NEW

Today's reading: Revelation 20-22

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. nd the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a beautiful bride prepared for her husband." Revelation 21:1-2 NLT

If you are believing when the ball drops this evening at midnight all our earthly  problems will end, you, my dear friend, are sadly mistaken.

On January 1, COVID will still exist.

Political untruths will still remain to be uncovered.

Temptations will still lurk around most corners and down most grocery store aisles.

Trials of life, you might find, will not even notice a flip in the calendar page.

But to think of it--when we get to heaven--everything will be new--and better--and without problems!

If nothing else, a new year should remind us of all heaven holds in store for us when we get there. 

Anticipation. Excitement. Hope. 

LOUD HALLELUJAHS

Today's reading: Revelation 18-19

"Then I heard again what sounded like the shout of a huge crowd, or the roar of mighty ocean waves, or the crash of loud thunder: Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice and honor him..." Revelation 19:6-7 NLT

What if from His people...

From His children...

From those washed in His Son's blood...

From the lips of those redeemed by Jesus' death on the cross... 

Instead of murmuring. Or complaining. Or griping. Or listing our woes. Or whining. Or providing God with our list of things we'd still like to see Him do.

What if He heard a mighty Hallelujah rise up from our lips?

One that shook the very earth we're standing on?

One that rivaled the breakers on the seashore?

One that outdid the thunderous summer storms?

One that started with the voice within you? 

WHAT I DO KNOW

Today's reading: Revelation 14-17

There is so much of the book of Revelation that I do not understand.

I cannot unravel all the imagery.

I have not uncovered all the intricacies to the prophetic timing it shares with us.

I will not ever admit to fully grasping all there is to glean from its pages.

But, I will tell you what I do know...what I get...what I can stand on...without a doubt...

God.

The Lamb.

Son of Man.

The Holy One.

Lord God Almighty.

King of the nations.

I may not know everything there is to know about the book of Revelation, but when those names are mentioned--I know without a doubt of Whom they are speaking!

VICTORY IN JESUS

Today's reading: Revelation 10-13

"Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, It has happened at last--the salvation and power and kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ! For the Accuser has been thrown down to earth--the one who accused our brothers and sisters before our God day and night. And they have defeated him because of the blood of the Lamb and because of their testimony. And they were not afraid to die." Revelation 12:10-11 NLT

We have victory in Jesus!

More victory than most of us are taking advantage of.

More victory than we can fathom!

Satan has no reign over us, no rule over us, no realm he holds us in.

Christ's blood shed on the cross and our testimony--proclaiming that we have accepted Him as Savior and Redeemer of our sins defeats him!

We have victory in Jesus!

BOWLS OF PRAYERS

Today's reading: Revelation 5-9

"And as he took the scroll, the four living beings and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they held gold bowls filled with incense--the prayers of God's people!" Revelation 5:8 NLT

The idea of bowls full of prayers this morning has stuck in my mind.

Now to be quite honest, it says golden bowls--the only golden bowls I've ever come in contact with were the little gold finger bowls at fancy restaurants. Too tiny for very many prayers!

Then there were some bowls my grandma had when we were kids that had a gold rim on them. They were brought out for special occasions. Christmas and Easter. They were big enough to hold mounds of mashed potatoes or piles of green beans. Still too tiny for the prayers of a saint!

I remember, I believe, a mustard-yellow, gold, one might call it, dough bowl used to make a big batch of Mom's dishpan cookies. It was a large bowl which would hold all the ingredients for the recipe which would make a huge number of cookies. Still not large enough for the prayers required to get one through a storm of life!

I'm a pray-er. I'm talking to God constantly. I cannot imagine any of the afore mentioned bowls being large enough to hold the prayers I've prayed to Him so far--or to hold the ones I'll have prayed by the end of my life.

I've determined in my heart and mind that it's going to require that the elders man-handle a golden vat the size of a battleship to hold the prayers I'm sending up.

What about you? Do you pray? Do you listen for answers? Do you pray expectantly? Do you know, without a doubt your prayers are being heard, being collected, being answered at just the right time?

LITTLE STRENGTH

Today's reading: Revelation 1-4

"...You have little strength, yet you obeyed my word and did not deny me." Revelation 3:8 NLT

Just a reminder in Revelation that it takes a little bit of faith to stand strong in the Lord.

A little bit of determination in who He is.

A little bit of dedication to His plan for your life.

A little bit of trust in His will and His way--especially when you don't see the big picture or the next step.

A little bit of hope in a dark time that He will come through in a way that only He can.

A little bit of letting go--and falling completely into Him.

A little bit of obedience.

And a whole lot of reward!

THE LORD'S GLORY

Today's reading: Luke 2:1-20

"Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord's glory surrounded them..." Luke 2:9 NLT

Friend, the Lord's glory, in all its radiance, has not left this earth!

It came the night of His arrival.

It stayed with Him during His earthly ministry.

It survived the brutal attack and crucifixion of our Savior.

It continued after His re=visitation to this earth in body and spirit before His returning to heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father.

It was and is in His followers. Those who have claimed His name and His salvation.

It is alive and well--in us!

So go out today and spread the radiance of the Lord's glory where ever you go.

Merry Christmas to you!

GOD'S PEACE

Today's reading: 2 John-3 John

"May God's peace be with you." 3 John 15 NLT

That's my wish for you this Christmas--God's peace to be with you!

Not the peace that comes from a pandemic being gone--although that would be a nice gift.

Not the peace that arrives when a new power steps in to office and is given the authority to fulfill all the promises made on the campaign trail--wouldn't that be pleasant.

Not the peace that comes from a syringe filled with a vaccination that will solve the world's problems--if only this world's problems might be so simple.

I pray for you and yours the peace of God.

Sure.

Steady.

Sufficient.

Steadfast.

Soul filling.

Safe.

Salvation giving.

Peace.

God's peace. Provided in the form of His Son being sent from heaven to a tiny manger bed for our soul's delights and saving.

Merry Christmas!

REALLY SHOW IT

Today's reading: 1 John 1-5

"Dear children, let us stop just saying we love each other, let us really show it by our actions." 1 John 3:18 NLT

You won't know this if your only acquaintance of me is through this blog, but my face is a digital display of anything and everything I am feeling.

A literal digital display.

Nine times out of ten I will have complete control of my words and actions, but my facial expressions will completely divulge exactly how I feel in regards to any circumstance I find myself in.

That's where this verse hit me this morning.

For me to be Christlike, for me to love the world--the sinners and the saints--for me to show them God's love through me is going to have to be more than actions--it's going to also have to include this 'digital display' of mine.

What a challenge for me!

What a daunting task for one who is quickly approaching 50 years of having allowed her emotions to be expressed facially and thinking that it's okay!

What a job for God and I to tackle in an effort to really show His love flowing through me!

A GREAT REASON

Today's reading: 1 Peter-2 Peter

"...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 into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9 NLT

Want a reason to establish daily Bible reading and study as a routine? It's this verse right here!

I don't know about you, but not once yesterday, did anyone, not one single time, did anyone remind me of exactly who I am in Christ like this verse does.

Oh, they gave me other labels.

They pronounced other judgements on me.

They spoke other names upon me, either to my face or behind my back.

But to be called His chosen people, His priest, His nation, His very own possession? I needed that reminder.

I needed that nudge to keep on keeping on.

I needed that stimulation as to why He has called me such.

I needed that encouragement to my spirit when the other labels threaten to smother me.

I needed that lift when the waves of the world overwhelmed me.

It's not too late in this year to begin the practice of daily Bible reading. It's never too late! 

ROOT OF TEMPTATIONS

Today's reading: James 1-5

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

Whether it's the desire for one more Little Debbie brownie, to speak my mind in the most unloveliest of terms or to give in to what society says is okay...temptations are around me all the time.

The thing is, as much as I would like to blame satan for all of them, my Bible tells me in this verse that the root of my issue is--me.

It's my deep seated desires.

It's my wanting to satisfy me at all costs.

It's my 'put me first' attitude rising to the surface.

It's my little idol need when I don't see my great, big God at work at the moment I think He should be clearly evident in my life.

Ouch!

So, from now on when that temptation shows up on the scene, I know where to start pointing the finger, where to begin judging, where to start getting to the bottom of the issue...with little ole me!

CONTINUE

Today's reading: Hebrews 11-13

"Continue to love each other with true Christian love." Hebrews 13:1 NLT

Continue-to keep on.

Love-more than like. More than tolerate. 

Christian-based solely upon what Christ Himself would have done.

No matter the circumstances.

No matter the length of time required.

No matter who it is, their quirks, their attitudes, their demeanors.

Continue!

WAITING

Today's reading: Hebrews 5-8

"Then Abraham waited patiently, and he received what God had promised." Hebrews 6:15 NLT

Abraham waited a long time.

Eons, to you and me.

Twenty five years.

That's what we feel is an eternity.

With next day delivery, twenty four hour turn arounds and microwaves--waiting is not something we are accustomed to.

But he waited--patiently--and received what God promised.

A lesson for me, and maybe for you.

We can wait impatiently, and stir up ulcers and upset.

We can choose not to wait and stir up trouble in the form of Plan B and our own way.

Or we can go the same route Abraham chose and wait patiently and receive what God promised.

All that God promised.

Just what God promised.

In the proportions God promised.

ALL IN THE NAME

Today's reading: Hebrews 1-4

"So now Jesus can the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters." Hebrews 2:11 NLT

The strangest thing happened yesterday.

I was called by my maiden name--and I responded.

I haven't gone by my maiden in over thirty years, 10 months and 2 weeks.

But I still responded.

If only I would do that with the new name Christ gave me over forty-three years ago--holy.

I don't answer to that one as easily.

I don't feel as if I deserve the honor of that name, what so ever.

I cringe when I am called that--thinking of how unworthily I bear the title and the privilege.

And yet, that is what my Father calls me.

And Jesus is not ashamed to call me His sister.

This verse has me really thinking this morning about my name, the name God has given me as His child--holy.

WEHAT A WONDERFUL GIFT

Today's reading: Titus-Philemon

"This truth gives them the confidence of eternal life, which God promised them before the world began--and he cannot lie." Titus 1:2 NLT

Do you realize what a gift it is to serve, and be loved on, by a God who cannot lie?

Not that He chooses not to lie...

Or that He hasn't been caught in a lie...

God cannot lie.

Cannot.

What a world of blessings that opens up to us!

What a realm of eternity that provides us!

What a solid foundation that gives us to stand on!

What a mountain of faith that gives us to believe in!

What a reason that gives us to claim those promises for us--for our loved ones--for our future--for our present--for our pasts!

NOT MY JOB

Today's reading: 2 Timothy 1-4

"...Perhaps God will change those people's hearts, and they will believe the truth." 2 Timothy 2:25 NLT

News flash: I've been spending a lot of time and energy attempting to be God in a few folks' lives.

I've been thinking I can change them.

I've been working my tail end off attempting to work out the kinks in their hearts.

I've been putting in overtime trying to change their minds, desires and attitudes.

And, well, it's not my job.

It's God's...and God's alone.

It's a monumental task requiring a monumental God.

Not me.

Definitely not me!

EVEN THOUGH

Today's reading: 1 Timothy 1-6

"How thankful I am to Christ Jesus our Lord for considering me trustworthy and appointing me to serve him, even though I used to scoff at the name of Christ..." 1 Timothy 1:12-13 NLT

I'll admit, I read no farther than these verses this morning.

Because they broke me.

They stopped me in my tracks.

They spoke to me.

They 'had my name written all over them'.

How truly thankful I am that God is choosing to use me, to love me, to even associate with me, even though I used to...

You probably don't know my used to's, but I do.

Personally.

 

All of them.

Every dark one of them.

And that makes me even more thanks filled that He considers me for this task each morning, to share His Word with others each day, to carry His Gospel in my heart, to bear His name, to be washed in His Son's blood.

How thankful I am!

NO MATTER WHAT

Today's reading: 2 Thessalonians 1-3

"But the Lord is faithful..." 2 Thessalonians 3:3 NLT

Found on page 1,923 of my Bible. Nestled in the shorter letters of the apostles. In some of the often overlooked books. On this 348th day of a rough year, I'm reminded...

The Lord is faithful!

No matter the headlines.

Or the political unrest.

Or the social distancing we're all tired of.

The Lord is faithful!

TIS THE SEASON

Today's reading: 1 Thessalonians 1-5

"Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you. You are doing this already, and we encourage you to do so more and more." 1 Thessalonians 4:1 NLT

Tis the season for the 'more and more', wouldn't you agree?

For more love...

For more peace...

For more joy...

For more kindness...

For more caring...

For more forgiveness...

For more overlooking one's faults...

For more Christlikeness...

Even if we are doing it already, let's do it more and more!

2020

Today's reading: Colossians 1-4

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

I believe I have found the verse for 2020.

The verse God told us to prepare for.

The lifeline He knew we would need.

The words He knew we would need to heed.

The instruction He was sure would get us through what 2020 would hold for us.

Because amidst the turmoil, unrest, stress, inconvenience, fear, uncertainty, disarray, separation and disconnected worship--we had to depend upon our roots!

If your roots were not firmly anchored, you toppled this year.

If your truths were not secured in His Word, your foundation was unsettled this year.

If your world wasn't fixed completely on Him, your world was rocked this year...and not in a good way.

But in Him, we have stood.

In Him, we have continued to grow.

In Him, we have flourished.

Has it been tough? It sure has.

Has it been unlovely? I'll give that a hearty, Amen, it has!

But has He proven Himself faithful? YES!

Just like He had said He would.

That's going back to our roots.

CONSIDERATE

Today's reading: Philippians 1-4

"Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon." Philippians 4:5 NLT

What kind of difference might it make in your sphere of influence if you were considerate in all you did?

Kind in all your actions?

Nice in all your dealings?

Thought of others first in all your reactions?

Here's what I believe would happen...

People would notice.

Really notice!

Even if you are a nice person, they would notice a 'stepping up' of niceness.

Folks pay attention to these things.

It catches them off guard. They sometimes don't know what to do in response to nice things being done for them. They stop in their tracks to take note of it. 

But its in those times, those moments when you have their attention--you have the opportunity to plant a seed of godliness.

You might not share the Gospel with them, but you very well might leave the door open a crack for the next Christian who can.

Because--Jesus is coming soon!

MAKING ALLOWANCES

Today's reading: Ephesians 4-6

"Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love." Ephesians 4:2 NLT

The story goes like this...

A man rescued the runt pup from a large litter and raised it its entire life.

This dog depended upon this man for shelter, food, water and companionship. In return? In return, the dog gave this man all the love the dog's heart could muster.

They did everything together. 

They took walks. They took car rides. They hunted. They played in the park. The dog slept at the end of the man's bed. The dog had a special place beside the man's chair at the family's dinner table.

There was a love and a bond that was unspoken but very evident.

But one day, the dog didn't come when called.

The man looked for the dog and found that it had been hit by a car and was lying hurt in the road.

Their eyes met. The man could see that the dog was badly hurt and the dog could see the one he had depended upon for so many years.

The man's first response was to pick up the dog in an effort to rush him to the vet's office.

The dog's first response? The dog's first response was to snarl at the man and bite him.

Not out of anger. Not out of fear. But out of pain. A response to its own pain.

Pinterest puts it this way: Hurting people hurt people.

That's what our Scripture verse is telling us...

When we go to mingle amongst the crowd today, be careful, we don't know everyone's hurts. We don't know everyone's wounds. We don't know how deeply those standing next to us have been bruised.

Ask God to help you make allowance for everyone's faults, poor reactions and unkind words--out of your love for Him.

NOTICING THE COLON

Today's reading: Ephesians 1-3

"God's secret plan has now been revealed to us; it is a plan centered on Christ, designed long ago according to his good pleasure. And this is his plan: At the right time he will bring everything together under the authority of Christ--everything in heaven and on earth." Ephesians 1:9-10 NLT

I believe God allowed me to slow down enough to notice it, but it is there.

The colon. The grammatical sign that says this to me...

And this is the plan: Wait for it!

And this is the plan: Are you sitting down?

And this is the plan: Hang on to your hats!

And this is the plan: It's gonna be good!

And this is the plan: Get ready for what's to come!

This is the plan: At the right time He will.

END OF HARVEST

Today's reading: Galatians 4-6

"But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control..." Galatians 5:22-23 NLT

The farmers in our area are wrapping up a tiring harvest season.

They are finishing up fields, cleaning up combines, doing end of the year maintenance on tractors and preparing for a much needed rest before planting season arrives in just a few short months.

They are gauging their success by the truckloads of corn and beans that they have been able to haul off, sell and store in their barns and silos. Tangible results of their hard work.

It's a good reminder for me, and for us, that's it's also a good time for us to take a quick stock on our Christian harvest, ...

Are we producing fruit that is godly?

Checked your relationships lately?

Our conversations?

Our work ethics?

Our dependability?

Our levels of self-control?

What are we known for?

REFUSED TO LISTEN

Today's reading: Galatians 1-3

"...They wanted to force us, like slaves, to follow their Jewish regulations. But we refused to listen to them for a single moment..." Galatians 2:4-5 NLT

I read that portion of Scripture over a few times--just to make sure I read it correctly.

Some church folks were hounding Paul, as to how he was living for the Lord--Paul! Paul?

They were questioning his Christian walk. Critiquing his religious integrity. 

Paul, of all people!

What did Paul do?

He refused to listen to them.

He knew his heart and life were right with the Lord, so he refused to listen to them.

He just, refused to listen to them.

What an example for me to follow.

POWER AMONG YOU

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 10-13

"...Christ is not weak in his dealing with you; he is a mighty power among you." 2 Corinthians 13:3 NLT

Sure our Deliverer is in the stillness of a whisper and in the gentle touch of a breeze.

He is in the calming effects of a simple touch and in the stir of the heart.

But, in all reality, we need the reminder that He is powerful!

He is strong!

He is mighty!

He is a hurricane force wind. A roaring fire. A crashing wave. A thunderbolt. A mountain of the most monumental of proportions.

He is a mighty power. A life changing power. An eternal, heart saving power.

OUR TASK

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 5-9

"...And God has given us the task of reconciling people to him." 2 Corinthians 5:18 NLT

Do you know what it means to reconcile?

I was sure I knew what it meant in regards to 'reconciling' my checkbook balance to the bank statement I receive each month, but wanted to make sure.

To 'reconcile' means to restore relations between two parties.

Interesting.

Quite interesting that Paul felt it necessary to remind us of what our real job was--then, and now.

You see, our job is not to fix people.

Our job is not to rid the world of injustices.

Our job is not to right every wrong in the name of the Lord.

Our job is not to shout from the rooftop every person's sin we are aware of.

Our job, our task, is to reconcile people to the Lord.

To restore their relationship with God.

To get them to talking again.

To get them back to the table together.

To reintroduce them.

To lovingly remind them of what they had as a created masterpiece of His.

Sadly, too many of us have taken on jobs that are not our own and are leaving our own tasks undone.

 

JOYFULLY FIRM

Today's reading: 2 Corinthians 1-4

"...We want to work together with you so you will be full of joy as you stand firm in your faith." 2 Corinthians 1:24 NLT

If you've walked this blue/green orb as long as I have you've surely noticed the same three types of folks that came to my mind as I read this verse...

1.  The Christian who is so happy go-lucky that they reek joy and burp bubbles of goodness where ever they go. They are almost too much to handle. Too blessed to be believed.

2.  The Christian who is so staunch in their faith that a smile would crack their religious fortitude and the last time they laughed was when they were 'walking down sin's highway'. They are Pharisaical in composure and 'Sad'-uccacal (not so sure that's a word, but it's in reference to the Sadducees) in demeanor. They gave up joy for salvation.

3.  The Christian who is joyfully firm in their walk with the Lord! The believer who has the most fun living the life of a Christ-follower. The kind of person who wants everyone to walk the faith walk, and is so inviting in nature that others follow Jesus from following them. Their talk and their walk are infectious--and I mean in the good way!

I want to be the third kind of Christian.

You see, I believe Christ laughed.

I believe He enjoyed life. He had friends.

He believed wholeheartedly in God--and in the joy knowing Him brought into a life.

So, friends, let's stand firm in our faith joyfully.

Like, I believe, Jesus did.

NOW AND THEN

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 14-16

"And if we have hope in Christ only for this life, we are the most miserable people in the world." 1 Corinthians 15:19 NLT

What a Christ we serve!

He is for us now...praise God!

And He is preparing us for an eternity with Him...Hallelujah!

But we, Christians, cannot focus entirely on one or the other at any given time.

We cannot live so wrapped up in today that our hopes and dreams of heaven don't spur us on, and yet we cannot be 'so heavenly minded that we are no earthly good'.

It's a balancing act for sure.

A teeter-totter we are riding while we await our eternal homes.

Are you enjoying the ride?

LOOK FOR IT

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 10-13

"But remember that the temptations that come into your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will keep the temptation from becoming so strong that you can't stand up against it. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you will not give in to it." 1 Corinthians 10:13 NLT

Boy, oh boy, did I need this reminder!

God's always got a way for me to step above, over and out of the way of temptations--I've just got to be looking for it.

When I want to speak my mind...He gently reminds me to pause, check to see if what I'm going to say is firmly and lovingly rooted in His truth.

When I want to cave back into old ways and old habits...He quietly brings to mind all the heartache He has walked me through shedding rusty chains of addiction and old behaviors.

When I want to give in to unhealthy choices for my temple...He lovingly reminds me that it isn't really mine, but His--one He is wanting to use for His purposes and His glory.

When I want to scream, cuss, fly off the handle, stomp my feet, react in worldly ways, respond to hurtful things, cry out in anger...He nods His head and says, 'I know just how you feel'...and I know He does...much more and much more intently than I will ever know...and I know He chose to honor His Father in His responses.

So when I look for it, He always provides a way out.

Always.

LOVE THEM

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 5-9

"...While knowledge may make us feel important, it is love that really builds up the church." 1 Corinthians 8:1 NLT

While I busy myself checking off Bible reading, church attendance, Scripture memorization and quiet time--am I remembering to love others?

While I quote Bible verses, state Biblical facts, tout moral rights and wrongs--am I remembering to love others?

While I condone and condemn specific behaviors, support good causes and let my voice be heard where I believe it needs to be--am I remembering to love others?

While I write my checks, drop my change in the red buckets and fill the shoeboxes with trinkets and toys--am I remembering to love others?

Am I remembering to love others...

YET

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 1-4

"I know very well how foolish the message of the cross sounds to those who are on the road to destruction. But we who are being saved recognize this message as the very power of God." 1 Corinthians 1:18 NLT

Reading this verse reminds me of one of my absolute favorite words in the world...YET.

It's powerful.

It's potential-packed.

It's hope-filled.

This verse tells us that.

The message of the Gospel sounds like a crazy one until God opens the eyes, ears, minds and hearts of the one needing to hear it.

For those of us who have accepted this gift of salvation, we don't understand why anyone wouldn't want it. Why they wouldn't accept it for themselves.

It's only because God hasn't revealed it to them YET.

He hasn't broken their hearts to accept it YET.

He hasn't allowed all the puzzle pieces of their lives to fall into place so He will receive all the glory YET.

He hasn't broken down their proud minds YET.

He hasn't spoken to them personally and intimately YET.

So keep praying. Keep believing. Keep trusting. Your part in this is not over YET.

JUST A REMINDER

Today's reading: Romans 11-14

"Oh, what a wonderful God we have! How great are his riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his methods!" Romans 11:33 NLT

I don't know about you, but I needed this reminder.

Yes, just one day after Thanksgiving.

With the good dishes still waiting to be put away in their reserved cabinet...

With leftovers filling the fridge...

With my side aching from the laughter from yesterday's Zoom meeting with family...

With a still full belly from too many slices of pumpkin pie...

With turkeys and pumpkins to put away and Christmas trees and nativities to put out...

I needed the reminder that He is good!

He is always good.

His ways are perfect, whether or not they are perfectly understood by me.

His blessings pour into my life like a river, and not just in the month of November or just on a Thursday in late autumn.

Oh, what a wonderful God we have!

EVERYTHING

Today's reading: Romans 8-10

"And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." Romans 8:28 NLT

Today I'm thankful for 'everything'.

'Everything' God understands and I don't.

'Everything' He understands and I won't.

'Everything' He sees and I can't.

He allows 'everything' to work together for my good when I continue to follow Him, trust Him, believe in Him and love Him.

Some of it may stink. Some of it may hurt. Some of it may inconvenience the stuffing out of me. But when I take 'everything' and carefully place it in His apt hands, He molds it, handles it and fashions it into something I will praise Him for.

(I was reminded of this verse as I was baking my pumpkin pies last night...and here it is in my reading this morning.

Ever tasted pumpkin on its own--ICK!

Evaporated milk separately--YUCK!

Ginger, cinnamon, cloves by the spoonful--EWWW!

A simple egg--BLAND!

Sugar--sure we can handle the sugar, but on its own it wouldn't make a very good pie.

Mix them all together, stir them vigorously, put them through the heat of a fiery furnace and let them cool--wait for them--and you have a grand dessert.)

NEVER WAVERED

Today's reading: Romans 4-7

"Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God. He was absolutely convinced God was able to do anything he promised." Romans 4:20-21 NLT

The grayer Abraham's head got, the more he believed God was going to make him the father of many nations.

The more whispering and gossip there was around town about 'the old fool's crazy notions', the more Abraham trusted in God's plan to bring him a son.

The more months Sarah went knowing she wasn't expecting, the more he knew God could be trusted to fulfil His promise.

And in the waiting--and in the believing--Abraham brought glory to God by believing. By simply believing.

I want to do the same.

PRIVILEGE & AUTHORITY

Today's reading: Romans 1-3

"Through Christ, God has given us the privilege and authority to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them, so that they will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name." Romans 1:5 NLT

Paul could have mentioned any of the many perks Christianity provides in this verse...

The privilege of eternity?

The privilege of adoption?

The privilege of salvation?

A mansion in heaven?

The power to pray and have God's attention?

But he mentions in this verse the privilege and authority of telling the Good News.

And he mentions it because of the fruit it produces--more children to tell of the Good News.

Of all the benefits you have of being a child of God, do you consider being able to share your salvation story with another as one of your most prized? Most valuable? Most kingdom-promoting?

MAKING IT PERSONAL

Today's reading: Acts 27-28

"But we want to hear what you believe..." Acts 28:22 NLT

Paul stood before those who would condemn him or release him based upon his testimony.

You do, too.

The people you come in contact with today want to know what you know about Jesus.

Your personal story.

Not your pastor's words...or your Sunday School teacher's words...or your mom and dad's words...

They want to know what you believe He has done for you.

Because that gives them hope as to what He can do for them.

NEEDED THE REMINDER

Today's reading: Acts 24-26

"Two years went by in this way; then Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And because Felix wanted to gain favor with the Jewish leaders, he left Paul in prison." Acts 24:27 NLT

As I have recently been moaning and groaning my way through an unanswered prayer, I consider this portion on Scripture to be just the reminder I needed.

You see, I needed to be reminded that Paul, one appointed by the Lord...

One doing what God had asked...

One serving with all his ever-loving heart...

One who was attempting to do all he could for the right reasons...

One who had completely given his life over to the Way, to the One...

Was having to wait.

And not just for sun up.

Not just for a thunderstorm to pass.

Not just for the day to end.

Not just for a specific hour to come and go.

He was waiting for the Lord to act on his behalf--and in this instance, it was taking at least two years in a prison cell.

But if it was going to be what God wanted, when God wanted, touching the lives of who God wanted and be as big as God wanted it to be--it would require a wait.

So Paul waited.

And so will I.

BE ENCOURAGED

Today's reading: Acts 22-23

"That night the Lord appeared to Paul and said, Be encouraged, Paul..." Acts 23:11 NLT

While in the fortress of his accusers, God spoke to Paul.

In the dark of night, God spoke to Paul.

In the middle of a storm brought on by serving the Lord, God spoke to Paul.

Don't think He won't speak to you--listen for Him--listen carefully!

A BETTER WORD

Today's reading: Acts 20-21

"On the first day of the week, we gathered to observe the Lord's Supper. Paul was preaching; and since he was leaving the next day, he talked until midnight. The upstairs room where we met was lighted with many flickering lamps. As Paul spoke on and on, a young man named Eutychus, sitting on the windowsill, became very drowsy. Finally, he sank into a deep sleep and fell three stories to his death below. Paul went down, bent over him, and took him into his arms. Don't worry, he said, he's alive! Then they all went back upstairs and ate the Lord's Supper together. And Paul continued talking to them until dawn; then he left. Meanwhile, the young man was taken home unhurt, and everyone was greatly relieved." Acts 20:7-12 NLT

Words intrigue me.

The power in them.

The definition of them.

The emotion that can be expressed through them.

And sometimes, as in this account--the lack of being able to find just the right word to convey the right tone.

Take the last word of today's text, for example...

...and everyone was greatly relieved.

I would say, in regards to most of the folks in that upper room, this summed up how they felt, if they didn't know young Eutychus. 'Relieved' young man hadn't lost his life. 'Relieved' their prayer meeting hadn't ended on a bad note. 'Relieved' their next day wouldn't be spent at a funeral, making the funeral casserole, wearing the scratchy funeral clothes. Yes, 'relieved', was probably the right word for them.

But was it the proper word in regards to Eutychus? How he was feeling? After the experience he'd just had? I mean, this was more than just falling out of bed. More than just rolling off the couch after a bad dream. Three stories? 'Relieved'? I don't think so! This young boy, even if he were a teenager who was going through the stage of refusing to express his emotions was ecstatic to be alive! Thrilled to not be dead! Over the moon to not be just a memory!

And from a momma's perspective? (Sorry, I just can not not go there--even if she isn't mentioned.) Imagine the boy's mom. Do you think 'relieved' summed up her emotions? Whether she was there or not, whether she witnessed the fall or heard about it second hand? Whether she watched helplessly or stood over his body as Paul prayed God's life back into it? 'Relieved' clearly would not have been the proper word to explain her feelings.

This boy was freed from death that evening.

Redeemed from eternity until a later time.

Liberated to continue in his God given talents for a while longer.

Rescued in a way that would point others to know more about God's power.

And the people were 'relieved'? 'Relieved'?

Sadly, it's kind of like us when we hear someone is saved/born again.

It's not celebrated. It's not applauded. It's not something that brings about joy and excitement and enthusiasm. It gives us...relief.

Shame on us!

Wow, these few verses have surely spoken to my heart and head this morning!

MORE

Today's reading: Acts 18-19

"Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well, had just arrived in Ephesus from Alexandria in Egypt. He had been taught the way of the Lord and talked to others with great enthusiasm and accuracy about Jesus. However, he knew only about John's baptism. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him preaching boldly in the synagogue, they took him aside and explained the way of God more accurately." Acts 18:24-26 NLT

I believe these three verses might possibly sum up why I have so dearly fallen head over heels in love with the Word of God.

It's alive.

It's active.

It's far reaching.

In this passage alone we find that the Bible, when handled and explained correctly by godly men and women, can go more deeply, reach much higher and exceed our understanding.

Isn't that amazing?

No matter how many times we pick it up and crack open it's pages, we can be amazed!

No matter the number of times we hear of an account in we can be transformed!

No matter how often we read and re-read a Psalm it can calm us and set our minds more firmly the Lord!

No matter how many times we read through the account of the crucifixion we can still be stirred by the amount of love Jesus showed for us!

Are you getting into it often enough? Are you allowing it to seep into your pores? To change your heart and mind? To get under your skin? To upset your apple cart?

NOT UP TO ME

Today's reading: Acts 16-17

"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 Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. A she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. She was baptized along with other members of her household..." Acts 16:13-15 NLT

Paul and Silas followed the Holy Spirit's leading to a riverbank.

They followed God's directions in what to say.

They trusted in who God would have assembled that day to hear their words.

Then...and this is the lesson for us all...they trusted God to open up their hearts.

That part is not up to us!

It's not our presentation that will turn them around.

It's not our power point that will persuade them.

It's not our five-point message or perfectly timed jokes.

It's not how well we interlace short stories in to our road map down the Roman's road.

It's only, ONLY, up to God to open their hearts to hear, understand, believe and accept His Word.

Sure, we have a part to play.

We get to obey in speaking the Good News to whomever He asks us to present it to.

But what's not up to us is not up to us!

STRENGTHEN A BELIEVER

Today's reading: Acts 14-15

"After preaching the Good News in Derbe and making many disciples, Paul and Barnabas returned again to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch of Pisidia, where they strengthened the believers..." Acts 14:21 NLT

I'm not so sure this verse would have caught my eye had I not read the two verses preceding it.

I mean, I knew Paul and Barnabas preached the Good News.

I knew they traveled from town to town doing it.

I knew they were encouragers.

But here is what made this verse jump off the page at me...

"Now some Jews arrived from Antioch and Iconium and turned the crowd into a murderous mob. They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, apparently dead. But as the believers stood around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he left with Barnabas for Derbe." Acts 14:29-20 NLT

I know there may be a bit of a time lapse between verse 20 and 21, but let's be really honest here--would you have gone right back to where they had attempted to stone you?

To where they had wanted to kill you?

To where they thumbed their nose at the Good News you were bringing them--for their own good?

I can imagine Paul standing before the believers, in an effort to encourage them and strengthen their resolve, bruised and possibly still bandaged.

I can imagine him haltingly stepping up to the podium when it was his turn to speak, still sore from the beating he had taken.

I can imagine him possibly attempting to look at his speaker's notes through his swollen and blackened eyes.

All in an effort to encourage the believers.

And I have to ask myself--what am I doing to encourage another Christian in their walk?

Bruised, knocked down, bloodied, damaged, bumped around, banged up, no matter what I feel I am--am I attempting to strengthen another in their faith?

FREEDOM

Today's reading: Acts 12-13

"Brothers, listen! In this man Jesus there is forgiveness for your sins. Everyone who believes in him is freed from all guilt and declared right with God--something the Jewish law could never do." Acts 13:38-39 NLT

As Paul stood speaking to this group of devout Jews this day in Antioch, he offered them a freedom none of them had ever tasted before.

A freedom some of them thought they had because they had shown up for service that day.

A freedom some of them thought they had earned by keeping all the traditions and practices written down for them to follow.

A freedom some of them thought they had inherited through DNA and ancestry.

A freedom some of them thought they had received upon sliding into the priestly garments and tassle-embellished robes their roles required them to wear.

But as they listened to Paul, they realized they were still chained. Locked up. Imprisoned. Held captive.

Only Jesus frees us from our sins.

Only His blood releases us from guilt.

Only the working of the Cross proves to be a pathway for us to have a right relationship with God.

Not deeds. Not traditions. Not specific acts of religion. Not inheritance. Not church membership.

Only Jesus.

Only Jesus.

AN INDEX CARD KIND OF VERSE

Today's reading: Acts 10-11

"Then Peter replied, I see very clearly that God doesn't show partiality." Acts 10:34 NLT

I joke with the gals in my class about my addiction to index/recipe cards.

I use them for just about everything.

Grocery lists. Phone messages. Book markers. Notes to my guys. Reminders.

But most importantly, I use them when I have a verse that I need to keep before me.

I write out the verse and post the index card in as many places as I can.

You may find an index card on my computer desk, above my kitchen sink, on the steering wheel of the car, on the scale, on the refrigerator--well, you get the picture!

This verse this morning, I'm deciding right now, needs put on my bathroom mirror.

It will be there for me to read when I'm feeling low and undeserving--God shows no partiality!

It will be there on the days when I'm feeling a little more than--God shows no partiality!

You see, I'm ONLY a child of God because of His grace.

I'm ONLY saved because of His mercy.

I'm ONLY redeemed from my sins because of His extraordinary love for me.

I'm ONLY living with hope because He shows no partiality.

And I need that daily reminder.

And if a little white index card can help me remember that, then that's what I'll use.

CELEBRATING

Today's reading: Acts 8-9

"When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away. The eunuch never saw him again but went on his way rejoicing." Acts 8:39 NLT

Wait a minute...

You mean to tell me this new believer...

This new to Christianity...

This brand-new to the church guy didn't camp out where he was baptized, pull up a chair and refuse to budge from where he was because he didn't understand where in the world Philip went?

He didn't want all the answers explained to him, with chapter and verse reference cited?

He didn't want the fully annotated Bible study printed and in his hands before he would go any further in his faith walk?

He didn't.

He knew he believed in the words Philip shared with him. He knew what had been explained to him in the scrolls he had been reading. He knew the Lord had spoken to his heart. He knew he was different. So, regardless of the circumstances with Philip--the albeit unusual circumstances with Philip--he went away rejoicing in his salvation.

Even in the unknown and unexplained parts of it!

There are several hundred pages of my Bible that leave me scratching my head, but I stand and celebrate the pages I do understand-God created, God loves, God sent Jesus, Jesus lived, Jesus loved, Jesus died, Jesus rose again, Jesus lives and waits for me in heaven.

That's reason to celebrate and move forward.

The other stuff? The other stuff God and I can uncover bits and pieces at a time as I walk with Him--or while I am in heaven!

FOCUSED

Today's reading: Acts 6-7

"But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily upward into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing the place of honor at God's right hand." Acts 7:55 NLT

Stephen wasn't standing in a quiet, lovely Temple.

Or in a beautiful, contemplative prayer garden.

He wasn't calmly camped out in his prayer chair on an early morning.

Stephen was standing in the middle of an angry mob intent on stoning him for preaching the Good News.

He was being shouted at for proclaiming Jesus' birth, life, death and resurrection.

His life was in danger.

His ministry was being pulled apart by threads.

His testimony was being tested verse by verse.

And still he chose to see the Lord.

He made the effort to look for God.

He stepped over and above his circumstances just to keep his eyes on Jesus.

I'm ashamed to say I don't always do the same. I get bogged down by the goings-on around me. I get distracted by the happenings in my own little world. I allow myself to get overwhelmed by the here-and-now instead of overjoyed by the what's-to-come.

I've got to keep my eyes on Jesus--no matter what!

FROM ONE WHO TALKS A LOT

Today's reading: Acts 4-5

"So they called the apostles back in and told them never again to speak or teach about Jesus. But Peter and John replied, Do you think God wants us to obey you rather than him? We cannot stop telling about the wonderful things we have seen and heard." Acts 4:18-20 NLT

If you think I'm word-y when it comes to what I type, you should be in a face-to-face conversation with me!

I'm a bit of a talker!

A chatterbox!

A discourser!

But this morning as I think about what Peter and John were told by the members of the religious high council, I'm given pause...

If I were told not to talk about Jesus.

About what He had done for me.

About the hope He holds.

About the salvation He offers.

About the light He gives for dark lives and dark paths.

I truly wonder if those listening to anything I have to say would hear anything different?

Could I keep quiet?

For the life of me, I don't think so!

THE BOOK OF ACTS

Today's reading: Acts 1-3

"Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church--about three thousand in all. They joined with the other believers and devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and fellowship, sharing in the Lord's Supper and in prayer." Acts 2:41-42 NLT

I've heard the book of Acts referred to as 'the book of the Acts of the apostles'.

I like that term.

I like the thought of tagging it with that title. 

The title stating all the power Jesus had left them with. The title giving the reader a glimpse into what they will get themselves into as they open the book. The title giving away all the action packed excitement the pages hold.

But this morning that title has me thinking.

If a story were written about my life, or about yours if you care to think about it with me, what might it be titled?

Would it be so grand?

Would it be filled with excitement?

Would it be filled with God-given miracles, God-led escapades, God-driven revivals, God-planted dreams that grew into fruition?

Would it titled 'the book of Acts of a child led by God'?

CONTINUE TO LOOK

Today's reading: John 20-21

"Mary was standing outside the tomb crying, and as she wept, she stooped and looked in." John 20:11 NLT

While she was crying, she continued to look for Jesus.

Still in mourning, she sought Him.

In grief, she searched for her Savior.

Do we do the same?

Or do we just sit and wait for Him to come to us?

Do we curl up in the fetal position and cry ourselves to sleep waiting for His rescue--again?

Maybe we should be grasping for Him with our last bit of hope.

Or fighting for Him with our ounce of energy.

Or looking earnestly for Him through our teary eyes.

Or running after Him even with our fists clenched and our minds clouded with questions.

No matter what, we should be looking for Him--because He promises to be found! 

QUESTIONS

Today's reading: John 18-19

"Jesus replied, Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?" John 18:34 NLT

Inquiring minds want to know.

In this instance, Jesus was asking Pilate if his questions were of personal nature or of political basis.

Jesus wanted to know if Pilate was seeking to know Him better or looking for a way to appease those wanting to trap Him.

You see, the Holy Trinity welcomes questions.

It's understood that questions are a part of the growing process. A part of the learning process. A part of the faith process. A part of a healthy relationship.

So ask God your questions--but carry on as you do. Trust Him.

Don't just refuse to budge until He gives you an answer because sometimes the answers are far too complicated for us to understand!

HE PRAYED FOR ME

Today's reading: John 16-17

"I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me because of their testimony." John 17:20 NLT

Jesus prayed for me.

In this portion of Scripture...

In the book of John...

Written in red so I'd know it was His words, no one else's...

I see that Jesus Himself prayed for me...

You see, I am one who came after His disciples.

One who believes because of His disciples.

Someone who has been saved by the grace of God because of the testimonies I have heard.

Jesus prayed for me.

And, child of God, He prayed for you, too.

TODAY'S GIFT

Today's reading: John 13-15

"I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give isn't like the peace the world gives. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27 NLT

I'm going to guess that you don't have a gift sitting around from Christmas that remains unopened.

A tinseled package that you haven't broken into.

A gift bag tagged with your name that hasn't been gotten into.

Of course not, gifts are made to be opened--and opened, usually, when they are presented to us.

So, why then, are you not opening up His gift of peace?

Why are you allowing the world events, current circumstances and things going on around you to rob you of the peace He gives you?

All while staring at the gift He gives His children. A gift the world cannot offer.

MORE

Today's reading: John 11-12

"Many people, including some of the Jewish leaders, believed in him. But they wouldn't admit it to anyone because of their fear that the Pharisees would expel them from the synagogue. For they loved human praise more than the praise of God." John 12:42-43 NLT

I'm going to be so bold as to say I would insert any one of our names into this portion of Scripture and it ring true.

There is something each and every one of us is being asked to do, but we are hesitating because...

-It hasn't been done that way before.

-It might hurt someone's feelings.

-It could possibly leave someone out.

-It might go against what everyone else is doing.

-It might shake things up a bit.

-It might cause someone else to feel the slightest bit uncomfortable.

-It could be construed as being religious and not tolerant.

-It might not get an applause from the crowd.

WHERE IS HE?

Today's reading: John 9-10

"They asked, Who healed you? What happened? He told them, The man they call Jesus made mud and smoothed it over my eyes and told me, Go to the pool of Siloam and wash off the mud. I went and washed, and now I can see! Where is he now? they asked. I don't know, he replied." John 9:10-12 NLT

This man, who had been blind since birth.

Who had never seen the sun shine, his mother's face, the yellow of a dandelion or the cracks in the stone sidewalk at the front of his childhood home--could now see.

His life had completely changed. And with that change arose a problem.

The problem?

The problem wasn't the quizzical church leaders who were hounding him about the healing.

The problem wasn't the new life he would try to lead.

The problem wasn't even the nagging question as to whether or not the blindness would eventually return.

The problem was--he had already lost sight of the One who had healed him.

INSIDE A CIRCLE OF STONES

Today's reading: John 7-8

"Then Jesus stood up again and said to her, Where are your accusers? Didn't even one of them condemn you? No, Lord, she said. And Jesus said, Neither do I. Go and sin no more." John 8:10-11 NLT

I don't know if it was because of the customs of the time, or because the other accused was one of their own, but only one of the guilty parties was dragged before Jesus that day and accused of adultery.

But if you will give me a bit of license here, I want to place us in the story in a way that quite possibly you have never seen/heard/felt/experienced it before.

Imagine you are the half-dressed woman standing beside a soft-spoken rabbi inside a circle of accusatory, finger-pointing religious men.

Imagine your hair mussed and out of place, outside of its customary veil, flowing wildly in the Jerusalem winds.

Imagine your eyeliner smeared all over your face from the tears you've cried out of fear and rage and embarrassment.

Imagine the stares that have seemingly bored holes all the way through to your soul from onlookers and accusers and passers-by.

Imagine the shouting, the unkind words, the derogatory comments, the labels she was being given by complete strangers who felt they had the right to pass judgement on the proceedings.

Imagine you finally opening your eyes and sweeping away the locks of hair to notice that in an awkward moment of silence you are standing inside a circle of stones.

Stones that have been dropped by your accusers as they quietly slipped away convicted by their own sins Stones they were unable to throw at you.

Do you think that picture etched a permanent place in that woman's mind? 

Is it possible she never ever forgot the ring of rocks that surrounded her and her Savior that day?

Would she have been a little like me and grabbed one of those stones as a tactile momento of what had happened for her as she headed home?

Do you think that moment changed her life? Her future? Her choices from that point on?

WHAT AM I FOLLOWING?

Today's reading: John 5-6

"After this, Jesus crossed over the Sea of Galilee, also known as the Sea of Tiberias. And a huge crowd kept following him wherever he went, because they saw his miracles as he healed the sick." John 6:1 NLT

Let me ask you the question I was 'asked' this morning in my heart and soul...

Not because I am being nosey...

Not because I am so proud of the answer I was able to give...

Not because I need to know your answer before we can continue in our friendship...

But because it really sparked a conversation between the Lord and myself and I pray it does the same with you and Him...

Are you following the miracles or the Man? 

Or to put it other ways--The blessings or the Bless-er?  The gifts or the Giver? The healing or the Healer?

I AM A SAMARITAN

Today's reading: John 3-4

"The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?" John 4:9 NLT

I'm not Samaritan by race or nationality, but I get where this gal was coming from when she questioned Jesus' kindness towards her.

You see, He has been too kind to me--considering how very much He knows about me.

Some mornings when the moonbeams shine through the miniblinds onto the bedspread, I have to ask--Why would You do that for me, Lord? I did nothing but complain about yesterday--and now this blessing?

Some times while sitting in my prayer chair and He spreads open His Word and points out something grand and glorious and brilliant for me to see and ponder and write about. Why would He share that with me? Who am I that He would unwrap that gift? Wouldn't someone else be more eloquent? More educated? More understanding of its value?

Some days when I forget how very much He has forgiven me and I feel pressed and stretched and put out to forgive another of their minor infractions against me? Why would He have done all that for me

Some evenings when, only by His grace, I can stand and try to make the choice between what to cook for supper by what's bountifully filling my fridge? Why would He have blessed me so abundantly when I have forgotten too many times to thank Him?

Some days when I am paid a compliment of godly value and don't know how to respond. Because I know, boy do I know, how I've failed to mention my Father in my words of that day--or that week. Why would He still allow Himself to be seen in me?

I know how the Samaritan gal felt as she questioned the fact that He even spoke to her that day. I get it, I really and truly do!

Do you?

BENEFITS

Today's reading: John 1-2

"We have all benefited from the rich blessings he brought to us--one gracious blessing after another." John 1:16 NLT

I couldn't think of a better verse to start this November with than the one that jumped off the page this morning.

This month of thanks.

This season of gratitude.

This beginning of the holiday rush.

We have all benefited from the rich blessings God has brought to us--one gracious blessing after another!

HIS AUTHORITY

Today's reading: Luke 23-24

"With my authority, take this message of repentance to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: There is forgiveness of sins for all who turn to me." Luke 24:47 NLT

It's not a pastor's note written on church letterhead.

It's not the signed by a state legislature petition.

It's not a dictum signed by someone residing over the Oval Office.

It's not a matter of obtaining an international passport, admission onto foreign soil or approval by dignitaries who have been asked through translators.

God has granted us permission to spread His Good News to all the world.

And we start in our homes.

In our neighborhoods.

In our workplaces.

But it's all done with His authority.

THIS

Today's reading: Luke 21-22

"This will be your opportunity to tell them about me." Luke 21:13 NLT

Maybe, just maybe...

This isn't the time to be declaring your opinion on red or blue, Republican or Democrat, liberal or not.

Maybe it's your opportunity to tell them about God.

Maybe it isn't the time to voice your concerns about the pro's and con's of mandates in regards to wearing face masks and other suggested health issues in regards to this pandemic. Even if you feel your rights are being infringed upon.

Maybe it's your opportunity to tell them about God.

Maybe it isn't the time to tell them what you really think about COVID-19.

Maybe it's your opportunity to tell them about God.

This may be the time He has set aside for you to share more about Him than about your opinion on anything going on around you, in your community, in the world or on the media's radar.

WHY AM I GOING

Today's reading: Luke 19-20

"After that, he taught daily in the Temple, but the leading priests, the teachers of the religious law, and the other leaders of the people began planning how to kill him. But they could think of nothing, because all the people hung on every word he said." Luke 19:47-48 NLT

Of the two types of people in the crowded Temple, which would you have been?

A) One which had arrived with a plan in mind? A set goal which you were going to reach before the final 'amen'? What you had determined to get out of the day's service?

B) One which hung on the very words of Jesus? Who at the end of service couldn't believe the time had flown as it had? Wasn't ready for the service to end? Someone who had worshipped in the presence of God?

News flash: If you attend a Bible believing church, God will be in your midst this Sunday.

Addendum to the news flash: You determine, not your music minister or your pastor or the crying baby in the pew behind you, what you are going to get out of the service.

SMALL MATTERS

Today's reading: Luke 16-18

"Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones..." Luke 16:10 NLT

Ouch!

What if Jesus had said...

'If you aren't faithful in the waiting, you won't be faithful in the having.'?

Are you so busy expecting, praying for and planning around the 'next big thing' in your life that you are stepping over all God is doing for you right now?

Too many of us are.

We barely tolerate today in anticipation for tomorrow. A better tomorrow. A brighter tomorrow. A shinier tomorrow. An easier tomorrow.

I don't think that's being faithful.

Faith is believing every moment of today has been hand delivered to us by God for us to see God in and for us to use for the world to see God reflected in us.

Is that what you're doing with today?

Every moment of today?

Even the smallest moments?

Because, you see, the smallest moments of time (seconds and minutes) eventually add up and make up the largest moments (months and years) of our lives spent serving God.

"Unless you are faithful in the small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones..."

FILL-IN-THE-BLANKS

Today's reading: Luke 13-15

"Great crowds were following Jesus. He turned around and said to them, If you want to be my followers you must love me more than*your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters--yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:25-26 NLT

*you must hate

My Life Application Bible has a small asterisk after the phrase more than that refers me to a footnote that refers to a more literal Greek translation.

That footnote gave me pause this morning.

Not because I am a student of the Greek language.

Or a deep theologian of translations of the Bible.

But because for a brief moment, I thought about what I might place in the space after the asterisk...how I might fill-in-the-blank.

If you want to be my followers you must love me more than _____.

Oh, friends, I came up with a grocery list of things I could insert.

Loved ones like my child, my husband, my parents, my sisters?

Friends, especially the praying ones I depend upon and the ones I hope to have lean upon me? 

Emotions like happiness, pride, perfection?

Creature comforts, like comfort, do I love comfort more than I love Jesus? 

Personal victories. Would I prefer to be right over being holy? Would I choose to be well known over being known as His? Do I crave applause from people or from Him?

I filled in some blanks this morning in my prayer time with God and discovered I had a few things to put aside if I were truly to be one of His disciples.

LOOK AT THE LILIES

Today's reading: Luke 11-12

"Look at the lilies and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God care so wonderfully for flower that are here today and gone tomorrow, won't he more surely care for you? You have so little faith!" Luke 12:27-28 NLT

If it were spring or summer I'd glance out the window of our little farmhouse and catch a glimpse of the daylilies growing around our trees or the peonies budding out in their crooked rows.

I'd notice how beautifully they are dressed. Each petal created and placed by God. Carefully color matched for the specific flower.

But it's mid-autumn. My flowers are done. Most of them have been mowed down, mulched or their foliage marched off to the compost pile for the year.

It's hard to admire the underground roots of my perennials that are awaiting spring's arrival.

But that's what I'm doing this morning as I ponder this verse.

You see, God's as much in the preservation of roots as He is in the grand display of showy flowers!

His care carries us through seasons of dormancy as well as seasons of fruitfulness.

His love allows us to take in nutrients in order that we might, at the proper time and for His glory, spend our energies serving Him well.

I needed the reminder this morning that the lilies are far more than the showy display of petals at the end of a long willowy green stem!

Maybe, just maybe, you did, too.

ENABLED

Today's reading: Luke 9-10

"But Jesus said, You feed them..." Luke 9:13 NLT

If God has asked us to do it, He has given us the ability to do it.

To go out and tell the Good News.

To love our neighbors.

To obey His commandments.

To have joy.

To move mountains

To believe without doubting.

Impossible, you say?

Kind of like feeding 5000 with a little boy's lunch?

ALWAYS AWAKE

Today's reading: Luke 7-8

"The disciples woke him up, shouting, Master, Master, we're going to drown!.." Luke 7:24 NLT

I'm always thinking how exciting it would be to have walked on earth with Jesus.

To have sandaled up to stroll along with Him along the Sea of Galilee.

To have nibbled on some of the bread and fish He miraculously produced from a little boy's lunch.

To have sat at His feet and heard His parables first hand.

I've always assumed my faith would have been stronger. Would have been deeper. Would have been more sincere.

But this morning, when I read this verse, I realized something...

The Master that walks with me each day...

The Lord that speaks to me each morning through His Word...

The Creator that touches the morning sky with His paintbrush...

The Sustainer that provides me with joy and peace and grace every daybreak...

The Savior that washed clean my sins...

The Great Shepherd who leads me beside still waters and guides me through dark valleys...

Doesn't need to be awakened. For He never sleeps. Ever.

AMAZING THINGS

Today's reading: Luke 5-6

"And immediately, as everyone watched, the man jumped to his feet, picked up his mat, and went home praising God. Everyone was gripped with wonder and awe. And they praise God, saying over and over again, We have seen amazing things today." Luke 5:25-26 NLT

If I have seen the night's darkness turn to dawn, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have watched the wisps of steam rise from a farm pond on a crisp October morning, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have found a rosebud still blooming after a killing frost, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have seen the parent/neighbors across the field stirring in the early morning hours, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have honked at a friend in a passing car and they give me a wave and a smile, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have waited on a curmudgeon codger and kept my cool because I chose to look for God's image in his eyes, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have witnessed a wisp of a cloud on a robin's egg blue sky, I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

If I have look into His Word and been reminded of all of Him that is around me--I have seen an amazing thing and should praise God.

I am choosing to praise God!

WILDERNESS EXPERIENCES

Today's reading: Luke 3-4

"Then Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan River. He was led by the Spirit to go out into the wilderness, where the Devil temped him for forty days. He ate nothing all that time and was very hungry." Luke 4:1-2 NLT

Friend, our enemy would like us to think that as God's children, we're going to skip merrily from one mountaintop experience to the next.

That every morning we're going to wake up to a well lit path lined with rosebushes removed of thorns.

That there will never be rainy days or stormy nights.

But as we see in today's text--that's just not life. That's not how we will best discover how deep our relationship with God is. Those kinds of days are not where our faith will grow deep roots.

We will sometimes be led by God into circumstances that seem to require more than we have to offer.

We will sometimes be taken into valleys so dark we cannot see our own hands in front of our faces.

We will at times be in boats surrounded by whitecaps and gale-force winds.

We will find ourselves, full of the Holy Spirit and serving wholeheartedly where He has asked us to serve, smack dab in the middle of a wilderness situation--without food.

But we will have God.

We will always have God.

I believe that's the point of those kinds of lessons. 

SCARED OF BLESSINGS

Today's reading: Luke 1-2

"Don't be frightened, Mary, the angel told her, for God has decided to bless you!" Luke 1:30 NLT

Have you ever been frightened by one of God's blessings?

Something happened into your life at what you considered a wrong time or in a wrong way, but ended up being perfectly within God's timing--a true blessing?

Someone woven into the fabric of your life at a very low point, a valley you wish you had never visited, but ended up becoming a lifelong friend from God--a true blessing?

Decided to literally make yourself attend services one Sunday, not feeling it, not in the right frame of mind, but going anyway and receiving a word from the Lord that was specifically for your heart--a true blessing?

God's blessings can be wrapped up in circumstances that can scare the liver out of us if it weren't for His graces and mercies tenderly and gently delivering them into our lives.

I challenge you to be on the look out for them today--in all things, good and bad.

MY REASON FOR SILENCE

Today's reading: Mark 15-16

"The women fled from the tomb, trembling and bewildered, saying nothing to anyone because they were too frightened to talk." Mark 16:8 NLT

The women leaving the tomb didn't say a word because they were too afraid to speak.

Fear paralyzed their tongues.

Fright captured their words.

So what about us?

Why aren't we talking about the empty tomb? The Risen Savior? The work of the Cross?

There are no soldiers pointing swords at us.

No armies of anti-religious zealots telling us to be quiet.

No laws or rules on the books demanding that we be silent.

And yet, Christians, we are keeping the Good News to ourselves.

Even after all we have experienced at the foot of the Cross...

With the blood of Jesus having washed away all of our sins...

All while knowing our eternity is secure in heaven...

Having the blessed assurance of God's love for us...

And still we are quiet?

Isn't there someone you could tell today?

A CRYING DISCIPLE

Today's reading: Mark 14

"And immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Suddenly, Jesus' words flashed trough Peter's mind: Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times. And he broke down and cried." Mark 14:72 NLT

I understand Peter's tears.

I know the depths of sadness from which they came.

I know what it's like to let down my Lord and Savior--in what I've said, in what I've done, in what promises I've broken and in what intentions I had set and didn't follow through on.

Tears well up in my eyes when I consider the immeasurable blessings He has poured out on my life and how little I have been able to 'repay' Him with my efforts.

My very best day pales.

My grandest efforts fall short.

My most well laid plans come up shy of honoring Him as they should.

And then there are the time when my disobedience, sheer disobedience, embarrasses me to the point of tears.

But friends, He knew all this about me before He went to the cross on my behalf!

That keeps me going. 

MOST IMPORTANT

Mark 12-13

"...Of all the commandments, which is the most important? Jesus replied, The most important commandment is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord!" Mark 12:28-29 NLT

The most important commandment is also the commandment that makes it possible for us to keep the other commandments. Ever thought about that?

If we accept that the Lord is God, we will not take His name lightly, in vain or use it flippantly as some do in vulgar speech.

If we know, in our hearts, that the Lord is God, it will cause us to honor and worship Him alone, no other gods will hold that place in our hearts.

If we accept that the Lord is God, we will believe He is the Creator and by His example and command we are to keep a day of rest set apart for Him.

If we honor God as Lord, it will show in the honor and respect we show others, like towards our parents.

If we live the command that the Lord is God it will reach out and touch the people we live around by how we interact with them--and He knew that!

GOOD

Today's reading: Mark 10-11

"Why do you call me good? Jesus asked..." Mark 10:18 NLT

So? Why do we? Call Him 'good', that is?

Is it because He is? This is praise. This is what's due Him because of His character traits and qualities.

Or is it because of all the good He can do for us? This is centered around us, our needs and wants and desires.

There is a difference.

HELP ME NOT TO DOUBT

Today's reading: Mark 8-9

"The father instantly replied, I do believe, but help me not to doubt!" Mark 9:24 NLT

(As a side note, this is the second time this week God has brought this particular account before me. I don't take that lightly.)

I have stood in this father's shoes.

Not in that I have had a child with convulsive symptoms but that I have stood face to face with my faith and had to admit that my doubt sometimes got the best of me.

There are days I can say the same things...but in my own words:

I do believe...You would do it for someone else.

I do believe...for a more faithful Christian You would answer this request in a minute's prayer.

I do believe...that if I had more faith I wouldn't even be having to ask You to do this at all.

I do believe...if it weren't for all the times I had to have used up Your graces previously, there would be plenty for right here and right now.

I do believe...help me not to doubt!

Ever had those conversations of faith?

You have no doubt He can. You have no question as to whether or not He would--for some. You have proof in your well-worn Bible that He has before.

But our doubt jumps in and makes us question a thousand times over that any or all of who He is is for us.

Well friend, He is for us. 

As much as He is for anyone.

As much as He was for the father of that boy that day at the foot of the mountain.

As much as He was for that boy.

He is for us.

All for us.

No need to doubt!