WATCH OUT FOR 'BUTS'

Today's reading: Numbers 13-16

"...We arrived in the land you sent us to see, and it is indeed a magnificent country--a land flowing with milk and honey. Here is some of its fruit as proof. But the people living there are powerful and their cities and towns are fortified and very large. We also saw the descendants of Anak who are living there!" Numbers 13: 27-28 NLT

The scouting party was back from their 40-day fact finding mission. A mission that sent them out to gather intel on the new land the Lord had given them.

They began their account by stating that God was right--it was a great place.

They continued their statement with regaling the land's bounty--with a sample of one cluster of grapes that it took two men to carry.

Their summary took a nosedive when they inserted 'but' into their report.

But--the people are powerful.

But--the cities and towns are strong and large.

But--we saw some Anakites and they are even bigger and stronger than we were told.

A new land. A large portion of real estate that was gifted to the Israelite nation. An awesome new start provided by God himself.

And they focused on the 'buts'.

Do we do that? Do we want all God has for us, but stumble over the effort it might take to accept His gracious gift? Do we question the logistics of what He tells us is ours?

Are we sure God is good, and kind, and loving and generous, but question what He sees as abilities in us as to how we might grab hold of His blessings and hang on to them?

What 'buts' are you struggling with? What 'buts' are keeping you out of your Promised Land? What 'buts' are allowing your residency to be in lack rather than in His fullness?

FOR EVERY GOOD THING

Today's reading: 2 Timothy 3-4

"All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do." 2 Timothy 3:16-17 NLT

Reading these two verses points me to three separate thoughts...

1.  What Scripture is.

2. What is does.

3. What is allows us to do.

I think I've always focused on the first 2 points, but seldom consider the third.

I know my Bible is the active, living, true and appropriate word of God.

I also know it directs, convicts, guides and corrects.

But, to tell the honest truth, I struggle with the application process of the Word of God. I tend to want to hold the reins when it comes to what I do with its power.

I don't want to do that anymore.

I want to use it to prepare myself, to fully equip myself for every good thing God wants me to do.

I want to let its words soak down deep into my mind and spirit, changing my thoughts and moving me to do anything and everything the Lord desires I do.

Every good thing. 

GREEN PASTURES

Today's reading: John 10-12

"Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. Wherever they go, they will find green pastures." John 10:9 NLT

Lord, I've spent a few years in Your Word.

I can find just about any book mentioned within the pages of my Bible.

Why, when I was a kid, I was pretty proficient at the sword drills we used to play in Sunday School class.

I could even say I have sat under or taught just about every account in the Good Book.

But this morning, You surprised me!

I knew You are the gate--the only way to heaven.

I knew that through You is the only way to be saved.

But You threw in the simple fact that as Yours, where ever I go, because I am saved, all because I have believed in Your name--I will find pastures.

Green pastures.

All I need.

All I could want.

Satisfaction.

Everything to make like worth living.

You, with everything else You've done for me, didn't have to do that, too.

But You did, so--Thank You!

Knowing that gives me a reason to look into each and every situation, any and every season, all circumstances, and find the green pastures You promise me.

That's like putting on a new set of lenses in an old pair of glasses!

Thank You, Good Shepherd!

 

EVEN ON A TUESDAY

Today's reading: Hosea 8-14

"...Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the Lord, that he may come and shower righteousness upon you." Hosea 10:12 NLT

I hope you are fully aware of the privilege you have, in Christ Jesus, to pray any time and any where for His forgiveness, direction and correction.

It needn't only be on Sunday.

Or when a pastor is on staff.

Or during regular church business hours.

It can happen on a normal Tuesday. 

On a regular work day.

In the middle of the week.

Even before the rest of the world has risen and shone.

God is there for you to find. He is there for the holy job of plowing up your hard heart in order to plant seeds of right living and right thinking. He wants to restore a relationship with you.

Any day of the week.

Today.

Seek Him. Allow Him onto and into the property of your heart for His restorative, reviving and remodeling works to be done.

Now is the time! 

THE LORD EXAMINES THE HEART

Today's reading: Proverbs 20-21

"People may think they are doing what is right, but the Lord examines the heart." Proverbs 21:2 NLT

It's not just our wayward, unchurched, non-believing friends and family that think they know what's best. While they truly believe they are doing great things, accomplishing wonderful tasks and reaching goals...all the while they remain mired in the thick, ick goo of sin and darkness.

But it's not just them.

We, as His, sometimes do the right things for the wrong reasons.

We attend out of obligation.

We give to look good.

We crack open our Bibles in order to tick something off a list.

But when we pause and ask God to examine our hearts, He sees the 'why' of our 'what'.

Today I'm pausing to ask Him to look deeply into what I'm 'doing for Him'. I'm asking that He examine my heart for anything that needn't be there. 

Because, in all truth, there are some great things I am doing, but there are some days I'm not so sure that why I am doing them still relates to Him.

Might that apply to you?

AS FOR ME-- I WILL PRAISE THE LORD

Today's reading: Psalm 102-104

"...As for me-- I will praise the Lord!.." Psalm 101:35 NLT

Oh, how I want this to be my resolve.

When I don't feel well--I will praise the Lord.

When I don't understand all that's going on--I will praise the Lord.

When I don't like the wait--I will praise the Lord.

When I don't see His hand at work--I will praise the Lord.

As for me--I will praise the Lord!

WHY I CAN PRAY BOLDLY

Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 15-19

"O my God, I have been bold enough to pray this prayer because you have revealed that you will build a house for me--an eternal dynasty! For you are God, O Lord. And you have promised these good things to me, your servant." 1 Chronicles 17:25-26 NLT

David asked God to do as He had promised in David's life, in his family and in his kingdom.

It was a  bold prayer. It was an audacious prayer. It was a gutsy prayer.

But David wasn't praying out of reverence of his own power...

Or out of certainly in his own abilities...

Or by way of David's might...

He prayed God's promises right back to Him!

We can do the same.

We can pray as boldly as David prayed because God has promised us the exact same things He promised David.

Today's the day we stop praying weak, anemic, powerless prayers for ourselves, our families and our churches.

Let's pray in the boldness of the Lord's ability to answer each and every one of the promises He has made!

MOVING WITH THE CLOUD

Today's reading: Numbers 9-12

"Whether the cloud stayed above the Tabernacle for two days, a month, or a year, the people of Israel stayed in camp and did not move on. But as soon as it lifted, they broke camp and moved on." Numbers 9:22 NLT

Lord,

I want to camp out under Your cloud.

I've given a great deal of effort to serving You, growing in You and seeking hard after You--but right now, today, here in my prayer chair, I want to start camping out under Your cloud.

Like the Israelites did.

Eyes on You. Waiting on You. Expecting You. Looking to You each day.

And like them, I want to wait You out. I want to be content in sitting under Your cloud until You say, 'Move'. And not budging until You say.

I want to camp out under Your cloud as I sit with my Bible, as I write out my prayers, as I study over your Word, as I worship in the pew.  I want to follow Your lead in regards to conversations, Christian disciplines and day-in-day-out responsibilities.

I don't want to move until Your cloud lifts and I need follow You elsewhere.

I also want to be content in the waiting--whether it be minutes, hours, days or years. I want to trust You so implicitly that I know the length of times matters little in comparison to blessing to come.

Yes Lord, I want to camp out under Your cloud!

Today, tomorrow and forever.

-M

WITH HIS HELP

Today's reading: 2 Timothy 1-2

"With the help of the Holy Spirit who lives within us, carefully guard what has been entrusted to you." 2 Timothy 1:14 NLT

Did you know God did not save you from an eternity in hell just to turn you over to your own devices to live for Him?

He sent the Holy Spirit to help, guide, direct and lead us into godliness, righteousness and lives that look more and more like Jesus's.

Have you prayed for the Holy Spirit's help to guard your gift of salvation? To have His help in incubating the love of God in your words and deeds? To seek His guidance in how to live out the Jesus life before the world?

Our Holy Spirit is a vital tool in our walk with the Lord. He is a true gentleman, not pushing Himself off on us, but willing, more than willing, to step in and help when we ask.

The Holy Spirit's help will be what makes our lives impactful, powerful and legacy-making!

LIVING WATER

Today's reading: John 7-9

"On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, If you are thirsty, come to me!" John 7:37 NLT

If you didn't know Jesus said these words standing in a geographical location that was considered desert-like, then the words about thirst and water would fly right past you.

But knowing he stood in an arid climate...

Knowing every drop of water was collected and cherished...

Understanding that wells were valued...

Grasping the fact that an average rainfall would only amount to 14 inches...

In a time when turning a tap wasn't an option...

The words mean more.

Jesus spoke to the basic need of any and every man, woman, boy or girl standing in that Temple area that day.

He invited each and every one within the sound of His voice, and those of us reading it today, to come to Him for refreshment on a cellular level.

He offered Himself as the fulfillment of our most basic of needs.

Water.

Living Water.

 

WHAT SHOULD HE DO WITH US?

Today's reading: Hosea 1-7

"O Israel and Judah, what should I do with you? asks the Lord. For your love vanishes like the morning mist and disappears like dew in the sunlight." Hosea 6:4 NLT

In the Bible book that's written more like a soap opera than a Hallmark movie, we find God talking to the nations of Israel and Judah.

He knows the countries like He knows the back of His glorious hand.

He has grown them from one man to a nation. He has secured land that was not theirs but now has been given to them for eternity. He has loved them to extremes.

And still their hearts wander away from Him.

Their love for God 'vanishes like the morning mist and disappears like dew in the sunlight.'

What will I do with you? the Lord asks Himself.

I see myself in Israel's actions and I hear the Lord asking the same thing of me...

What will I do with you, Malinda?

When your will stands defiantly against what I ask of you?

When your wandering eyes lead you off the path that I have carved out for you to walk?

When the idols of the world catch your attention?

When you become impatient waiting on me to answer your prayers and you take matters into your own hands?

When you feel I am not enough and you bow again at the altars that left you bruised, lacking and without hope?

When the enemy places doubts in your mind about my faithfulness, my love and my abilities?

Just what will I do with you, Malinda?

Praise God--He will do with me just what He did with Israel, just what Hosea did with Gomer, He will lovingly take me back. He will walk with me through the consequences of my poor choices. He will restore my soul and re-focus my attention on Him.

What will He do with me? He will love me back to Him!

SELF-CARE

Today's reading: Proverbs 19

"To acquire wisdom is to love oneself; people who cherish understanding will prosper." Proverbs 19:8 NLT

The popular term these days is self-care.

It's the idea of making time for yourself, tending to your personal needs, treating yourself to occasional rest, treat or benefit.

According to Solomon, self-care is best attained by looking deep into the Word of God.

It's digging into the Bible for wisdom and direction.

It's keeping your nose in the Scripture because of all the many ways it will benefit you.

Self-care is an important part of our everyday life--especially when it comes to the Word!

KEEPING A PROTECTIVE EYE

Today's reading: Psalm 99-101

"I will keep a protective eye on the godly, so they may dwell with me in safety..." Psalm 101:6 NLT

The Lord's Day has rolled around and with it the challenge David gives us in Psalm 101:6...keeping an eye on the godly.

As you enter your sanctuary today, pause and look for those pillars of godliness that worship beside you.

Take note of their countenance.

Make an effort to listen to their responses to, How are you?

Watch for signs that they are carrying a load, bearing a burden or are weighted down with the weight of the world.

Keep an eye on the godly.

Does that mean we should walk right past those who don't-know-the-Lord yet? No!

Does that mean we shouldn't meet and greet the new-to-church? No!

It simply means we should keep our eyes open to the needs of the godly that God has placed around us.

Hold them up. Pray for them. Encourage them. Support them. 

CIRCLE OF ADVISERS
Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 10-14

"David consulted with all his officials, including the generals and captains of his army. Then he addressed the entire assembly of Israel as follows: If you approve and if it is the will of the Lord our God, let us send messages to all the Israelites throughout the land, including the priests and Levites in their tons and pasturelands, Let us invite them to come and join us. It is time to bring back the Ark of our God, for we neglected it during the reign of Saul." 1 Chronicles 13:1-3 NLT

David, not king, had some important spiritual matters to attend to before he took on any of the political challenges facing the nation of Israel.

He knew what a monumentous task it was--and called together a circle of advisers to help him seek the will of God.

An important move for a military powerhouse like David was.

He could have made the decision on his own, he had the right to as king.

He could have determined that his ways were best, he had the authority.

He could have made everyone else bow to his whims, he had the power behind his throne.

But he asked for their input, their advice, their prayers.

What an example for us today!

Any tough challenge, any life-changing decision, any consideration we are faced with--wouldn't it be best that we take it before the Lord and our circle of godly advisers? 

NAZIRITE VOWS

Today's reading: Numbers 5-8

"Then the Lord said to Moses, Speak to the people of Israel and given them these instructions: If some of the people, either men or women, take the special vow of a Nazirite, setting themselves apart to the Lord in a special way, . .This applies as long as they are set apart to the Lord." Numbers 6:1-8 NLT

You might be acquainted with Nazirite vows if you have read about the life of Samson--a man set apart for God's service and who abstained from cutting his hair or eating/drinking anything from the grape vine or touching a dead body.

This vow is a fast of sorts. But more than a fast, too. It was a vow you might take for yourself OR your parents might take it for you, as in Samson's instance. They determined that by the Nazirite vow Samson would live his life--even before he was born!

It was in Moses's day, much like today, important when you said something--but it meant more when you followed through and did what you said.

I'm not so sure, as believers, a minority 'race' in this upside-down world, that there shouldn't be more of us taking vows to be set apart for the Lord.

To abstain from entertainment that promotes what God detests.

To refuse to give our hard earned money to organizations that do not promote godliness.

To allow anything on our calendars that pushes us away from worship.

To instill rules in our lives that promote Bible reading and prayer before anything else is done in our day.

Setting ourselves apart for the Lord in a special way places us in a very blessing-producing position. It shows God our heart's desire to draw closer to Him and it shows the world how important God is.

Nazirite-type vows are something we need to consider in our walks with the Lord--even today!

GOING TO THE EFFORT

Today's reading: 1 Timothy 4-6

"We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Savior of all people , and particularly of those who believe." 1 Timothy 4:10 NLT

I think of Paul as he wrote this letter to Timothy.

He wanted to encourage his young student to remain strong in his faith, but he also wanted this new disciple to know it wouldn't be easy.

Paul tried to explain to Timothy that living for the Lord would be hard, sharing his faith would be hard, remaining Christ-focused would be hard.

But attempting to live life without God, that would be harder.

We don't like doing hard things.

We don't want to inconvenience ourselves.

We are perfectly content to remain in our soft, cushy comfort zones.

And in doing that, in living for Christ inside those 'easy' boundaries?

Well, it shows we have little to no concern for the souls of those around us.

Paul knew how hard it was to spread the Gospel, but he also knew every ounce of effort he made would be grandly, richly, eternally rewarded by the Lord!

It's worth our effort, too.

BELIEVE
Today's reading: John 5-6

"They replied, What does God want us to do? Jesus told them, This is what God wants you to do: Believe in the one he has sent." John 6:28-29 NLT

Of all the things we can do to help ourselves, to help others, to help the world in which we live--believing in Jesus is what God desires of us.

Believe Jesus was born from a virgin.

Believe Jesus lived a sinless life.

Believe Jesus died on the cross for our sins.

Believe Jesus rose from the grave.

Believe.

Believe that believing in Jesus for salvation is the chief end of all humans God created.

Charitable work is nice.

Ministering is helpful.

Doing for others is kind.

But believing? Believing is what God has asked us to do.

All else advances from that single foundational command.

FORGETTING WHO HE IS

Today's reading: Daniel 7-12

"...Millions of angels ministered to him, and a hundred million stood to attend him..." Daniel 7:10 NLT

In Daniel's vision, he saw the Ancient One seated on the throne of heaven, ready to judge the world.

As I read Daniel's recollection of that sight, I'm reminded of the sovereignty, majesty, awe and splendor of my God.

Millions and a hundred million angels serve Him.

Not merely a royal entourage.

Not just a Secret Service attachment.

Not only a body guard and a few underlings.

Millions and millions of angels stand beside God at all times in order to minister to Him.

Did you need that reminder today? Did you need to reset your mind's eye on the Lord's awe-inspiring loftiness? Do you need a refresh on just Who it is you serve as a child of the King?

I did.

LAZINESS

Today's reading: Proverbs 17-18

"A lazy person is as bad as  someone who destroys things." Proverbs 18:9 NLT

I have to admit, this proverb, or wise saying, is a hard one to swallow.

Solomon has penned the words, but the Holy Spirit caused me to pause and consider the meaning behind the verse.

It's a verse that works to examine one's self. It, if applied correctly, allows a personal audit of habits and practices. It is a starting point for a personal inventory.

What am I putting off, and in turn destroying?

My health?

Tending to my home?

Friendships that I have let wither away?

Projects that I continually put off?

Or might it be reaching out to those lost in sin?

My laziness might very well be causing destruction in those areas.

Destruction that I cannot repair, that time cannot fix, that eternity will denote to my laziness.

SING TO THE LORD

Today's reading: Psalm 96-98

"Sing to the Lord; bless his name..." Psalm 96:2 NLT

Sing TO the Lord, this verse from Psalm 96 tells us.

TO the Lord, not about the Lord.

TO the Lord, not just at Him.

TO the Lord, not merely in His house.

Sing TO the Lord...

Will you do that today as you gather to worship?

Will you do that today as you proclaim His goodness on a week day?

Will you do that today as you are instructed by the Bible?

Sing TO the Lord; bless His name! 

TRUSTING IN GOD

Today's reading: 1 Chronicles 5-9

"There were 44,760 skilled warriors in the armies of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. They were all skilled in combat and armed with shields, swords, and bows. They waged war against the Hagrites, the Jeturites, the Naphishites, and the Nodabites. They cried out to God during the battle, and he answered their prayer because they trusted in him..." 1 Chronicles 5:18-20 NLT

These fellas had skills. They had manpower. They had weapons.

One might be led to believe these soldiers won the battles they waged...but that's not true.

God won the wars for them.

By His strength.

In His might.

With His power.

All because these mighty men trusted in Him.

Makes me pause and assess all the things I'm attempting to do on my own. 

What about you? 

SERVING AS A MERARITE
Today's reading: Numbers 1-4

"Now take a census of the clans and families of the Merarite division of the Levite tribe. Count all the men between the ages of thirty and fifty who are eligible to serve in the Tabernacle. Their duties at the Tabernacle will consist of carrying loads. They will be required to carry the frames of the Tabernacle, the crossbars, the pillars with their bases, the posts for the courtyard walls with their bases, pegs, cords, accessories and everything else related to their use. You must assign the various loads to each man by name." Numbers 4:29-32 NLT

I'm thinking this morning about the enormous privilege God has placed on the shoulders of His children to be 'load carriers' for each other.

To be selected to help another with their burdens.

To be allowed the honor of speaking to God on behalf of the heart need of another.

It goes beyond, way beyond, just knowing a person's business.

It goes deeper, much deeper, than just being aware of a brother or sister's prayer requests.

It goes farther, way farther, than just to the ears of our Heavenly Father.

These 'loads' we carry for each other intertwine our lives and our faith to the point that a tightly woven community of hearts function, thrive and grow.

We should cherish each and every prayer need shared with us by another believer. We should take these desires directly to the Lord for His way and will. We should be ready to celebrate God's moving in the needs of our church family.

We should all serve as Merarites in our body of believers!

PREPARING FOR SUNDAY

Today's reading: 1 Timothy 1-3

"So wherever you assemble, I want men to pray with holy hands lifted up to God, free from anger and controversy." 1 Timothy 2:8 NLT

Let's get ready for Sunday.

Yes, on Thursday.

Let's prepare to assemble with fellow believers, fellow sons and daughters of God.

In that preparation, we will get rid of any and all anger and controversy we might hold against another in our body of believers.

-past sins

-current character flaws

-annoying behaviors

-previous moments of unkindness 

-translation differences

Get rid of anything and everything that might distract you from coming together with the sole intent of worshiping the Lord.

Mindless chatter going on in your head.

Unnecessary lists and grievances.

Unkind thoughts and attitudes.

Whenever, and wherever, we assemble for the purpose of glorifying God, let that be the only thing on our hearts and minds!

MY RESPONSE

Today's reading: John 3-4

"Then Jesus told her, I am the Messiah!" John 4:26 NLT

The scene is this...

The woman has met a man at the well, one who offers Living Water, one who knows her--inside and out.

In her attempt at small talk, and to quite possibly distract from the 'husband issue' he has brought up, she discusses religion and the anticipation of the long awaited Messiah.

Then Jesus tells her, I am the one you've been looking for. Your whole life.

The One who will fill the empty places in her heart.

The One who will accept her just as she is and help her become more.

The One who will never leave her.

The One who will release her from the bondage of sin.

And she believes him. She believes him so entirely that she leaves her water jug and goes to tell the whole town.

Jesus is the Messiah. The Savior. The King. The Lord. The One for whom your soul has been seeking.

What's your response? 

WHAT DO THEY HEAR ABOUT ME?

Today's reading: Daniel 1-6

"So Daniel was brought in before the king. The king asked him, Are you Daniel, who was exiled from Judah by my predecessor, King Nebuchadnezzar? I have heard that you have the spirit of the gods within you and that you are filled with insight, understanding and wisdom." Daniel 5:13-14 NLT 

Just what is it people are hearing about me?

That I grumble and groan about commitments I have made...

That I fuss and mumble about slow drivers in front of me...

That I am controlling...

That I sometimes lose my temper...

Or that I am filled with God.

Imperfect, but filled with God.

Lead by the Spirit, guided by the Word, a part of the Church, willing to share the Good News?

That I serve because of a grateful heart, desire to honor God in all I do, allow Jesus to be seen in me?

What do people hear about you?

GATHERING OUR THOUGHTS
Today's reading: Proverbs 16

"We can gather our thoughts, but the Lord gives the right answer." Proverbs 16:1 NLT

Today I'm planning on presenting to the Lord all the thoughts, opinions, reactions and remarks I accumulate throughout the day.

I intend on putting them all together and giving them to Him.

To sort out.

To disregard the inappropriate ones.

To correct the wrong ones.

To apply His filter to any and all that aren't honoring to Him or needful in my interactions with others.

I will spend more time gathering these thoughts than I will giving them wings.

I will be more mindful of them before I unleash them.

I will be more careful in applying love to them before I brandish them like weapons.

I can busy myself gathering these thoughts and prayerfully laying them at His feet.

I can intentionally wait for His response and on each and every one! 

 LISTEN TO HIS VOICE

Today's reading: Psalm 93-95

"...Oh, that you would listen to his voice today!" Psalm 95:7 NLT

From the perspective that God has created us, and all that surrounds us, shouldn't we be listening to His voice?

Considering He loved us enough to send His Son to die on the cross for our sins so that we might spend eternity with Him, shouldn't we be listening to His voice?

Given the track record each of us has when we go about doing things on our own in comparison to His wisdom and scope, shouldn't we be listening to His voice?

Oh, that we would all listen to His voice today!

BUT DESPITE ALL THIS

Today's reading: Leviticus 25-27

"But despite all this, I will not utterly reject or despise them while they are in exile in the land of their enemies. I will not cancel my covenant with them by wiping them out. I, the Lord, am their God." Leviticus 26:44 NLT

We can break God's laws.

We can crush His heart with our disobedient ways.

We can turn our backs on Him and all that He has to offer us.

But despite all this...

Despite all this, He will not turn His back on us!

He may very well punish us.

He will undoubtedly chastise us.

He will not, in the middle of our wayward ways, make things easy on us.

But He will not forget us or how very much He loves us.

God's love for us does not change due to our behavior.

 

MISSION AND MISSIONARY

Today's reading: 2 Thessalonians

"Finally, dear brothers and sisters, I ask you to pray for us. Pray first that the Lord's message will spread rapidly and be honored wherever it goes, just as when it came to you. Pray, too, that we will be saved from wicked and evil people, for not everyone believes in the Lord." 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2 NLT

Paul, Silas and Timothy were out and about doing the Lord's work.

They traveled from town to town, telling the Good News of the resurrected Savior.

As they moved from house-church to house-church, they asked for the folks in each body of believers to pray for them, this time the church at Thessalonica.

But what I notice about the prayer is the order...

Firstly, Paul asks that the Lord's message be spread.

Secondly, Paul asks that they be kept safe as they spread that important message.

What an example for us!

If each and every morning I were to ask God to--

1. Use me to spread the Good News about Him to the world.

2. Keep me safe from the struggles and trials of spreading that word.

To be honest, I usually get the two needs in reverse...I'm more concerned with my comfort, safety and acceptance than I am about the message reaching the mission field He has set me on.

That changes today.

Use, me Lord, to tell the world about You. And then, only then, keep me safe as I do it.

It's a matter of what's more important, you see...the mission or the missionary!

NOT THE LIGHT

Today's reading: John 1-2

"John himself was not the light; he was only a witness to the light." John 1:8 NLT

I'm here this morning to remove a whole lot of pressure off you as a believer.

To take a load off your heart, head and shoulders.

To clear up a very common misconception.

You are the not the light the world needs to see.

Nope. Not at all.

It's not up to you to shine convicting power on every unsaved soul you come in contact with.

It's not up to you to 'draw all men' unto you for teaching and correcting.

It's not up to you to shine with a brilliance that comes from hours-a-day Bible study.

It's up to you to tell about the Light you know, have been saved by and are walking in.

Aah, what a relief!

They, the world in general, do not need to see us. They need to see God shining through us.

We aren't the Light, we are mirrors reflecting the Light to the world!

WHAT'S YOURS IS YOURS

Today's reading: Ezekiel 43-48

"This is what the Sovereign Lord says: If the prince gives a gift of land to one of his sons, it will belong to him and his descendants forever. But if he gives a gift of land to one of his servants, the servant may keep it only until the Year of Jubilee, which comes every fiftieth year..." Ezekiel 46:16-17 NLT

Some of us have forgotten that, as saved, born again believers in Jesus Christ, we are now God's children.

Children of the Most High God.

Kids of the King of Kings.

Royalty. Princes and princesses.

Heirs of the Creator.

As such, we must remember that what He has given us, no one can take away.

No poor choice.

No moment of disobedience.

No enemy attack.

No failed attempt at resisting temptation.

Our gift of salvation remains our gift of salvation--given to us by God!

So, if you've forgotten--

Or if you're prone to doubt--

Or if you are being told by unlikely sources that you have lost all right to the God of your salvation--

Remember, He gave it to you and it remains yours because of His decree!

FEAR OF THE LORD

Today's reading: Proverbs 14-15

"Fear of the Lord is a life-giving fountain; it offers escape from the snares of death." Proverbs 14:27 NLT

Do you fear the Lord?

Not His ability to strike you down with lightning bolts or snap His fingers and make you back into dust.

But do you fear Him?

Revere Him?

Stand in awe of Him?

Have a firm grasp on just who He is, and who you are not?

Fearing the Lord is having an honest evaluation of His might, magnitude and mercy.

It's being amazed by His scope, His depth, His love.

It's living in wonderment of Him, His abilities and how deserving He is of you living a life that honors Him in every way.

Do you fear the Lord?

 

 IN THE SHADOW OF THE ALMIGHTY

Today's reading: Psalm 90-92

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty." Psalm 91:1 NLT

One needs be pretty close in proximity to someone in order to stand in their shadow.

To have the outline of their very being shading you.

So close, one might say, that every time they turn, they bump right into you.

God invites us into a walk with Him that calls for that level of closeness, intimacy, relationship.

Is that how closely you are walking with the Lord? Living with the Lord? Following after the Lord? Are you finding the rest that only comes from being in His shadow?

 THANKFUL FOR MY BIBLE

Today's reading: 2 Kings 21-25

"...We have not been doing what this scroll says we must do." 2 Kings 22:13 NLT

I'm ever so thankful for my Bible.

It directed me to the Lord as my Savior.

It brings comfort.

It gives me examples of godly living.

It instills peace.

It also tells me what I'm not doing right.

It points out where my attitude stinks. It highlights areas where I am allowing sin to squat on my heart's property. It pricks my heart when I've caved to tempting opportunities. It reminds me of what holiness looks like as I gaze into its mirror-like pages.

I'm thankful for my Bible...even and especially the pages where I am convicted!

THAT I MIGHT

Today's reading: Leviticus 22-24

"It was I who rescued you from Egypt, that I might be your very own God. I am the Lord." Leviticus 22:33 NLT

There are many reasons God could have chosen for freeing His people from slavery in Egypt...

-That His glory might be known all over the world.

-To put the pressure on those who oppose Him.

-To have a good story to tell.

But He did it, according to this verse, so that the Israelites would know Him as their own God.

Isn't that why He does everything He does?

That we might know Him as Lord and Savior.

Personally.

Intimately.

Individually.

Church-wide.

With our whole hearts.

That He be our very own God! 

REJECTING GOD

Today's reading: 1 Thessalonians 4-5

"God has called us to be holy, not to live impure lives. Anyone who refuses to live by these rules is not disobeying human rules but is rejecting God, who gives his Holy Spirit to us." 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8 NLT

Think about the times throughout your day when you know better than God.

Oh, you'd never say it out loud...how preposterous.

But it's true.

When the Spirit leads you to do something, or to not do something, to say something, or to keep your mouth shut--and you don't, you are telling God that you know better.

You are rejecting His leading and guidance in your life.

You are, in all reality, saying--Step back, Lord, I know better than you.

While we would never, ever, consider that to be true, our actions tell on us.

Be mindful today as you hear the Spirit of the Living God attempt to direct your ways. 

PILATE

Today's reading: Luke 23-24

"Pilate turned to the leading priests and to the crowd and said, I find nothing wrong with this man!" Luke 23:4 NLT

Pilate spoke to Jesus face-to-face. He found him innocent of the crimes the religious leaders had accused him of. He attempted to release him, knowing the charges brought against him were wrong.

He had heard all that Jesus had done. He had seen, with his own eyes, some of the people Jesus had healed. He experienced the love Jesus spoke with, the peace he beamed with, he had to have felt the power that Jesus held within in his earthly body.

What he did not do was accept who Jesus was.

Personally.

In his heart.

Maybe that's where you are today.

You believe Jesus is a great guy. A good storyteller. A man who did some awfully amazing things.

You trust that what was written about him in the Bible is true. That he was good.

Maybe you even believe that he was perfect, without sin.

But have you accepted him as your Lord and Savior?

Have you personally asked him to forgive you of your sins?

Has he become ruler and king over your heart and life?

If not, you make no better choice about who Jesus is than Pilate did.

 

HOLINESS DISPLAYED

Today's reading: Ezekiel 37-42

"When I bring them home from the lands of their enemies, my holiness will be displayed to the nations." Ezekiel 39:27 NLT

I don't know what prayer request you have been praying on repeat, or for how long you've been praying it.

I don't know who it is you are praying back to the Lord.

I don't know how long you have been waiting on the Lord to do the work you have asked Him to do.

I know my prayer request. I know my 'lost one'. I know just how long I've been waiting.

I also know that me displaying His holiness is not, IS NOT, dependent upon my prayer being answered.

His holiness in me should be shining forth in the waiting.

His holiness in me should be what people see in the meantime.

His holiness in me should be very evident as I await His answer, His time, His ways.

God's holiness does not depend upon us getting what we want, but rather upon us trusting Him because of who He is.

Is His holiness being displayed in us as we wait? 

GET WHAT YOU WANT
Today's reading: Proverbs 13

"Lazy people want much but get little, but those who work hard will prosper and be satisfied." Proverbs 13:4 NLT

Is there a godly discipline that you've always wanted to install in your life?

Do you have a bad habit that you want to break?

Is there a goal you would surely like to reach?

I'll ask you what I have heard God ask me this morning...

How hard are you working to get it/break it/reach it? 

Few things fall into our laps. Fewer things stay there once they've fallen.

Working hard, alongside God, for a purpose that will bring glory and honor to Him, will bring about prosperity and satisfaction.

But you've got to want it...

You've got to want it bad enough that you push laziness aside in order to get it!

PROMISE KEEPER
Today's reading: Psalm 87-89

"But I will never stop loving him, nor let my promise to him fail." Psalm 89:34 NLT

When you think about the fact that God is a promise-keeping God, how do you react?

Are you assured? Comforted? Given peace?

Do you sleep soundly knowing that morning brings more of His love, grace and mercy than the day before?

Or, does it scare you?

Does the mere fact that He keeps His word, even and especially the ones He has spoken in regards to death, eternal life and punishment for sin, make you shake in your boots?

As His, we should glean comfort and rest from knowing His word stands. Forever. Unendingly. 

As those who might not have accepted Him as Lord and Savior, we should be afraid. Very afraid.

TOO BIG FOR HIS BRITCHES

Today's reading: 2 Kings 16-20

"Hezekiah welcomed the Babylonian envoys and showed them everything in his treasure-houses--the silver, the gold, the spices, and the aromatic oils. He also took them to see his armory and showed them all his other treasures--everything! There was nothing in his palace or kingdom that Hezekiah did not show them." 2 Kings 20:13 NLT

Hezekiah, recently healed by the Lord, took it upon himself to 'show off' in front of the ambassadors from Babylon.

He hosted a grand tour of all his kingdom.

He let them take a long look at all he had accumulated.

The problem is, it wasn't Hezekiah's kingdom and Hezekiah didn't deserve the praise.

God had done it all.

God had allowed him to sit upon the throne.

God had established the kingdom of Judah.

Hezekiah, to put it in terms we might all understand, had gotten a little too big for his britches.

You can read on in the passage to see that God, through Isaiah, reprimanded and disciplined Hezekiah's wrong thinking.

But it's a lesson for us.

What might we be receiving applause for, that we had nothing at all to do with?

Where might we be taking credit for God-sized works in our lives?

What opportunities are we accepting the standing ovations only God deserves?

DISHONEST SCALES
Today's reading: Leviticus 19-21

"Do not use dishonest standards when measuring length, weight, or volume." Leviticus 19:35 NLT

I know we're not to add to, or take away from, the Word of God. It doesn't need my help and nothing about it needs to be disregarded. But if you might allow me the opportunity to unpack this single verse in a different way, in order to make a life application point, I would surely appreciate it.

I don't do a whole lot in regards to measuring. My interactions with people seldom, if ever, include temptations to short-change them in regards to feet, inches, pounds or miles.

That being said, I have been convicted by the words of this verse.

You see, and there is a vague possibility that I am not the only one, I too often use dishonest scales in regards to 'weighing' my personal sins against another's.

Their sins are always much worse.

Their sins should disqualify them.

Their sins are more revolting than my own.

Their sins should be held against them longer, much longer.

Their sins need be remembered long after they have sought God's forgiveness for them.

My sins? Well, my sins aren't that bad.

They don't think as much.

They shouldn't be held against me.

They stem from me just being made the way I was made.

They needn't be discussed, addressed or remembered.

Wouldn't that be dishonest scales? Isn't that wrongly judgemental of me? Doesn't that go against God's command, in God's Word, about how God's people should act? 

INVESTMENTS
Today's reading: 1 Thessalonians 1-3

"We loved you so much that we gave you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too." 1 Thessalonians 2:8 NLT

In this letter to the church at Thessalonica, Paul, Silas and Timothy remind the new church of their previous visit with them.

During this visit, the traveling missionaries shared the Word of God, brought salvation to the area and helped to establish the church community.

But Paul, Silas and Timothy did more than 'church things'. They lived with the people. They worked among the congregants. They spent time teaching the new believers more and more about Jesus.

They, Paul, Silas and Timothy, invested in the lives of the brothers and sisters living in Thessalonica.

What about you?

Are you attending church, worshiping, fulfilling all the duties associated with your local body of believers? Or are you investing in the lives of those God places in your sphere of influence?

Are you making sure to know the names of your neighbor's grandkids? Are you asking about the new baby your favorite Walmart checker recently had? Are you making sure the newest believer at church has a good Bible? Are you making sure the newly widowed man at church has meals to eat? What about your mailman, does he know you appreciate his efforts? 

Just how is it you are choosing to invest in the lives of those God is allowing you to impact for Him? 

GIVEN EVERYTHING

Today's reading: Luke 21-22

"While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people putting their gifts into the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two pennies. I assure you, he said, this poor woman has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has." Luke 21:1-4 NLT 

This same portion of Scripture was used one night last week during our church's Vacation Bible School.

I vividly recall one small child coming up to me after the lesson discussion and asking me, Did that little old lady really give all that she had? 

When I told this little student that she indeed gave everything, she walked away satisfied with the answer--but I could also see the wheels of her little mind turning.

Was she, like me, thinking over how greedy she is in regards to all the blessings God has given to me?

Was she, like me, considering an earlier opportunity to share that was squandered?

Was she, like me, convicted of all the times I, I mean she, was hesitant to give afraid God wouldn't/couldn't provide again?

Was she, like me, attempting to find a loophole in what God might have been asking her to do in regards to all she had?

Was she, like me, changed from the inside out by this poor woman's generosity?

What about you--are you keeping all God has given you, or looking for ways to share it for His glory?

WATCHMEN

Today's reading: Ezekiel 31-36

"But if the watchman sees the enemy coming and doesn't sound the alarm to warn the people, he is responsible for their deaths. They will die in their sins, but I will hold the watchman accountable. Now, son of man, I am making you a watchman for the people of Israel. Therefore, listen to what I say and warn them for me." Ezekiel 33:6-7 NLT

Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to be a watchman.

-Someone who speaks the words of God.

-Someone who tells the world about Him.

-Someone who sounds the alarm of sin and its ramifications.

-Someone so thrilled to have been saved by the Lord that you want everyone else to know His saving power.

-Someone who loves another enough to do all you can to keep them from the pits of hell.

-Someone who truly is a follower of Christ, a follower who takes His commands to 'Go tell' seriously.

 

TANK-FILLERS

Today's reading: Proverbs 11-12

"The generous prosper and are satisfied; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25 NLT

Whose tank might you re-fill today?

If that is your ambition as you enter this new day, then opportunities abound!

Young moms who need some encouragement.

New believers who need a kind word.

Defeated folks who need a pat on the back.

Discouraged people who need what Christ has filled your heart with.

Refreshing others refreshes ourselves. Don't believe it? Try it!

REVIVE US AGAIN

Today's reading: Psalm 84-86

"Won't you revive us again, so your people can rejoice in you?" Psalm 85:6 NLT

Another Lord's Day has rolled around...

A day to gather with saints and sinners.

A time to worship, praise and petition.

An opportunity to learn, lean in and listen in for God's voice.

And a time to be revived.

To have the Holy Spirit breathed back into us after a week of life-sucking madness, heart-breaking happenings and enemy-sent attacks.

A day to receive a deep breath, more life and a better grip on our faith.

It's not just Sunday--it's a day to be revived!

YOU BEING YOU

Today's reading: 2 Kings 11-15

"Amaziah did what was pleasing in the Lord's sight, but not like his ancestor David..." 2 Kings 14:3 NLT

If you come from a godly lineage, you might be feeling like your faith is being pressed, or molded, into a box that just doesn't fit you.

You're being 'asked' to attend the church of your forefathers.

It's being 'suggested' that you read the Bible translations of your grandparents.

It might even be that you're being 'pressed' to wear what your parents wore to church, sing only the songs your parents sang and continue the church customs your parents passed down to you.

Amaziah, the young king in today's Bible account, served God--but he didn't do it like those who preceded him.

Serving God is individual.

Doing what God asks is a personal calling.

Following after God demands that we each walk our own paths.

Are there some Bible based doctrines that need to be adhered to--YES!

But let's be quite clear...there are Bible based requirements and there are a whole lot of religion based rules.

Knowing Christ as your personal Savior is non-negotiable.

Believing the Bible is the inerrant word of God is not something we can disagree on.

Participating in a community of believers is not only necessary for growth but also instructed by the Lord.

So let your faith be your faith. Walk out your testimony. Draw close to the One who individually, personally and intimately knows you.

In regards to your faith--you be you!

ME AND MINE

Today's reading: Leviticus 16-18

"No one else is allowed inside the Tabernacle while Aaron goes in to make atonement for the Most Holy Place. No one may enter until he comes out again after making atonement for himself, his family, and all the Israelites." Leviticus 16:17 NLT

Do you have a place where you start the day out with the Lord?

A place that is set apart, a place that allows you time with the Lord, a place that is holy?

 It needn't be a monastery type setting where noise is prohibited.

There is no requirement of solitude.

It doesn't even have to be uncluttered.

It just has to be a place, a specific, intentional, habitual place where you meet with the Lord.

A place where you and He hash out your faith walk...

A spot where you stand in the gap for those you love...

A designated area where you pray, soak in His Word and where you receive your marching orders for the day...

An area where you and the Lord meet for some personal time.

I urge you, like Aaron, to slip away every day to a most holy place in order to be filled with God in order that you might fill others!

GREEDY FOR GOD

Today's reading: Colossians 3-4

"...Don't be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry." Colossians 3:5 NLT

God knows us well enough to know that if we aren't greedy for one thing, we will be for another.

It's how we're made.

So, knowing our bent, He gives us a boundary in regards to handling our greedy nature.

I read, in this portion of Scripture, that I can be greedy for God.

I can want all of Him I could possibly hold.

I can think about Him night and day.

I can seek out ways to get more and more, and more and more, of Him.

And He's good with that.

Because a greed like that is beneficial. It's life giving. It's what He truly designed us for.

Nothing this earth offers can overshadow all we have to gain in seeking Him out.

So throw yourself into getting more of the Lord. Go ahead, He wholeheartedly approves of that kind of greed!

TAKING AND GIVING

Today's reading: Luke 19-20

"Then turning to the others standing nearby, the king ordered, Take the money from this servant, and give it to the one who earned the most." Luke 19:24 NLT

In this account, referred to as the 'Parable of the Talents', we find 3 men selected to have and grow opportunities for their master.

One excelled, earning ten times as much.

The second increased his lot by five times the original amount.

The third 'investor' didn't invest--he merely held what was given to him.

The master's response to the third servant's choices are what's recorded in today's verse.

What he was given, what he was given and not nurtured, was given to another.

Taken from him and given to someone who had proved himself to be more faithful.

Ever been on either side of a God transaction like that?

Maybe you experienced a time in life when you failed to honor God in a situation He placed you in.

Or on the other side of the coin, maybe your obedience in a seemingly small matter led to a God-sized opportunity.

As today unfolds as the sun rises, you get to choose which type of servant you will be--one from whom 'talents' are taken OR one to whom 'talents' are poured out.

I choose to use what I have in a way that makes Him want to give me more!

REVEALING HIS HOLINESS

Today's reading: Ezekiel 25-30

"...I will reveal to the nations of the world my holiness among my people." Ezekiel 28:25 NLT

When I think about all God can do...

Control nature. Cause planets to be suspended in orbit. Create life from what scientists have called cells. Transform hearts. Change minds.

Well, it amazes me.

But what's spoken about in the last part of this verse, completely and utterly astounds me.

He, the Master Creator, chooses to display his holiness through His people.

His imperfect people.

His fatally flawed people.

His always sinning people.

His quick-to-forget-Him people.

And yet, He chooses us to exhibit holiness to the world.

His power is displayed through nature. His sovereignty is displayed through His miracles, His love is displayed through the Cross, His patience is displayed through the very fact that we're all still here today.

But His holiness? He's showing that to the world through us, His saved and forgiven people.

How are you doing representing Him? 

WORDS OF LIFE

Today's reading: Proverbs 10

"The words of the godly lead to life..." Proverbs 10:11 NLT

Vacation Bible School begins today!

It's one of my absolute favorite times of the year.

Kids from our church, kids that are from other churches, kids that have never set foot in the church, all will gather starting this evening to learn about Jesus and have fun.

I get the awesome privilege of presenting the Bible lesson each week--a task I do not take lightly.

Seems quite appropriate, God sent really, that these words from Proverbs are what my eyes land on this morning as I read the Word.

I'm not just presenting Bible stories.

I'm not just filling in a time slot each evening.

I'm not just there for crowd control.

I'm not there to merely entertain.

I am being called to speak words of life into the hearts and minds of these kids.

Kids I may see each Sunday. Kids I may bump into at WalMart. Kids I may never, ever, see again.

God is giving me the opportunity to speak His words over them and into them--bringing life to their little lives.

Seeds I get to plant. Seeds He will nestle into the soil of their hearts for His cultivating in His time!

OPEN WIDE

Today's reading: Psalm 81-83

"For it was I, the Lord your God, who rescued you from the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it with good things." Psalm 81:10 NLT

We have a pair of barn swallows who are insistent upon building a nest at our back door.

The three eggs they have laid and hatched have become a trio of ravenous little mouths.

The mother and daddy birds are constantly flitting back and forth with mouths full of goodies for their littles to consume.

The tiny birds sit quietly and calmly until a parent lights on the edge of the nest. Their stillness quickly takes a turn and all three open their mouths wide for their meals.

Imagine desiring so desperately to grow in the Lord that the moment He is near, His Word is open, an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to nudge--our mouths fly open.

'Fill me! Fill me!' our responses cry.

 

TELL THEM

Today's reading: 2 Kings 6-10

"And Gehazi was telling the king about the time Elisha had brought a boy back to life. At that very moment, the mother of the boy walked in to make her appeal to the king. Look, my lord! Gehazi exclaimed. Here is the woman now, and this is her son--the very one Elisha brought back to life! Is this true? the king asked her. And she told him that it was..." 2 Kings 8:5-6 NLT

As I think about all God has done for me, I am nudged by the Holy Spirit to be more aware.

More aware of noticing where it is He is at work in my life.

More aware of people to whom I can witness to of His greatness.

More aware of situations He allows me to be in where I can testify to another.

More aware of just how quiet I am in regards to all He does for me!

The Lord places me in situation after situation where I am given an 'open door' to walk through proclaiming His greatness.

What will I do in those opportunities?

ABLE TO AFFORD

Today's reading: Leviticus 13-15

"Then the priest will offer the two turtledoves or the two young pigeons, whichever the person was able to afford." Leviticus 14:30 NLT

I'm attempting to put myself in the position of one of these early God followers...

What if I couldn't afford two turtledoves OR two pigeons?

What if my sin had cost me everything and I was left without two pennies to my name?

What if what I had done far exceeded any prescribed sacrifices listed in the 'book of rules'?

What if sheer embarrassment and utter shame overwhelmed me as I dragged my offering through the city to the 'church' for the priest to assess and approve of?

What if my sacrificial animal got loose and I couldn't catch it--and sure couldn't afford to buy another?

It's only after considering what it was like under the Law, to fully grasp how good we have it under Grace!

Jesus was enough for my every sin.

Jesus offered what I couldn't possibly purchase on my own.

Jesus took the place of my turtledove/pigeon/ram/bull.

Jesus knew I couldn't afford what was required for my sins and said, 'I'll be her sacrifice.'

Living under Grace overwhelms me!

 

HOLDS ALL CREATION TOGETHER

Today's reading: Colossians 1-2

"He existed before everything else began, and he holds all creation together." Colossians 1:17 NLT

If your world is currently swirling...

Or your life is leaving you swimmy headed...

Or the latest news leaves your chest pounding...

Know this: God holds all creation together!

He has always been, is currently and will always be.

That should calm your nerves and settle your spirit.

Our God, the Creator of all we are, have and see, is the One who is holding it all together.

Even when it feels as if it's all falling apart! 

 TO THE LORD

Today's reading: Luke 17-18

"One day the apostles said to the Lord, We need more faith; tell us how to get it." Luke 17:5 NLT

Of course they asked Jesus!

I mean, He was their leader...

He was their friend...

He was the Lord...

Why wouldn't they turn to the 'faith source' for any and all questions regarding how to live for God?

Why don't we?

For myself, it's sometimes easier, and a whole lot less convicting, to turn to a Christian self-help book, a sermon-y Instagram reel or crank up the praise music, instead of speaking to the Lord.

Asking Him what I need to do to grow closer to Him.

Seeking out His instruction in regards to improving my relationship with Him.

Being reminded of what it is He has asked me to do again, and again.

He desires that we come to Him for any and all things--but not as a last resort or as a back-plan.

Say 'it' to the Lord--and listen for His response.

BUT THEY

Today's reading: Ezekiel 19-24

"But they rebelled against me and would not listen. They did not get rid of their idols or forsake the gods of Egypt..." Ezekiel 20:8 NLT

 We find God's people, this many pages into their history with the Lord, rebelling against Him once more.

They were guilty of worshiping the idols of the very people who had kept them slaves for over 400 years.

They were rightly charged with ignoring God, turning their backs on Him and doing what they thought was best.

Aren't you glad that only happened then?

We shake our heads at the nation of Israel, but all the while do just what they did.

We turn our backs on what the Word of the Lord tells us to do--or not do.

We disregard the nudgings of the Holy Spirit in regards to next steps or new opportunities.

We lean harder on idols and gods than we do the One True God.

We dismiss what He tells us thinking we know better. Oh, we would never say it out loud, but don't our actions reveal that very vain choice?

I'm left questioning myself this morning...

Am I listening to the Lord?

Am I pushing aside idols in an effort to get closer to Him?

Am I honoring Him with every choice I make?

HOW BADLY I WANT HIM

Today's reading: Proverbs 8-9

"I love all who love me. Those who search for me will surely find me." Proverbs 8:17 NLT

How badly do I want the Lord to be involved in all aspects of my life?

That's the question that popped into my mind as I read this verse.

I love Him and am loved by Him.

But do I search for Him?

Do I actively seek to engage Him in my day-to-day?

Am I looking for His guidance with each and every choice I have to make?

He tells me that He will surely be found IF I only look.

Will I? 

EACH GENERATION

Today's reading: Psalm 78-80

"For he issued his decree to Jacob; he gave his laws to Israel. He commanded our ancestors to teach them to their children, so the next generation might know them--even the children not yet born--that they in turn might teach their children. So each generation can set its hope anew on God, remembering his glorious miracles and obeying his commands." Psalm 78:5-7 NLT

Yesterday's national holiday was a grand celebration.

The parades, the gatherings, the news broadcasts, the fireworks...all pointing to the excitement of our nation's birthday.

Ten generations of our country.

Ten opportunities for families to remind, renew, revive or restore its hope anew in God.

Two hundred and fifty years of varying time frames of history all marked by God's hand on our nation.

Occasion after occasion of watching God honor those who choose to turn to Him.

Our nation is great because of the God we founded our country upon, the God we serve and the God whom we seek for protection, guidance and blessing.

Are we telling the next generation about Him?

 EXCEPT A FLASK OF OIL

Today's reading: 2 Kings 1-5

"...Nothing at all except a flask of olive oil, she replied." 2 Kings 4:2 NLT

This morning as the picnics are being prepared, the fireworks are being laid out and the sun is rising on this day, our county's birthday, I cannot help but see the hope this verse offers to us as citizens of the USA.

As many things as we see going wrong in our country...

As many people as there are that are attempting to tear it down...

As many poor choices as our government has made in regards to laws and allowances...

We still have 'a flask of oil'.

We have the foundation our Declaration of Independence and Constitution were based upon--God given rights.

We have the blood of our forefathers running through our veins--the people who fought to gain, secure and preserve this country.

We have the freedoms this country allow us--freedoms that allow us to speak, to write, to educate ourselves.

We have the basis this country was started with--belief in the One True God.

So, if we as Christians, take our 'flasks of oil' and put them together, we can once again honor God with our country.

Pray.

Assemble peaceably.

Stand for what is right and against what is wrong.

Use our God ordained, founding fathers penned, freedom to gather and worship.

Our great country can achieve great things. We can be a nation we are proud of. We can reach the world for the Lord.

BEING DIFFERENT

Today's reading: Leviticus 10-12

"You are to distinguish between what is holy and what is ordinary, what is ceremonially unclean and what is clean." Leviticus 10:10 NLT

What's different about you?

Not the curve of your nose, the size of your feet or the color of your hair--but what makes you different from the world?

What distinguishes you as a follower of Christ? A child of God? A believer in Jesus as your Lord and Savior?

Maybe it's where you go, and don't go.

Or, perhaps, what you say, or don't say.

There's a good possibility the difference lies in what you wear, or will not wear.

Maybe the separation is shown in what you will allow to entertain you, and what you will 'turn off'.

Being different is what Jesus asks us to be as we spend time on earth.

Markedly different. 

Blatantly different.

Absolutely different.

So different, in fact, that people come to us asking about what makes our lives distinct from the rest of the world!

EVERYTHING

Today's reading: Philippians 3-4

"For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need." Philippians 4:13 NLT

I cannot think of a verse that has been more widely memorized, chanted, posted, leaned on or quoted than this verse.

But are we seeing it for what it really, and truly, says?

Our eyes pause on the 'everything' of the verse and our imaginations run wild.

We feel as if we are given the 'go ahead' on anything and 'everything' we can imagine.

But is that what it means?

Might it, and I am asking for myself as much as I am asking you, mean that we can do 'everything' God asks of us--not necessarily 'everything' we want to do?

We can, with Christ's help, do all He purposes us to do.

We can, in the strength of the Lord, accomplish every task He places before us.

We can, with God, complete each and every request He makes of us.

But this verse is not a carte blanche for all things we conjure up in our minds!

I don't need to do 'everything' I can imagine, dream, think or want to do.

I don't need to do 'everything' I see others do, desire in order to have an easier life or think might make me look good in the eyes of others.

God places a cap on the 'everything' He promises.

A boundary.

A set of borders that keep us from accomplishing a lot of things that might be fun, good, exciting or nice--in order that we complete the best and most godly of things He wants to involve us in.

Do a prayerful inventory of the 'everything' you're wanting to see done in your life.

BUT HIS FATHER SAID

Today's reading: Luke 15-16

"His son said to him, Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. But his father said to the servants, Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house, and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening in the pen. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found." Luke 15:21-24 NLT

Child of God, do you know who you are?

Not who the world says you should be...

Or who you really want to be...

Or who you used to be...

Do you know what your Father says about you? What it is He celebrates about you? What He tells the world is your grandest trait?

It's not what you do that has wildly impressed Him.

It's not the 'rags to riches' testimony you have.

It's not the anticipation of who you will become.

He tells the world--This child of mine, that was dead--is now alive! This son/daughter of mine that was lost--has found their way home! My beloved one has come back to me!

Believing friend, that is who you are. 

A revived soul. A found child. A loved creation.

At all times. Every day. In every situation.

God celebrates that--you should, too!

LEARNING NOT TO STRAY

Today's reading: Ezekiel 13-18

"False prophets and hypocrites--evil people who claim to want my advice--will all be punished for their sins. In this way, the people of Israel will learn not to stray from me, polluting themselves with sin. They will be my people, and I will be their God, says the Sovereign Lord." Ezekiel 14:10-11 NLT

Had a season in your life where you strayed from the Lord's side?

A time when you thought you knew better?

Have you ever believed 'the grass was greener' on the other side of His commands?

How did that go for you?

God allows us to stray from Him.

He lets us follow our own paths.

Even though it hurts His heart, He watches as we live our own lives, going our own ways, settling for less than His very best.

And when we do it, we pollute ourselves with sin.

Our bodies, our hearts, our minds, our families, our communities, our world, are not created to function well outside of the will of the Lord.

Sin hurts. Waywardness stings. Self-serving ways end up leaving us empty. Ungodliness stinks.  

Turn back to the Lord today. Seek Him out. Repent of all you've done against His will. Start living again today!

WATCH OUT!

Today's reading: Proverbs 7

"So she seduced him with her pretty speech. With her flattery she enticed him. He followed her at once, like an ox going to the slaughter or like a trapped stag, awaiting the arrow that would pierce its heart. He was like a bird flying into a snare, little knowing it would cost him his life." Proverbs 7:21-23 NLT

While Solomon talks about a simpleminded young man on the street, might we all see ourselves in this biblical scenario?

Ungodliness seduces us. At all times. In a myriad of ways. No matter our spiritual age.

Flattery leads us to side-step what the Bible says is right and true, for what is advertised as fun and easy.

The un-thought-about remark...

The made-too-fast choice...

The not-prayed-over reaction...

And before we know it, we are bargaining with our lives. Decision by decision. Poor choice after poor choice.

Let's carefully survey our options today as we are called upon to live life choice by choice.

Will we be godly, or will we be seduced into a life that does not honor the Lord? 

OVERWHELMED WITH LONGING

Today's reading: Psalm 75-77

"I cry out to God without holding back. Oh, that God would listen to me! When I was in deep trouble, I searched for the Lord. All night long I pray, with hands lifted toward heaven, pleading. There can be no joy for me until he acts. I think of God, and I moan, overwhelmed with longing for his help." Psalm 77:1-3 NLT

Ever been where Asaph must have been when he penned this psalm?

In deep trouble.

Searching for the slightest glimpse of the Lord.

Praying without ceasing.

Pleading.

Holding your breath waiting on the Lord to act.

Spiritual moaning. Physical distress.

Longing for His help.

Those feelings didn't push Asaph away from the Lord, but towards Him.

The search for God drew Asaph closer and closer to God, revealing his inner need for all God offered.

To tell you the truth, it's making me reconsider my responses to tough times. Times when emotions get the best of me and personal hardships bring to the surface who I really am.

Am I intentionally seeking out the Lord? Am I desperate for Him? Am I overwhelmed with a desire to see Him act--in the situation and in me? 

ESPECIALLY GUILTY

Today's reading: 1 Kings 19-22

"He was especially guilty because he worshiped idols just as the Amorites had done--the people whom the Lord had driven from the land ahead of the Israelites." 1 Kings 21:26 NLT

When you know better, you should do better.

Ever heard that phrase?

Ahab knew the history of the Israelite people. How they received land promised to them by God. How this promise would be kept in place by not following the customs and practices of the Amorites, from whom He took the land.

Ahab knew all that and still did it--making him especially guilty.

What do you know?

What is it you should stay away from?

Where is it you need not go?

When is it you shouldn't make decisions because your head and heart aren't in the right place?

Who is it that distracts you from wholeheartedly serving the Lord?

When you know better, you should do better.

 

ALL IN
Today's reading: Leviticus 7-9

"Then Moses presented the ram to the Lord for the whole burnt offering, and Aaron and his sons laid their hands on its head as Moses slaughtered it. Then Moses took the ram's blood and sprinkled it against the sides of the altar. Next he cut the ram into pieces and burned the head, some of its pieces, and the fat on the altar. After washing the internal organs and the legs with water, Moses burned the entire ram on the altar as a whole burnt offering. It was an offering given to the Lord by fire, very pleasing to the Lord. All this was done just as the Lord had commanded Moses." Leviticus 8:22-24 NLT

Being a priest, or even an 'under-priest' took some, as my grandmother used to say, gumption.

    These men had to be obedient--to follow the Lord's directions.

    They had to be strong--to wrestle a ram, dead weight, into place.

    They had to be precise--to do the butchering they needed to do.

    They had to not be squeamish--there was a whole lot of blood.

    They had to be committed--every day, every single day.

    They had to be completely sold out--this was not a glamorous job.

There is no difference today for those of us serving the Lord!

We have to be obedient, remain strong in our convictions, precise in our living, not squeamish in regards to the ugly work sometimes required, committed to the Lord and absolutely surrendered to His will being the best route.

Being a servant of the Lord is not for the faint of heart--it's for those whose hearts are saved, changed, redeemed and at the beckon call of their King.

WILL CONTINUE

Today's reading: Philippians 1-2

"And I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again." Philippians 1:6 NLT

There are a lot of things I am sure about...

-I am sure I will always be prone to mess up.

-I am sure that in this world we believers will have trouble.

-I am sure that serving the Lord won't come naturally--it will always be a struggle to do what is godly.

-I am sure I will be undeserving of every ounce of grace God pours into my life.

-I am sure I will never fully grasp the enormity of His love for me. 

And according to this verse, I can be sure that what God has started, He will finish.

In me.

In my prodigal.

In the purpose He has for me.

He doesn't half-do things. He doesn't have a closet filled with unfinished projects, me being one of them. He doesn't half-amaze, half-heal, half-save or half-comfort.

He will continue His work in us all...if we will but allow Him to do it!

LISTENING TO THE NEWS

Today's reading: Luke 13-14

"Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. 2 Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? 3 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish. 4 Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”

I can imagine Jesus sitting down, for a brief moment and looking over the 'headlines of the day'.

He hears about Pilate's rampage against some Jewish believers. He gets news about a building collapse in Siloam. He is told of countless other unfair happenings around Galilee that didn't make the news.

And it gives Him an opportunity for a lesson.

Life's not fair, He commiserates.

Life is hard, He agrees.

Life offers some sad happenings, He acquiesces.

Life won't be fair here, He says.

Life won't last forever, He reminds.

Life ends unless you repent and believe in Me, He preaches.

It's true. The headlines hurt our hearts. Happenings knock the props out from under us. Diagnoses steal our breath. Life isn't fair--so we much bank on heaven!

Accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior and live for Him and when this unfair life ends, live eternally with Him!

WEEP AND SIGH

Today's reading: Ezekiel 7-12

"He said to him, Walk through the streets of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of all those who weep and sigh because of the sins they see around them." Ezekiel 9:4 NLT

In this vision God has given Ezekiel, a heavenly assignment was given to mark the foreheads of everyone who was bothered by sin.

Bothered by their own sins.

Bothered by those they saw committed around them.

Bothered to the point at which they would cry over it.

Bothered to the extreme of it breaking their hearts.

It makes me wonder...

How many of us would be marked today?

Are we even disgusted by sin anymore?

Does the very thought of disobeying God bother us in the least?

Or have we come to just accept it? Tolerate it? Not give it a passing thought?

This morning, as I sit in my prayer chair, I'm asking God to bother me with sin. To open my eyes to what truly disgusts Him. To change my attitude in regards to what I okay, what I allow to entertain me, what I see as 'just another lifestyle', what I chalk up as being okay for them.

I want to be marked as one who weeps and sighs because of the sins I see around me.

 

THE GUIDANCE OF GOD'S WORD

Today's reading: Proverbs 5-6

"Wherever you walk, their counsel can lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up in the morning, they will advise you." Proverbs 6:22 NLT

If you're anything like me, your day isn't filled with choices needing to be made in regards to what is good or bad, but rather a matter of choosing between what is good, what is better and what is best.  

-What's the best use of my time and talents?

-Where's the most important place to invest my skills?

-How might I most wisely spend the money He has given me?

-Which hours of the day need set apart for God--and God alone?

I have to be willing to turn to God's Word for His counsel in all the decisions I am called upon to make throughout the day.

I want to honor Him in all I say, 'Yes', to.

I can only do that when He leads and I follow.

And He tells us, over and over again, that He does it through His Word!

BUT AS FOR ME

Today's reading: Psalm 72-74

"But as for me, how good it is to be near God! I have made the Sovereign Lord my shelter, and I will tell everyone about the wonderful things you do." Psalm 73:28 NLT

Where is it you have drawn a line in the sand in regards to your Christian growth?

What is your 'no matter what' discipline?

Do others know that even if nothing else gets done, you will have done _____?

It is those 'but as for me' statements that will grow our faith, draw us closer to the Lord and build up stepping stones that lead from one level of righteousness to the next.

You've gotta have them.

You have to have some firm boundaries in place in order that you will achieve personal growth in the Lord.

'But as for me' may look like...

-I won't open up Facebook until I've read in my Bible.

-I won't pick up my phone until I've spent some time in prayer.

-I won't let a day go by that I don't jot down something I'm grateful to God for.

-I won't miss an opportunity to worship the Lord with my brothers and sister in Christ.

 Set some goals for your spiritual growth. Determine a few things you will do each and every day in order to be nearer to the Lord. Start with baby steps--and watch how the Lord chooses to bless them!

ABIJAM

Today's reading: 1 Kings 14-18

"Abijam began to rule over Judah in the eighteenth year of Jeroboam's reign in Israel. He reigned in Jerusalem three years. His mother was Maacah, the daughter of Absalom. He committed the same sins as his father before him, and his heart was not right with the Lord his God, as the heart of his ancestor David had been. But for David's sake, the Lord his God allowed his dynasty to continue, and he gave Adijam a son to rule after him in Jerusalem. For David had done what was pleasing in the Lord's sight and had obeyed the Lord's commands throughout his life, except in the affair concerning Uriah the Hittite." 1 Kings 15:1-5 NLT

Think about the grace God poured out on David's family.

Just in these five verses we see that Abijam, a grandson of David, sat on the throne.

He was not a godly man.

He was in power only because God had promised David a dynasty.

God's grace does that. Then and now.

He pours out grace on those of us that are undeserving.

He gives grace to those of us with stained pasts.

He showers grace on those that come after us, as a legacy of our lives lived for Him.

Unmerited favor on those who follow, even imperfectly, after Him. Groundless grace that is bestowed because I am bold enough to believe He will give what He promises to give when I but ask.

I want that kind of grace to pour into my life--and into the lives of those who come after me.

MAKE ME AWARE

Today's reading: Leviticus 4-6

"If any of them sin by doing something forbidden by the Lord, even if it is done unintentionally, they will be held responsible. When they become aware of their guilt, they must bring to the priest a ram from the flock as a guilt offering. The animal must have no physical defects, and it must be of the proper value..." Leviticus 17-18 NLT

Ever had your mind changed, your attitude adjusted or been 'set to rights'?

That's what God does when He reveals to us our sins.

He chooses to make us aware of ways in which we sin against Him, and that's what every sins does, through conviction.

Some days it's in regards to things you are currently involved in--and no longer set well in your heart of hearts.

On other days, He will point out areas in which you need to lean harder on Him, less on the things of this world or places where you are veering hard towards the world.

And in some precious moments He might speak to you about things you did before you believed on Him as Lord and Savior. Things you didn't know, at the time, were sins.

However He chooses to correct us and whatever it might be about, we can know that it is for our own good and in order to bring Him glory.

Painful? Yes.

Uncomfortable? Absolutely.

Embarrassing? At times.

Worth it? You better believe it.

Lord, make us aware of our sins so that we can repent them to You and find your forgiveness!

THE REMEDY FOR UNRAVELING

Today's reading: Ephesians 4-6

"Always keep yourselves united in the Holy Spirit, and bind yourselves together with peace." Ephesians 4:3 NLT

United in the Holy Spirit and bound together with peace...sounds like the remedy for the feeling of unraveling that most of us feel at one point or another.

Loose ends fraying? Spend time in the Word.

Falling apart at the seams? Make time to pray.

Feeling undone? Give all your 'pieces' to the Creator who put you together in the first place.

Tangled up with emotions? Tell the Lord.

Torn in different directions? Ask God to make your very next step clear...then the next...then the next.

YOUR "YES"

Today's reading: Luke 11-12

"Anyone who isn't helping me opposes me, and anyone who isn't working with me is actually working against me." Luke 11:23 NLT

Got something God has asked you to do, and you are 'praying over it'?

Maybe 'praying over it' is a stretch. 

There is a very good likelihood that you are putting it off, shoving it to the side, attempting to ignore it or down right refusing to believe He would ask such of you.

Read this morning's verse again...

"Anyone who isn't helping me opposes me, and anyone who isn't working with me is actually working against me." 

Are you for the Lord--or are you silly enough to attempt to go against Him?

One choice will bring about rewards and blessings--the other, well, the other option won't end well for you.

Say "YES" to the Lord.

Sign up for what He's asking of you.

Join His team.

Work alongside Him.

Follow Him where ever it is He goes.

Your "YES" in this small thing may have a huge impact on His kingdom!

 

AT LEAST THEY WILL KNOW

Today's reading: Ezekiel 1-6

"They are a hard-hearted and stubborn people. But I am sending you to say to them, This is what the Sovereign Lord says! And whether they listen or not--for remember, they are rebels--at least they will know they have had a prophet among them." Ezekiel 2:4-5 NLT

Ezekiel was given a tough task, one he would be presenting to a tough audience.

But he had to do it.

He had to in order to obey the Lord.

He had to because he loved his people, as rebellious as they were.

He had to for himself, he needed to know he had done all he could to tell them what the Lord had to say.

What about you?

Are you telling the world about your Jesus? That he came to save us from our sins? That he offers an eternal future with him?

The world needs to know.

God has asked us to tell them about him.

You need to reach the end of your life knowing you told who you could, when you could, because you knew how it had changed your life.

What they do with the information is entirely up to them, but at least you will have told them.

Share the Good News! 

DON'T FORGET

Today's reading: Proverbs 4

"...Don't forget or turn away from my words." Proverbs 4:5 NLT

How firmly seated in your daily routine is time in your Bible?

Do you have a set time and place when which you dive into His Word daily?

Do you sporadically read a few verses when seeking wisdom or when you need a 'good verse' to write in a card or letter?

Do the Scriptures take a sabbatical through the week and you pick them up only as you head out the door to church on Sunday?

God tells us, through Solomon, not to forget or turn away from His words.

We need what He has to say.

We have reason to pour over His words.

We can learn from what the Holy Bible tells us.

Here is your reminder: Don't forget to pick up your Bible today.

PS...Might I make a suggestion? Close out of this screen right now and end your computer time until you've picked up your Bible. 

HELP ME, LORD

Today's reading: Psalm 69-71

"Don't let those who trust in you stumble because of me, O Sovereign Lord Almighty..." Psalm 69:6 NLT

Help me, Lord, not to cause anyone to question Your goodness.

Remind me, in any and every conversation, that I am representing You.

Provide me words, and deeds, that honor You in all places and at all times.

Back me up if you put me on a platform, so that I bring You all the glory.

Please, please, don't let me be a stumbling block in another's walk with You.

You are too worthy of all praise. You are too holy to be muddied by any attempts I could ever make to represent You. Your name is too good to be sullied by the likes of me.

~Amen

INSISTING ON OUR OWN WAY

Today's reading: 1 Kings 10-13

"Now King Solomon loved many foreign women. Besides Pharoah's daughter, he married women from Moab, Ammon, Edom, Sidon and from among the Hittites. The Lord had clearly instructed his people not to intermarry with those nations, because the women they married would lead them to worship their gods. Yet Solomon insisted on loving them anyway." 1 Kings 11:1-3 NLT

It's not that Solomon didn't know better.

It isn't even that Solomon didn't know the 'why' behind the instructions.

And in Solomon's case, it didn't even have to do with a lack, or wanting for anything--or anyone in this matter.

It all boils down to Solomon insisting on his own way.

And it eventually cost Solomon his kingdom.  

Disobedience always comes with a price.

Not only for Bible-time kings who were rich and had a penchant for women.

It happens in our own lives, too.

God will let you have whatever it is you want in life--but if what you want goes against His best for you, expect to pray the price.

Know something will extract the cost of that choice.

Be it spiritually.

Emotionally.

Mentally.

Physically.

Insisting on our own way will cost us at some point.

KNOWING OUR OWN STRENGTH

Today's reading: Leviticus 1-3

"Then, grasping the bird by its wings, the priest will tear the bird apart, though not completely. Then he will burn it on top of the wood fire on the altar. It is a whole burnt offering made by fire, very pleasing to the Lord." Leviticus 1:17 NLT

Before you say, My, what an unusual verse you have landed on this morning, Malinda...hear me out.

As servants of a good God.

As those who have been set aside to work for His kingdom.

As ones who are priests.

We have to be strong AND we have to know our own strength.

The Levitical priests not only served spiritually, but, as mentioned in this verse, they served physically.

They had to use their strength, and know their own strength.

Did you notice?

They had to tear the sacrificial turtledove or pigeon apart --but not all the way apart.

That took some strength and it took knowing when to rein strength in. Just enough, but not too much.

Do we do that as 'priests' today?

Are we serving wholeheartedly, but not going overboard?

Are we doing all we can, but not doing more than we should?

Are we giving our all, but not doling out too much in any one area so that we end up lacking in another?

It's all about knowing our own strength--and where we need God's governing power at work in our lives.

GOOD TIMES AND BAD

Today's reading: Ephesians 1-3

"When I think of the wisdom and scope of God's plan, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth." Ephesians 3:14 NLT

Good times, and not so good times, befall us all.

Our days are littered with highs and lows, blessings and niggling dreads.

Paul re-centers our minds in this single verse.

He reminds us that in the good times and in the bad, God's plan can be considered and trusted.

The wisdom and scope of His plans far succeed what we can fathom.

Pondering all He controls should drop us to our knees.

Recalling how vast His control is over all things, in heaven and on earth, can calm our fears, put fire in our bellies and give us cause to praise Him loudly and constantly.

I'm going to make the time throughout my day to think of the scope and wisdom of God's plan--and breathe a sigh of relief that it's not all up to me!

HE HAS SENT ME AHEAD

Today's reading: Luke 9-10

"The Lord now chose seventy-two other disciples and sent them on ahead in pairs to all the towns and villages he planned to visit." Luke 10:1 NLT

As I begin studying over the upcoming Vacation Bible School lessons, I am encouraged by this verse.

I'm not blazing a trail into the hearts and minds of these little people...

I'm not coming up with something new and exciting that will grab and hold their attention...

I'm not forging ahead with concepts that will remain in place only if I present them perfectly and with grand articulation...

I'm going ahead of Jesus.

He will be right along behind me correcting what I mess up, filling in where I left out and taking what the Word says farther than I ever could!

Do I need to prepare? Yes! Proper preparation prevents poor performance.

But it doesn't all hinge on me, my abilities, my acts or my perfection.

I'm going ahead of Jesus, sent where He has asked me to go, believing He will come along behind me to 'seal the deal' in hearts and minds in which I am privileged to plant the seed of the Gospel.

How exciting is that?