END OF THE YEAR

Today's reading: Revelation 22

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

The end of the year and the end of the Book.

A good time to pause and reflect.

A better time to plan, prepare for and anticipate.

And what better word to end, and begin, with than GRACE.

How does one explain grace?

I cannot think of a better description of it than that Max Lucado offers...

'Grace is simply another word for God's tumbling, rumbling reservoir of strength and protection. It comes at us not occasionally or miserly but constantly and aggressively, wave upon wave. We've barely regained our balance from one breaker, and then, bam, here comes another.'

Isn't that just how you have received it? Wave upon wave. When you are just catching your breath from one God-overwhelming dousing of grace--then He does it again!

That's what we should see as we look back over this past year, and it's what we should be giddy with excitement to know is in store for us in 2024!

 ROUGH SAILING

Today's reading: Acts 27-28

"We had several days of rough sailing..." Acts 27:7 NLT

"...So everyone escaped safely ashore!" Acts 27:44 NLT

I'm not sure how your year has gone.

Maybe it's been full of prosperity, health, opportunity and growth by leaps and bounds!

Maybe, just maybe, it's been hard.

Maybe you've had some 'days of rough sailing'--or weeks, or months.

Maybe your health has gone downhill as quickly as a runaway snowball.

Maybe many good things have slipped through your fingers.

Or you've grown stagnant over the year--physically, mentally and spiritually.

Okay.

A new yearful of opportunities await you.

Let's determine, even with today and tomorrow left in this year, to look forward and not backwards.

Let's anticipate blessings.

Let's look forward to growth.

Let's prepare for being the best God has created us to be--NO MATTER THE CIRCUMSTANCES surrounding us.

Because, no matter how the year has gone, you got through it.

You have made it to this side of it.

You survived and as far as 2023 goes, have made it safely ashore 2024!

 WORSHIP GOD

Today's reading: Revelation 18-22

"Then I fell down at his feet to worship him, but he said, No, don't worship me. For I am a servant of God, just like you and other brothers and sisters who testify of their faith in Jesus. Worship God. For the essence of prophecy is to give a clear witness for Jesus." Revelation 19:10 NLT

"I, John, am the one who saw and heard all these things. And when I saw and heard these things, I fell down to worship the angel who showed them to me. But again he said, No, don't worship me. I am a servant of God, just like you and your brothers the prophets, as well as all who obey what is written in this scroll. Worship God!" Revelation 22:8-9 NLT

Two times in today's reading I am seeing John's adoration and worship re-directed.

John.

John, the beloved one of Jesus.

John, the baptizer.

John, the one into whose hand God placed the pen of Scripture.

John, the one to whom these grand revelations were given.

He needed the reminder?

I'm considering I do, too.

I need reminded to be careful where I place my worship, where I spend my attentions, what I place value upon, who I applaud and lean upon.

Because people fail. Other Christians aren't perfect. Friends let us down. Family won't always be there for us. Sunday School teachers sin. Preachers fall.

Worship God.

 BUYING LOVE

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 7-8

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

Many dollars were spent this past Christmas season attempting to buy love.

Absent dads attempting to shower gifts on kids who don't really know them any more.

Struggling moms who thought a Martha Stewart Christmas with lots of presents under the tree would more than make up for her inadequacies.

Fellas who tried to win the hearts of young gals with frivolous baubles and ribbon tied packages.

Neighbors who delivered trays of goodies in order to make amends for the strife across the fence all year long.

Buying love is not possible.

Buying favor, yes. Buying tolerance, yes. Buying affection, yes.

But love, true love, lasting love, godly love, cannot be bought.

 UNEQUALED GREATNESS

Today's reading: Psalm 149-150

"...praise His unequaled greatness!" Psalm 150:2 NLT

Who else, but the Lord, should we praise?

Who else is as mighty, as eternal and as wise?

Who else holds the worlds in His capable hands, the world He created, the world He ordains season by season?

Who else set the standard for holiness and made a way possible for us to attain that mark by the blood of His Son?

Who else, but our God?

 A REAL FRIEND

Today's reading: Esther 6-10

"Mordecai the Jew became the prime minister, with authority next to that of King Xerxes himself. He was very great among the Jews, who held him in high esteem, because he worked for the good of the people and was a friend at the royal court for all of them." Esther 10:3 NLT

The last verse.

The final sentences.

The conclusion of the account of beautiful and brace Queen Esther--and it's not about her!

It's about her uncle/cousin Mordecai. His legacy. His gift to humanity. His testimony.

I read the last eleven words over and over--he was a friend at the royal court for all of them.

That's a real friend.

One who goes to the throneroom for friends.

One who speaks to the Intercessor on behalf of friends.

One who presents promises, hope and prayers to the King of Kings for those he loves.

I want to be that kind of friend!

I want to take my loved ones names to the Lord.

 FOR YOURSELF

Today's reading: Acts 25-26

"I'd like to hear the man myself, Agrippa said..." Acts 25:22 NLT

There is a new year fast approaching us.

One that offers potential, excitement, change and growth.

What about this...

What if your resolution this new year will be to hear from God yourself.

Not to rely on a pastor.

Not to get all you know from a trusted Christian author.

Not to have to depend on a believing friend.

But to hear Him for yourself.

Through time spent in prayer.

Through the pages of your Bible.

Through really listening during worship.

Through a determination to fill your time leaning in to listen for Him.

 ALL OVER THE WORLD

Today's reading: Revelation 12-17

"And I saw another angel flying through the heavens, carrying the everlasting Good News to preach to the people who belong to this world--to every nation, tribe, language, and people." Revelation 14:6 NLT

What Good News it is!

Did you know the Bible has been translated into 3,658 languages, according to the Bible League?

It's mass produced in over 167 countries.

It's reach has circled the world!

And still, in this technological age, in a time when we know as news happens on the other side of the world, during an era of connectivity--one in five people still do not have access to this Good News.

We think of this time of the year with fondness and we pray that 'there be peace on earth', but until the world knows about Jesus, there will be no peace.

This morning I'm praying for those people who translate the Bible, produce copies of God's Word, smuggle Bibles into foreign countries--and for those of us who are called to live out the pages of the Holy Bible in our walks.

 WHAT IS IT ABOUT HIM?

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 5-6

"O woman of rare beauty, what is it about your loved one that brings you to tell us this?" Song of Solomon 5:9 NLT

King Solomon's gal had a whole lot to say about her fella.

Her words were complimentary, edifying and spilling over with love for him.

So much so that those around her wanted to know more.

They wanted to know JUST what it was about him that made her act, speak, live the way she did.

May the same be said of us and our love for the Lord!

I'm praying people hear us talk about Him, go on and one about Him, refer to Him, reference Him/His Word, share Him.

What is it about the Lord that makes you lean in to Him? 

 HE IS THE ONE

Today's reading: Psalm 146-148

"But happy are those who have the God of Israel as their helper, whose hope is in the Lord their God. He is the one who made heaven and earth, the sea and everything in them. He is the one who keeps every promise forever, who gives justice to the oppressed and food to the hungry. The Lord frees the prisoners. The Lord opens the eyes of the blind. The Lord lifts the burdens of those bent beneath their loads. The Lord loves the righteous." Psalm 146:5-8 NLT

Don't forget, as you peer into the manger scene, that the Baby is the One.

He One who helps.

The One who created and creates and sustains all He participated in creating.

The One who keeps every promise.

The One who gives justice and provision.

The One who sets captives free.

The One who heals and restores.

The One who lifts burdens.

The One who loves His own.

The Baby is the One.

 OPEN ACCESS
Today's reading: Esther 1-5

"...She would live there for the rest of her life, never going to the king again unless he had especially enjoyed her and requested her by name." Esther 2:14 NLT

Most every young Christian girl dreams of being an Esther.

The pauper turned princess.

The underdog crowned queen.

The nobody becoming a somebody.

Her beauty. Her bravery. Her calling.

But even in her esteemed position, her access was limited to King Xerxes calling on her--and calling her by name.

In a palace full of beautiful women. With a harem of lovelies to choose from. Amidst all the kingly duties.

I'm so glad God knows our names individually, personally and uniquely.

I'm beyond amazed that He allows me full access to Him at all times.

I am in awe that I can call out to Him, He will recognize my voice and He will listen.

In my maturity, I've decided this: Esther can be Esther, I want to be me.

Born again.

Saved to the uttermost.

Loved by the King.

Known by my Father.

 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

At the ends of the earth or at the end of your rope--God will find you!

Maybe it's that your choices have piled up and blocked your view of the Lord, His plans for your life and His direction for your path--God will find you!

Maybe by no fault of your own, you find yourself a very, long way from where you ever intended to be--God will find you!

Perhaps you thought you knew better, had grander dreams or wanted to 'be your own boss' and now you find yourself 'unemployed'--God will find you!

Did the far country entice you, the riotous living envelope you, the prodigal life take you farther than you ever dreamed you'd wander--God will find you!

God will find you, no matter where you are, how long you have been there, what it's cost you to be there or who dropped you off there--God will find you!

 BAD INFLUENCE

Today's reading: 3 John

"Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you..." 3 John verse 11 NLT

No matter what 'they' do...

No matter how 'they' act...

No matter the twisted accounts 'they' give...

No matter where 'they' take Christmas...

Don't let their bad example influence you.

You have the Word.

You know the Story.

You are well aware of the Baby.

You have met the Savior.

You are filled with the Messiah.

You know the real, true and lasting meaning of Christmas!

 THE LAMB

Today's reading: Revelation 7-11

"...And he who sits on the throne will live among them and shelter them. They will never again be hungry or thirsty, and they will be fully protected from the scorching noontime heat. For the Lamb who stand in front of the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe away all their tears." Revelation 7:15-17 NLT

The Lamb who is the Shepherd.

The tear-wiper and living-water Giver.

The King who requires allegiance and the King who provides all that will ever be needed.

There are so many facets of this Baby in the Manger.

No wonder they scratched their heads in wonder as to whether this child of Joseph and Mary's was indeed the Messiah--there was a whole lot of hope, help and healing wrapped up in that single title.

But He has proved Himself over and over, and over and over, again!

From the prophecies fulfilled with His arrival, to the words spoken over Him hundreds of years before His birth, to the miraculous things He did while walking on this earth-He has proved Himself!

Trusting who He says He is allows us an inside glimpse into all He claims to be.

We don't have to understand it all. We can't.

We don't have to experience it all. We can't.

We don't have to remember it all. We can't.

Today, just enjoy the facet of God revealed in today.

Maybe it's a beautiful Baby in a manger.

Maybe it's a Savior of the world.

Maybe it's a Prince of Peace.

Maybe it's a Wonderful Counselor.

Maybe it's a Friend.

 GRANDNESS OF OUR GOD

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 3-4

"King Solomon has built a carriage for himself from wood imported from Lebanon's forests. Its posts are of silver, its canopy is gold, and its seat is upholstered in purple cloth. Its interior was a gift of love from the young women of Jerusalem." Song of Solomon 3:9-10 NLT

Solomon is recorded in history as one of the grandest, most opulent and wise kings to have ever lived. Biblical records, historical records existing outside of the Bible and uncovered archeological remains bear the truths of these statements.

But let me tell you about my King...

The clouds form His chariot. From the wispy, barely there cirrus clouds that stretch across the expanse of a morning sky to the powerful, towering cumulus clouds that boil and churn in the horizon, they are the platform upon which my King merely rests His feet.

The mountaintops display the purple of His royalty. The snow-capped peaks, the dry, rocky crags, the grass covered mountain pastures, unfurl before Him like royal banners.

The thunder peals with His coronation song. But so does the first songbird of the morning, the breezes rushing through tree branches at midday and the soft cricket chirp of nightfall. Praises of His glory are heard far and wide. In city and country. Across oceans and deserts. 

The people He has lovingly created forms a tapestry displaying His creativity and artistic character. Unique, yet the same. Distinctive, yet the same. Rare, yet the same. Freely willed, yet beating with a heart created for its Creator.

What a King!

 MEDITATING

Today's reading: Psalm 143-145

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

An early morning room lit only by the tiny white lights on an evergreen.

No movement in the house.

No one stirring, as the old poem goes.

Still. Calm. Quiet. Peace-filled.

A perfect place to meditate on God's majesty, God's splendor and God's miracles.

A therapeutic environment to ponder the gift God gave, the orchestration of events He called into order and the love He must have had for us--to give His One and Only Son to a lost, dying, careless and fickle world.

I urge you to allow yourself a few contemplative moments in the quiet of the tree lights to think about the Baby, the Gift, the Savior of the world.

 CAUSE FOR GREAT JOY

Today's reading: Nehemiah 10-13

"Many sacrifices were offered on that joyous day, for God had given the people cause for great joy. The women and children also participated in the celebration, and the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away." Nehemiah 12:43 NLT

I believe, brothers and sisters in Christ, that the time for quiet Christmas celebrations has ended.

The softly orchestrated Christmas services.

The whispered praises to the Christ Child.

The hushed tones of appreciation for a Savior being sent into the world.

We have reason to celebrate, and to celebrate loudly!

God is with us!

One Perfect Lamb has been born that will be a sacrifice for all our sins!

Heaven, and an eternity in it, has been offered to us through a Baby in a manger!

So how in the world are we keeping that quiet?

A joyous day should be heard for miles and miles, for weeks and weeks, from one saved Christian to another--drawing others to the party.

I believe we can solemnly celebrate the birth of Jesus so loudly that the unsaved hear the excitement in our voices and want the excitement for themselves!

 ALL INCLUSIVE
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 26-28

"Afterward go and celebrate because of all the good things the Lord your God has given to you and your household. Remember to include the Levites and the foreigners living among you in the celebration." Deuteronomy 26:11 NLT

Are you making plans to include the unsaved in your Christmas celebrations?

The ones whose beliefs differ from yours?

The ones who don't usually even celebrate the birth of Christ?

It's to be a time of celebration for God having sent His Son to the world, a celebration that should include those who know the Truth and those who don't--yet.

Let the 'foreigners' hear the excitement in your voice as you proclaim the Christ Child. Let those who don't believe become caught up in how very much you do believe. Let those who don't know any more about Christmas than Santa and an evergreen tree learn more about the Baby in the manger.

 NO DIFFERENT

Today's reading: Acts 21-22

"Then he told me, The God of our ancestors has chosen you to know his will and to see the Righteous One and hear him speak. You are to take his message everywhere, telling the whole world what you have seen and heard." Acts 22:14-15 NLT

We aggrandize the Apostle Paul for his testimony and his calling.

We refer to his salvation experience as one to hope for, pray for, desire to have as our own.

In all reality? In all reality, Paul's call to the Lord and his commission are in no way different from our own!

We've all been chosen by God.

He desires that we know His will, found in the Scriptures.

He allows us to see Him around us, if we but open our eyes and heart.

He speaks to our hearts.

He has also asked us to take the message of His saving grace to the world in which we live.

The only difference? The only difference is some of us have not had to be 'knocked off our high horse' to get our attention.

You have a calling. One specifically chosen for you and the people you will influence. Look for God's leading, listen for His prompting, go out to the world!

 ONE COMPLAINT

Today's reading: Revelation 1-5

"But I have this one complaint against you. You don't love me or each other as you did at first!" Revelation 2:4 NLT

I cannot read the book of Revelation without having my eye and heart drawn to this single verse.

A verse that reminds me of my lack of fervor for my Savior.

A verse that recalls to my memory the excitement I HAD for my new found salvation.

A verse that plainly tells me I have allowed a whole lot of other things to become more and more important than the Lord in my life.

Maybe it's not true of you. Kudos to you if that's the case, but...

If it weren't the case, if all God's people held the same excitement, fervor and zeal as they did upon coming to know the Lord--this world would be on fire.

Revival would be commonplace, not sporadic.

Our churches would be thriving, bursting at the seams, not dying off one Sunday at a time.

Our government would be different, it would be run by and through godly men and women placed in office by godly men and women.

Our communities would be mission fields and our neighbors would be our fellow workers.

I want to love God more.

Because He deserves it. Because it's what I was created for. Because when I do, the world around me will be affected. Because anything else I love more, will let me down--hard!

 SO EVERYONE CAN SEE

Today's reading: Song of Solomon 1-2

"He brings me to the banquet hall, so everyone can see how much he loves me." Song of Solomon 2:4 NLT

The young woman speaking in Song of Solomon realizes she is being brought before the king's guests so that he might display how loved she is.

The pomp and circumstance.

The ornate surroundings.

The attention to detail.

The attendees seated around the great hall.

All are there to witness the king's love for this young lady.

Did she notice? Did she feel all eyes on her? Did the glint and gleam of the goblets and platters go unnoticed? Did the bounty filling the tables remind her of whose house she was in?

What about us?

As God parades us around this world, do we notice that He has us on display to the everyone?

Are we noticing His gracious love being poured into our lives?

Are we reminded that all eyes are on His prized possession--us?

The sunrises shout of His love for us.

The display of clouds are to proclaim His love for us.

The provision He affords us is to let us know we are loved deeply.

The salvation, grace, mercy and faithfulness He offers us is only given in love.

Do you know how much He loves you?

 OVERWHELMED

Today's reading: Psalm 140-142

"For I am overwhelmed, and you alone know the way I should turn..." Psalm 142:3 NLT

'Tis the season for busy schedules, hectic weeks and lots of good opportunities.

One can fill up evening quicker than Santa can fill a stocking.

We can over-schedule Christmas parties, Christmas play practices, Christmas meals and Christmas shopping with friends.

We can spend lots of money, lots of time, lots of energy and lots of hours doing good things.

But are we choosing the best things?

Are you inviting Jesus, the reason for the season, into your planning?

Are you putting the Birthday Boy at the center of your festivities?

Are you making sure Christ is in your Christmas?

My prayer is this, for you and for me, that everyday of our Christmas season is filled with Jesus--opportunities to share Him, decisions to seek Him, ways in which we have glorified Him.

Let's turn this Christmas on its head and celebrate the real Gift Giver.

 TOO BUSY

Today's reading: Nehemiah 5-9

"When Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem the Arab, and the rest of our enemies found out that I had finished rebuilding the wall and that no gaps remained-though we had not yet hung the doors in the gates-Sanballat and Geshem sent me a message asking me to meet them at one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But I realized they were plotting to harm me, so I replied by sending this message to them: I am doing a great work! I cannot stop to come and meet with you." Nehemiah 6:1-3 NLT

What an example Nehemiah sets for us in these three verses!

One, he was busy doing what God asked.

Two, he knew exactly who his enemies were.

Three, he chose to give them a fitting reply.

I believe those are steps we can use in the traps our enemy sets for us.

Firstly, be busy doing what God has called you to do. Small task or large. Noticed or not. When you have help and when you are going it alone. Just be busy.

Secondly, expect push back. Know, without a doubt, that when doing God's work, Satan will not be pleased. Do not be surprised by temptations, disappointments and distractions. As a matter of fact, plan for them.

Thirdly, prepare your response. Practice it in your head. Plan for worst-case-scenarios and execute your plan. Use Bible verses to strengthen your resolve. Choose an option such as picking up your Bible when the temptation to be lured into your enemy's trap comes up. Let Satan know you are not and will not listen to him!

No, most of us will not be given the ministry of building a wall, but we all have been created for a purpose by God and will only live our fullest lives when we are working at those purposes.

Satan won't like it, he won't like it one bit!

 NEVER FORGET

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 23-25

"Never forget what the Amalekites did to you as you came from Egypt. They attacked you when you were exhausted and weary, and they struck down those who were lagging behind. They had no fear of God." Deuteronomy 25:17-18 NLT

Never forget your enemy.

Never fail to recall just how easily he can cause you to trip up, become fearful and give up.

Especially when you are tired. Down. Lagging behind.

Watch for those things in your life, so you can watch for satan's attacks.

If we constantly remember how he works, we can head him off at the pass!

 SENDING HIS ONLY SON
Today's reading: 1 John 4-5

"God showed how much he loved us by sending his only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him." 1 John 4:9 NLT

If at any time of the year we should be grateful for God's love, it should be Christmas.

God chose to send His best, His only, His perfect Son to us.

He could have kept Him all to Himself.

He could have sent good, trustworthy and important representatives.

He could have chosen to let us die in the sins we brought upon ourselves.

But He loved us enough to send Jesus.

Jesus who is enough.

 WHOSE BAPTISM

Today's reading: Acts 19-20

"Then what baptism did you experience, he asked. And they replied, The baptism of John." Acts 19:3

Paul spoke to the believers in Ephesus about their baptism experiences.

The folks he spoke to referred to their immersions as having followed the teachings of John--the only Gospel deliverer to them at the time.

Paul went on to explain the life of Jesus, the death of Jesus and the resurrection of Jesus--and their hearts were changed again and they were baptized one more time, in the name of Jesus.

It gave me pause.

Too many of us have been baptized in the name of the churches we attend. The network of friends we hang with. Or in the name of a saintly parent or grandparent.

Are we truly baptized, have the desire to turn from sin and proclaim to the world that change, in the name of Jesus?

Is Jesus the reason we no longer sin?

Is Jesus the reason we strive to know more about the Bible, the Author of the Bible and the ways the Bible can change our lives and the lives of those around us?

Is Jesus the reason we 'got wet in public'?

 CRITICAL EVALUATION

Today's reading: Malachi

"..Your 'guidance' has caused many to stumble into sin." Malachi 2:8 NLT

Let's not wait until the New Year begins to evaluate our service to the Lord.

How are we ministering to Him? How are we ministering for Him?

How are we making His name known in the circles we live, work and do life in?

Are you causing others to stumble into sin by your words?

Your attitude?

Your disregard for the commands of the Lord?

What about your reactions when you are mad? Sad? Afraid? Do those reactionary responses point others to the Lord you're proclaiming, or not?

People make their own decisions. True.

I am not responsible for their actions. True.

I cannot make them choose the Lord. True.

But what about your life is making them trip and fall and want to give up?

Just a little something to think about this morning.

 GOD'S WAYS

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 11-12

"God's ways are as hard to discern as the pathways of the wind, and as mysterious as a tiny baby being formed in a mother's womb." Ecclesiastes 11:5 NLT

You aren't wasting a lot of time and energy attempting to figure God out, are you?

Sleepless nights spent wondering what, or how, He will accomplish something?

Hours upon hours praying suggestions His way?

We cannot know God's ways. His will, yes, but not His ways.

How He goes about doing things is beyond our human comprehension.

His timetable far exceeds anything we could understand.

Who He might use in a particular situation or at a specific time exceeds our scope of anticipation.

Where He will choose to go to gather one of His back will often be much farther, deeper, longer than we ever would consider proper.

He is hard to discern only because He far exceeds anything we can fathom!

 TOO WONDERFUL FOR ME
Today's reading: Psalm 137-139

"Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to know!" Psalm 139:6 NLT

I sometimes sit in complete awe of the Lord.

His ways.

His mercy.

His love.

His forgiveness.

His creativity.

I am stunned to know how deeply He knows me, and still loves me.

I am gob-smacked to think of all He has control over and still cares for me.

I am staggered by the many ways He shows me He loves me.

I am astonished to watch Him orchestrate heaven and earth.

I am shaken in humility that He would bend an ear to me.

To think about the Lord, to really ponder Him in the fullness we can understand, it too wonderful!

 NAY SAYERS
Today's reading: Nehemiah 1-4

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

How is it you respond when folks question, doubt or debate your belief in Christ?

How do you react when confronted with an inquiry as to your faith?

Nehemiah had some nay-sayers attempting to throw a wet blanket on the fire that burned within him to rebuild the wall surrounding Jerusalem. An idea set in his heart by God himself. A task that seemed wildly enormous, but spurred on by the fervor to honor God.

His rebuttal could have caused strife, turmoil, bloodshed or lack of respect, but it didn't. It pointed to what Nehemiah believed, what Nehemiah believed could happen, and more importantly, Who Nehemiah believed in. 

Our reply sets the tone for where the discussion will go, the 'temperature' the conversation will rise to and the open door the dialogue will leave for the next believer to walk through.

Our replies denote what's in our hearts. 

The replies can back up our love for Christ, our responses can build up our witnesses to a lost and dying world, our comments can be seeds planted for others to water, nurture and harvest.

It's so important, Christian friends, that our words mimic our Savior's in all aspects.

 YOURS AND MINE

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 20-22

"When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses 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!" Deuteronomy 20:1 NLT

Welcome to Monday. A new week. A new line on the calendar. A new 40 hours on the job.

Ready or not, here it is!

As you rise and shine, or as you caffeine-ate and hope for the best, know this...

Things are going to happen that you don't like.

The enemy is going to attempt to trip you up.

You are going to be faced with some temptations to sin.

You will probably face situations that seem far too large for you to handle on your own.

Do not be afraid.

God is with you.

The One who brought you safely through last week, is still God!

 REALITY CHECK

Today's reading: 1 John 1-3

"So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness. We are not living in the truth." 1 John 1:6 NLT

Okay, it's time for a reality check.

We've determined the world is in bad shape.

We can agree that government has spoilage within its walls.

We can attest that within our small towns, big cities and overpopulated metropolises Christianity is losing ground.

We have those very close to us who have turned their backs on the Truth they know.

We know all of that.

What's important in fighting it all is knowing exactly how we stand with the Lord.

How are our faith walks?

How much time are we spending in the Word?

How is our determination in fellow-shipping with other believers?

How closely are we living to the moral codes provided by God?

We can shake our heads and callous our knees in an effort to 'right' the world, but if our own hearts are filled with deceit, distrust, hopelessness and despair, then we are no better off than those we pray for.

Take some time to do a reality check of your spirit.

 ALWAYS LEARNING

Today's reading: Acts 17-18

"Meanwhile, a Jew named Apollos, an eloquent speaker who knew the Scriptures well,..However, he knew only about John's baptism." Acts 18:24-25 NLT

It's vitally important that no matter how well we believe we know the Scriptures, how smartly we can exegete upon them, how brilliantly we can debate them or even how well we can live them out, that we have someone who pushes us, urges us, helps us and challenges us to know more.

Always learning more.

Diving into the Word of God to a deeper level.

Seeking more understanding.

Wanting more of it in us.

We cannot remain on an elementary level of Bible knowledge when we are facing a world so desperately depraved, hungry and doubting.

 RISKS OF LIFE

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 9-10

"...Such are the risks of life." Ecclesiastes 10:9 NLT

Living in a fallen world has several downsides to it.

We all suffer at the hands of sin--our own, or that of others.

We all dwell where there is no peace, no real peace.

We all interact with folks who face the same temptations to sin that we face, we rub shoulders with folks who deal with conviction in various ways, we live life with folks who have the same disease most of us are infected with--'the it's-all-about-me' syndrome.

Knowing all this, we hesitate to take risks.

It's risky business to love. It's risky business to forgive. It's risky business to expose our vulnerable feelings. It's risky business to share our hopes and dreams.

My advice?

Take the risk.

This start of a beautiful holiday season, take the risk.

Love on the unloved, the unlovable and the unlovely.

Speak of your dreams.

Share your feelings with those you get to live life with.

Most of all?

Most of all tell the world about your Jesus.

Explain, in your own words, how you once were lost but now are found.

Spread the Good News that rescued you from the pits of hell.

Expose those placed within your hearing to God's love.

Hell is eternal, sharing what you have is worth the risk if you save someone from it.

 DO YOU KNOW?

Today's reading: Psalm 134-136

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

Do you truly know the greatness of the Lord?

I mean, know it to your core? Deeper than deep? Without a doubt, without a waver in your belief?

Does what you know carry over into how you live?

Are you free of worries--because you know the greatness of the Lord?

Are you exempt from fears--because you know the greatness of the Lord?

Do you have no concern for the future--because you know the greatness of the Lord?

Are your concerns minimal or non-existent--because you know the greatness of the Lord?

Do you worship God alone--because you know the greatness of the Lord?

Does your life bear godly fruit--because you know the greatness of the Lord?

Is it showing?

Is it evident?

It is glaringly obvious that you know the greatness of the Lord?

 POLLUTED

Today's reading: Ezra 6-10

"...So the holy race has become polluted..." Ezra 9:2 NLT

The prophet Ezra had a problem.

He was attempting, through God's leading and with God's help, to restore godliness to the Jewish nation.

The nation had endured some tough times, deservedly tough, but tough none the less.

They had been captured, kidnapped, relocated, retrained and now returning back to their homeland.

But their godliness had not remained intact.

As a matter of fact, Ezra was having a hard time even finding enough men to be priests and Levites, or temple workers.

Time away from their country, miles away from their house of worship, circumstances away from their usual routines and generationally instilled religious rules--they had forgotten how to be godly.

They had crossed lines.

They had bent toward other gods.

They had allowed their hearts to be swayed by idols.

But now, now they returned.

And as polluted as they were, God still loved them!

It would be a tough row to hoe, but with God's help the nation would be restored--heart, mind and soul!

 CELEBRATING AN ANNIVERSARY

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 17-19

"...Sacrifice it there as the sun goes down on the anniversary of your exodus from Egypt." Deuteronomy 16:6 NLT

Do you know the date you received the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior?

What Sunday you went to the altar? What day you prayed in a Vacation Bible School? What date you became a child of the Most High God?

Do you celebrate the evening before that day each year?

That's what the Israelites were asked to do. They were asked to have a special time set apart every year to remember where they were and where God took them.

They once were slaves, now they owned the land the walked on.

They once were in bondage, now they were free men and women.

They once were governed by whips and chains, now they lived lived in grace and mercy.

So God asked them to remember once a year exactly who they once were and to celebrate who God had allowed them to become.

It's a good practice for us, don't you think?

To pause long enough to remember that moment when Jesus came into our hearts.

To stop and survey the path He had walked you along from that day to this.

To take a moment to think about where you might be today if it had not been for the Lord.

To sit with your thoughts long enough to realize the depths to which Christ came to find you, a sinner, a lost soul, a needy orphan.

As you pick up your new planners for 2024, be sure to mark this special date--and set aside time that day to celebrate the anniversary of when God unlocked the prison doors, released you from your servitude to sin, adopted you fully and wholly as His own.

And if you don't have a date--today could be the day!

Admit you are a sinner in need of a Savior.

Believe Christ died for you, for your sins, for your place in His family.

Confess that you prayed and asked Him to forgive you and to become your forever best friend to another believer--share your good news!

Then mark this day down as your new anniversary!

 PURPOSE OF GOD'S WORD

Today's reading: 2 Peter

"This is my second letter to you, dear friends, and in both of them I have tried to stimulate your wholesome thinking and refresh your memory." 2 Peter 3:1 NLT

Ever wondered what the Scriptures were truly for?

Well, there is the purpose of introducing us to God.

And the intent of showing us our sinfulness.

Then, there is the desire, with every word written to explain the gift of salvation.

But also, the Bible is used 'to stimulate wholesome thinking  and refresh your memory'.

Its words push us to think rightly, clearly, wholesomely and lovingly.

And...it's to remind us of all God's done, all He's enabled people to do and all He desires to do in us.

So keep your nose in it.

Keep your eyes peeled as to what it wants to give you.

Keep it often in your hands.

But more than that, keep it in your heart!

 APOLOGIES MADE

Today's reading: Acts 16-17

"When the police made their report, the city officials were alarmed to learn that Paul and Silas were Roman citizens. They came to the jail and apologized..." Acts 16:38-39 NLT

I'd never noticed it before...

That the same folks who had imprisoned Paul and Silas had to make a public apology for their mistake.

Cool!

Makes me believe, even more wholeheartedly, that one day...

One day...

One glorious day, the world will also bow down before the God of the universe, the Creator of all things, the Lord of all lords, the King of all kings--and apologize.

Because they were wrong, and He was right--all along.

 DRESSED IN WHITE

Today's reading: Zechariah 1-7

"Then the angel showed me Jeshua[a] the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord. The Accuser, Satan,[b] was there at the angel’s right hand, making accusations against Jeshua. And the Lord said to Satan, “I, the Lord, reject your accusations, Satan. Yes, the Lord, who has chosen Jerusalem, rebukes you. This man is like a burning stick that has been snatched from the fire. Jeshua’s clothing was filthy as he stood there before the angel.  So the angel said to the others standing there, “Take off his filthy clothes.” And turning to Jeshua he said, “See, I have taken away your sins, and now I am giving you these fine new clothes.” Then I said, “They should also place a clean turban on his head.” So they put a clean priestly turban on his head and dressed him in new clothes while the angel of the Lord stood by." Zechariah 3:1-5 NLT

When I was in grade school we occasionally had the exciting thrill of going on a field trip. The announcement would come for weeks ahead of time. The anticipation would build. The rules were clearly and plainly spoken by the teacher for days ahead of the scheduled event.

And in the midst of the instruction? The teacher asked us to make sure we all wore a certain color of shirt. Maybe she picked red. Or blue. Or green.

She wanted us all to match, so that when she scanned the crowd, she immediately knew who was hers. The green shirt approaching the cannon re-enactment site was hers. The green shirt climbing on the monkey bars was one of hers. The green shirt sliding down the slide was one of hers. The green shirt sticking his arm through the bars of the lion's cage was hers. So on and so forth. A quick glance caused immediate recognition.

I think of that when I read this morning's Scripture passage and consider that since I asked Jesus to forgive my sins and live in my heart, I have been clothed in His righteousness.

He has placed His coverings over me.

He took my old, dirty, filthy rags and placed on me a white robe of His own perfection, redemption and salvation!

So when God looks across this entire world--He can spot who are His.

He sees us when we worship, when we witness, when we wobble in our faith.

He no longer sees who we once were, He now sees us clothed in Jesus!

 CEASELESS ACTIVITY

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 7-8

"In my search for wisdom, I tried to observe everything that goes on all across the earth. I discovered that there is ceaseless activity, day and night." Ecclesiastes 8:16 NLT

Solomon, even in his day and time, realized how much time people wasted.

And that was BEFORE computers, internet and video games!

He, I believe, was a people watcher. A notice-r of lifestyles, choices and personalities. A scholar of demographics.

And what he saw then, and what he would see today, is that we busy ourselves with things that are of no value.

We get to the ends of our lives and have spent far too many minutes, hours, days, weeks, months and years on things that are not going to follow us into eternity.

Today I'm challenging myself to invest in eternal choices. To make the time to leave an impact. To choose meaningful activities to spend my time on.

What about you? Care to join me?

 STILL & QUIET

Today's reading: Psalm 131-133

"...I don't concern myself with matters too great or awesome for me. But I have stilled and quieted myself, just as a small child is quiet with its mother. Yes, like a small child is my soul within me." Psalm 131:1-2 NLT

What is it you are concerning yourself with?

Are your days filled with accomplishing all God's asked you to do?

Are your hours jammed pack with service opportunities?

Does your planner drip with outreaches, ministries, Bible studies and fellowship with other believers?

Or...

Or, are you concerning yourself with things that are 'above your pay grade'?

As a child, I do not remember ever, I mean EVER, concerning myself with what was for supper, how the bills would get paid or whether the house was 'clean enough' for company.

Those were grown up matters.

Issues beyond my scope of ability, concern or thought.

I had it made in the shade, and didn't realize it.

Like now.

God's got it.

All of it.

Who am I to think He needs my help, seeks my input or requires my direction.

I need to completely place more things in His always caring hands--and leave them there.

I need to stop concerning myself with matters that are too great or awesome for me.

 EVEN THOUGH

Today's reading: Ezra 1-5

"Even though the people were afraid of the local residents, they rebuilt the altar at its old site. Then they immediately began to sacrifice burnt offerings on the altar to the Lord. They did this each morning and evening." Ezra 3:3 NLT

When worshiping the Lord is what your heart leads you to do, you do it--no matter the surroundings you are in.

Even afraid.

Even in enemy territory.

Even if other things needs pushed aside.

Even when the surroundings aren't picture perfect.

Have you ever felt praise rise up so mightily in your soul that where you were became hallowed ground?

Have you ever had to stop everything just to bow in humble adoration of our God and King?

Have you ever been led to stand, completely and silently, in awe of Whose you were?

Even though circumstances weren't ideal.

Even though all your requests had not been answered.

Even though you weren't in a 'church building'.

Even though kind of worship is the most heart felt.

 SERVE, FEAR, OBEY, LISTEN & CLING

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 13-15

"Serve only the Lord your God and fear Him alone. Obey His commands, listen to His voice and cling to Him." Deuteronomy 13:4 NLT

Too many folks believe Christianity is hard.

A very extensive set of rules to follow and an even longer list of 'do-nots'.

Honestly, instruction for our God walks can be summed up in this single, solitary verse.

Serve. Fear. Obey. Listen. Cling.

Verbs that give us purpose, peace, instruction, hope and safety.

Tasks that are doable in momentary, individual choice after choice.

Life changing instructions from the God who believes we can do just what He asks of us.

 SOON

Today' s reading: 1 Peter 4-5

"The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers." 1 Peter 4:7 NLT

If you've been on the church scene for very long at all, you've heard that Jesus is coming soon.

Coming to judge.

Coming to claim His own. 

Coming to right the wrongs done by the sins we tend to gravitate towards.

He hasn't come yet, so we have to believe His return is closer.

Nearing its time.

Are you praying as such?

Are you seeking God earnestly in prayer for those who are lost?

Are you crying out to the Lord in these last days for souls that will not spend eternity with Him?

The end of the world is coming soon, let's pray like we believe it!

 ASKED TO RETURN AGAIN

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

When you speak about the Lord, the things God has done for you, the enthusiasm you have for your house of worship and the presence of the Lord in it--do people lean in and listen?

Do they hear the excitement in your voice?

Do they sense that you cannot wait to return?

Do they feel as if they are missing out from your words?

That's how Paul and Barnabas spoke about the Lord and all He was doing.

People were enthused, intrigued, invited into their speakers' eagerness.

Are we doing the same thing?

 NOT YET TIME

Today's reading: Haggai

"...The people are saying, The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord's house--the Temple." Haggai 1:2 NLT

People thousands of years ago decided rebuilding the church was not at the top of their priority list.

Sound familiar?

Oh, people are busy. That's for certain.

People are busy running here and there. Throwing money at this cause and the next. Attending functions. Chairing committees. Getting kids from one place to the next. Advancing their careers. Getting together with friends.

Kids are being dropped off at training camps. Parents are taking self-help classes. Families are meeting once every month and a half, or so, for a meal around their dining room tables.

Grandparents are having to schedule, many days in advance, play dates with their grandkids. School. Practice. Gymnastics. 

But time for church?

No, no time for church.

 LISTEN BUT DON'T SPEAK

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 5-6

"As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut!.." Ecclesiastes 5:1 NLT

I'm going to try it this Sunday.

Really.

I'm going to my house of worship with the goal of listening and not speaking.

No, I'm not going to mime the Sunday School lesson I get to present.

I'm not going to refuse to speak to any and all that hug my neck and wish me a warm 'hello'.

I'm going to listen more than I usually do. I'm going to see if I can't hear of an opportunity to help out, to pray to lift up another.

And I'm going to keep my talking to a minimum.

No unnecessary comments. No unneeded complaints. No participation in gossip wrapped in the costume of prayer requests. 

I'm going to quieten down so I can listen more.

It's gonna be a hard task for this gal. One that will require determination, intention and God's help.

But as I enter the Lord's house, I want my ears open and my mouth shut--all for His glory!

 SHAMEFUL DEFEAT

Today's reading: Psalm 128-130

"May all who hate Jerusalem be turned back in shameful defeat." Psalm 129:5 NLT

I cannot tell you I am up to date on all current events.

I cannot always converse with you about the latest news or headlines.

What I do know is this: God has asked us to pray for Israel and Israel stands in desperate need of our prayers.

So I will agree with this unnamed psalmist in praying to the Lord...

Lord, 

In Your magnificence.

With a mere portion of Your unbridled power.

Because of Your unfailing love for the country that holds a special place in Your heart.

Please, to Your glory, turn the enemy back in shameful defeat!

Thwart their plans.

Cause division within their ranks.

Destroy their confidence.

Undo their well thought out strategies.

Step in and turn the tables, Lord of Israel!

Draw those who are on the fence about You over to Your side.

Let the Jewish people, let all people, see You as the conquering Messiah.

Praying all this in Your precious Son's name,

Amen

 DID NOT TURN ASIDE

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 33-36

"Josiah...did not turn aside from doing what was right." 2 Chronicles 34:1-2 NLT

Josiah, though a young man, chose to do what was right. What was godly. What was commanded by the Lord.

He did not lean towards comfort.

He did not bend towards popularity.

He did not bow to tolerance.

He did not twist the truths of God.

He heard what God asked of him.

He recalled what God's Word said he must do.

He sought the Lord in his leadership.

Can the same be said of us?

Are we setting our course towards obedience--no matter the cost?

Are we determining to follow the Lord--whether we go it alone or with others?

Are we putting blinders on ourselves so that we are not distracted by all the world offers?

We cannot turn from doing what is right.

 SAME WORDS
Today's reading: Deuteronomy 10-12

"...Return to me on the mountain, and I will write on the tablets the same words that were on the ones you smashed..." Deuteronomy 10:1-2 NLT

Friends and fellow believers,

God's Word has not changed.

We can re-write laws. We can vote in legislation. We can change by-laws within our doctrinal essays--but God's Word has not, and will not, change!

The two stone tablets broken by Moses in exasperation and desperation were not re-written to make life easier.

God wrote the exact same words again. 

The same words that stand today.

The same God that rules today.

To bring about the same Christlikeness in us today!

 WHAT IS YOUR LIFE SAYING?

Today's reading: 1 Peter 1-3

"...Your godly lives will speak to them better than any words. They will be won over by watching your pure, godly behavior." 1 Peter 3:1-2 NLT

What's your life saying to those around you?

Not your words.

Not your recitations of the Holy Scripture.

Not your sermonizing or preaching.

Your life.

What's your life saying to those you hope to reach for the Lord?

Is your life exhibiting steadfastness in what you believe, not necessarily what you see?

Is your life exemplifying Jesus in your waiting, in your handling of stressful situations, in your hope?

Is your life drawing people to the Lord or pushing them away?

Are you scattering seeds of the Gospel in every situation you find yourself in?

Our lives will speak better to them than any words--what a reminder!

 A SCARY PRAYER

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 11:18 NLT

Would it scare you to death to pray like this...

Lord, because I know You have not changed.

And because I know Your desire is still that ALL men come to You.

Would You, Lord, give me the power You provided the believers in Acts?

Would You allow me to reach people for You? The people in my home, across the street, keyboard strokes away.

Would You let me go forth and reach the lost, speak the Truth and speak the words that will turn people's hearts to You? Present Your Good News to a world so desperate for healing.

Would you do it for me? In me? Through me? With me?

-Amen

 THE PATIENCE OF THE LORD

Today's reading: Zephaniah

"Surely they will have reverence for me now!.." Zephaniah 3:7 NLT

If you look through the pages of time's history, you will undoubtedly see times when God's patience is the only thing that spared humankind from complete obliteration.

You will recall events that will have not doubt brought believers, and unbelievers alike, to their knees in desperation, in need, in awe or in fear.

Natural disasters. Man-induced attrocities. World-wide fears.

You will bring to mind wars or plights that left the strongest nations toppled, the most politically backed kings dethroned and the business world gasping for air.

Civil wars. World wars. Racial wars. Church disputes.

Opportunities God chose to use to send folks to their knees in reverence for Him, scurrying to find hope in Him and thirsting for Him.

Surely...He must have said on numerous occasions...Surely, they will turn to Me now.

 BACK-TO-BACK

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 3-4

"A person standing alone can be attached and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer..." Ecclesiastes 4:12 NLT

I don't know how long I've know this verse.

Or heard it quoted.

Or even preached.

But this morning, I get it. I really get it.

It's not a matter of two folks conversing, talking, discussing the problems of the world.

It's not even stating here that they are praying, discussing the Bible or speaking God over each other.

These two people, men or women, are standing back to back.

They are not facing each other, they are facing the world.

They are looking for danger. They are looking for opportunity. They are looking for ways to help each other.

They are not focusing merely on each others' need.

They are not making eye contact with only the person standing in front of them.

They are looking outward--for ministry needs and for temptations that may be headed their way.

So, I ask you, who has your back? Whose back do you have?

Who are you helping help the world? Who is helping you?

 THE OTHER NATIONS

Today's reading: Psalm 125-127

"...And the other nations said, What amazing things the Lord has done for them." Psalm 126:2 NLT

I will not belittle or downsize the course of events going on in Israel by saying it's no more than a playground skirmish brought on by a bully that envies the attention Israel receives from the Lord, but...

They have to want what Israel has!

They have to be a little jealous of the wealth, prosperity and educational advances Israel has achieved!

They have to be envious of the draw this small, but powerful, piece of land has on the hearts of men and women around the world!

They have to have a desire, even in their wicked hearts, for the land of milk and honey and a place as special to the Lord as the apple of His eye!

So, while there are border disputes and centuries-old arguments over land ownership, there are heart issues that are much, much deeper.

It boils down to this: God took back from the enemy what God had created and the enemy had claimed as his own. God placed a special mark on the land and the people set aside as His, no doubt about the ownership. God set His hand on this place and made historical reference to it in His Word.

The enemy wants it, but he cannot have it. Then. Now. Ever.

 IT'S ALL ABOUT ME

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 29-32

"These men called together their fellow Levites, and they purified themselves..." 2 Chronicles 29:15 NLT

I don't know about where you live, but the slogan, 'It's not about me', is everywhere.

The thought behind the chant is that we should put others first.

And, I agree.

To an extent.

The portion of Scripture this morning talks about the Levites, God's worship-team, called themselves together to 'get right with the Lord'.

They knew that in order to minister for the Lord, in ways that honored the Lord, to the people that the Lord sent their way--they needed their hearts and minds cleared of all else but God.

They, for the purpose of personal revival and renewal and restoration, said, It's about me...

It's about me and the Lord.

It's about me coming to grips with any sins I have in my life.

It;s about me remembering exactly who God is, and who I am not.

It's about me being reintroduced to my First Love.

It's about me making sure my walk matches my talk.

So, friend, while it isn't all about me, it is.

While it isn't all about you, it is.

 SHOW THEM NO MERCY

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 7-9

"You must destroy all the nations the Lord 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

Has God had you stand on a mountain and look over all He has promised you?

Has He led you to believe success is yours? Victory is yours? Forgiveness is yours?

Has our Good God directed you into, and away from, a life of death and curses and into a life of blessings and life?

As He stood with you allowing you to catch a glimpse of all He has in store for you, did you hear Him say the words of this morning's verse?

It's important to know that dabbling in sin, revisiting old haunts and attempting to worship God and ourselves (or our little idols) will not work.

We cannot even lean into the idea of worshiping any but Him.

We cannot give in even to the smallest of tendencies to sin.

We cannot allow all He's done to be devoured up in a poor choice, no matter how well intending it may be or how very well controlled you think you are.

Sin traps.

Stay away from it, at all costs!

 WHAT IS A SIN?

Today's reading: James 4-5

"Remember, it is sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it." James 4:17 NLT

Let's be honest with each other this morning...

Most of us believe that 'sins' are things you do.

Murder.

Lie.

Cheat.

Steal.

The 'big 4", but we could go on. Right?

There's adultery, disrespecting our parents, coveting, making false idols.

But James reminds me this morning that a 'sin' is anything we know we ought to do and don't do it.

It's the undone things that are sins, too.

Hmmm...

Like not reading our Bibles regularly?

Not having an ongoing prayer conversation with the Lord--one where we talk to Him AND listen for Him?

Not making church attendance a top (yes, even ahead of sports) priority?

Not forgiving others?

Wow, it sure puts a new spin on the idea of sin, doesn't it?

 DEAR CHURCH

Today's reading: Acts 9-10

"The church then had peace throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria and it grew in strength and numbers. The believers were walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit." Acts 9:31 NLT

Dear Church,

When I think of how far we should have come from Acts till now, I'm a little disappointed in us.

Technology has allowed us to reach the masses, the other side of the world and across any language barrier there is--and yet, most of our neighbors we've never mentioned Christ to.

Conveniences have let us focus less on survival and more on thriving in our communities and tribes--and yet, we see people daily who are drained, defeated and depressed.

History, more importantly the Bible, has provided us with a track record of God's goodness, His faithfulness and His abilities--and yet those same Bibles, of which we probably have many in our homes, become more dust-covered artifacts than daily manuals for living.

Shame on us!

I don't believe we're walking in the fear of the Lord. Fear of our neighbor's assessment, fear of each others' opinions or fear of the unknown perhaps, but not fear of the Lord.

I don't think we are finding our comfort in the Holy Spirit. In the amounts massed in our checking accounts, 401K's and retirement funds, maybe. In the possessions we collect, and store, and grumble about having to maintain, maybe. In the homes we have been blessed with, yet don't open up to share God with others, maybe.

Shame on us!

The church in Acts had no more of God available to them than we do.

The church in Acts had no more skill, ability or knowledge than we have.

The church in Acts had no more reason to be chosen as working vessels in the Lord hands than we do, but they chose to allow it to happen.

What about us?

Do we want to see growth in number and in strength?

Do we want to see God's Word going out like a wildfire across a dry, grassy prairie?

Do we want to see souls, not just people, but souls, come to the Lord in the hundreds, in the thousands, en masse?

It's our choice.

 ERRONEOUS THINKING
Today's reading: Habakkuk

"How long, O Lord, must I call for for help? But you do not listen! Violence! I cry out, but you do not come to save." Habakkuk 1:2 NLT

Habakkuk couldn't see God moving, or answering, or seemingly 'giving a hoot' as to why violence and corruption continued after he lay broken open before the Lord in prayer. Habakkuk didn't feel like God even cared any more for the nation of Judah. Habakkuk didn't like the wait.

Been there? Currently camped out in that exact same position?

Let's clear up a little erroneous thinking this morning...

Just because you don't receive an answer to your prayers by the time you same 'Amen', does not mean God isn't listening.

Just because your burden isn't lifted at your request, does not mean God is ignoring you.

Just because you've been asked to wait by the Lord, does not mean He cares for you any less than any other soul He has created.

Just because you don't see God working, does not mean He isn't.

God's ways (and His timing and His plans) far exceed our measly desires. 

His works (the visible and invisible) cannot always be perceived by our human eyes, ears or hearts. 

God's purposes (His not our own) cannot be swayed, disrupted or comprehended by our little minds.

While we think God isn't at work and doesn't care--we're wrong. Oh, so wrong!

 SUNRISE

Today's reading: Ecclesiastes 1-2

"The sun rises and sets and hurries around to rise again." Ecclesiastes 1:5 NLT

I'm up each morning before the sun rises, so I get to watch God's grand opening of each and every morning.

There's nothing like it.

The colors.

The awe.

The glimmer in the dark, then the full blown sunrise.

To think, according to Solomon's words, the sun races around the earth to rise again.

It hurries to bring us the new mercies God promises.

It rushes to awaken us to new opportunities to experience God's grace.

It hastens to present us with a brand new day onto which He will write our stories.

It loses no time in giving us the gift of another twenty-four hours.

Always in the same place. Never not showing up. Dependable. Trustworthy. 

Good morning!

 JERUSALEM

Today's reading: Psalm 122-124

"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper." Psalm 122:6 NLT

Here's the thing:

We don't have to understand the politics of the turmoil in Israel.

We don't have to have a firm grasp on the history of this hard-fought-for nation.

We don't have to be able to read Hebrew or understand the many traditions followed in this ancient city.

We don't even have to know where it is on a world map.

What we do have to do? We have to pray for the peace of this country, and this city.

God, through David, gave us the instruction.

This simple verse tells us to do it.

The command is not wrapped up in a tidy package of 'why's'.

The request is not made by someone you cannot trust.

The summons to dip your toe in the waters of world events is not dependent upon whether you've ever been there or will ever go there.

God pleads with us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

A city close to His heart. 

And, to be quite honest, if it's close to His heart--shouldn't it be close to ours?

 IT NEVER ENDS WELL

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 25-28

"...for he said, These gods helped the kings of Aram, so they will help me, too, if I sacrifice to them." 2 Chronicles 28:23 NLT

If you've watched any television at all, you know when a story plot is going to end badly.

The same is true for any scary movie.

Whether it's the tense music leading up to the next scene.

Or the situation the star of the show has placed themselves in--a dark alley, a haunted house, a relationship that did not start out well.

We all know and expect certain outcomes when we view the entertainment industry's take on life as we know it.

The same should have been said of King Ahaz.

He should have taken notice of the previous kings who bowed to idols.

He should have taken into account the historical documents of those rulers who turned their backs on the One True God.

He should have seen a downfall coming when he chose to worship these trinkets who couldn't place themselves on a shelf, had no eyes to see and couldn't speak to his heart.

But he didn't listen to the 'soundtrack' playing.

What about you? Have you made a few choices lately that you knew, down deep in your heart, weren't going to end well? Gone against God's best for you? Chosen another route than the one God had given you?

Going against the Lord never ends well.

 SABBATH

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 4-6

"Observe the Sabbath...Remember that you were once slaves in Egypt and that the Lord your God brought you out with amazing power and mighty deeds. That is why the Lord your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day." Deuteronomy 5:12-15 NLT

Ever wondered WHY God asked us to participate in a day of rest? A day set aside specifically each and every week to think about all He has done and who He is?

It's to remember.

It's to remember that we, like the Israelites, were once held slave to something.

Slaves have no say. Slaves have no consideration given to them. Slaves have no day off.

God asks us to observe a Sabbath so that we pause to remember who we were, what we lacked, why we are able to experience the sweet taste of freedom today.

Are you taking advantage of this day set apart to remember?

 UNCHANGING GOD

Today's reading: James 1-3

"Whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God above, who created all heaven's light. Unlike them, he never changes or casts shifting shadows." James 1:17 NLT

Today I'm pausing to consider the unchanging God I serve.

The one that remains the same for me as He did for my parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.

The one who has not wavered in the promises He made to me or to generations before me.

The one whose very being is unedited, ageless, steadfast and true since He began time--and before.

The one who has not ever changed His stance, changed His mind, changed His truths or changed in His love for me.

The one who does not govern, ordain, orchestrate or offer salvation based upon His emotions or His feelings, but by the unchanging stability of His character.

I can trust Him.

I can depend upon Him.

I can give all I have to Him and expect Him to receive it, care for it and expand it in His way.

 IN HIS PRESENCE

Today's reading: Nahum

"In his presence the mountains quake, and the hills melt away; the earth trembles, and its people are destroyed." Nahum 1:5 NLT

We sing songs about God's presence.

We read verses about God's presence.

We lean on the promise of God's presence.

But have you ever thought about the fact that our enemy cannot stand in God's presence?

Our enemy is brought low.

Our enemy is defeated.

Our enemy is humbled.

Our enemy is disarmed.

Our enemy is quieted.

Our enemy is subdued.

In God's presence our enemy cannot stand, cannot trick, cannot speak and cannot tempt.

Have you invited God into your presence, for your own comfort and for the disabling of your enemy?

 SPEAKING UP

Today's reading: Proverbs 31

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those who are perishing." Proverbs 31:8 NLT

I've got to admit, I've never read this verse before.

When it comes to Proverbs 31, verses 10-31 are the stars, the remaining verses were, to me, merely the prologues, the understudies, the 'also-rans'.

But this morning I see it.

Speaking up for those who cannot speak for themselves goes beyond donating to the widows and orphan fund.

It surpasses the t-shirts we might wear stating our opposition to sex-trafficking, abortion or segregation based on any reason.

It's much more more than voting the right candidate into office, making sure there are no dangling chads on your preference on the ballot or attending a rally.

I believe, and once again--I am a novice to this verse-- that it also means praying for those who cannot, will not and have not been praying for themselves.

Are you praying for those folks?

Are you mentioning their names to the Father?

Are you standing in the gap for someone who needs your Savior?

Praying someone to Jesus is the greatest thing you can do for someone who doesn't even know they need Him.

Asking God to step into their lives before they come face to face with Him at death is a valuable gift you can give those you love.

Rescuing the perishing, caring for the dying, praying for the souls of those lost in sin...that's speaking up.

 MY HELP

Today's reading: Psalm 120-121

"I look up to the mountains--does my help come from there? My help comes from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth." Psalm 121:1 NLT

I've got to admit, the Word has me looking deep within this morning.

It's got me re-evaluating.

It's got me thinking.

Where do I look for help?

Pushing aside the Sunday School answer, where do I actually look when trouble arises, questions need answering, problems present themselves?

Am I looking to the Lord?

Do I take the problems to Him after I have checked the bank balance?

Do I present my needs to Him after I've determined what Facebook followers suggest, Pinterest gives me ideas for or Instagram doesn't provide respite from?

Do I give God my greatest concerns and determine not to take them back?

Am I stating the greatness of the Lord with my words, or is my speech on repeat about the big-ness of the problem?

Where does my help come from? Am I going to the Source of all hope, the Provider of all I need, the One who can solve all my problems?

It's a lot to think about this early morning...

 NO COATTAILS
Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 21-24

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

I don't know what legacy you've been left by your grandparents, great-grandparents and great-great grandparents.

I don't know if you've been given good amounts of money, good genes or a good name because of your association with them.

Maybe you have inherited something of value, something of historical significance, something of sentimental worth.

Have you received, from your predecessors, godly examples to follow?

Were your ancestors of high regard in their church?

Did your family wholeheartedly serve the Lord?

While that type of inheritance is the greatest to be had, it won't get you to heaven.

You'll not be riding the coattails of a God-fearing, Bible-believing, church-attending relative into God's presence.

You won't be able to slip God the name of your deacon-Granddad and get a free pass.

You won't be able to mention Great-Grandma's name and be let in a special door.

God will ask, Do you know my Son?

Did you accept from Him the free gift of salvation?

Have you, you specifically, asked for forgiveness of your sins?

Godly heritage is a blessing to be had. It is not, however, a Get-Out-Of-Hell-Free card.

 WHERE ARE YOU?

Today's reading: Deuteronomy 1-3

"But you rebelled against the command of the Lord your God and refused to go in. You murmured and complained in your tents..." Deuteronomy 1:26-27 NLT

There isn't a church you could attend in which you wouldn't have a list of complaints. Things needing corrected. Things needing addressed. Things needing undone.

Complaints are as varied and as unique as opinions. 

I don't mind listening to complaints, IF the person doing the complaining is doing and has done all that was asked of them by the Lord.

If they are obeying His commands.

If they are serving where He has asked.

If they are keeping their nose in the Word.

If they are cultivating the Fruit of the Spirit in their lives.

But if they are rebelling against God and just sitting in their tents with their arms crossed--well, I don't tend to give them a listening ear.

This very verse has given me pause this morning as to what I'm doing where I'm at. 

It's caused me to stop long enough to think over what is ruffling my feathers or getting my goat--and whether or not it's God-led or conviction-fed.

What about you?

 NEVER

Today's reading: Hebrews 11-13

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

Never is an awfully big word, don't you think?

It's a tall order.

A monumental commitment.

But God said it. 

No one but Him could stand by such a statement. 

No one but Him could follow through on such an utterance.

No one but Him can be trusted to carry out, to the full measure, exactly what He means by 'never'.

Only God.

 GO TO THE TEMPLE

Today's reading: Acts 5-6

"Go to the Temple and give the people this message of life!" Acts 5:20 NLT

Of all the places the apostles could have gone, should have gone, would have gone--the angel of the Lord told them to head to church with the message of life.

To church!

To church?

Shouldn't the church have known? 

Shouldn't we?

And yet, every Sunday, we (the church goers) drag our lifeless hearts into the front doors of the church.

We carry our hopelessness into the pews.

We sing the worship songs without joy, or peace or faith.

There is a message of life in Jesus' life and ministry and death on the cross!

It's as much for us churched folk as it is for the lost and dying world.

Have we forgotten that? Have we chosen to lose sight of that truth? Have we allowed the cares of the world to drown out the life-giving message of the Gospel?

Let's all find that message in our hearts today and take it with us into our worship services tomorrow!

 ANOTHER GOD

Today's reading: Micah

"Where is another God like you, who pardons the sins of the survivors among his people? You cannot stay angry with your people forever, because you delight in showing mercy." Micah 7:18 NLT

Where, in all the other world religions, is another God who delights in showing mercy?

There are gods who demand allegiance.

Gods who rain down judgement.

There are religious elite that require sacrifice.

But you, Lord?

While You ask for our allegiance, judge between what is right and wrong and willingly accept the sacrifices we offer--You delight in showing us mercy!

No other god does that.

No other ruler reigns in love.

No other idol offers hope, forgiveness and grace.

Where is another God like You?

 EVERY WORD

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

I don't have to stay up nights wondering IF God's Word will prove out.

I don't have to wring my hands worrying IF the words in the Bible will play out as they've been written.

I don't have to question IF the promises I choose to stand on will come to pass.

I don't have to speculate as to IF the commands spoken of in the Holy Scriptures will truly bring about the blessings they say they will.

Every word of God proves true.

Every. Word.

Because of their track records, I can doubt what most people tell me.

Because of their lack of ability, I can question what others promise to me.

Because of their human characteristics, I can ponder if what another says will truly happen.

But not with God. Not with His words.

I can stand protected, secure, assured, filled with hope and redeemed because every word of God proves true!

 MAKE ME

Today's reading: Psalm 119

"Make me walk along the path of your commands, for that is where my happiness is found." Psalm 119:35 NLT

Lord, 

Interestingly, this psalmist chose to ask You to 'make me walk along the path of Your commands'.

Not just help me.

Not just nudge me in the right direction.

Not just provide suggestions.

He's asked that You not only give him direction, but that You insure by Your might, Your ways and Your order of the universe, he will follow Your commands.

He's asking, in my own terms, that You not leave it up to him.

I get that, Lord.

I cannot be trusted, even on the days when my resolve is steeled, to follow You.

I have the want to.

I am aware that it's the best for me.

I've seen it lived out.

But I cannot do it on my own. Every day. For very long. Without wavering.

So Lord, MAKE me walk along the path of Your commands.

Make me go ONLY where it is You would have me go.

Make me do ONLY what it is You want me to do.

Make me hear ONLY Your voice.

Make me desire ONLY You.

I don't want self-control, I want You in control.

Please, Lord--for the honor of Your name.

-Amen

 WHEN THEY HEAR

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 16-20

"When the surrounding kingdoms heard that the Lord himself had fought against the enemies of Israel, the fear of God came over them." 2 Chronicles 20:29 NLT

Your enemy knows Whose you are.

He watches for opportune moments to step in and stir up trouble.

He keeps an eye out for the times when your faith lags, your hope is dimmed and your character is teetering on the edge.

He knows he has no chance with God watching over you, but he also knows there are occasions where you stray away from the Lord's side.

He watches for the days you believe you can handle it all yourself.

The circumstances that arise and knock the wind out of you.

It's those times when he chooses to pounce.

He rushes in.

He attempts to feed the little doubts, hoping to grow them into the size of mountains.

He is scared to death of God, but not so much of you.

So stay close to the Lord!

Walk so closely with Him that satan never has the opportunity to make his attacks.

Lean so dependently on the Lord that only when He moves will you move.

 BOUNDARIES OF THE LAND
Today's reading: Numbers 33-36

"...When you come into the land of Canaan, which I am giving you as your special possession, these will be the boundaries." Numbers 34:2 NLT

Before they even stepped foot into the Promised Land, God had Moses proclaim the boundaries of their newly inherited property.

From here to there. From that point to this.

A specified area. A denoted acreage. An appointed expanse.

What they could claim as their own. 

What they were to steward as theirs.

What they were to protect, guard and keep as their prized possession.

God has not changed His mind on what's belonging to His special people. He has not 'sold off' some property to settle a debt, to soften a dispute, to offer as appeasement in a dispute among neighboring nations.

This land is still God's. It still belongs to His people. It's still part of the family inheritance. It's still a prime piece of real estate the world would love to obtain as their own.

 OUR HIGH PRIEST

Today's reading: Hebrews 8-10

"But only the high priest goes into the Most Holy Place, and only once a year, and always with blood, which he offers to God to cover his own sins and the sins the people have committed in ignorance." Hebrews 9:7 NLT

Maybe you have a wonderful pastor, I won't say the 'best', because that title is already taken by the pastor of my church--but say you had a great one...

Imagine completely depending upon that great man to go ONCE A YEAR into the church to ask forgiveness for your sins.

ONCE A YEAR to seek God on your behalf.

ONCE A YEAR to pray for himself, to make sure he was in right standing with God in order that he might offer sacrifice for your sins ONCE A YEAR.

ONCE A YEAR you see him cross the threshold of that special place, all your hope resting on his abilities and words.

That's putting a whole lot of weight on the shoulders of another faulty human.

What if, that ONCE A YEAR, he failed to mention your name? Sure, he remembered all the others on your pew, but failed to remember your name...so forgiveness had to wait another year.

What if, THAT ONCE A YEAR, he had his own sins to account for. Sins that took up all his time in the Most Holy Place.

Aren't you glad we have a High Priest who went before God once for us, didn't have to settle his own account with God and does not forget?

Aren't you thrilled to know that daily, hourly and minute by minute we can be in touch with that High Priest in order that our accounts remain settled?

Aren't you assured to know that High Priest's sacrifice was enough for you, enough for me, enough for the world, for all time?

We have a great High Priest. Jesus is His name.

 YOU HAVE SOMETHING THEY NEED

Today's reading: Acts 3-4

"When he saw Peter and John about to enter, he asked them for some money." Acts 3:3 NLT

Now I don't think Peter and John were dressed to the nines.

I don't believe they wore the latest in Jerusalem fashion.

I don't think they had arrived in style.

But this crippled man saw something in them he wanted.

Needed really.

They carried something within them that led this needy fella had been looking for.

Know what?

We have within us what the needy around us need, too.

Believer, we have the Holy Spirit coursing through our veins, radiating from our spirits, reflecting from our hearts and, hopefully, showing up on our faces.

We should be living lives that make the needy ask us for a piece of Him!

 BEING LIKE JONAH

Today's reading: Jonah

"But Jonah got up and went in the opposite direction to get away from the Lord..." Jonah 1:3 NLT

I'd never do that, you say.

What was he thinking, you exclaim.

No one in their right mind would blatantly go against the Lord, you mutter.

As you, and I, do the exact same thing we see Jonah doing.

Oh, maybe we don't go in the opposite direction--but we change His instructions just a bit to make them a little less chafing.

Or, we postpone His command until a more convenient time for us.

Or, we disregard His instructions, writing them off as a crazy whim we've dreamed up in our own minds.

But here is the truth: If we're not obeying the Lord, we're disobeying. We're 'purchasing a ticket' to get away from the Lord.

I don't know what God's asking you to do, but I doubt it's highly unlikely that He is asking you to do something as large as what He requested of Jonah.

So do your little thing.

With your whole heart.

As hard as it might appear to be to do.

Now.

GO BOLDLY

Today's reading: Proverbs 28

"The wicked run away when no one is chasing them, but the godly are as bold as lions." Proverbs 28:1 NLT

The newest fad is finding out what personality type you are based on the enneagram.

Before that it was what color suited your character traits.

And before that, we were assigned animals to denote what kind of person you were.

If I remember correctly, a loyal and devoted person was said to be like a golden retriever.

A hard working and industrious individual was said to have otter-like tendencies.

Maybe a lazy person was a sloth?

And a person with exuberance was a tiger...but I may be crossing my psychological demarcations with what I know of Winnie the Pooh and his 100 Acre Woods friends.

All that to say this...

Christian friend, are you as bold as a lion in your beliefs, your desire to share Christ and your determination that all should know the Hope you have?

Do you stand your ground?

Do you watch for opportunities to jump into conversations?

Do you determine what topics are discussed around you--and what things are off limits?

We have a great, big God living within us. Shouldn't that make us bold?

 IN MY DISTRESS

Today's reading: Psalm 117-118

"In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and rescued me." Psalm 118:5 NLT

Our lying, cheating, thief of an enemy likes to make us think we must have our lives cleaned up, our messes straightened out and our issues corrected BEFORE we can call out to the Lord for help.

That's a lie!

It's in our messiness, in our gutters, in our depths of despair that we realize how desperately we need a Savior.

It's in the middle of long dark nights, while the storms rage about us, when our minds and hearts seek for a safe harbor that we know we need more, much more, than we can do for ourselves.

It's in those places, those low places, where we are most in need, most vulnerable and most open to all God has to offer us.

So where you are, whether it's chaotic or ordered, grubby or dusted and swept clean, wrong or right--call out to Him.

He will answer you.

From where ever you are.

 DISTRESS

Today's reading: 2 Chronicles 11-15

"But whenever you were in distress and turned to the Lord, the  God of Israel, and sought him out, you found him." 2 Chronicles 15:4 NLT

Distress, it can be caused by others--or it can be by our own doing.

Distress leaves us needing something, lacking something, having to deal with something or wishing something had never happened.

Distress, at the mere scent of it or in the depths of it, can be used to turn us to the Lord.

And when we turn...

We we seek Him out...

When we repent of our sins or surrender to His all-knowing and all-loving will...

We will find Him.

Always.

With His arms wide open, ready to accept us. Scooping us up into His lap and showering us with His grace.

 WHAT IS LEADING YOU INTO BATTLE?

Today's reading: Numbers 29-32

"Then Moses sent them out, a thousand men from each tribe, and Phinehas son of Eleazar the priest led them into battle. They carried along the holy objects of the sanctuary and the trumpets for sounding the charge." Numbers 31:6 NLT

Imagine Moses sending out this delegation of troops to fight the Midianites. 

These soldiers were handpicked from each tribe, I can imagine the biggest, burliest, strongest and fastest men from each of the camps.

The affront was that the Midianites had led the Israelites into idol worship--and that brought the curse of death upon these heathen people.

So what did Moses do? He gathered up the army. He gave the instructions. He reminded them that it was the Lord's war...and he sent the priest to lead them carrying the holy objects from the sanctuary.

The man leading the charge was appointed by God, a representative of God, a man who God had chosen to speak to the people on behalf of God. The objects from the sacred tent reminded them that the battle they fought was important to God.

Makes me wonder, as I think about the stands I might need to take today--what will be leading me?

Will it be my own personal preferences or comfort?

Will it be driven by embarrassment?

Will social media stir me up?

Will the group I'm listening to determine my battle plans?

My prayer this morning is that my battles, and I know there will be some during the day, be led wholly and completely by my Great Priest!

I'm asking God to go before me, to walk with me, to take His place beside me and to go within me--so that I am led by Him to do His will, in His way, at the time He appoints.

 LISTENING OR NOT

Today's reading: Hebrews 5-7

"There is so much more we would like to say about this. But you don't seem to listen, so it's hard to make you understand." Hebrews 5:11 NLT

Could Paul, the assumed writer of Hebrews, be speaking to your church in this letter?

The people he has helped to establish faith, the people he warned would have hard times because they became followers, the people he earnestly and fervently prayed for...

Yes, even all those years ago, I believe Paul, led by God, wrote these words to the church of 2023.

Could he be speaking directly to your heart? In regards to matters he sees you struggling with?

Is there something the Lord has convicted your heart of, but you stand there with your fingers in your ears?

 SOUND OFF

Today's reading: Acts 1-2

"When they heard this sound, they came running to see what it was all about, and they were bewildered to hear their own languages being spoken by the believers." Acts 2:6 NLT

The mighty, rushing wind of the Holy Spirit filling the place where the believers were meeting has been talked about for centuries.

The fact that the noise and the tongues of fire fell upon the followers gathered in that place is the subject for many sermons, debates and discussions.

But did you know that the sound was heard by other believers that were not even in the building? It was heard by other Christ-followers living in Jerusalem?

Are there brothers and sisters in Christ hearing the 'noise of the Lord' coming from your home? From your workplace? From your church?

Society is full of folks sounding off for various causes, taking stands that require they up  the volume,  and having beliefs that are shouted from the rooftops.

Do they hear from God? Through us? Is the mighty, rushing wind of the Holy Spirit so powerfully at work in us that other believers hear the testimony?