THE VOICE OF GOD

Today's reading: Psalm 27-29

"The voice of the Lord echoes above the sea. The God of glory thunders. The Lord thunders over the might sea. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty. The voice of the Lord splits the mighty cedars; the Lord shatters the cedars of Lebanon." Psalm 29:3-5 NLT

I don't know if you have lost loved you are waiting for God to draw near...

Or prodigals wandering in far countries...

Or friends who won't listen to your testimony about the Gospel...

Know this: When God speaks, they will hear.

When He raises His voice, there will be no doubt as to what they are being called to do.

When He whispers their name, they will know it's Him.

His voice shakes the foundations of our hearts and calms the doubts of our minds.

I pray He speaks to those near and dear to us!

TRUE GRIT

Today's reading: Ruth

"So Ruth gathered barley there all day, and when she beat out the grain that evening, it came to about half a bushel. She carried it back into town and showed it to her mother-in-law. Ruth also gave her the food that was left over from her lunch." Ruth 2:17-18 NLT

The account of Ruth is often referred to a love story.

Or a redemption narrative.

Or a come-back account.

I believe it's a story about true grit.

Ruth had to be tough.

She had to be fearless.

She had to be relentless.

Nothing, nothing at all, about her life after was easy.

Marrying into a God-fearing family.

Being widowed.

Leaving.

Cleaving.

Working.

Sharing.

Trusting.

Dealing with a bitter mother-in-law.

Settling into a new home.

And yet, with God in her, she did not fail to provide us with a stalwart example of integrity and faith at work in a life dedicated to God.

May all of our stories be full of grit and determination to grab hold of all God has to offer us.

Who knows, we might inspire another generation with our example.

GRADING SINS
Today's reading: Genesis 36-39

"But Reuben came to Joseph's rescue. Let's not kill him, he said. Why should we shed his blood? Let's just throw him alive into this pit here. That way he will die without us having to touch him..." Genesis 37:21-22 NLT

How easy it is to validate sin in our life.

How quickly we grade sins, rank sins, evaluate sins based on the guilt incurred by committing them.

Whether Joseph had been killed OR placed in the pit as he was, sins were committed against him--and against God.

We would never kill someone, but we gossip about them.

We would never refuse to give a person a cup of cold water, but we withhold telling them about our Jesus.

We would never steal from a friend, but our hearts sometimes covet to the point we rob them of the blessing they have been given.

Sin is sin.

Little while lies, tall tales and blatant untruths...

Disregard for another, disrespect and murder...

There is little difference between 'killing them' and putting them in a pit.

One might keep our hands clean, but our hearts are dirtied all the same.

 

 WATCH YOUR BEHAVIOR

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 3-4

"...You are acting like people who don't belong to the Lord." 1 Corinthians 3:3 NLT

Paul was reprimanding the church at Corinth for a hot topic dividing the church.

Church folks were arguing about which teacher was better, which spiritual father they claimed as best, which apostle was of highest regard.

Could have easily been about the color of the carpet, the type of music or the translation of the Bible--they were allowing something to divide them when they should have been drawing together.

We would never allow that to happen!

Would we?

Do we?

Every Sunday we allow personal preferences to keep us from unity with others inside our churches. 

Each church service we sit, talk, mingle and mix with those within our church houses that have common likes and dislikes as us.

We stay tucked into our comfort zones each worship service depending upon the greeters to take care of the new faces--and make sure they don't sit in our pew.

Not a Sunday goes by there are folks left on the margin of inclusion, feeling very alone in a crowded congregation.

Are we acting like we belong to Jesus when we allow that to happen?

REMAIN FOREVER

Today's reading: Matthew 23-25

"Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will remain forever." Matthew 24:35 NLT

The time will come when we cannot hold the Word of God in our hands.

Bibles will be banished, confiscated, gathered up and taken from us.

Scripture won't permitted in the public square or to be printed for the masses.

Couldn't happen, you say?

Never, not in our great nation, you mutter?

God's Word itself says it will come to pass.

Will you still have it hidden in your heart?

Will you be able to draw comfort from what you've memorized, experienced, read, heard and learned?

Are you so intent on being in God's Word that God's Word will remain in you forever? 

I don't believe God ever intended for the Holy Scriptures to be memorialized in a thousand libraries as much as He desired it be treasured in the hearts of man.

CHOOSE WISELY

Today's reading: Isaiah 45-50

"...You will get no help from them at all. Their hearth is not a place to go for warmth." Isaiah 47:14 NLT

Dear Adult Audience,

My prayer is that you are very, very particular about who your friends are.

Who influences you.

Who impacts your life.

Who you allow at your table.

We're influenced by the people we spend time with.

No, it's not just kids that fall at the weight of peer pressure--it's us, too.

Watch for folks who lead you into conversations that bash or gossip.

Beware of people who lean on you to sway your beliefs. Never in blatant ways. Never outright. Subtly. Slowly. 

Be cautious of those who you hear badmouth others, because at some point in time--you may be the topic of their conversation.

As Isaiah puts it, 'Their hearth is not a place to go for warmth.'

TRY AGAIN!

Today's reading: Job 17-18

"As for all of you, come back and try again!.." Job 17:10 NLT

I don't know what your life is full of right now...

Maybe it's brimming with blessings, good times and sunshine filled days!

Maybe you are bailing water out of a sinking ship!

Know this: if you are God's, satan can try to beat you, defeat you, break you and take from you all you have--but God will only allow him to go so far!

God has satan on a leash.

Believing friend, you can stand up, in the name of God, and tell satan he can try again, if he wants--because you are backed by God!

Try again--but the promises God made you will stand firm!

Try again--but your heart is held by its Creator!

Try again--but victory is already held by your Savior!

Yes, your enemy can try again, but it won't do him any good!

 

MY SOUL

Today's reading: Psalm 24-26

"To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul." Psalm 25:1 NLT

Here you have it, Lord--

The seat of my emotions.

The center of me.

The part of me that will live eternally.

My soul.

It's the control panel for all I do, think, say and believe.

It governs my actions and reactions.

My soul is the very best, and the very worst, of me.

But I want you to have it.

To have it as Yours.

To have it to rein in and spur on.

I lift it up to you, Lord--knowing the love and care You will put into it. 

IT'S ALWAYS BEEN

Today's reading: Judges 17-21

"So Micah's carved image was worshiped by the tribe of Dan as long as the Tabernacle of God remained at Shiloh." Judges 18:31 NLT

The tribe of Dan was faithful. The tribe of Dan honored tradition. The tribe of Dan were committed.

But...

Just because something is faithfully done does not mean it is of God.

Just because something is done inside a church does not mean it is God ordained.

Just because someone attends a church regularly does not mean they are a Christian.

I am urged by this portion of Scripture to look deeply into the 'why' of all I do in the name of being God's child.

Why I worship the way I do.

Why I attend the church I attend.

Why I believe what I believe.

Why I hold dear the traditions I keep.

Why I follow who I follow.

If it's out of tradition, or as one might say, Because grandpa did it this way, I need to evaluate--and pray.

Just because it's always been is not Biblical.

 YOU SAID

Today's reading: Genesis 32-35

Then Jacob prayed, “O God of my grandfather Abraham, and God of my father, Isaac—O Lord, you told me, ‘Return to your own land and to your relatives.’ And you promised me, ‘I will treat you kindly.’  I am not worthy of all the unfailing love and faithfulness you have shown to me, your servant. When I left home and crossed the Jordan River, I owned nothing except a walking stick. Now my household fills two large camps! O Lord, please rescue me from the hand of my brother, Esau. I am afraid that he is coming to attack me, along with my wives and children. But you promised me, ‘I will surely treat you kindly, and I will multiply your descendants until they become as numerous as the sands along the seashore—too many to count.’” Genesis 32:9-12 NLT

As we listen to Jacob pray, we have to remember...

-Jacob didn't have 3.2(a 2024 average in American homes) printed Bibles laying about his home.

-Jacob probably couldn't read if he had owned the 3.2 Bibles.

-Jacob would have needed servants to carry the scrolls of Scripture any 1 Bible might require, let alone 3.2 of them.

Jacob held God's words in his heart.

A place where they were stored as treasures.

A place where they were safe from anyone stealing them away.

Jacob was able to pray with confidence the words God had spoken to him.

Word for word.

In context.

God's promises, not a preacher's homiletic presentation, an author's commentary or a 'story passed down from friend to friend'.

Jacob spoke God's promises back him because he held them so near and dear to his heart.

Friend, shouldn't we do the same?

Shouldn't our Bibles be poured over, searched through and studied so in depth that we know God's words by heart--so much so, that we use His own words in all our requests?

Dust off your Bibles.

Hide His words in your heart.

Know Him well enough to quote Him!

BY INVITATION

Today's reading: 1 Corinthians 1-2

"God will surely do this for you, for he always does just what he says, and he is the one who invited you into this wonderful friendship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." 1 Corinthians 1:9 NLT

If you are a believer, one who has prayed the prayer of faith, believe in the virgin birth, perfect life, unwarranted death and miraculous resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ--you have done it by invitation only.

God wooed you to Himself.

God beckoned you to a relationship with Him.

God drew your soul to His spirit.

God solicited your attention to your need for a Savior.

God bid you come to Him for forgiveness.

Interestingly, He did so knowing all there was to know about you!

Your past.

At the time, your present.

All your future.

Knowing all of that, He invited you into a friendship with Him that would change your life!

You are His by invitation only.

Specially selected.

Lovingly chosen.

Hand-picked.

Blessed.

MY CHURCH

Today's reading: Matthew 21-22

"Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the merchants and their customers. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the stalls of those selling doves. He said, The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be called a place of prayer', but you have turned it into a den of thieves!" Matthew 21:12-13 NLT 

I'll be so forward enough to ask of you what I hear God asking of me...

What have I turned His temple into?

     The church I attend.

     The house of God where I worship.

     The pew I occupy.

     The fellowship of believers I call my family.

Is it the house of prayer He intended it to be?

     Or is it a social club where I meet up with my cliques?

     Or a place where I occasionally volunteer--when it's not ball season, vacation season or a busy season?

     Or a place of prominence in the facade I'm wanting my life to have?

     Or a box to check off in my list of 'things to do as a Christian'?

     Or a spot where all the juicy gossip is offered for the taking? 

These verses have made me think. Made me examine my heart. Made me question my attitude and heart as I participate in church.

     May my church be blessed because I have prayed for it, over it, with it and in it.

     May the outreaches of my church be impactful because I know the Savior we're 'handing out' to others.

     May my church leadership be lifted up and encouraged by my support of them.

     May my church grow because I choose to grow spiritually through the week.

     May my church be honored because of the life I lead outside its doors.

    May the God my church worships be glorified because of my determination to live a holy life.

Lots to think about in terms of what I am doing to my church...

     

SHOUT

Today's reading: Isaiah 40-44

"A voice said, Shout! I asked, What should I shout? Shout that the people are like the grass that dies away. Their beauty fades as quickly as the beauty of the flowers in a field. The grass withers, and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the Lord. And so it is with people. The grass withers, and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever." Isaiah 40:6-8 NLT

If you are wondering, Christian brother or sister, what you should be doing--Shout!

Shout out the words of God.

Shout out the promises of the Bible.

Shout out the way of salvation provided by Jesus Christ.

Shout out the impending torment, devastation and judgement that is to come.

Don't whisper.

Don't attempt to work them into conversations.

Don't wait until asked about them.

Time is too short.

Death is not always a date several calendar pages away.

Life, to be lived as fully as God intends, requires Him in it.

So, Shout!

SHOUT!!

MY WORDS
Today's reading: Job 15-16

"But that's not what I would do. I would speak in a way that helps you. I would try to take away your grief."

Job 16:5 NLT

Watch what you say to people.

In their time of need...

In their time of pain...

In their time of grief...

In their time of conviction...

Watch what you say.

Because the most well meaning of us...

The most sincere of us...

The most loving of us...

Will undoubtedly say something wrong, something not quite appropriate, something that comes across more like criticism than comfort, something that pours salt in their wounds.

Even when it's a verse quoted, in context, directly out of the Word.

Let's all choose to follow God's leading in what to say to hurting friends. Let's allow His love to flow through us and into them. Let's not assume we need to say anything at all--and go from there.

IN THE PRESENCE OF MY ENEMIES

Today's reading: Psalm 21-23

"My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me..." Psalm 22:16 NLT

"You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies..." Psalm 23:5 NLT

It doesn't take watching too many action movies to know you don't turn your back on your enemies.

In order to fight them, you must keep your eye on them--face them, eye to eye.

David knew about these types of enemies, those he fought in the shepherd's field and those he fought politically.

He didn't turn his back on any of them.

But David notices that while the pack of dogs, the prowling lion and/or the jealous king stalked him, God had his back turned to it all--preparing a feast for him.

Setting the table.

Arranging the knives and forks.

Preparing a seating arrangement.

Folding the napkins.

Placing steaming bowls of food out for a banquet.

Fixing individual favorite foods.

And still David was protected. 

God was well aware of the enemy at hand...

God was well aware of the power He held...

God was well aware of the victory He already held over any and all enemies--of His and of David's.

And it's the same for us!

God doesn't need to be tending to enemies, He doesn't have any! 

What He wants us to see is that while we are worrying about those against us, He is preparing a table for us--in the presence of our enemies!

CHANGE OF WORDING

Today's reading: Judges 12-16

"One day when Samson was in Timnah, he noticed a certain Philistine woman. When he returned home, he told his father and mother, I want to marry a young Philistine woman I saw in Timnah." Judges 14:1 NLT

Just this morning...

This very day...

I saw it.

I saw where Samson's story went wrong.

His saddening downfall started within the first 2 words he spoke in this narrative of his life...

I want.

It was downhill from there. The crossing of tribal lines. The falling head over heels with the wrong gal. The deception. The heartache. The tryst with Delilah. The capture. The imprisonment. The collapse.

And it very well could be for us, too.

If we want something God doesn't want for us.

If we go after something God doesn't intend for us to have.

If we seek things God doesn't intend for our lives to hold.

If we desire our way above His.

Those two words can lead to turmoil and chaos in our lives.

But if we changed the wording...

If with our heart we choose to say, I want what God wants for me...

Horizons broaden. Heights are limitless. Promises are upheld. Miracles are observed. Lives are lived to the full potential of the One who created them. Hearts are changed. Eternity is secured.

Oh, that we would choose what He wants, rather than what we want!

BUT GOD HAS SEEN 

Today's reading: Genesis 28-31

"...But God has seen your cruelty and my hard work..." Genesis 32:42 NLT

The account of Jacob is full of ups and downs, twists and turns, hard work and unfairness.

Our lives are like that, too, aren't they?

Jacob felt God with him.

Jacob called upon the Lord in times of need.

Jacob referenced the Almighty in regards to all the blessings he had received.

Jacob listened and obeyed as God directed him to stay, or to go.

And in the end, despite the turmoil with his father-in-law, Jacob remembered what we all need to keep in mind...

God has seen.

Those three words evoke hope in our hearts.

They should stir up faith in our deepest core.

The enormity of them will get us through the toughest of times.

Nothing we endure goes unseen by our Father.

Nothing anyone does to us slips under His radar.

Nothing comes into our lives without having first being known by Him.

Even today.

Even now.

Even 'this', whatever your 'this' might currently be.

OVERFLOW WITH HOPE 

Today's reading: Romans 15-16

"So I pray that God, who gives you hope, will keep you happy and full of peace as you believe in him. May you overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 NLT

A short phrase in this single verse has given my heart pause this morning.

'Overflow with hope'.

To overflow means to have more than enough to fill.

Overflow means to have enough that it spills over...going outside the original receptacle.

Overflow, in regards to hope, tells me that while I wait in hopeful anticipation of all that God is going to do for me, I have enough hope to pour into the lives of others.

Others who are possibly lacking in faith.

Others who might be wasting away with worry.

Overflowing in hope will look like me being confident in God's eventual answer to my prayer requests AND my assistance in helping another carry their burden until their petition is taken care of.

So, do you overflow with hope?

Do you have enough to keep you going AND encourage another in their wait?

 

WHEN YOU'RE ONE OF THE 99

Today's reading: Matthew 17-19

"If a shepherd has 100 sheep, and one wanders away and is lost, what will he do? Won't he leave the  99 others and go out into the hills to search for the lost one? And if he finds it, he will surely rejoice over it more than over the 99 that didn't wander away!" Matthew 18:12-13 NLT

I'll be more than a little honest with you...

Until this morning, I never considered it honorable, worth mentioning or something to be proud of, that I am one of the 99.

My testimony isn't littered with a whole lot of adjectives and adverbs.

My story doesn't have a lot of mountains and valleys.

My faith walk doesn't have passport stamps from 'far off countries'.

Is that something to be proud of?

Yes, in a God honoring way, of course.

And, no. No it isn't. It's really nothing I've done or can take credit for.

I stayed in the fold.

I stuck close to the Shepherd.

I remained in the presence of the other sheep.

But in my little 'part of the fold', I've also whispered the name of lost sheep to the Lord.

I've been there to cheer on, welcome in and help facilitate new sheep to the family.

I've cried with bitter tears over fellow sheep who chose to leave the safety of our Father's presence.

I've worked alongside other brothers and sisters to make sure our 'barn' is a safe place to live, to grow, to multiply and to learn daily how well cared for we are in the Good Shepherd's care.

I've been reminded, on numerous occasions, that I'm only in the fold because of God's grace, the Holy Spirit's drawing and Jesus's sacrifice.

But I've also had to watch my attitude when a returning sheep receives more attention than I'm currently receiving,

I've had to pray over my heart when I consider myself to be of any more worth than any other sheep walking on this great big blue and green orb.

I've had to ask forgiveness for taking for granted all the green pastures and still waters my Daddy provides for me.

I've had to constantly and continually keep a sledge hammer in hand to break down any walls my heart and mind might build between myself and other sheep within the fold.

I'm glad to be a 99--and I'm tickled to celebrate with the 1's as they come back home!

 

FOR US ALL

Today's reading: Isaiah 34-39

"Say to those who are afraid, Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you. And when he comes, he will open the eyes of the bling and unstop the ears of the deaf." Isaiah 35:3-5 NLT

Our verses today clearly tell my heart that sharing God's Word is beneficial in two distinct ways...

Firstly, sharing what Scripture says gives comfort to those who are afraid and being stalked by our enemy.

Secondly, speaking Scripture reminds us of God' promise to one day do a work so big that the blind will see and the deaf will hear clearly.

Don't you know someone who is scared to death right now? Maybe they've had a diagnosis show up out of nowhere. Maybe a financial difficulty has arrived on their doorstep. Maybe life's been hard on them and their glimmer of hope needs fanned back into a flame.

Share God's Word. You don't have to come up with some witty words of your own--share His. They are powerful, they are encouraging, they are life-changing!

And you?

Is there someone you're praying will see and hear the Truth before it's too late? A loved one who has thrown in the towel of faith. A child who wanders aimlessly in the far country. A spouse who doesn't have the relationship with God that you wish they would.

Trust the Word. Continue believing, even when you cannot see a thing happening. Keep on the straight and narrow, knowing God will when God determines it best. Speak the words of God over and to those who won't listen to you--He promises that His Word will not return void.

God's Word is for us to give and to take, to hand out and to take to heart, to share and to live.

Are you using it to its full potential?

 

EXAMINING SELF
Today's reading: Job 13-14

"Tell me, what have I done wrong? Show me my rebellion and my sin." Job 13:23 NLT

As many mysteries as there are in the Word of God, we have one answer that we cannot question, cannot doubt, cannot have to debate...

We know why Job was experiencing all that he was.

Chapter 1 tells us the confidence God placed in Job, his faith walk and his integrity. This confidence is what allowed God to say 'yes' to the enemy's test.

But, Job didn't know this single, most important fact.

Job didn't know the 'why'.

But in his integrity...

In his desperate loyalty to the Lord...

In his heartfelt desire to please God...

He asks God, What have I done wrong?

He places himself before the Lord for examination.

He isn't blaming the Lord.

He isn't blaming the Chaldeans.

He isn't blaming the winds that swooped across the plains and knocked down the house his children were in.

He sought God about his own heart.

Do we do the same?

Instead of blame-placing, do we place ourselves before the Lord?

Instead of pointing the finger at another, do we draw God's attention to our own hearts?

Do we take the time, with all sincerity, to ask the Lord--what about my heart?

 

WELL, IS HE?

Today's reading: Psalm 18-20

"The Lord is my rock, my fortress, and my savior; my God is my rock, in whom I find protection. He is my shield, the strength of my salvation, and my stronghold." Psalm 18:2 NLT

Let's be completely honest here...

While we may agree with David in what he states in this particular verse, do our words and actions line up with the statement?

Is the Lord your rock and fortress?

Is He where you run at the first sign of trouble?

Is He the very first one you call upon when trouble arrives on the scene? 

Is He where your strength comes from?

Is He the solid foundation your salvation is based upon?

Listen to your words--do they reflect your confidence in Him?

Look at your actions--do they portray what your hearts actually feels?

Watch your worries--do they pop up more often than your faith?

David says God is his rock and stronghold, and I believe we all can agree that he lived out that truth--just think about fighting the bears and the lions and the giants...

Maybe you say it, too--do your actions back up what you say?

YOUR ENEMY IS AFRAID

Today's reading: Judges 7-11

"Gideon crept up just as a man was telling a friend a dream. The man said, I had this dream, and in my dream a loaf of barley bread came tumbling down into the Midianite camp. It hit a tent, turned it over, and knocked it flat! His friend said, Your dream can mean only one thing--God has given Gideon son of Joash, the Israelite, victory over all the armies united with Midian! When Gideon heard the dream and its interpretation, he thanked God. Then he returned to the Israelite camp and shouted--Get up! For the Lord has given you victory over the Midianites!" Judges 7:13-15 NLT

Gideon and a few from his army had crept up to his enemy's camp.

The silence of the dark night amplified the words he heard one of the opposing soldiers saying.

The conversation was just enough for Gideon, and his men, to know the enemy was afraid and they knew victory would not be theirs in the battle they were quickly approaching.

Gideon used his words, and the message in them, to convey confidence and encouragement to his men for the fight ahead.

Not that I advocate listening to your enemy on a regular basis, but there might be a few occasions where IF you did, you'd find out his words, his tactics, his repetitive attacks are stemming from one single, solitary emotion--fear!

Our enemy knows every single thing he does against us will be in all reality against God himself.

He knows in the epic battle of life, he is a loser.

He is well aware of his final destiny.

He still has the chains, bruises and location to prove his defeat.

He is also fully comprehending how tied his hands truly are in regards to our lives and his attacks on them.

In the dark of the night when you hear your enemy whispering doubts into your mind, stop and listen--he's the one that's afraid and wanting your company in feeling that way! 

STANDING OUR GROUND

Today's reading: Genesis 24-27

"The servant asked, But suppose I can't find a young woman who will travel so far from home? May I then take Isaac there to live among your relatives?

No! Abraham warned. Be careful never to take my son there. For the Lord, the God of heaven, who took me from my father's house and my native land, solemnly promised to give this land to my offspring. He will send his angel ahead of you, and he will see to it that you find a young woman there to be my son's wife." Genesis 24:5-7 NLT

May we have a round of applause for Abraham and his stance on not wavering...

For not moving...

For not bending his rules...

For standing his ground...

For relying enough on God's promises to not move a muscle from the place God told him would be a promised inheritance...

It would have been easier to change his mind, for the servant, maybe for Isaac, and certainly for Rebekah.

It would have been understood in his social circles.

It might have seemed alright at the time.

But Abraham chose to believe God--for himself and for his family.

Do you have some rules you are firm on? A patch of ground(choice) you'll not waver from?  Do your friends and family know you've never budge on certain things?

May we all have stands we take that aren't there because we're bull-headed or stubborn, but because we know what the Word of God states!

BELONGING TO THE LORD

Today's reading: Romans 13-14

"While we live, we live to please the Lord. And when we die, we go to be with the Lord. So in life and in death, we belong to the Lord." Romans 14:8 NLT

Do you recall being in grade school and having to shop for school supplies?

Pencils--#2 only, crayons, glue (or paste, if you are old enough), filler paper and kleenex?

Maybe as you progressed in the grades, you were also asked to purchase pocket folders, specific colors for specific classes?

What I recall most vividly was the time and effort it required for Mom, then myself as I got older, to get our name written on each item. Owner identification was required on every yellow pencil, on every box of crayons, on every bottle of glue and on every folder.

If the teacher found a runaway pencil on the floor--she knew who it belonged to.

If a box of crayons was found lingering on a shelf or a desktop--she knew the owner.

If a folder needed returned--she knew just who to get it to.

Isn't that what this verse says?

As believers, our lives are stamped with His name!

We should live in such a way that no matter where we are found throughout our day, people should see God's identification on us.

In the grocery store...

In the meeting...

In the midst of heated discussions or helping with homework...

Up to our elbows in dirty dishes...

Biting our tongue when He hasn't asked us to speak...

Accepting constructive criticism from a godly mentor...

People should see that we belong to the Lord--and we should remember that people can see it.

 

YOU DON'T HAVE MUCH FAITH

Today's reading: Matthew 14-16

"...So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he looked around at the high waves, he was terrified and began to sink. Save me, Lord! he shouted. Instantly, Jesus reached out his hand and grabbed him. You don't have much faith, Jesus said, Why did you doubt me?" Matthew 14:29-31 NLT

How often do you hear Jesus whisper to you, You don't have much faith. Why did you doubt me?

...When the storms rage.

...When the sea is beginning to churn.

...When the lake water is as still as glass, but you anxiously dread what's ahead.

It's a simple statement of fact: You don't have much faith.

The question He asks is harder on the heart...

Why did you doubt me?

Why do we doubt Him?

The One who died on the cross for our sins.

The Good Shepherd that has never failed to show up and guide us, feed us, protect us.

The Friend who always has our backs.

The Bread of Life that provides all we need until we dwell with Him in heaven where we will spend eternity.

The Light of the World that lives inside us and SO desires to shine outwardly toward a dark, lost world.

But to take the question one level deeper...

Why do we doubt Him?

We trust ourselves and we trust others, and we trust medicine, and we trust our plans--but Jesus, why do we ever doubt Jesus?'

We trust our power companies to provide 'at a touch' electricity, we trust our cars to start, we trust our banks to hold our money safely--but trust Jesus? With everything?

Knowing His track record.

Having been the recipients of His grace and mercy and rescue.

Being aware of all He is and all He has done.

Believing that He is perfect, loving, kind and generous.

Why do we not trust Jesus?

THIS WORLD IS NOT OUR HOME

Today's reading: Isaiah 29-33

"My people will live in safety, quietly at home. They will be at rest." Isaiah 32:18 NLT

While Isaiah speaks to a time when the nation of Israel will be at peace, I am taking it more personally.

I'm claiming this statement of the Lord's to be my own.

To be for me.

To be in regards to my home--and this world isn't it!

But when I get to heaven?

When I arrive in my heavenly home, I will be completely safe, entirely at rest, I will have no need for doctors, medicines, umbrellas, kleenex or a bed!

This world, even on its best days, is a mere layover on a grander, greater, more glorious journey.

To borrow a few lines from an old hymn...

This world is not my home, I'm just a passing through

My treasures are laid up, Somewhere beyond the blue

The angels beckon me from heaven's open door

And I can't feel at home in this world anymore

LIFE
Today's reading: Job 11-12

"For the life of every living this is in his hand, and the breath of all humanity." Job 12:10 NLT

Maybe you have just returned from a 5-mile run.

Or you have just gotten home from the gym and an extensive workout with weights.

Or have just carried three fifty-pound bags of feed out to the barn. 

Maybe your strength was revealed in the fact that you got out of bed this morning, on your own--even when you didn't want to.

Or that you have gone 'X' number of days without a drink, or a cigarette, or an ounce of flour or sugar.

How strong you are!

And yet...

In your muscle-y strength, your next heart's beat and your next breath are given to you by God.

Anything at all you do, is through Him.

Don't you think that in our pride and arrogance, and forgetfulness, we absentmindedly remove that truth from our thinking.

We are nothing without God.

We have nothing without God.

We can do nothing without God.

The live we live and the breaths we take--all are from His hand!

WHO MAY WORSHIP

Today's reading: Psalm 15-17

"Who may worship in your sanctuary, Lord? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill?

Those who lead blameless lives and do what is  right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to slander others or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends.

Those who despise persistent sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the Lord and keep their promises even when it hurts.

Those who do not charge interest on the money they lend, and who refuse to accept bribes to testify against the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever." Psalm 15

Well, according to David, none of us would be allowed into God's presence.

None of us lead blameless lives.

None of us are enough on our own.

Or always speak truth from sincere hearts.

Or never speak ill of others.

None of us are intolerant to sin, especially our own.

There are few, if any, absolute promise keepers among us.

And most of us are easily swayed by something, whether it be money or pride or being accepted.

But we have Jesus!

For those of us who have accepted His gift of salvation, He makes it possible for us to approach God!

Jesus's blood has made us right.

His 'enoughness' makes us good enough to come to God with any and all requests and praises.

 YOUR PART

Today's reading: Judges 1-6

"The angel of the Lord went up from Gilgal to Bokim with a message for the Israelites. He told them, I brought you out of Egypt into this land that I swore to give your ancestors, and I said I would never break my covenant with you. For your part, you were not to make any covenants with the people living in this land; instead you were to destroy their altars. Why, then, have you disobeyed my command?" Judges 2:1-2 NLT

Maybe you feel as if what God's asking of you is hard.

Maybe what He is asking you to give up will be gut wrenching.

Maybe where He is asking you to go will be way outside of you comfort zone.

Maybe who He is asking you to forgive is unforgiveable.

Here is what I see in the verses jumping off the page at me this morning: we have the easy part!

The only thing we are asked, by God, to do i/st to obey.

He has to follow through...

He has to make a blessing out of a curse...

He has to open doors and hearts and minds...

He has to orchestrate events that change lives and seal souls for eternity...

He has to enhance our tiny efforts and turn them into something gloriously God-sized...

Our part is simple.

Our part is easy.

Our part is only made do-able because we are His!

Truthfully, there is no reason in the world (or in the next) that we cannot do our part.

A RAM CAUGHT BY ITS HORNS

Today's reading: Genesis 20-23

"Then Abraham looked up and saw a ram caught by its horns in a bush. He took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering on the altar in place of his son." Genesis 22:13 NLT

Abraham was a goat herder. He raised them for food, for sacrifice and for trade.

Let's be safe to say, Abraham had a good eye for what made a good goat--what qualities a doe needed, what character traits a good ram required, if a newly born kid had potential.

That being said, I don't believe Abraham ever saw such a fine ram as he saw caught in the bushes that particular day! 

One perfect for sacrifice.

One absolutely right for the job at hand.

One that would take the place of his only son in an act of obedience required of him by God!

Ever been in such a place?

To have 'the check arrive at the time in order that you might pay the bill'?

To have 'a particular someone say a particular statement that allowed you to follow God's particular way'?

To have 'specific doors to close in your face'?

To have 'avenues opened up to you that were never opened before'?

To have the Word of God spoken to your heart at a pivotal moment in your life?

To see God's hand of protection on you at what could only be a God-ordained time?

Where have you seen your 'ram caught in the bush'? What have you seen God do, that only God could have done?

Either you have had one, or two, or you haven't asked for them in your life.

Which is it?

Would you dare to ask God to answer in such a God-sized way? Would you risk looking for the answer you've asked for?

TOO MUCH TO ASK?

Today's reading: Romans 11-12

"...When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?" Romans 12:1 NLT

Let's be honest, this is the 'middle child' of Romans 12:1.

The first part of the verse, give your bodies to God as a living and holy sacrifice, usually gets all the fanfare, spotlight and sermonizing.

But this second part...

This second part is where the rubber meets the road.

Where the 'men are separated from the boys'.

Where faith becomes more of what its supposed to be, not just a descriptive word we label ourselves with.

Is there something God is asking you to do?

A role He is asking you to play?

A ministry He is asking you to become involved in?

A person He is asking you to speak to for Him?

I would urge you, as I am doing for myself, to lay each and every excuse as to why you can't/won't/shouldn't/couldn't up against the litmus test of this morning's verse...

When you think of what He has done for you, is this too much to ask?

Well, is it?

 JUST TO GET MORE JESUS

Today's reading: Matthew 11-13

"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hit it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field--and to get the treasure, too!

Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a pearl merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!" Matthew 13:44-46 NLT

I will admit, I had a hard time opening up my heart to share this morning.

Could I have written to you--sure!

Might I have given you several points to consider--yes!

Would it have been easier to write about how these verses should change your life than share with you how it convicted me--absolutely!

Just what is it I am willing to give up in order to gain more Jesus?

Jesus spoke about a man who sold all he had in order to buy a field containing a treasure--righteousness.

He spoke again about a pearl buyer who sold all he had in order to purchase the prized pearl--godliness.

What might I unload at God's feet so that I am more ready to receive all He has for me?

What past time might I give up so that I will have more time to hear from Him?

What personal preferences might I fast from in order to be more open to His speaking to my heart?

I can easily say I've given Him my early mornings--but would I rise even earlier?

I can quickly list things I don't do so that I appear religious--but would I give up even more to appear holy?

I can present to you the fact that I am in my Bible every day--but what efforts am I making to get the Bible into me, and in turn out into the world I'm called to walk in?

I can tell you I will stand before groups of gals and share God's words--but am I making time one-on-one to share my testimony, my own personal account of how He came to me?

Yes friends, it would have been much easier to write to you today than to myself!

Consider your own 'fields and pearls' today as God speaks to your hearts.

 IN THAT DAY

Today's reading: Isaiah 23-28

"In that day the people will proclaim, This is our God. We trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, in whom we trusted. Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings!" Isaiah 25:9 NLT

I don't know how long you've been praying for 'it'.

I don't know how many seasons you have endured and still your 'thorn' remains in place.

I don't know how many times you have seen glimpses of hope on the horizon, only to find out it was a mirage.

I do know this:

As a believer in the One True God...

As a child of the Creator of the heavens and the earth...

As one who has accepted Christ as your Savior and Shepherd and Friend...

That day is coming.

All that you are trusting Him for, will come to pass.

Every request that you have prayed for in His will, will be answered.

There will be a day when you will proclaim that He is trustworthy in all you have placed into His caring and loving hands!

 CANNOT DO THAT IN MY OWN STRENGTH

Today's reading: Job 9-10

"Then I could speak to him without fear, but I cannot do that in my own strength." Job 9:35 NLT

This verse ends Job's reply to his friend Bildad.

Bildad had laid down some pretty nasty assumptions about Job possibly depending upon things other than God for his security.

Job knew the truth.

Job knew how useless that would be.

Job knew his only hope was in God--and at that particular time in life, Job was having a hard time wondering if He was still on his side.

So he speaks from the heart.

He questions all he knows.

He states God's greatness and restates his own weakness.

Then we have the closing verse of chapter nine...

Job states that he cannot talk to God in his own strength.

He hasn't got it in him to approach the Creator.

He isn't capable of talking outright to the Lord.

He couldn't possibly put together a sense-making sentence in the presence of God.

Nor could we!

Thank God, as saved, born again Christians, we have Jesus and the Holy Spirit!

Jesus's blood places a covering over us that makes us able to approach God--

The Holy Spirit envelops the words we speak and makes them into what God will hear and understand--

And because of that, God willingly accepts us into His throne room with any and all needs/questions/petitions/complaints we might have!

"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16 NKJV

REFINED

Today's reading: Psalm 12-14

"The Lord's promises are pure, like silver refined in a furnace, purified seven times over." Psalm 12:6 NLT

When a precious metal is 'refined', that means it is heated to the point at which its entirety melts and any impurities within it rise to the top and can be skimmed off by the metalworker.

To think David refers to God's promises as 'silver refined seven times', should cause us to attempt to grasp just how precious His promises are.

They are tested--and found to be true!

They are hope-filled--He will never, and can never, go back on His word!

They are entirely based upon His holiness--not on our own efforts!

They are timeless--not only did they stand for men like Noah and Moses, they stand true for us today!

Do you keep a list of God's promises before you at all times? Do you have a print off of what He promises? I'm attaching a link, maybe you will print it off and keep His promises constantly before you!

https://crosslakeefc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/365-PROMISES.pdf

(This list was compiled by the Log Church from 365promises.com, not by me.)

 

 AS SIMPLE AS A ROCK

Today's reading: Joshua 21-24

"The people told Joshua, We will serve the Lord our God. We will obey him alone. So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day at Shechem, committing them to a permanent and binding contract between themselves and the Lord. Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. As a reminder of their agreement, he took a huge stone and rolled it beneath the oak tree beside the Tabernacle of the Lord. Joshua said to all the people, This stone has heard everything the Lord said to us. It will be a witness to testify against you if you go back on your word to God." Joshua 24:24-27 NLT

Might there be something as simple as a rock that you could have in your eyesight every day to remind you of your commitment to God?

A small pebble on the kitchen windowsill?

A tiny rock on your desk?

A piece of gravel on the dashboard of your car?

A boulder you have to move to reach your cell phone or television remote?

Something that is a visual reminder of your desire to serve God wholeheartedly?

Something that takes you back to a time in which you made a determination to follow God?

Maybe even something that might incite a conversation with another--and therefore an opportunity to share the Good News and in turn gain an accountability partner in your faith walk?

Find your rock. 

ENDING OF A CONVERSATION
Today's reading: Genesis 16-19

"That ended the conversation, and God left Abraham." Genesis 17:22 NLT

Might it be you are at a point where you aren't hearing the Lord speak?

Could it be He remains silent when you cry out to Him?

Maybe you, as mentioned in today's reading, feel as if God has ended the conversation--and left the room?

Consider this:

Before God ever 'exited the conversation' with Abraham, God left him with plenty to ponder...

Plenty to think about...

Plenty to anticipate...

Plenty to prepare for...

Plenty to do...

Might it be the same for you?

God speaks through His Spirit...

He speaks through His Word...

He speaks through God-fearing believers...

He speaks through all the promises He has made...

So that leaves us with plenty to do. Lots to find peace in. A great deal of promises to stand upon. Many things to expect. 

It very well might be that this 'quiet time' is the perfect time for you to be acting upon what you've already heard Him say.

MY FAME

Today's reading: Romans 9-10

"For the Scriptures say that God told Pharoah, I have appointed you for the very purpose of displaying my power in you, and so that my fame might spread throughout the earth." Romans 9:17 NLT

It's not about you.

It's not about me.

It's all about God.

His ordained purposes. His power. His fame.

Knowing that single truth can change the trajectory of our lives.

It stops being about our comfort.

 Or about our plans.

Or about whether or not it's fair.

Or about the how, when, why, who and what.

It allows us to come to a soul-rest by looking for Him in all we are involved in.

It takes our eyes off of us and places them on God.

And in having our vision focused on God, we won't miss out on seeing His power and fame!

 

 THE GOOD ENOUGH

Today's reading: Matthew 8-10

"...For I have come to call sinners, not those who think they are good enough." Matthew 9:13 NLT

I don't know about you, but I have on my 'To Pray For' list, plenty of folks who think they are good enough to get into heaven without Jesus.

Nice people.

Helpful people.

Friendly people.

Good people.

People whose lives are filled with care and compassion, who hands help and serve, whose feet take them into opportunities that assist others...

But with hearts bound for hell because they don't realize their need for a Savior.

Every good person, even the best people, have to come to the realization that they are not good enough on their own.

Every 'good enough person' will come to a moment in their life when they realize in the heights of their goodness, they miss the mark set as a standard for eternity with God.

Today I pray for those people.

The 'good enoughs'.

The ones, who without seeking forgiveness, will miss out on heaven and time spent in the presence of the Savior.

 RUNNING TO YOUR ARMORY

Today's reading: Isaiah 18-22

"...You run to the armory for your weapons. You inspect the walls of Jerusalem to see what needs repaired. You store up water in the lower pool. You check the houses and tear some down to get stone to fix the walls. Between the city walls, you build a reservoir for water from the old pool. But all your feverish plans are to no avail because you never ask God for help..." Isaiah 22:9-11 NLT

I am no doubt reaching a highly skilled and quite capable audience.

Folks who can do just about anything. Who can go to great lengths to accomplish whatever it is they might want or need. Who have resources at their fingertips that will enable them to conquer just about any task.

I'll guess I 'speak' to people with great talents, many skills and God-given gifts.

But is what I say falling on the ears and hearts of people who ask God for His help?

Swooping in and saving the day is a great gift--if it's God led.

Riding in and rescuing those who are in harm's way is wonderful--if it's God led.

Doing what needs done within the church walls is ministry--if it's God led.

Being a helping hand, the feet of Jesus and a drink of cool water is what we're here to do--if it's God led.

A whole lot of 'good things' have been done that God never asked any of us to do. While a whole lot of 'great things' remain unattended because God's people never asked His advice on the circumstances before us.

I've read this portion of Scripture a few times already this morning and am spending some time in prayer about whether or not I am merely doing based on my resourcefulness, my knowledge of what's in front of me or because I'm getting to do something that uses my skillset--or doing what God has for me to do.

Maybe it's a good question to ask of yourself?

 TRANSIENT

Today's reading: Job 7-8

"...Our days on earth are as transient as a shadow." Job 8:9 NLT

If today were your last day, how might you spend it? Who might you make time to spend it with? What amends might you busy yourself attending to?

I'm not being morbid, I'm being realistic.

I'm being practical.

I'm being realistic.

None of us know the number of days we have, or the manner in which we will pass from this life to eternity.

Transient means lasting only a short time.

That's life.

No matter how many years of it you may be gifted with, at the end, I am sure it seems as if it passed too quickly.

Not nearly enough time with family and loved ones.

Not nearly enough time to experience all the good things.

Not nearly enough time to make a mark on the world.

Not nearly enough time to share the love of Christ.

How differently our lives might look if we chose to live some part of each day as if it could be our last?

Would it change our conversations?

Would it re-arrange our schedules?

Would it find the much needed pause that affords us opportunity to be still and know the love of the Lord, to truly see the wonder of His creation, to thank Him for all He has done?

Would it turn your self-centeredness into outward focus?

 SO I CAN PRAISE YOU

Today's reading: Psalm 9-11

"Save me, so I can praise you publicly at Jerusalem's gates, so I can rejoice that You have rescued me." Psalm 9:14 NLT

God,

Might I borrow David's prayer?

Could I use it to express to You what I want most?

You see, I pray (and pray and pray) for You to step in to so many different situations and hearts.

I ask You to touch lives and change minds--including my own.

I ask that You be glorified in it all.

Not that I be seen as some great prayer warrior...

Or that people are drawn to me so that I might carry their requests to You...

Or that my name be associated with anything to do with the answer...

But that You receive all the glory and honor!

That when folks see the answer, they cannot help but say, Oh, that was God!

Continue to allow me the privilege to pray, to come before You with the needs and wants of my heart--but always, always make sure the spotlight is on You!

Amen

CITIES OF REFUGE

Today's reading: Joshua 16-20

"These cities were set apart for Israelites as well as the foreigners living among them. Anyone who accidentally killed another person could take refuge in one of these cities. In this way, they could escape being killed in revenge prior to standing trial before the community." Joshua 20:9 NLT

Cities of refuge were established as the Israelites began to settle in the Promised Land.

Places where folks involved in questionable circumstances could find help, hope and safety. Secure spots where they could open up about their sides of the story. Locations where they might find love and support. Settings that were neither hostile to the offender or blind to right and wrong. Venues that allow for repentance and restoration, and when God-led, reconciliation.

These locales were not instituted to cover-up sins. They were not intended to sweep injustices under the rug and out of sight. They were not created to house criminals, but to harbor healing. 

Isn't that what our churches are to be?

 THE NIGHT SKY

Today's reading: Genesis 12-15

"Then the Lord brought Abram outside beneath the night sky and told him, Look up into the heavens and count the stars if you can. Your descendants will be like that--too many to count! And Abram believed the Lord, and the Lord declared him righteous because of his faith." Genesis 15:5-6 NLT

I urge you to sit out under the stars.

No matter where you live.

No matter how old you are.

Despite the temperatures.

In spite of your already busy schedule.

Just take a few minutes, away from the light pollution of our towns and cities, and sit under the stars.

It's good for the mind.

It's good for the spirit.

It's good for your faith.

You see, when you 'turn the lights off' on everything else, and pause for a performance by God himself, you will be amazed.

It will deepen your trust.

It will calm your fears.

It will slow you to a pace that allows you to hear and see your Creator.

SIN TOOK ADVANTAGE

Today's reading: Romans 7-8

"Well then, am I suggesting that the law of God is evil? Of course not! The law is not sinful, but it was the law that showed me my sin. I would never have known that coveting is wrong if the law had not said, Do not covet. But sin took advantage of this law and aroused all kinds of forbidden desires within me! If there were no law, sin would not have that power." Romans 7:7-8 NLT

To 'take advantage' means to make unfair demands on someone who cannot or will not resist the temptation.

Isn't that exactly what sin does in our lives?

It pushes us to limits.

It stretches our resolve.

It pulls out all the stops.

It reduces our mental strength.

It falsifies evidence.

It twists truth.

It shadows consequences.

Sin takes advantage of our defeated positions and ...

...holds us under water for just a few more seconds.

...pushes us to the edge of the decision.

...provides us with a quick fix and a socially acceptable response.

...exhausts us to the point we will always take the easy way out.

Watch out for sin in your life--it will always take advantage of you!

 SALT AND LIGHT

Today's reading: Matthew 5-7

"You are the salt of the earth...You are the light of the world--like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see." Matthew 5:13-14 NLT

(I will not consider it to be a coincidence that this is the passage of Scripture I am studying for Sunday School this week AND it comes up in my daily reading plan. I will consider it something to be taken note of, to be taken to heart, to be taken slow and steady as I process and ingest it.)

When I taught in the AWANA Cubbie program, I always had a set routine I would use when meeting a new child (ages 3-5).

As the parent would bring the little to our classroom for the first time, I would bend down and greet them eye to eye. I would introduce myself. I would shake their hand and I would tell them about all the wonderful things we would be doing in our time together.

Then I would stand and welcome the parent. I would ask about any allergies or medical issues we needed to be aware of. Then I would ask the parent to tell me a few things about their little guy/gal.

More than once I had a parent tell me, 'Johnny is shy'. I would attempt to stop them before completing the sentence. If I couldn't, my response was...'Let's not put that label on them in this classroom. Let's speak grander, bigger, greater words over them than that.'

The parents would always smile--either from being encouraged or in a cynical, but kind, manner.

I believe Jesus used the same theology on his disciples that day on the Mount of Beatitudes.

He told his followers they were salt and light.

Not that they would be...

Or that they could be...

Or that they should be...

He spoke a large calling onto their hearts and lives that would impact them for the rest of their days.

If you are a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, then you too, are salt and light.

You are an impact and an influence.

You are a guide and a governing effect on others around you.

There is power in our words, even more power in the words of Jesus--think of what He has called you to be and act upon that calling!

 TELL THEM THIS

Today's reading: Isaiah 12-17

"What should we tell the enemy messengers? Tell them that the Lord has built Jerusalem, and that the poor of his people will find refuge in its walls." Isaiah 14:32 NLT

I can't be the only one to whom my enemy whispers choruses of doubt, promptings of temptations and inuendos of hopelessness. 

In dark times he speaks darkness over my soul. On cloudless days he attempts intimidation and fear-mongering. He distracts. He discourages. He lies.

So what do we do when it happens?

It's as simple as telling him what God has done and promises to do!

Our enemy needs the reminder.

Our hearts do, too.

You, above all else, know what God has done for you. Speak it!

You have seen with your own eyes what God's Word reveals of His power and majesty throughout the ages. Speak it!

You have watched God come through on numerous occasions in the lives of friends and family members. Speak it!

Tell them.

Tell the enemy messengers, when they attempt to cloud your mind, the greatness of your God!

 GOALS

Today's reading: Job 5-6

"But I do not have the strength to endure. I do not have a goal that encourages me to carry on." Job 6:11 NLT

Where would we be had Job given up at this point in his life?

If he had stopped...

If he had thrown in the towel...

If he had turned in his faith card...

If he had washed his hand of God...

Had he chosen that route, we--a people living thousands of years removed from him--would be missing out on all we can glean from his life.

So, what about you?

You can give up now--or keep going.

You can throw in the towel--or find your 'why'.

You can attempt to wash your hand of God--but who might not come to know Him if you were to quit now?

So keep going.

As hard as it might be.

As futile as it might feel.

Even if you don't think you can.

Even if you have to manufacture the want to.

I truly believe, like Job, God will see us through!

 A JUST GOD

Today's reading: Psalm 6-8

"Arise, O Lord, in anger! Stand up against the fury of my enemies! Wake up, my God, and bring justice." Psalm 7:6 NLT

Very seldom do you hear someone ask God to be just in His dealings and responses.

Most of us want God to be fair, not just.

God isn't fair.

He wouldn't be God if He were.

You see, fairness primarily focuses on equality, everything being equal; while justice primarily involves rightness, everything being done in a right way.

As an example:

Fair is a baker in a small town giving loaves of bread to all people. Justice is that same local baker giving loaves of bread to those in need.

We tend to want God to answer our requests in order to make life 'fair' for us. Easier for us. More comfortable for us.

But just?

God being just in our lives might entail some conviction. Some repentance. Some withholding of blessings until we are living in godly ways. Some discipline extended in an effort to turn our hearts to Him.

May we all ask God to be just in our lives in an effort to get our hearts and minds focused squarely upon Him!

 WHAT THE LORD PROMISED ME

Today's reading: Judges 11-15

"So I'm asking you to give me the hill country that the Lord promised me..." Judges 14:12 NLT

It takes a quick reference back to Number 13 to know exactly what Caleb was talking about in this verse...

Caleb and the scouts had just finished a walking tour of the Promised Land. Two types of men were on this exploratory mission--ones who were intimidated by the project ahead and ones who were ready to ride in and take all God was offering.

Caleb was in the group of men believing, that with God's help and leadership, they could obtain the entire land.

As a reward for his faith, he was promised some hill country as his own, for his family.

Caleb had stuck it out. Caleb had done the hard things. Caleb had followed God's lead. Caleb had waited his turn.

Now?

Now, Caleb was ready to have all God had offered to him.

What about you?

Are you content with snippets of God's reward?

Are you happy to have scraps off God's table?

Are you satisfied to receive bits and pieces of God's promises, but never the whole thing?

Maybe it's time we all started to ask God for our 'hill country'--and to start living as ones who have a God big enough, loving enough and true enough to give it!

God's 'hill country' comes with His power, His peace, His joy and His presence. Isn't that what you want out of life?

Lord, give us the hill country You promised us as believers!

STOPPING SHORT

Today's reading: Genesis 8-11

"Terah took his son Abram, his daughter-in-law Sarai, and his grandson Lot (his son Haran's child) and left Ur of the Chaldeans to go to the land of Canaan. But they stopped instead at the village of Haran and settled there. Terah lived for 205 years and died while still at Haran." Genesis 11:31-32 NLT

You know, as many times as I have read through the Bible--and read this particular portion of chapters, I've never once noticed that Abram's father, Terah, was the first to desire the Promised Land.

Maybe for himself--he just wanted to see what it was all about.

Maybe for his son--he wanted more for his child than he ever had himself.

Maybe in obedience to God--merely seven generations past his grandfather Noah.

So why did he stop short of completing his journey? Why did he never finish the trip? Why did he settle for Haran when a land flowing with milk and honey awaited him?

Might it be that Canaan wasn't written into his life story? That all that needed done in the Promised Land wasn't for him to do? Could it be that God determined Terah to not be the 'father of many nations', but the father of the father of many nations?

This particular piece of Scripture is giving me new lenses to see others through. What I think I know...What I think should be...What I think will happen...How I believe someone has gotten to where they are today...How they have become who they have become...

 

THE PRICE OF OBEDIENCE

Today's reading: Romans 5-6

"Because one person disobeyed God, many people became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many people will be made right in God's sight." Romans 5:19 NLT

Christ's costly obedience on the cross provides us eternal salvation.

What might our obedience do?

Might our 'yes' lead others to the Lord and His saving grace?

Might our 'yes' point friends and loved ones to the Cross?

Might our 'yes' take us completely outside our comfort zones and into the territory of God's Kingdom?

Might our 'yes' force us to to stop relying our ourselves and lean entirely on God and His power?

Might our 'yes' reach out and touch the lost loved ones of other believers--and in turn their 'yes' direct our unsaved family and friends to salvation?

There is a cost to godly obedience, but it will always be worth the price!

Say 'yes' to God. 

TURN TO GOD

Today's reading: Matthew 3-4

"In those days John the Baptist began preaching in the Judean wilderness. His message was, Turn from your sins and turn to God, because the Kingdom of Heaven is near." Matthew 3:1-2 NLT

In a day and time when we are offered so many good choices, it's time we ask ourselves--Are we choosing what's best?

John the Baptist preached God's message, Turn from your sins and turn to God!

He did not preach, Turn from your sins and turn to a great exercise program. Or, Turn from your sins and to a wonderful new hobby. Or, Turn from your sins and to a new group of friends.

John knew that turning from sin was a task in itself, but turning to God? Turning from God would be a life changer!

You see, we can root all the sin out of our life and unless we fill those holes left in our spirits with God, other sins will fill us up again.

Not necessarily drugs. Not even alcohol. Or gossip. Or lying.

Good things fill up those holes just as quickly.

Signing up for another Bible study...

Offering to lead another class at church...

Volunteering for another committee...

Those 'fillers' will keep you busy, but only turning to God will keep you holy.

Turn from your sins and turn to God. 

WHOM & WHERE
Today's reading: Isaiah 7-11

"What will you do when I send desolation upon you from a distant land? To whom will you turn for help? Where will your treasures be safe?" Isaiah 10:3 NLT

I'm not someone who sits and frets over doomsday scenarios.

I don't keep an underground bunker filled with groceries, water and fuel, in case there is a zombie apocalypse.

I don't weary myself over the 'what-ifs' of a future that is bound to get harder by the day.

But this verse and these questions...

They make me stop and ponder.

They give me cause to consider.

They remind me to reflect and evaluate.

They make me meditate on what false gods I am trusting in and where I place my hope.

When desolation comes, and it will for each and every one of us at some point in time, where will we run for help? Will we seek solace in all we've accumulated? Will we rest in what we've accrued? Will we lean heavily upon all that we've done in life?

When the end of our lives arrive, what we will be spending our last days doing--or will we have already done all that needs done by trusting our sins and our eternity to the Lord?

If WHO we will run to and WHERE we will turn is answered in any way other than God, we need to make amends now. Before it's too late. Before we've used up our finals opportunities. Before desolation comes and we are left with houses built of spiderwebs.

TURNING THE PAGE

Today's reading: Job 3-4

"I have no peace, no quietness. I have no rest; instead, only trouble comes." Job 3:26 NLT

As we read Job's words in the closing of chapter 3, we might be left with a bad taste in our mouth on how God treats His own.

We might nod in agreement with Job as he sighs and groans with the grief and sorrow he is experiencing.

We might even be a little empathetic, having walked a few miles in his shoes.

But friend--believing friend, chapter 3 wasn't the end of Job's life story!

Continue reading.

Read past his bemoaning.

Read on past his friends' unhelpful words of solace.

Read on through the book to the point at which Job realizes this sad, sorrow-filled time, was merely a chapter.

A season.

A brief portion of the days of his life.

A small segment of his testimony.

A comma in the writing down of his life, not a period.

Then, friend, remember that for yourself. Today is today, it's not the entirety of your story.

 

WAIT EXPECTANTLY

Today's reading: Psalm 3-5

"Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly." Psalm 5:3 NLT

Might I make a confession?

It's in regards to this verse...

I am awfully good at the first part of the verse--talking to God in the morning.

The last part of the verse--the waiting expectantly part? Well, I fail there miserably.

I pour out my needs.

I gush my list of wants.

I then, sadly, attempt to pick up God like a handbag and carry Him into my day.

I don't wait to hear from Him.

I don't wait expectantly.

I want to. I need to. I am supposed to.

How might it look?

Well, I will slow down the gear at which I live life.

I will quiet myself and listen.

I will simply sit in His presence until I feel Him tell me it's time to get up and go.

I will take pauses throughout my praying to tune in to what He imparts to my heart.

I'll also make it a point to listen more intently to Him during the day.  

Waiting expectantly will require some intentionality on my part. It will require I start going at God speed instead of the speed I prefer.

PUT YOUR FOOT ON HIS NECK

Today's reading: Joshua 6-10

"Then Joshua said, Remove the rocks covering the opening of the cave and bring the five kings to me. So they brought the five kings out of the cave--the kings of Jerusalem, Hebron, Jarmuth, Lachich and Eglon. Joshua told the captains of his army, Come and put your feet on the kings' necks. And they did as they were told. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged, Joshua told his men. Be strong and courageous, for the Lord is going to do this to all of your enemies." Joshua 10:22-25 NLT

This has got to be one of my favorite passages in Scripture!

It's one that abounds with visuals. It is overloaded with grit. It is a virtual word picture in my head as to the strength and courage God desires I live with.

You see, God holds captive every 'king' I have to deal with.

He only allows them to be released from the 'cave' when and if He says.

He allows me to put my dainty little foot on their 'necks' because He has already subdued them, conquered them, captured them and hold them in His power.

I don't know what you need to 'stand on the neck of' today, but know this--if you are His, you can take that stand courageously and surely!

God has already won and He allows His children to ride in the victory parade.

SCOFFING AT HELP

Today's reading: Genesis 4-7

"When Lamech was 182 years old, his son Noah was born. Lamech named his son Noah, for he said, He will bring us relief from the painful labor of farming this ground that the Lord has cursed." Genesis 5:28-29 NLT

Lamech wanted an easier life.

He wanted to be freed of the back-breaking labor involved in making a living out of the dirt.

He wanted to be free from hard work, complete dependence upon the weather and attempting to provide for his family from the ground.

His heartfelt desires were summed up in his naming his son, Noah.

He believed relief would come. He hoped for a time of ease. He desired to be more/have more than he currently was able to muster.

But as we read on in regards to the life and deeds of his son, Lamech didn't choose relief.

He didn't choose to board the ark with Noah.

He didn't accept what God was telling Noah about the end times.

He didn't receive the salvation Noah's God offered.

Lamech's name wasn't mentioned as one of the eight who found refuge and safety from the flood.

Maybe, just maybe, Lamech wasn't still alive at the time of the ark--but maybe he was. Maybe he was one of the loudest scoffers. Maybe he was embarrassed and ashamed of this project his son was up to. Maybe he was too pride filled to accept the 'how' of his son's living up to his name.

I'm not entirely sure why Lamech didn't get on the boat, but he didn't--so he never found relief.

Don't be a Lamech.

 

AS SIMPLE AS BELIEVING

Today's reading: Romans 3-4

"When God promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, Abraham believed him..." Romans 4:18 NLT

Wrinkled and shriveled Abram believed when God told him he would be the father of many nations.

With childless years passing after God's declaration, he believed God.

Glancing at his, just as wrinkled and shriveled, wife, he believed God.

Traveling mile after mile, step after step, he believed God.

Not knowing how in the world it would come to pass, he believed God.

Not completely understanding why he was chosen for such a blessing, he believed God. 

Abraham simply believed what God told him.

Can't we do the same?

DREAMING JOSEPH

Today's reading: Matthew 1-2

"As he considered this, he fell asleep, and an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream. Joseph, son of David, the angel said, do not be afraid to go ahead with your marriage to Mary. For the child within her has been conceived by the Holy Spirit." Matthew 1:20 NLT

"After the wise men were gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. Get up and flee to Egypt with the child and his mother, the angel said. Stay there until I tell you to return, because Herod is going to try to kill the child." Matthew 2:13 NLT

"When Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and told him, Get up and take the child and his mother back to the land of Israel, because those who were trying to kill the child are dead." Matthew 2:19-20 NLT

One might be astounded at the fact that God speaks to humans.

Or at the actuality that He chooses to speak through dreams.

Or that the God in heaven chooses to allow regular, everyday people to participate in His grand plan to save the world.

Me?

I'm amazed at Joseph's obedience.

Sure, it's one thing to have an angel speak to you through your dreams...

It's another thing to know for sure it was God sent...

It's a completely other issue to see that Joseph's obedience was prompt and sure.

No hesitation. No doubting what he 'saw'. No making excuses. No asking for more signs.

He did what was asked of him. Quickly. 

I want to be more like dreaming Joseph!

WHERE I PUT MY TRUST

Today's reading: Isaiah 1-6

"Stop putting your trust in mere humans. They are as frail as breath. How can they be of help to anyone?" Isaiah 2:22 NLT

Yesterday's winter storm has given me pause to consider how much trust and dependence I put upon being able to approach my nearest light switch and turn it on.

Or push the button on my handy-dandy stove to heat up and cook me a frozen pizza.

Or my furnace being able to run and keep my nose-y and my toe-sies nice and toasty.

Because you see, the infrastructure that delivers that wonderful electricity to my home can be compromised--in this instance by layers of ice, broken tree limbs and powerful gusts of wind.

But I also place my precious trust in banking institutions, medical fields and people who are as imperfectly wired as I am.

Why do I do that?

Why do I set myself up for their breach of trust, no matter the reason, and some being at no fault of their own?

They are of no real help to me.

But, God?

But, God!

He is my strength, my help, my foundation, my rock of surety, my fortress and my strong tower.

I can depend upon Him with all I've got--and I'll never, ever, ever, be let down!

 

SCARCELY RECOGNIZE

Today's reading: Job 1-2

"When they saw Job from a distance, they scarcely recognized him..." Job 2:12 NLT

Job's friends, and I have to think they were close friends (having chosen to come and share in Job's grief), did well to know who Job was.

Was it the anguished look he wore? The tear-stained face? Might it have been the red, swollen eyes? The downcast spirit? The sorrow-torn clothing?

Exactly how far from Job were they when they couldn't recognize him?

You see, we have the same vision problem.

The farther we are from God, the less 'like Him' He looks.

When your Bible time has waned, you see less of Him in your day.

When your time on your knees has been non-existent, He isn't as recognizable.

When we choose to not make time in His presence a priority, others see less of Him in us.

We need to walk closely with the Lord in order to see Him clearly. The subtle, and not so subtle, ways He moves. The miracles, no matter the size, He performs. The comfort He chooses to give us.

We have to be close enough to Him to recognize His love, power, authority and grace!

 

FREE TIME

Today's reading: Psalm 1-2

"Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers." Psalm 1:1 NLT

I would never...

I wouldn't dare...

Me?..

Not in a million years...

Maybe you take offence to this psalmist's advice not to 'hang out' with unsavory, unwise or ungodly people. You know better.  

But might I ask this one question...

(I'm only asking it because the Lord asked me first.)

Who are you hanging around in your free time? Your down time? When you decompress? When you chill? When you're potato-ing of an evening in your comfiest of clothes?

Is what you view on the television screen honorable?

Is what you scroll through on your laptop edifying?

Is what you read, book or Kindle or iPad, God glorifying?

The 'pals' who influence us aren't limited to the ones we sit at the lunch table with. It's not only the folks we spend Friday nights with. It's not just those in our closest cliques.

Maybe it's time to assess your free time and how you're spending it.

 ACCEPTING GOD'S TERMS

Today's reading: Joshua 1-5

"I accept your terms, she replied. And she sent them on their way, leaving the scarlet rope hanging from the window." Joshua 2:21 NLT

Rahab didn't have many friends.

Well, not the kind we might have.

No gal pals, I would guess. 

But I'm sure while she was waiting for the Israelites to invade Jericho, I'm pretty sure some folks sidled up to her to ask...

What's the rope hanging out of your window for?

It, I'm sure, drew some attention.

I love the idea of that scarlet rope!

I'm a gal who likes visual reminders of God's promises.

Like a string tied around my finger reminding me of something I hope not to forget, she left that red rope dangling down the side of her house.

A promise reminder...

Reminding the spies of their promise.

Reminding the Israelite's God of His.

Reminding her of hers.

Do you have something always in front of you that reminds you of God's promises to you, and your acceptance of His terms?

Your Bible?

A verse written out on an index card?

A bracelet, or necklace, with a cross on it?

Make yourself a visual for the new year. Something that's always within eyesight. Something that points you to the promise made to you, for you and by you. 

Something to help you remember that you've accepted God's terms and believe He will follow through on fulfilling His part of the bargain!

FACT CHECK
Today's reading: Genesis 1-3

"Now the serpent was the shrewdest of all the creatures the Lord God had made. Really? he asked the woman. Did God really say you must not eat any of the fruit in the garden?" Genesis 3:1 NLT

I don't know about you, but my enemy never asks me the hard questions.

He doesn't tempt me by asking, What's the practical implications of an atheistic worldview?

Or, Why does the Old Testament God seem so much different from the New Testament God? 

I've never once, in my struggle of faith, been questioned with, Just how do you explain the idea of the Trinity?

Nope.

Maybe it's because I'm too simple minded. Or too unschooled. Or too Bible illiterate to be asked such hard questions.

My enemy tempts me, as he did Eve, with single-word-doubt-placing-inuendos.

Really?

Why?

When?

How?

I struggle with everyday things far too much and too often to be bothered by worldviews, theological debates or matters far too complicated for my mind.

But it's these little questions that lead my mind, and quite possibly yours, on a rabbit trail of doubt, confusion, fear and worry.

To combat these questions?

I fact check with Scripture.

I confer with the Lord.

I pause and ponder in prayer.

I choose to respond not react.

I 'check the return address' on the words being asked of me.

Maybe, just maybe, our world would have been a much, much better place had Eve done the same.

 LOVED TO REPENTANCE

Today's reading: Romans 1-2

"Don't you realize how kind, tolerant and patient God is with you? Or don't you care? Can't you see how king he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin?" Romans 2:4 NLT

"Or do you have no regard for the wealth of His kindness and tolerance and patience (in withholding His wrath)? Are you (actually) unaware or ignorant (of the fact) that God's kindness leads you to repentance (that is, to change your inner self, your old way of thinking--seek His purpose for your life)?" Romans 2:4 AMP

As you being to unwrap this brand-spanking new year, consider this...

-All the goodness God allows into your life.

-All the grace He extends to you.

-All the blessings He pours on to you.

-All the joy He permits into your days.

-All the goodness He sends your way.

These are all sent with one intention, one purpose, one goal, one objective, one design--

To turn you from sin and to God.

His love, and the outpouring of it, is meant to lead you to repentance.

Let's allow His love to do just that in this new year!