ENDING

Today's reading: Revelation 22

"The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you all." Revelation 22:21 NLT

The last month of the year.

The last day of 2021.

The last planner page.

So, why not, the last verse of the Bible?

And what does it present? Grace.

It's what has gotten us through this year--and what we can cling to as the New Year opens up before us.

It's so important that we give grace.

It's so important that we understand grace.

It's vitally important that we allow God's grace to fill us, change us, humble us and spur us on to honor Him in all we do.

That's an epic challenge for 2022!

 NEVER

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 31

"Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord is the one who goes before you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8 NLT

As we pull out the boxes and totes to wrap up this year and put it in storage, I cannot help but think how faithful God has been.

He went before us every single day of 2021.

Through the rise and fall , and rise and fall, of disease numbers.

Ahead of each and every storm that left us battered and bruised and collecting pieces of our hearts.

When we lost bits of us as loved ones slipped into eternity.

As the seasons of our lives changed one falling leaf, one sprout of green, one summery day and one tiny snowflake, at a time.

He has been faithful. Oh, so faithful!

And if you have accumulated a number of years walking behind Him, you know how long His track record is.

So, friend, welcome the New Year with anticipation of His faithfulness going before us into it.

Look very forward to what He will allow. How He will prove Himself. In what ways He will stretch and grow your character into the likeness of His Son's.

 SLOW DOWN

Today's reading: Psalm 111

"How amazing are the deeds of the Lord! All who delight in him should ponder them." Psalm 111:2 NLT

Pondering is not a fast-paced activity.

It's a prayer chair kind of sport. A sit on the porch swing type of activity. It's a lay awake at night and think kind of past time.

It doesn't happen in the heat of the moment, or at the height of an emergency or when your mind is bombarded with circumstances and happenings beyond your control.

Pondering is a specific, intentional, personal and private type of thought.

Have you done it lately? Have you slowed down long enough to think, not about all your problems, but about the amazing things God has done? The goodness of the Lord? The dimensions He is at work in in and around you at any given time?

Take time to ponder. Make time to ponder.

Let your mind focus solely on Him, His ways, His goodness, His love, His amazing character.

 COMPARING

Today's reading: Isaiah 40

"To whom will you compare me? Who is my equal? asks the Holy One." Isaiah 40:25 NLT

I've made the statement on numerous occasions within the walls of the women's Sunday school class I am honored and blessed to lead, Comparison is one of the worst sins Christian women commit.

It's true!

We gals, maybe you fellas, too, often measure our worth against the measuring stick of another lady. Not only is that unfair to ourselves, but it is not at all what God ever intended.

But we don't stop there.

We tend to compare God as well.

We hold Him up against our dreams.

We measure Him up to our efforts.

We put His timing, His answers and His ways on a scale of our own making--usually involving a clock or a calendar.

We see how He chose to answer another's prayer, and hold Him to the same expectations.

We claim against Him the verses that say He is good and for us, but look over the verses that make a requirement of obedience and commitment to Him.

There is no one or no thing to which we can compare God. Never has been, never will be.

His ways, His abilities, His character, His thoughts, His purposes, His reasoning, His love--none of these can be understood by our little minds, let alone ascribe any of them to anything or anyone else.

No one is His equal. No one!

 ENDURANCE

Today's reading: Hebrews 12

"...And let us run with endurance the race that God has set before us." Hebrews 12:1 NLT

With the few days left in this year, I am given opportunity to revisit some of my favorite chapters in the Bible.

Seemingly it tends to be the chapters in my Bible that have the most markings, notations, highlighted sections and circled words.

This morning, my eyes fell upon the portion of this verse that tells me although I serve a God who can answer every prayer I pray in a moment's notice or in the blink of an eye...He often allows the answer to come in stages or in portions my finite mind can handle--and in ways that give me plenty of time to condition my faith muscles.

The muscles that develop with my daily return to His throne.

Or the ones that get defined as I search the Scriptures for His answers, for His thoughts, for His will.

Or the ones that are rested as I trust Him with the outcome. Completely and wholly.

This walk with Him is a marathon, not a sprint. He knows that. He operates in that way. He loves me enough to train me for the finish line.

PROVIDING FOR THEIR NEEDS

Today's reading: Acts 27-28

"The next day when we docked at Sidon, Julius was very kind to Paul and let him to ashore to visit with friends so they could provide for his needs." Acts 27:3 NLT

Paul and his friends did not gather for the sake of catching up, reminiscing. eating or sharing the latest gossip.

They gathered in an effort to provide for a friend's needs.

Could that be what we are lacking in our relationships?

Maybe I need to be more intently looking for ways to lift a burden, come alongside or walk with a friend?

To take on their prayer requests, to carry their needs to the Cross, to lighten their load?

To provide for their needs.

 QUIETLY TREASURING

Today's reading: Luke 2

"...but Mary quietly treasured these things in her heart and thought about them often." Luke 2:19 NLT

Jesus, but a few days old, left his mother in awe.

A baby, lying helplessly, in a manger.

A tiny, wrinkled, little boy, needing His mother's care to survive.

An infant incapable of walking, talking, doing miracles--and still she treasured the Spirit he held within him.

She pondered the impact He had on people.

She thought about the purpose He might have.

It wasn't the miracles performed, the moments on Calvary or the resurrection--because she hadn't seen those yet.

It left her quietly treasuring things in her heart just being near Him.

The everydayness of a God come down in human form.

THE SHOUT OF A HUGE CROWD

Today's reading: Revelation 18-22

"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

We can whoop and holler at the ball game, the soccer field, beside the ice at a hockey game or towards the TV as our favorite team makes a comeback...but does God hear us shouting His praise?

When we see the sunrise, pink and orange.

When we see the first shoots of spring, green and fragile.

When we see the first snowflakes, white and delicate.

When we see the first robin, hopping and spry.

When we hear the thunder in the distance.

When we hear the windchimes tinkling.

When we hear the first words of a child or the last words of a dying saint.

Do we shout His praise then?

Does He hear us roar?

 MAKING AN OFFER

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

We see it all day long, every where we turn, in just about every person we meet--including the one in the mirror...

People 'looking for love in all the wrong places'.

Folks attempting to find love in loveless people, places or things.

Trading their souls for a moment's attention, fleeting affection and like-mist adoration.

But when they meet God...

Their hearts are filled to capacities they never imagined!

Their lives are changed in ways they never would have dreamed!

Their comfort is found.

Their purpose is revealed!

Their love is reciprocated, duplicated, multiplied and divided in so many ways they cannot help but share it!

 PRAISE HIM

Today's reading: Psalm 149-150

"Praise him with a blast of the trumpet; praise him with the lyre and harp!" Psalm 150:3 NLT

No trumpets or lyres here on our small farm, but I can praise Him!

I can praise Him by humming along to the song playing on my radio.

I can praise Him with the tap of keys as I type out a devotion.

I can praise Him with the honk of my car horn and a wave at my neighbor.

I can praise Him in the scratching of my pen on a notecard to a friend.

I can praise Him with the signal that an encouraging text message has been sent to one of my brothers or sisters in Christ.

I can praise Him with the sound of a turning page in my Bible during my time in His presence.

I can praise Him with kindness in my voice as I greet a co-worker.

I can praise Him with the sobs of a broken heart over a still not answered prayer request.

I can praise Him in the silence...as I listen for Him...as I expect to hear Him speak...as I wait for Him to remind me of His promises to me.

No, I don't need a trumpet or a lyre to praise Him!

 QUITE THE OPPOSITE

Today's reading: Esther 6-10

"So on March 7 the two decrees of the king were put into effect. On that day, the enemies of the Jews had hoped to destroy them, but quite the opposite happened." Esther 9:1 NLT

Not to be a Debbie-Downer, but you have enemy who wants to destroy you.

Not just cripple your efforts.

Or rob some of your joy.

Or make you doubt.

He wants to destroy you.

And you, hear me out, are the one who will--or will not--let it happen.

That's right.

Will your enemy's attempts at destroying you succeed or will they make you stronger?

Stronger in your faith.

Stronger in your godly character.

Stronger in your belief in the promises of God.

Stronger in your witness to others.

Stronger in your defiance against all things enemy-scented.

Our enemy hopes to destroy us, but quite the opposite can happen!

 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

I love capitalization. It helps me figure out the common from the extraordinary. The everyday from the holy. The minute from the monumental.

Case in point, this verse!

Our enemy would prefer we serve, bow down to, trust in and worship a rock. An inanimate object. A created object. A lump.

But we are provided a Savior. A Redeemer. A Deliverer. A Friend. A Comforter. A Shepherd.

A Rock.

The Creator, not the created.

And my favorite part of the verse--'as even they recognize'.

If our enemy can take our eyes off the truth for the slightest moment, he can slide substitutes in and we are seldom even aware. Our enemy knows the potential of our Rock. He knows the power of our Rock. He knows the depths to which our Rock is solid, unchanging and life-changing.

Blessed be the Rock!

WHAT WE KNOW

Today's reading: Jude

"I must remind you--and you know it well..." Jude 5

Sometimes you need reminded of what you know.

It isn't a matter of learning something new, but revisiting what we have already learned.

Know the Word.

Memorize the Word.

Stand on the Word.

 SPEAKING IN OUR DEFENSE

Today's reading: Acts 25-26

"Then Agrippa said to Paul, You may speak in your defense..." Acts 26:1 NLT

Speaking in your own defense sounds like a daunting challenge.

What if I say the wrong thing...

What if they attempt to trip me up...

What if I get flustered...

What if I don't know how to answer correctly...

We needn't fear!

Paul did not speak in his own defense, God gave him the words. And the audience. And the right frame of mind. And the ability.

And He will do it for you, when and if needed.

 READY OR NOT

Today's reading: Revelation 12-17

"Take note: I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their robes ready so they will not need to walk naked and ashamed." Revelation 16:15 NLT

It always amazes me when people say, 'I'm not ready for Christmas.' 

Like it's not marked on the calendar?

Like we don't know it's the exact same day each year?

Like, with any years of experience, one doesn't know it's coming?

Like the advertisers haven't let you know it was around the corner--since the fourth of July?

The same is true with Jesus' return--He is coming.

Ready or not, He is coming.

Please...please have your life in order before His throne before He arrives.

Have your sins covered in His blood.

Have your robe of righteousness on and be comfortable in it before He gets here.

Have practiced praise before we step inside the Pearly Gates.

He is coming back, be ready!

 SLEEPLESS NIGHTS

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 5-6

"One night as I was sleeping, my heart awakened in a dream. I heard the voice of my lover. He was knocking at my bedroom door..." Song of Solomon 5:2 NLT

Ever had a sleepless night?

A night when your mind wouldn't shut off. Your to-do list clicked continually in your mind. Thoughts swirled like a tornado in your head. Excitement and anxiety wouldn't let you sleep.

I think we have all had those on occasion.

What about a night when God awakened you to talk to Him?

Just to talk.

In the quiet.

In the dark.

In a space of time during which no one else vied for your attention.

If your first inclination is to look at the clock and figure how few hours you have to sleep before the alarm goes off--put that thought aside.

Cherish His calling you out of a slumber.

Appreciate His willingness to whisper your name.

Value having His attention, His full attention, while the busy world sleeps.

Use your time with Him wisely, fully and thankfully.

Talk to the One who loves you more than anyone else ever could.

 HE

Today's reading: Psalm 146-148

"He is the one who made heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them. He is the one who keeps every promise forever..." Psalm 146:6 NLT

In case you are wondering if God is going to bail on His promises to you--stop worrying!

If your enemy has raised questions of doubt about His track record--stop listening to him!

If you are starting to doubt His love for you because of all you seeing on, or what you don't see going on--stop doubting!

Stop all that and remember this...

He...

He is...

He is the...

He is the one...

He is the one who keeps every promise forever!

 DO SOMETHING

Today's reading: Esther 1-5

"When Mordecai learned what had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, crying with a loud and bitter wail." Esther 4:1 NLT

Mordecai could have kept worry over his people to himself. He could have spent private prayer time on his knees. He could have spoken only to God about the outcry...but he didn't.

He let the world know about the bad news he had received.

He couldn't keep it to himself.

Our world is dying--that's some pretty bad news.

Our unsaved friends and loved ones are headed to hell--that's horrible news.

We have the cure--that's Good News, but sadly, too many of us are keeping it to ourselves.

May we all be a little more like Mordecai and do something with what we know!

 ENDS OF THE EARTH

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 29-31

"Though you are at the ends of the earth, the Lord your God will go and find you and bring you back again." Deuteronomy 30:4 NLT

For those of us with 'Bring my prodigal back home' at the top of your prayer request list, this verse has to be an encouragement.

Our loved ones cannot go too far that God cannot retrieve them.

They cannot run so fast that He cannot catch them.

They cannot change their identity so drastically that God no longer knows them.

At the ends of the earth, and at the ends of their ropes, God will seek and find them and bring them back to Him!

 INFLUENCE & IMITATION

Today's reading: 3 John

"Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God's children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know about God." 3 John 11 NLT

John reminds us, even us young at heart but with older joints, that who we allow to influence us is very important.

And here's why...

Who influences us, causes us to imitate them.

No, it's not just in the instance of small children wearing their Daddy's great, big work boots.

It's the adults around us we attempt to impress with our abilities, our possessions, our homes and our habits.

We must be very careful with who influences us because eventually we will be imitating them.

 OUR TURN

Today's reading: Acts 23-24

"Now it was Paul's turn..." Acts 24:10 NLT

The great apostle Paul.

Speaker.

Evangelist.

Movement leader.

Inspiration.

Man of God.

And still he had to wait his turn to speak about Jesus.

And every time it was God-ordained.

So that every situation would be understood.

Every official would be within hearing range.

Every word spoken would glorify God.

Here's my take on it...

If Paul had to wait, and be prepared for the moment, I must know I will, too.

Wait for the right audience. The right words to come to me. The right events to be orchestrated by God.

When it's my turn, or yours, God will be glorified!

 POWER

Today's reading: Revelation 7-11

"Their power was in their mouths..." Revelation 9:19 NLT

John is allowing us to see his revelation through his written word.

In this verse he captures the second terror prophesied, the horses and riders. He mentions the smoke and burning sulphur which billowed from them.

It caught my eye that he wrote, 'their power was in their mouths'.

Maybe it didn't catch my eye, but prick my heart.

Maybe it didn't prick my heart, but heap coals of conviction onto my soul.

I am the very first to forget how very powerful what comes out of our mouths can be.

The power of life or death.

Blessings or curses.

Encouragement or discouragement.

Good or evil.

And to use the imagery of a horse? My absolute favorite animal? One which has strength in its neck and legs--but its mouth is mentioned?

Quite the word picture for this girl to think on today!

 INTIMACY

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 3-4

It feels a little awkward and intrusive to be reading the words Solomon and the Shulammite woman share between each other.

Their words are private.

Personal.

Raw.

Honest.

Real.

Filled with emotion.

Loving.

Very, very much like our conversations with the Lord should be.

 BASIC TRAINING

Today's reading: Psalm 143-145

"Bless the Lord, who is my rock. He gives me strength for war and skill for battle. He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield, and I take refuge in him. He subdues my people under me." Psalm 144:1-2 NLT

Do you remember this song from your childhood...

I may never march in the infantry, ride in the calvary, shoot the artillery. I may never soar o'er the enemy, but I'm in the Lord's army!

I don't know how many times in my childhood--Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Wednesday night kids' meetings, we sang that song. 

Proudly. Assuredly. Loudly. Confidently. 

I don't know just what I thought 'being in the Lord's army' might consist of, but I'm finding out it's a tough gig.

A heart-ripping job.

A twenty-four hour a day, seven days a week assignment.

A mind, body, heart and soul task.

A vocation that requires I be in constant contact with my Commander.

A purpose that requires I rise and shine each day with my wrinkled fatigues on and boots laced up for the day.

From the prayer-fought wars to the daily battles that keep me whispering the name of Jesus--I am a soldier of the Lord. 

Proudly. Assuredly. Loudly, Confidently. 

I'm in the Lord's army! I'm in the Lord's army! Yes, Sir!

 WHAT HAVE WE DONE TO THE SABBATH?

Today's reading: Nehemiah 10-13

"So I confronted the leaders of Judah, Why are you profaning the Sabbath in this evil way? Wasn't it enough that your ancestors did this sort of thing, so that our God brought the present troubles upon us and our city? And now you are bringing even more wrath upon the people of Israel by permitting the Sabbath to be desecrated in this way!" Nehemiah 13:17-18 NLT

You can read in this chapter what exactly the Israelites did to mar the holiness of the Sabbath. To modern Christians, it wouldn't look too wrong...

-They worked in the winepresses.

-They loaded their donkeys.

-They were bringing merchandise in to town for sale.

-They were making business transactions on the Sabbath.

When I think of all we 'cram' into our Lord's Day, I believe we are as guilty--if not more--than any one of these Israelites of profaning the Sabbath.

-We rush in and out of our services.

-We fill our trips to the 'temple' with as many meetings as we can get done with one trip.

-We bypass the sermon with our thoughts and lists of things to do.

-We possibly grumble our way into the church house because of the ministries we have been asked to perform.

-We view our Sundays as 'our days', not His.

Guilty, aren't we?

These two verses are giving my heart pause to consider what I have done to the Sabbaths, and what I intend to do in order to reclaim them for the Lord!

I want to 

 WHAT ARE YOU CHOOSING?

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 26-28

"But if you refuse to listen the Lord your God and do not obey all the commands and laws I am giving you today, all these curses will come and overwhelm you:" Deuteronomy 28:15 NLT

Who in the world would ever choose to refuse God? And yet, we do.

Who in their right mind would ever choose curses over blessings? And yet, we make that very choice.

Who would ever opt to step outside of the pleasure and presence of the Lord our God? And yet, we find our selves there too often.

Who would ever, after knowing the immensity of our Creator, the graciousness of our Savior, the loving care of our Shepherd, the strength of our Warrior, the comfort of our Friend, not turn to Him first--and always? And yet, we are guilty of that very thing.

Today's verse sure makes me ponder what it is I am choosing when I am not choosing to trust and obey, lean into and listen for, love and serve our God.

 IN OUR HEARTS

Today's reading: 2 John

"...the truth that lives in us and will be in our hearts forever." 2 John 2 NLT

Ever thought about how much God's truth lives in your heart?

How grounded you are in it?

How dependent you are upon it?

How very much you believe it?

There is a gauge, you know, as to how you can determine just how very full your heart is with His truth...

We can tell by our words.

By our actions.

By our responses.

By our trust versus worry quotient.

 CANNOT BE STOPPED

Today's reading: Acts 21-22

"The whole population of the city was rocked by these accusations, and a great riot followed. Paul was dragged out of the Temple, and immediately the gates were closed behind him." Acts 21:30 NLT

If one were to stop reading at this verse, one might think Paul's ministry ended.

I mean, the man was dragged out.

The gates were closed behind him.

The doors shut.

The opportunities ended.

But God...

God chose to use Paul's story, his abuse, his tough times and even his time spend in prison as a way to reach people--even us today!

No one closes a door God cannot open.

No one. No thing.

No fella. No wayward child. No fallen pastor. No dysfunctional family. No mis-spent youth. 

No one! No thing!

 NEVER GIVE UP
Today's reading: Revelation 1-6

"You have patiently suffered for me without quitting." Revelation 2:3 NLT

God had quite a bit to say to the church in Ephesus through John's writing.

He knew how hard they had worked.

He knew all about their patient endurance.

He knew their desire to check out apostles against God's standards not just how their sermons tickled their ears.

He also knew that their hearts were wandering away from Him. From their first love.

But still He commended them on not quitting.

He saw their efforts. He saw their deeds. He saw their determination and drive. He saw their dedication to Him and to His work.

He noticed it.

He notices yours, too.

On the days when the sun hides from view--He sees you continue on in faith.

In the early morning hours when you're not feeling so Christlike--He sees you spend a little time with Him in order for Him to do a makeover on you.

In the circumstances when you don't see Him at work--but you trust Him anyway.

On the days when the Bible doesn't speak to you, spark your interest or inspire you to great things--He sees you pick it up anyway, in honor of Him, in hopes of hearing from Him, in a desire to please Him.

He sees that you haven't quit!

 CATCHING FOXES

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 1-2

"Quick! Catch all the little foxes before they ruin the vineyard of your love, for the grapes are all in blossom." Song of Solomon 2:15 NLT

I won't say this is the only verse I have underlined in the entire book of the Song of Solomon, but it's always a go-to for me.

No matter the season. No matter the problem. No matter the interaction.

I love the reminder it gives of how diligent I must be in watching for the 'foxes of sin' that burrow into my life.

When I'm afraid--I must watch for foxes.

When I'm comfortable--I must watch for foxes.

When I'm worn out and weary--I must watch for foxes.

When I bump into another soul who rubs me the wrong way, or dismisses me--I must watch for foxes.

When things don't go my way. Or use my plan. Or fit neatly into the planner boxes of my life--I must watch for foxes.

When the sun shines and when the stars twinkle--I must watch for foxes.

Even when the lights are strung, the tree is lit, the carols play in the background and the gifts are piled up before me--I must watch for foxes!

 NEVER TOO LOW

Today's reading: Psalm 140-142

"Hear my cry, for I am very low..." Psalm 142:6 NLT

My Bible tells me the theme of David's psalm is a prayer when overwhelmed and desperate.

Maybe he was overwhelmed by the power placed on his shoulders as king. Or his constant looking over his shoulder for King Saul. Or his long and shadowy, dark nights watching over the sheep scattered across the hills of his father's land.

Or family troubles.

Or loneliness.

Whatever brought this mighty of man of God down to his knees in prayer, it was heavy. It was hard. It had him by the throat.

So he called out to God.

Because you cannot be too low for Him to raise you up. Too overwhelmed that He cannot amaze you with His will and ways. Too scared. Too alone. Too dirty. Too bad. Too far down the wrong path. Have too many labels. Have too many scars. Have too many hang-ups.

No matter your 'low', He is the God to call out to! Any time. Every time.

 KNOWING THE TRUTH

Today's reading: Nehemiah 5-9

"My reply was, You know you are lying. There is no truth in any part of your story. They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could break our resolve and stop the work. So I prayed for strength to continue the work." Nehemiah 6:8-9 NLT

Nehemiah knew a lie when it was spoken to him ONLY because he knew the truth. He was well aware of Sanballat's, Tobiah's and Geshem's plan to thwart God's work being done. And Nehemiah knew to expect all levels of attempts at intimidation, discouragement and threat.

And for us, it's never a matter of sorting out all the lies that our enemy throws at us, it is about knowing what God says is true.

Do you know what God says about you?

About His plans for you?

About the purpose, the intent, the charge He has placed on your life?

Do not spend your time wondering about what isn't true, focus on what is. When presented a thought that you don't believe is from God--look into His Word for verification. When a lie is whispered into your ear, counter it with what God says is true.

Know the truth.

Pray.

Get back to work for the Lord!

 BLESS YOU

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 23-25

"When you are harvesting your crops and forget to bring in a bundle of grain from your field, don't go back and get it. Leave it for the foreigners, orphans and widows. Then the Lord your God will bless you in all you do." Deuteronomy 24:19 NLT

As you're out doing some Christmas shopping, you'll notice them.

The folks sitting on the side of the road with their signs... 'Will Work For Good' or 'Homeless' or 'Veteran Needing Help'.

Your heart is quickly grabbed by the sight and your mind races wondering, How much cash is there in my wallet? Then sadly, What will they do with the money I give them?

This morning's Scripture doesn't have much to say about what the foreigners, orphans and widows--it's speaking to us.

To give.

To help.

To bring glory to God by our actions.

To be blessed by our Father in heaven.

So let's be His hands and feet this special season. Allow Him to work through us, for us and in us, while we help another.

 THIS AND MORE

Today's reading: 1 John 4-5

"I write this to you who believe in the Son of God, so that you may know you have eternal life." 1 John 5:13 NLT

Maybe you need to here the words spoken through this verse today...

This is not all there is!

Life has bitten you hard. Taken a chunk out of you. Or is dragging you around like a dog carries a bone.

If you believe in the Son of God and have accepted His gracious gift of salvation, things only get better for you after this life ends!

But then there are some of you who have lived picture perfect lives. Minimal heartache. Only minor inconveniences on this journey through this world.

I'm so happy for you!

But there is something in this verse for you, too...

Things only get better for you who know Jesus as Savior and Lord!

You are in one of two camps, but either camp--if you are a child of God, is a good place to be!

 WHERE DOES OUR WEALTH COME FROM

Today's reading: Acts 19-20

"...Gentlemen, you know that our wealth comes from this business." Acts 19:25 NLT

Demetrius was a wealthy silver-idol making businessman in the city of Ephesus.

When Paul came along and disrupted his trade by teaching about Jesus, it got in his pocketbook because not as many little silver gods were being sold.

Demetrius, like too many of us, believe what we have--whether it be money, health, possession or abilities--is any of our own doing.

Mr. Silver, here, thought he had cared and provided for his family all those years.

He thought his hands produced what was needed to put food on the table and clothes on his children's back.

He believed this New Way was going to disrupt all he had come to love and be comfortable in.

Oh, but if he only knew how his world and life could change knowing Jesus!

 GOD'S LIST

Today's reading: Malachi

"Then those who feared the Lord spoke with each others, and the Lord listened to what they said. In his presence, a scroll of remembrance was written to record the names of those who feared him and loved to think about him." Malachi 3:16 NLT

Tis the season for parents to begin threatening their kids with the ominous words, Santa's watching!

No child wants to be scratched off Santa's list...or to receive a bag of coal come Christmas morning.

Aah, the simplicities of childhood, you say. But...

Are we as concerned as the children when we think of God having a list of 'those who feared and loved to think about Him'?

Is your name on His list?

Are you known as one of His--in word and deed?

Unlike Santa, God needn't check His list and check it twice!

 HEAVY CLOUDS

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 11-12

"When the clouds are heavy, the rains come down." Ecclesiastes 11:3 NLT

We've wrapped up the harvest season on the grain farm I work for doing bookkeeping.

Blood, sweat and tears have been shed--in an effort to get crops in, cared for and out of the fields and in thanksgiving for a bumper crop, safety and good health during the year.

There have been a few trying times...

Wondering if the rains would stop.

Wondering if the rains would come.

Mechanical failure.

Attempting to procure parts for the mechanical failures.

There were a few days when the rainclouds hung heavily over the farmers heads and hearts.

BUT, the heavy clouds bring the much needed rain!

I am blessed to watch this group of believing farmers continue on, trusting the Lord in all He sent their way.

What a lesson for me. 

What a lesson for this thanks-filled day.

 THANKFUL HEARTS

Today's reading: Psalm 137-139

"Beside the rivers of Babylon, we sat and wept as we thought of Jerusalem. We put away our lyres, hanging them on the branches of the willow trees. For there our captors demanded a song of us, Sing us one of those songs of Jerusalem! But how can we sing the songs of the Lord while in a foreign land?" Psalm 137:1-4 NLT

There have been days over this past few years when a whole heap of us felt like the exiled Jews on foreign soil.

Lives have been disrupted.

Sadness abounds.

Chaos is everywhere.

Joy has been stretched until it is paper thin.

But friends, we have a reason to sing our songs of the Lord!

He is so good. His faithfulness never wavers. His promises remain true and steadfast and dependable.

So in this time of desperation...let us sing songs of our Lord while on this foreign soil!

We have so very much to be thankful for.

 OPPOSITION
Today's reading: Nehemiah 1-4

"Sanballat was very angry when he learned that we were rebuilding the wall. He flew into a rage and mocked the Jews, saying in front of his friends and the Samarian army officers, What does this bunch of poor, feeble Jews think they are doing? Do they think they can build the wall in a day if they offer enough sacrifices? Look at those charred stones they are pulling out of the rubbish and using again!" Nehemiah 4:1-2 NLT

There is a good possibility when you were saved, you felt like Nehemiah standing before Sanballat in this very portion of Scripture.

You had acquaintances that questioned your decision to follow the Lord. They reminded you of your sordid past. They tssk-tssked you for the decision. They offered nothing but condemnation and criticisms. They even asked, How in the world will God ever use you?

Let them talk.

Let them spout angry insults.

Let them doubt.

But above all else--let them see what all God has done, is doing and will do in your life.

In the words of an older song...Let's give them something to talk about!

 MONDAY PRAYER

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 20-22

"When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horse and chariots, and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The Lord your God, who brought you safely out of Egypt is with you! Before you go into battle, the priest will come forward to speak to the troops. He will say, Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight today! Do not lose heart or panic. For the Lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!" Deuteronomy 20:1-4 NLT

The treasure found in this portion of Scripture is just what I need for a Monday morning!

Its words encourage me.

Its truths remind me.

Its simplicity leaves me informed and not scratching my head.

Its word picture give my heart and mind a boost.

Its appearance on a dark, hard-to-get-up Monday morning is nothing but God-sent.

I'm claiming these verses as my Monday prayer...and I'm going forth into battle!

 BEING SURE

Today's reading: 1 John 1-3

"And how can we be sure that we belong to him? By obeying his commandments." 1 John 2:3 NLT

How you live, how you praise, how you worship and how you tell of His goodness will be a very strong indicator of God living inside you.

There is the prayer of salvation--the only way to God, but there is the fruit that comes from His forgiveness and grace.

It's loving your neighbor, it's gathering to worship with fellow Christians, it's going out and telling the Good News of Jesus.

How are you doing living out your salvation?

DEEPLY TROUBLED

Today's reading: Acts 17-18

"While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city." Acts 17:16 NLT

Maybe Paul's resolve wasn't tempted by the idols surrounding him.

I tend to think he had 'put to rest' any tug gods had on his heart and mind.

There's a good possibility he saw the trinkets and little statues as what they were, merely modeled shapes of silver and wood.

But his heart hurt for the people who bought into the lie.

The folks who trusted in the man-made gods.

The people who carried these pocket idols with them everywhere they went, depending upon their powers.

He hurt for them--because they didn't know His Lord and Savior.

Are you deeply troubled by all the idols you see around you? Does it break your heart to know there are so many sin-sick and grasping for gods who cannot help them?

Or have we become so accustomed to what's around us that it doesn't trouble us any more?

 GO AND CARE

Today's reading: Zechariah 8-14

"This is what the Lord my God says: Go and care for a flock that is intended for slaughter." Zechariah 11:4 NLT

Isn't that just what the Lord has asked us to do?

To care for a dying world.

To love on those whose sins pile up higher than their heads.

To attend to those who don't think they need this God we serve.

To share our lives, and our stories, with those who believe they are good enough on their own.

To provide hope to the hopeless.

To give grace where retaliation is expected.

To shower joy into the lives of those who are fearful and worn out.

The Good Shepherd has asked us to shepherd--but not just the cleaned up, shined up, dressed up lambs sitting on the pews beside us!

 WORDS

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 9-10

"But even so, the quiet words of a wise person are better than the shouts of a foolish king." Ecclesiastes 9:17 NLT

I don't know how you go about sharing the Gospel with this world, but I believe the verse today reminds us of how best we might all be doing it.

I believe it tells us that more impact will be made with how we live than what we will ever say.

I think it's leading us to understand that as important as it is, as soon as the Lord's appearing is, as much of a life or death matter that it is, it still takes a quiet, wise person to relay the message.

Are we presenting the love of God in a loving manner?

Are we letting our little lights shine--or shining a spotlight on their sins?

Are we living lives that ooze so immensely with God's grace that they are touched by it?

 ANY OTHER GOD

Today's reading: Psalm 133-136

"I know the greatness of the Lord--that our Lord is greater than any other god." Psalm 135:5 NLT

I don't remember who exactly told me, but I have always remembered the phrase...'Watch the 'G', if you focus on the big "G"(God), you won't get tripped up on the little "g"s(gods).'

It's true.

For those of us who know the greatness of God, little gods lose their lustre.

For those of us who walk daily with God, little gods won't lead us astray.

For those of us who have had their lives reclaimed, restored, redeemed and renewed by God, little gods won't tempt us with their baubles and falsehoods, with their fleeting promises or their eye-catching baits.

Watch the "G", friends!

 TREMBLING

Today's reading: Ezra 6-10

"When I heard this, I tore my clothing, pulled hair from my head and beard, and sat down utterly shocked. Then all who trembled at the words of the God of Israel came and sat with me because of this unfaithfulness of his people. And I sat utterly appalled until the time of the evening service." Ezra 9:3-4 NLT

We have church meetings to discuss budgets.

We have gatherings at the church to eat.

We assemble for worship.

We join hands in praying for the sick and afflicted, the politicians we don't agree with and current events.

But to gather in conviction and repentance?

To sit silently sorrowful for where we have allowed sin to creep into our church houses, our sacred houses of worship, His house? 

To consider God's Word and tremble at what it means for us, for our loved ones, for the world?

To bow before God and truly be sorry for where we have fallen slack in our own individual Christian disciplines?

To quote an old hymn, How long has it been?  

My guess is... too long.

 EXERCISING OUR FAITH

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 16-19

"When you hear about it, investigate the matter thoroughly..." Deuteronomy 17:4 NLT

Did you know the most common form of exercise in the Christian community is 'jumping to conclusions'?

Sadly, it's true.

We hear a rumor, we assume it's fact.

We are told some information, we suppose it to be true.

We have an inkling, we presume it to be believable.

We catch bits and pieces of a conversation, we fill in the blanks.

We are given parts of a story, we surmise the rest.

But it tells us clearly in God's Word, as he was speaking to the Israelites in regards to rules for justice among the people, we need to investigate the matter thoroughly.

We need to pray. We need to seek God's direction in the matter. We need to be very, very careful in who we ask alongside us in the investigation of the matter.

Jumping to conclusions in the Christian family is not helpful, not edifying, not needed.

 HIS PROMISES

Today's reading: 2 Peter

"...he has given us all of his rich and wonderful promises..." 2 Peter 1:4 NLT

"So make every effort to apply the benefits of these promises to your life..." 2 Peter 1:5 NLT

The story is told of an immigrant sailing from Ireland who scraped together just enough for passage on a ship to America.

As he journeyed across the seas, he quickly ran out of the stores of food he had packed for the long trip. And he sat many days until the arrival on the new land hungry and his belly aching.

As they neared the dock in New York City, he wandered into a part of the ship he had not seen on his several week boat ride. It was a grand cafeteria. Smells of food caused his stomach to rumble. The sights of people eating gave him hunger pains worse than he had ever had.

As he fumbled around in his pocket for any money he might have, he asked a ship porter about the food and the cost...worried he would never have enough.

The porter told him the food, three meals a day, were included in the price of the ticket aboard.

All these long, hungry days the Irish man had not benefited from what his ticket allowed him.

Much like us as Christians.

There is so much more available to us as His than we could ever utilize.

Let's begin today applying the promises of the Lord to our lives. Taking part in what He has given us. Using the blood-bought benefits of our adoption.

 AN UPROAR

Today's reading: Acts 15-16

"Her masters' hopes of wealth were now shattered, so they grabbed Paul and Silas and dragged them before the authorities at the marketplace. The whole city is in an uproar because of these Jews! they shouted. They are teaching the people to do things that are against Roman customs." Acts 16:19-21 NLT

When their money is involved...

When their schedules are affected...

When their traditions are changed...

When their control is lessened...

When their motives are questioned...

When the spotlight goes off them...

...the unsaved world becomes panicked, perturbed and put off by Christians.

They don't mind us one bit IF we go along with the flow of 'things as they want it'.

They don't mind us buying in their stores, going along with their plans, supporting their agendas (by not standing against them we are supporting them) and laughing at their forms of entertainment.

As a matter of fact, their pockets are lined with our money, our attention and our comfort.

So I'll ask you what I asked myself...Are you shaking anyone up? Are your beliefs raising any hackles? Are you bothering anyone's conscience? Are you refusing because of your beliefs or bending to convenience?

Or do they even notice you and your beliefs?

 WHAT DO YOU SEE NOW?

Today's reading: Zechariah 1-7

"...What do you see now?.." Zechariah 4:2, 5:2 NLT

Zechariah was given a night vision from the Lord. A vision that came with an angel that directed him, guided him and explained things to him.

I noticed the words, What do you see now? 

The angel asks Zechariah to explain what he saw on two different instances.

Zechariah gave the facts as he saw them, what his eyes revealed, what was tangible.

But the angel?

The angel provided him with the meaning, the background, the behind the scenes information that made Zechariah understand God's actions.

All at once I 'wished for that angel'. Someone to slow me down, lift me up and open my eyes to the why's of life.

Then God reminded me...I have something better than an angel!

He has given me His Holy Spirit.

It is within me telling me the truths of God when the enemy tells me lies.

It reminds me of the victory that has already been achieved by my Lord and Savior.

It intercedes on my behalf when my prayers are mumbled groanings.

The Holy Spirit also says, on occasion, What do you see? And then it gives me pause to recall this simple fact: I see so much less than God does. I see what is temporal. What is right before me.

So while the Holy Spirit asks the question, He also provides me the answer in my soul...that I will see God in all things IF I choose to look for Him.

So, friend, what do you see?

 FACING DEATH

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 7-8

"...And in the face of death, wickedness will certainly not rescue those who practice it." Ecclesiastes 8:8 NLT

I have friends and loved ones, as I am sure you do, that are not saved. They refuse the Gospel and its message of salvation. They don't believe they need God.

It breaks my heart for them.

It scares me for their eternal souls.

Because, as the verse says, all they are leaning on in this world is of no use to them now--and will be even less use to them when death comes to their bodies.

Careers won't rescue them from hell.

Educations won't relieve them of eternal misery.

Recreation won't carry their spirits to a sweet reward.

Alcohol will no longer dull their pain.

Drugs will no longer carry their minds to distorted places of  'peace'.

They themselves will find that they are lacking, incapable and--in their last moments, wrong.

But if they had Jesus...

If they knew God, and He knew them as His own...

If the Holy Spirit were guarantor for their lives...

They would be rescued. 

 AGENTS

Today's reading: Psalm 133-135

"Your priests will be agents of salvation; may your loyal servants sing for joy." Psalm 132:9 NLT

"I will make its priests the agents of salvation; its godly people will sing for joy." Psalm 132:16 NLT

Maybe you've awoken this morning and our enemy has already served you a plate of lies.

Could it be he has whispered in your ear that you have no purpose? That you are useless? That there is nothing you can do of any good, of any help, to make an impact?

Firstly, our enemy is a liar!

Secondly, today's Scripture tells us otherwise. It exposes his falsehoods. It reminds us of the truth.

We are to be agents of salvation.

No, we cannot save anyone...only Jesus can do that.

But can you help release someone, link by link, from the chains of depression by a smile, by a kind word, by listening?

Can you rescue someone carrying burdensome loads by praying with them or for them? 

Can you help set a captive free from being overwhelmed by giving a hand? A harried mom of small children? A friend who is caring for aging parents? A neighbor who might need a lift to the grocery store?

Can you break the cycle of generational sins in a new believer's life by way of encouragement? Mentoring? Discipleship? A card dropped in the mail? A text? An offer to have them sit with you in church?

No, we aren't given any special badges, gadgets or dossiers holding page after page of intel, but we are given the task of being agents of salvation, the power of the Holy Spirit within us and the Bible full of instruction.

That is your mission, do you choose to accept it?

 PRAISING HIM
Today's reading: Ezra 1-5

"With praise and thanks, they sang this song to the Lord: He is so good! His faithful love for Israel endures forever! Then all the people gave a great shout, praising the Lord because the foundation of the Lord's Temple had been laid." Ezra 3:11 NLT

With their work clothes still on.

With raised sweaty, dirty hands.

With still a major uncompleted task lying ahead of them.

They praised God. Stopped everything they were doing and praised God. Grabbed the praise team and 'had church' over how good and loving and gracious God was to them.

A lesson for me this morning.

-To praise Him for what He is doing behind the scenes.

-To thank Him for doing anything at all for a wretch like me.

-To honor Him for knowing just what I need, when I need it, in what way I need it to arrive.

-To offer my appreciation to Him for having allowed me to the abilities and provision to get to where I am today.

He is so good! His faithful love for Malinda endures forever!

WHO DO YOU LOVE?

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 13-15

"Suppose there are prophets among you, or those who have dreams about the future, and they promise you signs or miracles, and the predicted signs or miracles take place. If the prophets then say, Come, let us worship the gods of foreign nations, do not listen to them. The Lord your God is testing you to see if you love them with all your heart and soul." Deuteronomy 13:1-3 NLT

Let's get this out in the open...

It's not always the flashy pastors.

Or the smooth talking television evangelists.

Or the denominationally approved theologian.

God sometimes chooses to test our love for Him by way of our nearest and dearest...

The children you've brought into this world.

The church family you've grown up with.

The soft spoken pastor you've listened to for years and years.

The spouse God gave you.

Who do you love more than God?

Because...

The one who has your heart, has your eye, your ears, your mind and your soul.

 PARTNERS WITH CHRIST

Today's reading: 1 Peter 4-5

"Dear friends, don't be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead be very glad--because these trials will make you partners with Christ in his suffering, and afterward you will have the wonder joy of sharing his glory when it id displayed to all the world." 1 Peter 4:12-13 NLT

Let's get this out in the open: Not every trial a Christian goes through is from God. Some are brought on by ourselves. And some are brought on by the world we live in.

But HOW we go through those trials, what we learn from them, how our faith is grown, how we witness to others through them--that's how we partner with Christ.

If God sent the trial, you will learn more about Him as you 'wear His t-shirt and learn while on His team'.

If you bring it on yourself, you will find strength in Him to change, grow, endure or seek out His 'way out'.

If the world brings on your trial, you will need to shine. Like a lighthouse on a dark, stormy night. Like a welcoming candle in a farm cottage window. Like a flashlight breaking the darkness on a wooded path. Like a headlamp beaming forth into the tunnels of a God-less world. Let your little light shine!

Trials can produce in us more, much more, than a good story line in our testimony. They can help us reach others.

ASKED TO RETURN

Today's reading: Acts 13-14

"As Paul and Barnabas left the synagogue that day, the people asked them to return again and speak about these things the next week." Acts 13:42 NLT

I don't know about you, but when I speak to someone of God, the Gospel, Christian disciplines, I want the conversation to end with them wanting to talk more about it.

I don't want a door closed in my face.

I don't want to be shunned when they see me in Wal Mart.

I don't want to have my cell number deleted from their contacts.

I don't want to leave them battered and bruised from my having beaten them over the head with Scripture.

I want to leave them wanting more of what I have and more of what Christ offers. 

I want to state the truth in love.

I want to present the Word of God as it is.

I want them to see the thrill I have of serving and loving and being forgiven by Christ.

That's what Paul and Barnabas did for the folks in Antioch. They are an example for me to follow.

 AWARENESS

Today's reading: Habakkuk

"For the time will come when all the earth will be filled, as the waters fill the sea, with an awareness of the glory of the Lord." Habakkuk 3:14 NLT

We just wrapped up Breast Cancer Awareness month. We have had Mental Health Awareness month. There is Alzheimer Awareness month. Native American History Awareness month. Vision Health month. 

Days and times set aside to highlight and bring focus in on different topics, needs, health problems and situations.

As a Christian I'm reminded that on a daily basis, no matter what I am going through, I have been put on earth to bring awareness to the glory of the Lord.

Every day of my life is Awareness of God's Glory Day!

In everything I say. All I do. Whatever it might be I put my hand to. How I react. In the hope I hold to.

The entire world isn't noticing God--but I want to make sure the part of it I'm currently in hears me honor Him in how I live and breathe.

 EEYORE

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 5-6

"Throughout their lives, they live under a cloud--frustrated, discouraged and angry." Ecclesiastes 5:17 NLT

Do you remember the Winnie The Pooh character, Eeyore?

The timid, forlorn, tail-tacked-on, donkey. 

The one who, in several instances, walked around with a raincloud over his head.

I see human-Eeyore's too often to count.

Doom and gloom litter their speech. Fear and anxiety wreak havoc on their thoughts. Dread infects every plan they attempt to make. Mad at the world. They never expect anything good to happen to them. A permanent scowl is etched into the lines of their faces.

It has to be a very sad life to live. It is certainly sad to watch. Even sadder to be at the receiving end of their conversations.

It is not a life intended for God's children!

If you have Eeyore tendencies, I ask that you spend some time seeking God's change in your life.

If you know an Eeyore, I ask that you make every effort to bring some sunshine into their lives.

Know this: living under the rainbow of God's promises will beat living under a cloud of defeat every time!

BUT THE LORD IS GOOD

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 you  are having a tough day. A rough season. A hard life.

Things aren't going well--at all for you.

Our enemy has found you and is bullying you in every corner of your life.

The words of well meaning friends carry about as much weight as those who joined Job around his trash heap.

The sunshine seemingly shines on every one but you.

I believe today's verses are for you.

More specifically, these words...

But the Lord is good...

Because He is. Always has been. Always will be.

So post the words where you can see them.

Memorize them and speak them out loud.

Write them on your hand.

Be reminded, times may be tough, the enemy may be pummeling you, BUT God is good!

 STAND

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 33-36

"Then stand in your appointed holy places and help the families assigned to you as they bring their offerings to the Temple." 2 Chronicles 35:5 NLT

Maybe, like today, the servants in the Temple eyed other tasks or jobs with envy.

If they were called to be greeters, they secretly desired to be a choir member.

If they were called to teach, they wanted the glory and honor that was given to the one who offered the morning sacrifice.

If they were asked to serve in the church nursery, they quietly wished they were the piano player.

Maybe that's why God's instructions were 'to stand in your appointed holy places and help'.

I think we all need the reminder that IF God places us in a certain place, circumstance or situation--it makes that appointment holy.

He knows what we will need from the interaction.

He knows what the other person needs from the interaction.

He knows the glory He will receive from our job well done.

So I encourage you, as I am doing to myself, stand where you have been asked to stand--it is holy ground!

 SET APART

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 10-12

"At that time the Lord set apart the tribe of Levi to carry the Ark of the Lord's covenant, to minister before the Lord, and to pronounce blessings in his name. These are still their duties." Deuteronomy 10:8 NLT

Church, I have a bone to pick with you. With us. With me.

During this time of social distancing, seclusion, quarantine, and being 'set apart', we have forgotten our mission.

What we have been placed here to do.

What our duties are.

What are command is.

What our Great Commission is still calling us to do.

We are to reach others for Christ.

To tell them of His greatness, His saving power, His redeeming love, His overwhelming grace.

By how we live.

By what we do.

And when necessary, with what we say.

These are unprecedented times requiring never before attempted ministry outreach.

Are we remembering our duty?

 BORN AGAIN

Today's reading: 1 Peter 1-3

"For you have been born again. Your new life did not come from your earthly parents because the life they gave you will end in death. But this new life will last forever because it comes from the eternal, living word of God." 1 Peter 1:23 NLT

If you have been born again, you know your life is better for it.

If you haven't...

Today's the day!

Now is the time!

Where you are is the perfect place!

Nothing in your life needs changing, just come to Him in prayer.

Ask Him to forgive your sins.

Let Him know all you've done before has left you empty, broken and stained.

Claim and grab hold of with both hands all He has to offer you.

Make today the first day of the rest of your new life.

 SO THEY WILL KNOW

Today's reading: Acts 11-12

"The power of the Lord was upon them, and large numbers of these Gentiles believed and turned to the Lord." Acts 11:21 NLT

...(It was there at Antioch that the believers were first called Christians.)" Acts 11:25 NLT

Outsiders came to the saving knowledge of Jesus and His work on the cross.

Those who were considered 'unclean' were adopted into the family of God.

How did it happen?

Through persecution.

After hard times had occurred.

"Meanwhile, the believers who had fled from Jerusalem during the persecution after Stephen's death traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch..." Acts 11:19 NLT

Had these Jewish believers stayed in their comfortable, cozy, routine driven lives in Jerusalem, the people in Antioch might not have heard the Gospel.

So...

Could it be this tough time you are going through will lead others to know the Lord you love and serve? Won't it all be worth it?

 REFUSING CORRECTION

Today's reading: Zephaniah

"How terrible it will be for rebellious, polluted Jerusalem, the city of violence and crime. It proudly refuses to listen even to the voice of the Lord. No one can tell it anything; it refuses all correction. It does not trust the Lord or draw near to its God." Zephaniah 3:1-2 NLT

If God, in His love, is willing to punish Jerusalem--His city, the city which bears His signature, His specifically appointed temple home--what will He do with us?

We rebel.

We pollute ourselves.

We refuse to listen--even to the voice of the Lord.

No one can tell us (Sorry, I'm lumping you in with the likes of me.) what to do.

We refuse correction.

We don't trust God--His Word, His promises, His timing, His abilities.

We keep Him at arm's length--like the Israelites did when God spoke through Moses.

So how much more terrible will it be for us?

The ones created in His own image.

The ones who bear His likeness.

The ones He has loved and sent His Son to save.

The ones He has asked to reach the lost and dying world.

How much more terrible will it be? Is it worth it for us to continue on the paths we are on?

 SUPPORT

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

What are you attempting to handle on your own?

An addiction? A recurring sin? A prayer need the size of a mountain? Doubts? Fears?

I urge you to find a prayer partner...or two.

Not just anyone.

I want you to ask God to direct you to the person or persons who know how to pray, believe in the power of prayer and know God intimately--and you can see they do from their fruit.

Because not every person you attend church with needs to know your heart's hurt.

Not everyone on your pew can, or will, pray.

Not every church family member will be trustworthy with your business.

Not every Christian will stand back-to-back with you in prayer.

And while you are waiting for God to reveal your prayer partner to you, ask He also allows you to be one to someone else.

Praying for someone will take on a whole new meaning when you know someone is praying for you.

 SECURE

Today's reading: Psalm 125-127

"Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever." Psalm 125:1 NLT

This single truth goes along so very well with another verse I read this morning..

"This one who is life itself was revealed to us, and we have seen him. And now we testify and proclaim to you that he is the one who is eternal life. He was with the Father, and then he was revealed to us." 1 John 1:2 NLT

There is security in things like mountains, Mount Zion is listed here.

There is security in impenetrable defenses built in concrete, steel and reinforcements.

There is security in the love a family member has for you.

But there is no security like the security of eternal life!

More than just here and now.

More than just today and tomorrow.

More than just what we can see and touch and hear.

Eternity.

 RESTORED TO SERVICE

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 29-32

"...So the Temple of the Lord was restored to service." 2 Chronicles 29:35 NLT

Let's get some things sorted out here.

The Temple had not been closed due to a fire or flood, the building was just fine.

The Temple doors had not been locked due to a lack of attendance, folks were there each and every Sabbath.

The Temple had not been barred from use in an effort to keep a pandemic at bay, the physical health of the community was good.

The Temple had not been put on hold due to a lack of priests or Levites, there were many on the roster.

The Temple had been shut down temporarily so that a thorough cleaning could be done on it. A overhaul. A remodel, of sorts, but not in the decorative style of the building...

It had been closed in an effort to rid it of any and all defiled things that had been allowed inside its walls.

It had been shut down in an effort to remove any and all sinful things from inside it.

Church, we may need to do the same things to our houses of worship.

Before we can make an impact on our world--we may need to do some spiritual cleaning within our churches.

Those outside our walls need us so desperately, but if we're not cleansed from sin, practicing the disciplines of God and sick at the thought of godless impurities that might be in our hearts and lives-we'll do them no good.

May we do a cleaning of our houses of worship!

 

 TRAPS

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 7-9

"You must destroy all the nations the Lord your God hands over to you. Show them no mercy and do not worship their gods. If you do, they will trap you." Deuteronomy 7:16 NLT

God is warning the Israelite travelers of the idols and gods that would set themselves up before them in their new land.

The shiny ones made of brass, gold or silver.

The tiny ones they could slip in their pockets easily and comfortably.

The alluring ones that would seemingly bring about fortune when the God of Israel was holding back on them for His reasons.

The new fangled ones that would tempt them in ways they had never experience before.

The demure ones that they knew without a doubt they would be able to maintain, to keep a firm grasp on, to manage.

God knew they, each and every one of them, would be traps for the hearts and minds of His people.

He still warns us of that today.

He tells us He is enough.

He points out the weakness and ineffectiveness of other gods.

He commands us to put Him first and only in our hearts.

But we continue to fall for the traps.

 OUR DEPENDENCE

Today's reading: James 4-5

"When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor." James 4:10 NLT

I've attempted to jot down a list of things I can do on my own. Without God's help. 

It's a short list.

I'm really not even sure you can call one item a list.

My one thing: I can mess things up.

But this morning James is telling me, when I come to God, humbly and reverently...

When I let Him know just how big of a mess I can make things...

When I admit how desperately I need Him...

When I put Him back in the right place. A place of honor and glory...

Then He can do a work in me that has His signature all over it.

He, at that point, is willing to take what little I have to offer and mix it with all He can do--and great things can be done.

This morning, that's what I'm doing. 

I'm giving all I can't, all I have tried, all I have messed up, all I would really like to fix--and giving it all to Him to do with what only He can.

 ALL WHO HEAR YOU ARE AMAZED

Today's reading: Acts 9-10

"All who heard him were amazed. Isn't his the same man who persecuted Jesus' followers with such devastation in Jerusalem? they asked. And we understand that he came here to arrest them and take them in chains to the leading priests." Acts 9:21 NLT

All they had heard of and knew about Saul, was changed.

They scratched their heads in amazement.

They questioned all they thought they knew.

They revisited his original mission and their first impressions.

May people do the same with us as we grow more and more like Jesus!

I pray they are able to say...

Malinda used to say prayers, now she prays them.

Malinda used to be led by her emotions and her circumstances, now she is led by the Holy Spirit.

Malinda used to read the Bible, but now she devours it and digests it and is changed by it.

Malinda's faith used to be as unstable as a Weeble-Wobble, but now--now she is standing strong on God's promises, believing all He says, expecting Him to work!

Oh, that people would see a difference in us from having had our eyes opened to the wonder and love of God.

 AWESOME ANGER

Today's reading: Habakkuk

"You marched across the land in awesome anger and trampled the nations in your fury. You went out to rescue your chosen people, to save your anointed ones. You crushed the heads of the wicked and laid bare their bones from head to toe. With their own weapons, you destroyed those who rushed out like a whirlwind, thinking Israel would be easy prey." Habakkuk 3:12-14 NLT

Let me just say, to read verses like this first thing in the morning gets me pumped up and ready for the day.

This portion of Scripture tells me about the loving, mighty, powerful God I serve marching out to destroy my enemy!

It gets my blood pumping.

It sets my eyes back on the goal of my Christlikeness.

It tells me He is for me, never against me.

It reminds me that I am that special to Him.

 GRASPING

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 1-2

"After much thought, I decided to cheer myself with wine. While still seeking wisdom, I clutched at foolishness. In this way, I hope to experience the only happiness most people find during their brief life in this world." Ecclesiastes 2:3

I don't know about you, but I am easily distracted.

But, according to Solomon's own words, so was he.

'...While still seeking wisdom, I clutched at foolishness...'

How quickly our minds are led from a great desire to a feeble temptation.

It happens when we're on the internet. We might be looking up a Bible verse, but before you know it, you're getting filled in on the lifestyles of the British monarchy or watching funny cat videos. And an hour of your life has passed by you.

It happens when we attempt a new diet. We munch and munch on apples and celery sticks the whole day, but when the television comes on and the first ad for potato chips is aired, we're off to the pantry for 'crunchy foolishness'.

It happens when we stop to hear a friend's prayer request. We are attentive to their needs, we offer to lift them up in prayer, we chit chat for a while, then the topic of the another's 'bless them Lord' poor choice is mentioned and the gossip begins.

It happens when we pause for our prayer time. We list our reasons to praise Him. We ask Him for forgiveness. We begin telling God all our needs, then our minds wander off and we are no longer speaking to the One who can take care of those needs. We are planning, organizing and instituting ways in which we can control each and every situation. We take it back into our own hands, we 'lay hold of the foolishness'.

I want to learn from Solomon's mistakes. I want to focus and remain focused. I want to seek wisdom and not stop until I have got it firmly in my grasp. I want to be so intent on knowing God's way that shiny, glittering things don't catch my eye any more.

 OVERWHELMED

Today's reading: Psalm 122-124

"If the Lord had not been on our side--when people rose up against us, they would have swallowed us alive because of their burning anger against us. The waters would have engulfed us; a torrent would have overwhelmed us. Yes, the raging waters of their fury would have overwhelmed our very lives." Psalm 124:1-5 NLT

You and I have a choice each and every day.

Sometimes several times a day.

We can choose to be overwhelmed by circumstances, current events and civil unrest outside of our control.

Or...

We can choose to be overwhelmed by God.

By His very presence.

By His love for us.

By His safeguarding hand of protection upon our lives.

By His mercy. Oh, how His mercy overwhelms!

What will you choose to be completely gob-smacked by? 

 BUT...

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 25-28

"If you let them go with your troops into battle, you will be defeated no matter how well you fight. God will overthrow you, for he has the power to help or to frustrate. Amaziah asked the man of God, But what should I do about the silver I paid to hire the army of Israel? The man of God replied, The Lord is able to give you much more than this!" 2 Chronicles 25:8-9 NLT

How often do I, like Amaziah, throw 'but' into the conversation with the Lord?

I'd serve you Lord, but...

I'd do just what you ask, but...

I see that need You are showing me to help with, but...

I feel that twinge of conviction, but...

I know I'm harboring that grudge, but...

Yes, I agree that brother or sister of mine needs prayer, but...

I want to do Your will, but...

My list is endless. Our excuses are limitless. Our sad reasons for not following God wholeheartedly are abundant.

In Amaziah's case, his 'but' was because of monetary investments.

Mine might be personal issues, knowing too much about a fellow believer's history, hurt feelings, fear, being too busy doing good things or having the attitude of 'my way or no way at all'.

And for all these reasons, we still end with the words of the prophet...

"...The Lord is able to give you much more than this!"

Am I willing to settle for what I want when I want it according to what I can do for myself, or His vast storehouse of blessings?

What are you willing to settle for?

 ONLY CAMPING OUT

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 4-6

"Today I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you. If you disobey me, you will quickly disappear from the land you are crossing the Jordan to occupy. You will live there only a short time..." Deuteronomy 4:26 NLT

One might think that after traveling through the wilderness for 40 years, the Israelites would be more than happy to obey God and find permanent residency in His presence and in His promised land.

More than happy to settle down.

More than happy to set up a home, rather than a tent.

But we know the storyline. How their hearts and minds wander to neighboring gods. How their thoughts strayed from what was holy to what was new and shiny. How their lives began a drastic decline in godliness.

How the Promised Land became merely a place for them to set up camp.

The same is true for us in regards to peace and joy.

We experience them when we stand firmly in God's will. We are showered in the blessings of being submissive to our Lord.

Then we step out from under His loving care.

We partake of a sin that pulls us out of His presence. 

We choose, and it's always our choice, to 'go camping' in the wilderness of the world.

God designed us to succeed, prosper, relax and fully benefit from living inside His sphere of blessings. Our minds and bodies and souls find regeneration from the peace and joy only being in His will offers.

 ACTION WORDS

Today's reading: James 1-3

"Don't you remember that our ancestor Abraham was declared right with God because of what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? You see, he was trusting God so much that he was willing to do whatever God told him to do. His faith was made complete by what he did--by his actions." James 2:21-22 NLT

Have any prayer requests you just have to trust your way through?

There is very little, if anything, you can actually do, but trust.

Your hands are tied in the matter.

You are incapable of changing hearts and lives.

The efforts you have made have been taken badly.

So you continue praying and trusting...with all you have.

For me, it's a matter of my actions being a change in my vocabulary.

I'm beginning to say in my conversations...

When my prodigal is back in the Lord's will.

When God makes the heart changes needed.

When God does His work.

You see, our words are powerful. Faith is heard, or not heard in what we say.

So, I choose from here on out, to speak in faith when I cannot do anything else!

 FOCUS

Today's reading: Acts 7-8

"But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily upward into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God's right hand." Acts 7:56 NLT

Stephen, mere moments from death, chose to keep his eyes focused on God--despite his circumstances.

He, with purposed intent, looked past his tormenters into the glory of heaven, the steadfastness of God and the living Christ.

What an example for us to follow!

We cannot be looking around at the situations we find ourselves in.

We cannot be looking backwards at past mistakes or ancient history.

We cannot look forward to brighter days, easier nights and rosier paths.

We have to look heavenward.

We have to keep our focus on what was, God, what is, God, what is to come, God!

SIN EXPOSED

Today's reading: Nahum

"No wonder I am your enemy! declares the Lord Almighty. And now I will lift your skirts so all the earth will see your nakedness and shame. I will cover you with filth and show the world how vile you really are. All who see you will shrink back in horror and say, Ninevah lies in utter ruin. Yet no one anywhere will regret your destruction." Nahum 3:5-7 NLT

I like to explain to the kids in our youth programs at church that sin is black, icky, yucky, smelly and staining.

They think it's funny to hear a grown-up use so many funny words and yet it paints a picture in their little minds of just how serious sin is. 

These words spoken to the great city of Ninevah have reminded me of how I have allowed sin to become less of what it is and more acceptable in my own life.

Even as an adult, sin is black, icky, yucky, smelly and staining.

The sins I have tolerated and grown accustomed to in my day to day walk.

The ones I have carefully and successfully kept to myself, or so I think.

The ones I have allowed because everyone else goes about doing them.

The ones brought on by poor choices of others.

It truly takes God 'lifting our skirts' to expose sin for what it truly is in His eyes, and not what it's become in our own. 

 WINTER IS COMING

Today's reading: Proverbs 31

"She has no fear of winter for her household because all of them have warm clothes." Proverbs 31:21 NLT

October is probably my favorite month of the year.

It hold within its thirty-one days, robin's egg blue skies, cooler nights, stars that pop and colored leaves all over the place. It's simply beautiful.

October also signals winter is coming. Get ready. 

Getting ready for winter means so much less today than it did in our Proverbs 31 gal's live, or even 100-200 years ago.

I have come to the conclusion, had I lived during her time, or even a few centuries back, I would certainly not have lived to the ripe old age I am today.

I'd have probably not made it through my first winter as an adult.

It would have required a whole lot of work. Preparation. Effort. Skills I do not possess.

I doubt I'd have had a pantry filled with canned goods to last me through the winter.

My root cellar would have been sparce.

And knowing my propensity to hunt, we probably would have become vegetarians--and I doubt that would have allowed me adequate nourishment for the long haul.

I think God has kind of spoiled me in the area of 'prepping' for hard times.

You see, each morning, His mercies are new. They are fresh. They are available for me to partake of the moment I wake up and step into His presence.

What His Word says nourishes me. Sustains me. Gets me through tough times.

There is a reason God chose me to live in this century not past ones--and I'm glad!

 TIRED

Today's reading: Psalm 120-121

"I am tired of living here among people who hate peace." Psalm 120:6 NLT

The Bible footnotes indicate the author of this particular psalm is unknown.

They suggest Hezekiah, but they don't know that for a certainty.

Interestingly enough, it is a song, most particularly this individual verse, that could have been written by just about anyone--including you or I.

I, for one, am exhausted by the chaos surrounding me.

The disruption to everyday life due to small, loud groups of people.

I am worn our from attempting to learn the dance steps required to waltz my way through a day without stepping on anyone's rights, not necessarily those given to them by God but the ones they assume should be theirs.

I am spent from trying to keep a godly countenance upon my face and a Christlike spirit in my heart as I hear them excuse or validate sin.

I'm just tired of it all, as I am sure you are, as we know the psalmist was.

Imagine how much more so God is.

We will endure, with a long life, maybe 75-80 years of this world. A minute time frame when compared to just how long God has tolerated the chaos.

So when I pray and wail and complain about the exhaustion I am enduring through the conflict this world brings me, I hear Him say, in all love to my heart...

It's why I came. It's why I need you, boots on the ground. I'm their only hope.

 FOLLOWING US

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 21-24

"When Athaliah heard the noise of the people running and the shouts of praise to the king, she hurried to the Lord's Temple to see what was happening." 2 Chronicles 23:12 NLT

Athaliah, even in her evilness, heard something was going on at church.

Athaliah, even in her disregard for all things godly, noticed things were happening at the Temple.

Athaliah, even in her blatant disregard for God, heard the praise to the Lord.

Athaliah, even in her stoic stance against the people of the Lord, followed them to the house of the Lord.

Athaliah, even with her heart still bleeding from emotional pain, just had to know what all the fuss was about at her local chapel.

My own personal thoughts...

Are people, even and especially the Athaliah-hearted ones, being drawn to worship because of our excitement and praise?

Do they hear the excitement in our voice as we speak of what's happening in our churches?

Are they seeing us put gathering together with fellow believers as top priority?

Are they seeing the change which time in His presence each Sunday is making on our countenance and attitude?

If not, shame on us.

We don't know who we will grab the attention of!

You see, if you read the rest of Athaliah's story, it doesn't end well for her. She continues to make her own choices, poor choices, hate-filled choices. But when we get to heaven, we'll soon discover we aren't responsible for the choices of others--but our own.

Did we share Him? Did we share Him loud enough for folks to become intrigued? Interested? Drawn?

TERRIFIED OF US

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 1-3

"Beginning today I will make all people throughout the earth terrified of you. When they hear reports about you, they will tremble with dread and fear." Deuteronomy 2:25 NLT

While today's verse was spoken by God through Moses to the Israelite people as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, may I for a moment borrow it and apply it to the church of today?

What might it look like if we, as brothers and sisters in Christ, were to unite to the point that anyone or anything standing against us cowered trembling before us?

I don't mean standing shoulder to shoulder bombarding the gates of the White House with anger in our voices, hurtful intent in our hearts, or weapons of this world in our hands...

I mean what if they were afraid of our prayers?

Of our uniting to form a front that drug truth out from under the rugs they wanted to sweep it under?

What if our reactions to them were so full of love that they and their evil plans were flustered?

Oh, don't get me wrong--it wouldn't be that they were afraid of some Bible toting and hymn singing folks standing before them. They would be terrified, left trembling, afraid to go any further because of the God we are following, serving, loving, imitating, obeying and seeking to model our own lives after.

Imagine that?

Think for a moment about our enemy being afraid of us because we are believing God for every single promise He has made to us.

 

THE INVISIBLE

Today's reading: Hebrews 11-13

"It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt. He was not afraid of the king. Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible." Hebrews 11:27 NLT

What are you leaving behind?

What are you choosing to not be afraid of?

What are you believing despite any glimmers of hope, miraculous answers to your prayers or seeing more than a step or two ahead of you?

Are you believing in the One who is invisible--and yet clearly visible in everything around us?

The very same God who led Moses, blessed Moses, walked and talked with Moses and used Moses for a greater purpose than living the life of an adopted son in Pharoah's palace, can be trusted with all you have, or have not, to offer Him. 

Keep your eyes on the invisible One until you see Him clearly.

 RUMBLINGS OF DISCONTENT
Today's reading: Acts 5-6

"But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent..." Acts 6:1 NLT

Oh, friends...

When our hearts and minds get off the subject of God's love for us, Jesus' death on the cross on our behalf and the Holy Spirit's willingness to guide us, we allow minor inconveniences to become walls that keep unity from flourishing in the church.

Do what David did, take your emotional upset to the Lord.

Do what Daniel did, pray all the more.

Do what Job did, trust God in the hard, unlovely and never-asked-for-it stuff.

Most of all, do what Jesus did--love them. Don't just tolerate them, love them.

Easier said than done? Then repeat the examples set by David, Job and Jesus. And keep repeating until God changes your heart or changes the situation.

 TELL ME

Today's reading: Micah

"O my people, what have I done to make you turn from me? Tell me why your patience is exhausted! Answer me!" Micah 6:3 NLT

Let's be flat out honest here...

When we turn from God. Or don't trust God. Or take matters into our own hands.

Well, in those times, it's nothing He has done or hasn't done.

He hasn't failed us.

He hasn't left us.

He hasn't fallen through on a single one of His promises.

The problem lies in us.

Our impatience.

Our trusting a clock, a calendar or a plan we have made up in our own minds.

Our assumptions and our expectations.

If we were to be called before God to explain our sins, it would have nothing at all to do with Him.

The blame falls squarely on our shoulders--on our hearts.

 MY BIBLE

Today's reading: Proverbs 29-30

"Every word of God proves true. He defends all who come to him for protection." Proverbs 30:5 NLT

How careful we must be, dear friends and fellow Bible believers, that we remember ALL God's words prove true.

We shouldn't ever just bank on the blessings of being in His presence, without knowing the curses that come from walking away from Him.

We can't afford to think only of the perks of a relationship with God, without realizing how little we can do without Him.

We wouldn't be good students of the Bible if we only take the 'positive' verses out to stand on, without coming to the point in which we know the 'harder' bits are just as instructional.

Every word proves true, for the saint and for the sinner.

 YOUR PRINCIPLES

Today's reading: Psalm 119

"You are good and do only good; teach me your principles." Psalm 119:68 NLT

Principles are rules or beliefs that govern one's behaviors.

I want to study God's Word so intently that I know Him. Know what drives Him to love me. Know, from His own words, why He chooses to do what He does.

Because when I know His principles, I'll see everything He does as good. I'll see Him as good. In all things.

Because I won't be seeing the circumstances or happenings, I'll be seeing His outstretched hand. His moving. His plan being set into motion. His goodness.

 BEFORE WE SPEAK

Today's reading: Acts 3-4

"Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them..." Acts 4:8 NLT

How much more smoothly would church disagreements, election years and the combat against a pandemic go if we were all to wait to speak until we were filled with the Holy Spirit?

If we as Christians were only to say what God directed us to say.

If we as His followers were only to comment on what He deemed necessary to comment on.

If we as the ones who bear His name and image to the world were only to be filled with the Holy Spirit!

WHERE YOU ARE
Today's reading: Jonah

"Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from inside the fish. He said, I cried out to the Lord in my great trouble, and he answered me..." Jonah 2:1-2 NLT

As a child I was intrigued by the great fish who swallowed the man who didn't listen to the Lord.

Any time the Sunday School teacher would bring out the flannelgraph or open the big picture Bible, she had my full attention.

My mind would swirl with the scene. My nostrils would fill up with the smells of the story. My eyes would attempt to picture what it looked like inside the belly of the fish.

But now?

Now, I'm caught up with verses like the one today--verses of hope!

No matter where I have chosen to wander...

No matter what poor decisions I have made...

No matter how high the stack of my sins piles up...

No matter the in-my-face fact that the mess I'm in is completely my fault...

God hears my cry for Him!!

Where I am.

Regardless of what I've done.

To this day, I love the account of Jonah.

LAW ABIDING CITIZEN

Today's reading: Proverbs 28

"To reject the law is to praise the wicked; to obey the law is to fight them." Proverbs 28:4 NLT

In all the controversy as of late as to rights, how very important it is for us, as Christians, to be seen as law abiding citizens.

Oh, I'm not talking about bowing to immoral laws--although how we go about standing against them can also be done in a godly way.

I'm talking about the every day laws...

Driving the speed limit.

Obeying traffic signals and road signs.

Paying our taxes.

Praying for our leaders...yes it's a rule for us. We're told to do it in the Bible. No matter the party, the person or our own personal preferences.

Is the world seeing you as a law abiding citizen? Is God?

 

 THEME SONGS
Today's reading: Psalm 117-118

"Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. The strong right arm of the Lord has done mighty things!" Psalm 118:15 NLT

What song is still on your heart from Sunday's worship?

Is it an upbeat toe-tapper about your fears falling like Jericho's walls or a slower praise tune speaking thanks to God for being so, so good to you?

What words of encouragement are still pushing you forward from your time spent in small group or Sunday School class? Are you being lifted up by brothers and sisters in Christ with whom you have shared a struggle? Have you gotten that note, text or phone call letting you know your needs are being taken to the Father's ear?

How excited are you about mid-week prayer service or Bible study? Needing a booster halfway between Sundays?

I pray your soul is nourished in your home church. I desire that you are miles away spiritually from where you were six months or a year ago. I hope you know, from repeated sermons and time in the Word, that you are loved by a powerful God.

I can use today's word picture, to the extent I can smell the smoke of the campfire, to imagine how much we gain from camping out together in His presence.

If you aren't worshiping corporately, I pray God gives you that desire, allows you to see the need, lets you know how vital you are to some 'camp' in your area.

 BUT AS FOR US

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 11-15

"But as for us, the Lord is our God, and we have not abandoned him..." 2 Chronicles 13:10 NLT

Can you join me in saying those same words?

King Abijah, not a godly king, not at all short on sinful choices, not a devout follower of the One True God--knew 'where his kingly bread was buttered'.

He knew enough to not turn from God and the ordained ways. He knew about the covenant God had made with the people of Judah.

He knew his country, if they were to have any hope at all, needed God on their side and not against them.

That's where I took it personally.

No matter what the world is doing.

No matter what government decides.

No matter what the entertainment industry deems cool or tolerant.

No matter what those around me choose to do.

No matter how poorly I walk this Christian path.

No matter my past, despite the current situations, and with all I don't know about the future.

No matter what, the Lord is my God and I choose not to abandon Him!

 GOD DAYS

Today's reading: Numbers 29-32

"...You must call a solemn assembly of all the people on that day and no regular work may be done." Numbers 29:1 NLT

When you gathered to worship God yesterday, was it a chore?

Did you have to goad and prod yourself to do it?

To interact with brothers and sisters in Christ?

To make a joyful noise as the choir or band played?

Did you have to muster up the resolve to speak to Sister So-and-So or Brother Bothersome?

Did you stomp your feet and cross your arms when you arrived and found out you were scheduled to work in the nursery or with the children?

During the God appointed days spoken of in Numbers, God specifically told them not to do any regular work. The ordinary chores. The mundane tasks.

He asked that they gather to do praise work. 

Where ever their specific gifts led them to serve.

How ever their call was detailed.

To whom ever God asked them to minister.

All in honor of Him. Every single moment of it.

Should we treat our trips to our houses of worship any differently?

 WITH CONFIDENCE

Today's reading: Hebrews 5-7

"So God has given us both his promise and his oath. These two things are unchangeable because it is impossible for God to lie. Therefore, we who have fled to him for refuge can take new courage, for we can hold on to his promise with confidence." Hebrews 6:18 NLT

If you have run to God for refuge, you can believe in His way and in His time, He will take care of you!

If you are His child, born again into His family through the saving blood of His Son Jesus, you have His promise.

And unlike anyone we know here on earth, His word is good.

Oh, so good!