired. Beaten. Disgusted. Saddened. Feeling on the verge of hopeless.

So it's time we raise up an anthem.

One like Habakkuk sang.

And whether it is set to the tune of 'Amazing Grace' or 'The Star Spangled Banner' or even 'Dixie', we need it. No matter the beat. No matter if it is accompanied by an orchestra, a guitar or it's sung a capella, we need it badly.

We need help for our nation.

We need the direction for our leaders.

We need to see the power of God's mighty hand again--and again.

We need the mercy it talks about--oh, do we need mercy!

We need to rise up in praise for God, our only hope!

THEN...
Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 1-2

"...Then I realized that this pleasure is from the hand of God." Ecclesiastes 2:24 NLT

We question God when bad things happen.

We shake our fists at our Creator when tough times arrive.

We waver in faith when our plans lay crumbled at our feet.

We doubt His love for us when dreams burst like bubbles right before our eyes.

We struggle beneath what's uncomfortable or un-timed or unknown.

But how often do we stop and think about all the pleasures, good things, in life we have been blessed with?

There are big blessings like family, home and salvation. There are everyday gifts like health, comfort and provision. There are the often overlooked treasures like taking a breath, seeing a bird in flight or tasting chocolate.

I want to realize more fully, and more acutely, the pleasures that come from the hand of God.

PEACE BE WITH YOU
Today's reading: Psalm 122-124

"For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, 'Peace be with you.(shalom)' For the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem." Psalm 122:8 NLT

Shalom, or peace be with you, is a very common Jewish blessing.

What it means exactly is a little deep, but here it is...

Shalom means completeness, wholeness, health, peace, welfare, safety, soundness, tranquility, prosperity, perfectness, fullness, rest, harmony, the absence of agitation or discord. Shalom comes from the root verb meaning to be complete, perfect and full.

I love how the psalmist, in his ascent into Jerusalem to worship, states right up front that he prays peace over his fellow travelers and Jerusalem itself--for their sake, not for his own.

For the sake of family and friends, are we praying peace into their lives? However it may end up affecting us? However far it may take our dearest ones from us in order to do His will? However different it may look than the plan we have in our heads and hearts? However patient I may need to be as God's work is done in the lives of a loved one struggling against conviction?

For the sake of our house of worship, are we praying peace over its services? The servants? The outreaches? The building itself? The hearts of the volunteers? The attitudes of the workers? The reputation it has in the community? The time and effort I may need to put into doing what He's asked me to do? The putting aside of my opinions for the Lord's will to be done?

For their sake, not for my own--that's a tough prayer that I shouldn't be dishing out lightly, flippantly or without sincerity.

FELLOWSHIP WITH BELIEVERS
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 25-28

"He did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight, just as his father, Uzziah, had done. But unlike him, Jotham did not enter the Temple of the Lord. Nevertheless, the people continued in their corrupt ways." 2 Chronicles 27:2 NLT

For me, attending church, worshiping with other believers, gathering in the Lord's house, is not an option. It's a necessity.

I get fed. I get fueled. I get encouraged. I get strengthened. I get loved. I get instructed. I get uplifted. I find unity. I get comfort.

Before you begin to think I live in a make-believe world where the sun always shines and the trolley always comes by, I also get hurt. I get rubbed raw. Burned. Snubbed. Overlooked. Wronged. Things don't always go according to my convictions. My opinion is not always asked for, or taken into consideration.

It can't not happen in a body of imperfect folks.

It can't not happen in a group of folks who are already in need, desiring help, seeking healing, growing in grace.

Hurt lambs, hurt lambs, I've heard said.

Maybe you don't attend church. It might be you've not found the right one. It might be you thought you'd found the right one and then 'that' happened. It might be you've been bruised by a family of believers, or cut deeply and the wound still aches. It might be that you cannot tolerate another gathering of hypocrites, I've heard that said before. It might be you've decided you can worship alone--without the drama, without the heartache, without the issues of others.

I hear what you're saying.

But you need the body of believers.

And they need you.

It's Jesus' example. It's God's desire.

YOUR BATTLES
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 4-5

"Because he loved your ancestors, he chose to bless their descendants and personally brought you out of Egypt with a great display of power. He drove out nations far greater than you, so he could bring you in and give you their land as a special possession, as it is today." Deuteronomy 4:37-38 NLT

I don't know what battles you are facing today.

Some of you may face physical struggles that require muscle and strength. Diseases that are wreaking havoc on your bodies. Illnesses brought on by poor choices or by 'bad luck'. Sicknesses that result from the cure the doctor has prescribed.

Maybe it will be emotional battles that will draw on all your might to even get out of bed. Your demons are internal. Your battles never surface for others to see. Your battlefield is your mind.

For some of you, it might be spiritual tussles with what God desires you to do against what you believe is possible. Maybe it's that your heart desires to obey but your mind doesn't see how any of it is at all possible.

There will be battles today, none the less.

Whatever it is you are fighting against, know God is able.

Know He has already defeated bigger enemies than you are facing.

Know His record stands undefeated.

Know you are His, and He fights to the death, for His own!

TEMPTATION
Today's reading: James 1-2

"Temptation comes from the lure of our own evil desires." James 1:14 NLT

I'm mad this morning. Fit-to-be-tied mad. As mad as a wet hen, mad. Would punch the wall if that were the right thing to do--and if it wouldn't hurt my own hand, kind of mad.

I went to bed in this angry state.

I woke up this way.

You see, I've fallen into temptation. I've snatched up the bait. I've walked right into a trap. I caved where I should have/could have stood strong.

And while all this past 24 hours I have been blaming satan, this morning's verse simply tells me it's not about him--it's all about me.

The desire to do what I did has always been in me.

The want-to has been hidden in my heart.

The ability to turn my back on what I knew to be wrong is natural for me.

The lure worked on me--again.

And I caved.

And now I'm spending time at Jesus' feet asking forgiveness and asking Him to turn me from the desire to do it again. Because I don't want to. I don't like the feeling it leaves me with. I don't want the guilt that rides along with the instant pleasure I thought I had.

I don't know who you're blaming this morning for your Christian walk not going smoothly, but look in the mirror--it's where the root of our problems lie.

REGRET
Today's reading: Acts 7-8

"Saul was one of the officials witnesses at the killing of Stephen." Acts 8:1 NLT

I can imagine Saul was never able to get the sight of Stephen's death out of his mind.

Oh, maybe not before he met God on the road to Damascus, but most certainly after.

When he awoke, was it the first thought he had?

As he lay down at night, was it the last thought on his mind?

I think we all have those things we have been forgiven of, but can never escape--or forget.

Regrets.

If only we had...

If only we hadn't...

If only we would have known better at the time...

If only we had thought about the eternal consequence of our actions...

If only Christ had been in us, more than the world...

Okay, so we all have those 'things'. If they have been forgiven by Christ, we can move on. We can let the haunts of past regrets spur us on to better things--or they can keep us tied down.

What did Saul/Paul do?

What should we do?

DON'T PUSH IT
Today's reading: Nahum

"The Lord is slow to get angry,.." Nahum 1:3 NLT

It would be simple if we could believe just the first part of this verse...

That God has a long fuse.

That He is okay with us flittering around sin.

That He is abundantly patient.

That He is ever so kind.

But the next part of the verse, reminds us of why He is God.

"...his power is great, and he never lets the guilty go unpunished. He displays his power in the whirlwind and the storm." Nahum 1:3 NLT

He cannot allow our disobedience to go on.

He cannot turn His back and attempt to ignore our sins.

He has to dole out justice--which means for the victim and for the criminal.

NOT LIKE HER,  BUT LIKE ME
Today's reading: Proverbs 31

"Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is worth more than precious rubies." Proverbs 31:10 NLT

I'll admit, the Proverbs 31 gal rubbed me the wrong way.

She was just too 'altogether' for someone like me.

She was everything to everyone. She had mastered skills in many areas. She lived a life worthy of notation in the Bible, for goodness sake.

She, even these 2000 years later, is a hard act for us church ladies to follow.

Then I realized, I don't have to be her. Like her in some areas, sure, but not her to a T.

I should be virtuous(godly) and I should use every gift given to me by God--and when I am and when I do, I am priceless to my Creator and to those He has allowed me to bless!

I get to be me. The me God purposed me to be. The me that will touch the lives of folks He will place in my path. The me that cannot do all the P31 woman does, but the one who has a few skills in areas she never even knew existed in her day and time.

That's not something to be frustrated by, mad about or discouraged by--really, it's exciting!

THE LORD HIMSELF
Today's reading: Psalm 120-121

"The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not hurt you by day, nor the moon by night." Psalm 121:5-6 NLT

We see a PA when the doctor is covered up with other patients.

We speak to the secretary when the president of the company is busy with business duties.

We talk to our representative because our commander in chief is tied up campaigning for another to take his job.

There are a lot of times when we have to settle for a substitute.

Not with God.

There is never a time it's not Him watching over us!

It's never just His angels.

It's never just His church.

It's never just His people.

He watches over us Himself!

And Him with so many other things to do, so many other folks to see about, so many planets to keep spinning at one time--and still He Himself watches over us!

LEGACIES
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 21-24

"...Ahaziah was given a decent burial because the people said, He was the grandson of Jehoshaphat--a man who sought the Lord with all his heart..." 2 Chronicles 22:9 NLT

The people of the time knew all about Ahaziah and his ungodly deeds. They knew how he followed the example of wicked kings, turning away from God. They had suffered the consequences of a nation who had pushed aside the Lord for foreign idols and easier rules. Few of them really even mourned his passing.

They also knew Ahaziah's grand-daddy, Jehoshaphat. They knew him as a great man of God. A mighty leader. One who had lived a life for God and enjoyed the blessings of such a life.

So they gave Ahaziah a burial that honored his grandpa.

I get that.

You see, all over our little town, I'm known as either Ernie's granddaughter or Harry Jr.'s granddaughter.

My grandpas were huge men--not in size, but in the enormity of their hearts, their stands for God, their work ethics and their love of family. The touched the lives of people in grand ways. They are admired and remembered even these many years after they've both passed on.

So I have earned respect by association.

It's a neat honor.

It's a priceless legacy.

It's a proud heritage.

It's something I could easily take for granted and allow my ego to inflate with its airs.

It's a prize I hold near and dear to my heart.

That being said, when I stand before God, I won't be known by my grandfathers. I won't be known by my pastors. I won't be known by my titles, roles or jobs. I won't be known by my association with any church or denomination. I won't be known as a deacon's child. I won't be known for my Christian service record. I won't be known even for the stand I took, or didn't.

I will only, ONLY, be known as a child of the Most High God--or not. My entrance into God's arms will solely be determined by whether or not my name has been written in the Lamb's Book of Life. My admittance onto the golden street of heaven will only come if I have accepted God's precious gift of salvation.

And it's the same for you. No matter who you call Grandpa.

FINAL WORDS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 1-3

"But even after all he did, you refused to trust the Lord your God." Deuteronomy 1:32 NLT

This month marks my 16th year of reading my Bible every day.

Before you sign off on my, do not think for a moment that statement was made to bring glory or honor to myself--because it is not! Only, ONLY God could have allowed this privilege to me. Only my Savior could have provided this additional blessing to His saving grace. Only my Sustainer could have given me the determination and the drive and the appetite for His Word in such a insatiable way.

I do believe what amazes me most about this precious early morning gift is that it is new every day! Nothing is 'old hat'. Nothing bores me. Nothing, not a single morning, has failed to stir something in me.

Like this morning. I've uncovered what possibly many of you already knew, but it struck at my heart in a way that intensifies my desire to live out life in a godly way...

The book of Deuteronomy is Moses' personal diary of sorts.

It recounts their travels.

It gives detail about many of their victories--and their losses.

It states the truths of the journey.

It, my commentaries tell me, was probably 'penned' in the 11th month of the 40th year of their journey through the wilderness. The 12th month of that journey was spent in mourning Moses. When the prescribed time of sorrow was over, the children of Israel cross the Jordan and entered the Promised Land.

Moses quite possibly knew his time was about to end. He did know he would not be entering Canaan with the two million.

So he wanted to leave them with a reminder. Words to live by. Encouragement. A challenge to achieve.

He knew what the children had seen. He tasted the same miracles they had tasted. He walked every step of every mile they walked. He knew their fickleness. He knew, I believe, a tiny bit of the only-from-God plan in store for them. He knew they would need reminded of how far they'd come and by Whose hand they had been led.

He knew they would need to trust Him even more in the Promised Land than any moment spent in the wilderness.

He knew their track record.

He knew the love and mercy of God.

He knew they needed the reminder that on their own, they would wander off course and for a much longer time than necessary.

What more could we ever hope to leave our loved ones?



 

NEVER
Today's reading: Hebrews 11-13

"...For God has said, I will never fail you. I will never forsake you." Hebrews 13:5 NLT

Paul was a great man of God and missionary.

Matthew was a follower of Christ and an author.

Peter was a mighty believer and a zealous writer.

But to me, there is something about hearing the words spoken by God to man that makes me take notice.

You see the words in Hebrews were repeating what God had spoken to Jacob--and to us!

"What's more, I will be with you, and I will protect you wherever you go. I will someday bring you safely back to this land. I will be with you constantly until I have finished giving you everything I have promised." Genesis 28:15 NLT

His words, not the words of men.

His promise, not the promise of another faulty human.

His reputation at stake, not the poor track record of Adam's seed.

He will never leave us...never!

A PRAYER FOR YOUR CHURCH
Today's reading: Acts 5-6

"Meanwhile, the apostles were performing many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. And the believers were meeting regularly at the Temple in the area known as Solomon's Colonnade. No one else dared to join them, though everyone had high regard for them. And more and more people were brought to the Lord-crowds of both men and women." Acts 5:12-14 NLT

May God be present in your church.

May your church family be filled with His love--on Sundays but especially Monday through Saturday.

May His words be spoken and believed and lived out.

May your worship services be all about Him and nothing at all to do with the servants He has chosen.

May His name be lifted up.

Because when He is, and when they are, and when it is, more and more people will be drawn to Him.

Not to your church, but to God.

That is my prayer for your church and for mine.

GOOD NEWS
Today's reading: Micah

"True, many nations have gathered together against you, calling for your blood, eager to gloat over your destruction. But they do not know the Lord's thoughts or understand his plan. These nations don't know that he is gathering them together to be beaten and trampled like bundles of grain on the threshing floor." Micah 4:11-12 NLT

Some mornings you just need the reminder that God is on your side and your enemies have been, are being and will continue to be defeated.

Because there are days when it doesn't feel like it.

You see them around you.

You bear the bruises of their bullying.

You are weary from climbing over the obstacles they are placing in your path.

Your ears ring with their shouts of defamation.

You just don't feel like getting out of bed and fighting one more battle.

You're not seeing much progress. Much progress at all.

What we know to be true--regardless of how we feel or how we think things look, is that God is at work.

His plans will be carried out in our lives.

His children will be victorious.

Nothing will get in His way!

STAYING OUT OF TRAPS
Today's reading: Proverbs 29-30

"Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but the trust the Lord means safety." Proverbs 29:25 NLT

One can wear one's self out attempting to please people.

Their expectations change.

Their opinions waver.

Their morals are usually solely based upon what they are okaying in their own hearts.

Take our current political race.

How in the world might any candidate please all 387.6 million of us?

Our best bet, any candidate's best bet, is to extricate ourselves from the trap of attempting to please people and give our 100% to pleasing God.

My, oh my, wouldn't this election be a much easier pill to swallow if we were to be allowed the opportunity to choose between a few God-pleasing folks?

Wouldn't life be much easier, on all of us, if pleasing God were our first order of business every morning as we awoke?

TAKE TIME TO PONDER
Today's reading: Psalm 119

"I pondered the direction of my life, and I turned to follow your statutes." Psalm 119:59 NLT

Take time today to talk with God. With, not to--there is a difference!

To really ask Him for His opinion on your life and choices.

To weigh your opinions and beliefs upon the Word, not upon society or the popular trends.

To seek Him out as to whether or not you are walking the straight and narrow, or have quite possibly taken the slightest of detour.

Yes, even those of you who have been Christians your entire life.

It's vital.

One degree of change on our path can have us ending up a long way off from our original goal.

David, the one after God's own heart, had to have a heart-to-heart with himself and God about whether or not he was walking as closely as he should.

He found himself lacking, falling short, needing to make some changes. And change he did. He turned.

Catch the changes early, they are easier to correct!

MY OWN GOD
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 16-20

"He sought his father's God..." 2 Chronicles 17:4 NLT

"...But Jehoshaphat cried out to the Lord to save him,.." 2 Chronicles 18:31 NLT

One of my favorite accounts in the Bible (how often I say that) is about Jehoshaphat. I love seeing what God did through his life in the pages of the Word.

Today, as often happens, I saw something new. Something that gave me pause. Something I will chew on the rest of the day.

Jehoshaphat sought after his father's God.

Been there. Have done that.

You see, having been raised in a godly family, I 'did' the church thing. I knew the lingo. I could participate in just about any service the church leadership would throw at us. I spent a lot of my early years playing 'Simon Says' in the church house. I had even prayed the right prayers, testified and had been baptized as any good Christian girl should be.

But then, as with Jehoshaphat, I came to a point in my life when I cried out to God as my own Savior, Friend and Comforter. Leaned against a fish tank on the Neuro wing of a hospital in another state, He became my Lord.

Not my father's God.

Not the God of my pastors, deacons or Sunday School teachers.

My own.

And our walk has been growing more deeply ever since.

He had to become real to me. God had to move from the words I'd heard and the lessons I'd been taught to the heart that beat within me.

He is mine. He is my God.

WHERE DO WE GO NEXT?
Today's reading: Numbers 33-36

"They left the Sin Desert and camped at Dophkah." Numbers 33:12 NLT

The Bible's reference to the 'Sin Desert' has always caught my eye.

A perfect analogy.

An excellent way to describe that place in which we lose ourselves and forget God.

Today, however, I noticed this single verse and I wondered...

In life, where do we go after the Sin Desert?

What's next?

Where does one go from there?

So, I looked up the town/area of Dophkah--and was tickled by the Lord's revelation!

Dohpkah was a copper mining area. An industrious manufacturing city of its time. A place that prosperous, well-watered and thriving.

It's name means, 'to cling to or adhere'.

Oh friend, isn't that just what we do after having camped for a time in the desert of sin? We cling, ever so tightly to the One who rescues us!

This morning I don't know where you are, as we are all in one spot or the other,  sinning or clinging.

If you are camped in the Desert of Sin, seek God's face. Call out to Him. Accept all the forgiveness He is offering you. Turn from your sins.

If you are currently clinging to Him, stuck to Him like glue, attached to Him in such a way as He could not shake you--keep it up!!!