Where They Belong

Once I asked an appliance repairman to come to church with me. “No,” he responded. “The church is full of hypocrites.”

“Great!” I responded. The man was startled. Continuing, I said, “That’s exactly where they belong. Let’s join them. I’m sure they won’t mind.”

If I understand it correctly, a hypocrite is someone who says one thing and does another. Or as a friend once said to me, “A hypocrite is a person who does not walk their talk. They profess what they do not possess.”

Many who do not want to attend church say the reason they refuse to do so is because the church is full of hypocrites. For as long as I can remember that has been a frequent excuse for many. As I see it, it is a great reason for them to attend! They already know the difference between the saved and the unsaved. The saved are expected to behave like Jesus and the unsaved person, who says he sees hypocrisy in Christians, already knows what is expected of him if he turns his life over to God for salvation.

We need to extend a warm welcome to those who use “the hypocrite excuse” as a reason not to attend church. Jesus said that He came to call sinners to be saved. Those who believe that they are already good enough will have a difficult time admitting they are sinners. But the hypocrite already knows he is “one!”

Prayer: Lord, help me to live a life that will be an example, not an excuse, for people to seek You. May I live my life consistent with the example of Your Son, Jesus! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Where They Belong

Once I asked an appliance repairman to come to church with me. “No,” he responded. “The church is full of hypocrites.”

“Great!” I responded. The man was startled. Continuing, I said, “That’s exactly where they belong. Let’s join them. I’m sure they won’t mind.”

If I understand it correctly, a hypocrite is someone who says one thing and does another. Or as a friend once said to me, “A hypocrite is a person who does not walk their talk. They profess what they do not possess.”

Many who do not want to attend church say the reason they refuse to do so is because the church is full of hypocrites. For as long as I can remember that has been a frequent excuse for many. As I see it, it is a great reason for them to attend! They already know the difference between the saved and the unsaved. The saved are expected to behave like Jesus and the unsaved person, who says he sees hypocrisy in Christians, already knows what is expected of him if he turns his life over to God for salvation.

We need to extend a warm welcome to those who use “the hypocrite excuse” as a reason not to attend church. Jesus said that He came to call sinners to be saved. Those who believe that they are already good enough will have a difficult time admitting they are sinners. But the hypocrite already knows he is “one!”

Prayer: Lord, help me to live a life that will be an example, not an excuse, for people to seek You. May I live my life consistent with the example of Your Son, Jesus! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Where To Find Happiness

A professor was known to ask his students questions to make them think. On one occasion he stood before the class and wrote on the chalkboard, “Who’s more content – the man with six million dollars or the man with six children? Now think!” he challenged them.

After a few moments, one of the students raised his hand and answered, “The man with the six children.”

“Oh. Why?” asked the professor.

“Well, the man with the six million dollars would always want more!” came the reply.

True contentment is always independent of “things” – whether possessions or pleasures. It only comes from an inner attitude toward life. That is why Paul said, “True religion, with contentment, is great wealth.”

This does not imply that being a Christian means living in poverty or wanting to be poor. But it does mean that the power of “things” will never bring happiness and that the Christian must always focus on “things” that are eternal.

In the final analysis, we can only take two “things” to Heaven: Ourselves and what we have done with our lives.

So, we must live our lives with one goal that dominates our heads, hearts, and hands: to present ourselves to God without shame! As Paul said, “I beg you...to be living sacrifices!”

Prayer: Help us, Father, to realize that life does not consist in amassing an abundance of “things.” Give us Your insight and wisdom to live lives that honor You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 1 Timothy 6:6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 

Where To Find Happiness

A professor was known to ask his students questions to make them think. On one occasion he stood before the class and wrote on the chalkboard, “Who’s more content – the man with six million dollars or the man with six children? Now think!” he challenged them.

After a few moments, one of the students raised his hand and answered, “The man with the six children.”

“Oh. Why?” asked the professor.

“Well, the man with the six million dollars would always want more!” came the reply.

True contentment is always independent of “things” – whether possessions or pleasures. It only comes from an inner attitude toward life. That is why Paul said, “True religion, with contentment, is great wealth.”

This does not imply that being a Christian means living in poverty or wanting to be poor. But it does mean that the power of “things” will never bring happiness and that the Christian must always focus on “things” that are eternal.

In the final analysis, we can only take two “things” to Heaven: Ourselves and what we have done with our lives.

So, we must live our lives with one goal that dominates our heads, hearts, and hands: to present ourselves to God without shame! As Paul said, “I beg you...to be living sacrifices!”

Prayer: Help us, Father, to realize that life does not consist in amassing an abundance of “things.” Give us Your insight and wisdom to live lives that honor You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 1 Timothy 6:6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 

Who Is On The Lord's Side?

Years ago when Italy went to war, there was a shortage of soldiers. To find recruits, one captain went through the villages calling men to fight with him. Many joined him bringing their own weapons into combat.

One elderly lady was so moved by the sight that she got her broom, placed it on her shoulder, and began to march with the men into combat.

Many of the soldiers laughed at her. One looked at her and asked, “What good are you, old lady?”

“Not much,” she replied, “but I want everyone to know whose side I’m on!”

Life requires many choices. But there is no more important choice for each of us than to let the world know whose side we are on. Joshua said, “So, honor the Lord and serve Him wholeheartedly.” He challenged the people to declare their allegiance to God because He had proven His trustworthiness to them.

From the simple to the significant, we make many choices every day, each with an opportunity to show the world whose side we are on. Often we are willing to compromise our beliefs and values rather than to declare our allegiance to the Lord as one of His disciples. Rather than taking a clear position to honor God, we waffle and waiver because we fear being ridiculed and rebuked. If we love the Lord and want His peace and protection, His goodness and grace, we must be willing to “take our brooms” and declare our faith. We must listen to the Lord as He speaks to us through His Word and make the right choices.

Prayer: Lord, may we live our lives letting those around us see the depth of our commitment to You. Empower us with courage to prove to others that You are our Lord! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Joshua 24:15-15 But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” 

Who Is On The Lord's Side?

Years ago when Italy went to war, there was a shortage of soldiers. To find recruits, one captain went through the villages calling men to fight with him. Many joined him bringing their own weapons into combat.

One elderly lady was so moved by the sight that she got her broom, placed it on her shoulder, and began to march with the men into combat.

Many of the soldiers laughed at her. One looked at her and asked, “What good are you, old lady?”

“Not much,” she replied, “but I want everyone to know whose side I’m on!”

Life requires many choices. But there is no more important choice for each of us than to let the world know whose side we are on. Joshua said, “So, honor the Lord and serve Him wholeheartedly.” He challenged the people to declare their allegiance to God because He had proven His trustworthiness to them.

From the simple to the significant, we make many choices every day, each with an opportunity to show the world whose side we are on. Often we are willing to compromise our beliefs and values rather than to declare our allegiance to the Lord as one of His disciples. Rather than taking a clear position to honor God, we waffle and waiver because we fear being ridiculed and rebuked. If we love the Lord and want His peace and protection, His goodness and grace, we must be willing to “take our brooms” and declare our faith. We must listen to the Lord as He speaks to us through His Word and make the right choices.

Prayer: Lord, may we live our lives letting those around us see the depth of our commitment to You. Empower us with courage to prove to others that You are our Lord! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today:Joshua 24:15-15 But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” 

Where Does Your Light Come From?

Little Sara came home from school and proudly said to her mother, “I learned a new song today!”

“Sing it to me,” came the request.

“God bless America, land that I love: Stand beside her, and guide her, through the night with the light from a bulb,” sang Sara.

There is a great difference between “light from a bulb” and “light from above.” As we look at our nation today, we find that most “light” has come from education, information, training, and knowledge that enables individuals to earn a living. However, the “light” that comes from wisdom – the ability to judge what is true or right or something with lasting value or worth – appears to be in short supply. God’s wisdom seems to be disappearing!!

James reminds us that if we want to have the ability to make wise decisions in troubling situations we can always pray and ask God for guidance and wisdom.
We do not have to stumble in the darkness hoping to find good answers while looking for a “bulb” to light our path. We can ask God for His directions and He will gladly tell us what to do.

God’s wisdom always leads us to the right decision and guarantees us good results. But, we must have God-centered goals that come from knowing, accepting, trusting, and living His Word if we expect His wisdom. It must be within us before it can come out of us or guide us.

Prayer: Lord, fill our minds with Your wisdom as we look to You for guidance to live lives worthy of You. Help us to seek Your wisdom from Your Word to light our way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 

NOTE: please let us know if you are reading this devotional in our app on your smartphone! Email us at soweronline@live.com to tell us you would like to continue getting it daily.

Where Does Your Light Come From?

Little Sara came home from school and proudly said to her mother, “I learned a new song today!”

“Sing it to me,” came the request.

“God bless America, land that I love: Stand beside her, and guide her, through the night with the light from a bulb,” sang Sara.

There is a great difference between “light from a bulb” and “light from above.” As we look at our nation today, we find that most “light” has come from education, information, training, and knowledge that enables individuals to earn a living. However, the “light” that comes from wisdom – the ability to judge what is true or right or something with lasting value or worth – appears to be in short supply. God’s wisdom seems to be disappearing!!

James reminds us that if we want to have the ability to make wise decisions in troubling situations we can always pray and ask God for guidance and wisdom.
We do not have to stumble in the darkness hoping to find good answers while looking for a “bulb” to light our path. We can ask God for His directions and He will gladly tell us what to do.

God’s wisdom always leads us to the right decision and guarantees us good results. But, we must have God-centered goals that come from knowing, accepting, trusting, and living His Word if we expect His wisdom. It must be within us before it can come out of us or guide us.

Prayer: Lord, fill our minds with Your wisdom as we look to You for guidance to live lives worthy of You. Help us to seek Your wisdom from Your Word to light our way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: James 1:5 If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. 

NOTE: please let us know if you are reading this devotional in our app on your smartphone! Email us at soweronline@live.com to tell us you would like to continue getting it daily.

Worthy Words

It has been estimated that the average person speaks about 34,000 words a day. Multiply that by 365 and that amounts to about 12,000,000 words a year. That ought to make our jaws hurt!

When he wrote Psalm 19, David said that he wanted the words coming from his mouth and the thoughts stored in his heart to be pleasing to God. David was so concerned about his words that he wondered if there was any way for him to know what sins might already be lurking in his heart. Jesus spoke of the importance of our words and said that “?out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” These “words” about “words” need our attention.

What are we to do about the “words” that come from our mouths? David asked God to “Set a guard over my mouth and to keep a watch over my lips.” What a great place to begin – to ask God to watch our lips and guard our mouths at all times so what we say will please God!

Realizing that God knows every thought we think and every word we speak should cause us to ask Him to make our hearts and minds pure. Then with His power within us and His presence around us and His Spirit to guide us, our words will certainly please Him and others.

Prayer: Father, may our minds and hearts be so full of Your Word that our words will reflect Your message of love and hope. May all that we say please You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 19:12-14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. 

Worthy Words

It has been estimated that the average person speaks about 34,000 words a day. Multiply that by 365 and that amounts to about 12,000,000 words a year. That ought to make our jaws hurt!

When he wrote Psalm 19, David said that he wanted the words coming from his mouth and the thoughts stored in his heart to be pleasing to God. David was so concerned about his words that he wondered if there was any way for him to know what sins might already be lurking in his heart. Jesus spoke of the importance of our words and said that “?out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.” These “words” about “words” need our attention.

What are we to do about the “words” that come from our mouths? David asked God to “Set a guard over my mouth and to keep a watch over my lips.” What a great place to begin – to ask God to watch our lips and guard our mouths at all times so what we say will please God!

Realizing that God knows every thought we think and every word we speak should cause us to ask Him to make our hearts and minds pure. Then with His power within us and His presence around us and His Spirit to guide us, our words will certainly please Him and others.

Prayer: Father, may our minds and hearts be so full of Your Word that our words will reflect Your message of love and hope. May all that we say please You! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 19:12-14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. 

Who's Bigger?

One Sunday morning after church as the family was driving home, Molly asked, “Mom, the preacher said that God was bigger than any of us. Is that really true?”

“Yes, He is!” answered her mother.

“Well, Mom,” she continued, “the preacher also said that God lives in us. Is that also true?”

“Yes,” admitted the mother.

“Well, then,” she asked rather confused, “why doesn’t He show through us?”

How much of God is seen in or through our lives each day?

We speak of Him often, turn to Him quickly, and say we rely on Him totally, but do we consult with Him continually?

When we make plans, we need to include Him. If we visit with a friend, we need to invite Him into the conversation. As we leave for a journey, we need to ask Him to travel with us. Throughout the day, every day, at work or at play, we need to ask Him for His wisdom.

Perhaps if we consulted God for His advice in everything we do and were more conscious that His Spirit is actually within us, and that He wants to work through us, we would realize that He is bigger than we are and wants to “show through” us.

Prayer: Father, we often think of Your goodness, but rarely talk about it to others. We believe that You love us but seldom share this with others. Come, live through us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Galatians 2:20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 

Who's Bigger?

One Sunday morning after church as the family was driving home, Molly asked, “Mom, the preacher said that God was bigger than any of us. Is that really true?”

“Yes, He is!” answered her mother.

“Well, Mom,” she continued, “the preacher also said that God lives in us. Is that also true?”

“Yes,” admitted the mother.

“Well, then,” she asked rather confused, “why doesn’t He show through us?”

How much of God is seen in or through our lives each day?

We speak of Him often, turn to Him quickly, and say we rely on Him totally, but do we consult with Him continually?

When we make plans, we need to include Him. If we visit with a friend, we need to invite Him into the conversation. As we leave for a journey, we need to ask Him to travel with us. Throughout the day, every day, at work or at play, we need to ask Him for His wisdom.

Perhaps if we consulted God for His advice in everything we do and were more conscious that His Spirit is actually within us, and that He wants to work through us, we would realize that He is bigger than we are and wants to “show through” us.

Prayer: Father, we often think of Your goodness, but rarely talk about it to others. We believe that You love us but seldom share this with others. Come, live through us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Galatians 2:20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 

Unexpected Rewards

He began playing the cello at an early age, and by the time he was eighteen, he enjoyed playing in a small European orchestra. Unfortunately, he became nearsighted and as a result, had to memorize his part and the parts of all of the other instruments if he was to play with the orchestra. Fortunately, he became very skilled at memorization.

One day the orchestra was to play before a large audience. Moments before the performance was to begin, the leader became ill. Arturo Toscanini, the cellist, was called upon to lead the orchestra because he was the only person who knew all of the parts of the other musicians. His performance was flawless, and the critics praised his skills. Other opportunities became available to him, and he went on to become a world-famous conductor. What may have defeated others became a successful career for him. He turned his loss into a victory!

God has great plans for each of us. He sees and knows every obstacle we might ever encounter from the day we are born until the day our lives end. His part is to bring all “things” together; our part is to work with Him to achieve the “good” that He has in store for us.

Prayer: Help us, Lord, to believe that You have great plans for each of us. May we never accept defeat, but take each of Your gifts and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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

Unexpected Rewards

He began playing the cello at an early age, and by the time he was eighteen, he enjoyed playing in a small European orchestra. Unfortunately, he became nearsighted and as a result, had to memorize his part and the parts of all of the other instruments if he was to play with the orchestra. Fortunately, he became very skilled at memorization.

One day the orchestra was to play before a large audience. Moments before the performance was to begin, the leader became ill. Arturo Toscanini, the cellist, was called upon to lead the orchestra because he was the only person who knew all of the parts of the other musicians. His performance was flawless, and the critics praised his skills. Other opportunities became available to him, and he went on to become a world-famous conductor. What may have defeated others became a successful career for him. He turned his loss into a victory!

God has great plans for each of us. He sees and knows every obstacle we might ever encounter from the day we are born until the day our lives end. His part is to bring all “things” together; our part is to work with Him to achieve the “good” that He has in store for us.

Prayer: Help us, Lord, to believe that You have great plans for each of us. May we never accept defeat, but take each of Your gifts and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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

The Storms Of Life

Joseph Turner was standing in front of one of his paintings of a raging sea. A friend beside him asked, “How did you paint such a realistic picture of a storm at sea. It is so real.”

He answered, “I was on a ship in the midst of that storm. Not only did I see it, but I was also there and felt it.”

Like that painter, Jesus felt the storms of life.

Whenever we lose a loved one, we must remember that He stood beside a grave and wept.

If ever we are a victim of poverty or lack a place of our own, let’s not forget that Jesus had no place to lay His head.

Whenever we feel alone, abandoned or neglected, we need to recall the times when His followers forsook Him and His disciples deserted Him.

Every event that God brings into our lives is one that Jesus has encountered, endured and experienced and successfully survived. Whatever God brings into our lives is temporary and will pass into the pages of history. Because He has overcome the extremes of life, we can take great comfort in the fact that He is willing to share His victories with us if we look to Him for His salvation.

Prayer: Father, You have been where we are or someday may be. So, we know with certainty that You’ve been there before us and will be with us and that we can survive. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Hebrews 2:18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested. 

The Storms Of Life

Joseph Turner was standing in front of one of his paintings of a raging sea. A friend beside him asked, “How did you paint such a realistic picture of a storm at sea. It is so real.”

He answered, “I was on a ship in the midst of that storm. Not only did I see it, but I was also there and felt it.”

Like that painter, Jesus felt the storms of life.

Whenever we lose a loved one, we must remember that He stood beside a grave and wept.

If ever we are a victim of poverty or lack a place of our own, let’s not forget that Jesus had no place to lay His head.

Whenever we feel alone, abandoned or neglected, we need to recall the times when His followers forsook Him and His disciples deserted Him.

Every event that God brings into our lives is one that Jesus has encountered, endured and experienced and successfully survived. Whatever God brings into our lives is temporary and will pass into the pages of history. Because He has overcome the extremes of life, we can take great comfort in the fact that He is willing to share His victories with us if we look to Him for His salvation.

Prayer: Father, You have been where we are or someday may be. So, we know with certainty that You’ve been there before us and will be with us and that we can survive. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Hebrews 2:18 Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested. 

Give It To God!

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Give It To God!

A farmer was walking down a long, winding mountain road in Mexico carrying a heavy sack. Without realizing it, a man with a mule-drawn wagon was suddenly beside him and offered him a ride. He climbed on the back of the wagon and breathed a long sigh of relief.

After traveling for some time, the man driving the wagon turned around, and to his amazement, saw that the man was still holding his sack. “Why don’t you drop it next to you?” asked the wagon driver.

“Oh, no,” came the reply. “You are kind enough to carry me. You do not have to carry my load as well.”

Many of us are like that farmer with the sack. God pleads with us to give Him our burdens. Yet, we needlessly and continuously carry them on our backs rather than setting them down at His feet. We say that we trust Him and talk of turning to Him in times of need, but we refuse to “let go and let God” do what He wants to do: completely take the weight from our shoulders and place it in His loving, caring hands.

If we can trust Him for our salvation, surely we can trust Him with every care or concern we have. Most assuredly, His strength will sustain us, always.

Prayer: Lord, help us to be willing to believe that You are able to relieve us of life’s burdens if we truly trust You. In the words of Your disciple, “Help our unbelief!” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 55:22 Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. 

Give It To God!

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Give It To God!

A farmer was walking down a long, winding mountain road in Mexico carrying a heavy sack. Without realizing it, a man with a mule-drawn wagon was suddenly beside him and offered him a ride. He climbed on the back of the wagon and breathed a long sigh of relief.

After traveling for some time, the man driving the wagon turned around, and to his amazement, saw that the man was still holding his sack. “Why don’t you drop it next to you?” asked the wagon driver.

“Oh, no,” came the reply. “You are kind enough to carry me. You do not have to carry my load as well.”

Many of us are like that farmer with the sack. God pleads with us to give Him our burdens. Yet, we needlessly and continuously carry them on our backs rather than setting them down at His feet. We say that we trust Him and talk of turning to Him in times of need, but we refuse to “let go and let God” do what He wants to do: completely take the weight from our shoulders and place it in His loving, caring hands.

If we can trust Him for our salvation, surely we can trust Him with every care or concern we have. Most assuredly, His strength will sustain us, always.

Prayer: Lord, help us to be willing to believe that You are able to relieve us of life’s burdens if we truly trust You. In the words of Your disciple, “Help our unbelief!” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 55:22 Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. 

The Pain Passes

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THE PAIN PASSES

Pierre Renoir, the famous French painter, was severely afflicted with arthritis. Over the years, his hands became twisted, and whenever he painted the pain was intense. However, he would not quit.

One day a friend who was watching him paint asked, “How can you paint with the pain that causes you so much torture?”

Thoughtfully he answered, “The pain passes, but the beauty remains.”

Job was a godly man who was wealthy and influential. For most of his life, he was prosperous and free from any serious problems. One day his life fell apart. Within a short time, he lost nearly everything he had, suffered greatly, was severely criticized and condemned by his friends. But, he never lost his faith in God.

Though he never learned the reason for his losses and suffering, he never questioned God’s judgment. He believed that an all-powerful, all-loving God was acting in his best interests. In the midst of his trials, he said, “When He has tried me I shall come out as gold.” That’s trust!

Prayer: Lord, may we believe that what You bring into our lives will ultimately work for our best. Give us faith when we are troubled and trust when we doubt Your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Job 23:10-12 But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold. For I have stayed on God’s paths; I have followed his ways and not turned aside. I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. 

The Pain Passes

NOTE: We want to know how many people are receiving these eSeeds on their smartphone each day. Won't you call us at 9120685-2222 or email us at soweronline@live.com and let us know you have subscribed?

THE PAIN PASSES

Pierre Renoir, the famous French painter, was severely afflicted with arthritis. Over the years, his hands became twisted, and whenever he painted the pain was intense. However, he would not quit.

One day a friend who was watching him paint asked, “How can you paint with the pain that causes you so much torture?”

Thoughtfully he answered, “The pain passes, but the beauty remains.”

Job was a godly man who was wealthy and influential. For most of his life, he was prosperous and free from any serious problems. One day his life fell apart. Within a short time, he lost nearly everything he had, suffered greatly, was severely criticized and condemned by his friends. But, he never lost his faith in God.

Though he never learned the reason for his losses and suffering, he never questioned God’s judgment. He believed that an all-powerful, all-loving God was acting in his best interests. In the midst of his trials, he said, “When He has tried me I shall come out as gold.” That’s trust!

Prayer: Lord, may we believe that what You bring into our lives will ultimately work for our best. Give us faith when we are troubled and trust when we doubt Your love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Job 23:10-12 But he knows where I am going. And when he tests me, I will come out as pure as gold. For I have stayed on God’s paths; I have followed his ways and not turned aside. I have not departed from his commands, but have treasured his words more than daily food. 

The Four "T's" Of Life

Writing in his diary, a young man predicted his future: “Someday I’m going to do something special with my life. I will become famous!”

Years later, an old man said to his family, “I could have done great things with my life, but I didn’t. I am so sorry. I wish I had. I am a failure.”

What a tragic disclosure! The old man now talking was once the young man dreaming

God gives each of us a limited number of days, a select number of skills, and with them the ability to do something honorable. None of us know the number of our days or the length of our life. Some of us never develop the skills God has given us. Many do not invest the talents God has given them wisely, wasting their lives on the frivolous unaware of God’s gifts.

An important question to ask ourselves every day is this: “What am I going to do with the time, the talents and treasures God has given me today?” For this day may be our last.
We have no assurance of tomorrow. We may lose the skills that we have through a tragedy or our treasures may be taken from us without warning. When we attach our lives to God’s power and His plan, we will have no regrets. Our lives will honor God and bless others.

Prayer: Teach us, Lord, to be faithful to You and to make the most of all You have given us. May we take Your gifts, invest them wisely, and do what honors You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. 

The Four "T's" Of Life

Writing in his diary, a young man predicted his future: “Someday I’m going to do something special with my life. I will become famous!”

Years later, an old man said to his family, “I could have done great things with my life, but I didn’t. I am so sorry. I wish I had. I am a failure.”

What a tragic disclosure! The old man now talking was once the young man dreaming

God gives each of us a limited number of days, a select number of skills, and with them the ability to do something honorable. None of us know the number of our days or the length of our life. Some of us never develop the skills God has given us. Many do not invest the talents God has given them wisely, wasting their lives on the frivolous unaware of God’s gifts.

An important question to ask ourselves every day is this: “What am I going to do with the time, the talents and treasures God has given me today?” For this day may be our last.
We have no assurance of tomorrow. We may lose the skills that we have through a tragedy or our treasures may be taken from us without warning. When we attach our lives to God’s power and His plan, we will have no regrets. Our lives will honor God and bless others.

Prayer: Teach us, Lord, to be faithful to You and to make the most of all You have given us. May we take Your gifts, invest them wisely, and do what honors You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. 

Tell Me, What Do You Do?

An employee was suddenly taken very ill at work and was rushed to the hospital. He was well-liked by everyone for his constant humor and happy disposition. The first one to visit him at the hospital was his boss.

Standing by the side of his bed and holding his hand, his boss encouraged him by saying, “John, please don’t worry about a thing. Just get well. We’ll all get together and do your work – as soon as we can figure out what you’ve been doing.”

It seems as though every organization has an employee named “John.” He’s over here, over there, everywhere but where he is supposed to be, not doing what he has been hired to do. He’s busy doing nothing while others take up the slack.

Paul said to “Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than people.” We are obligated to work responsibly as if Jesus were our employer. Even when we find our work unsatisfying or unfulfilling at times, we must always remember that God put us where we are to do what He wants us to do and that His will and purpose for our lives is what matters most. He will reward us for what we do and how well we do it. We work to glorify Him.

Prayer: Lord, when our work becomes difficult and boring and tedious and we want to quit or perform poorly, reminds us that we do what we do to honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Ephesians 6:7-8 Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. 

Tell Me, What Do You Do?

An employee was suddenly taken very ill at work and was rushed to the hospital. He was well-liked by everyone for his constant humor and happy disposition. The first one to visit him at the hospital was his boss.

Standing by the side of his bed and holding his hand, his boss encouraged him by saying, “John, please don’t worry about a thing. Just get well. We’ll all get together and do your work – as soon as we can figure out what you’ve been doing.”

It seems as though every organization has an employee named “John.” He’s over here, over there, everywhere but where he is supposed to be, not doing what he has been hired to do. He’s busy doing nothing while others take up the slack.

Paul said to “Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than people.” We are obligated to work responsibly as if Jesus were our employer. Even when we find our work unsatisfying or unfulfilling at times, we must always remember that God put us where we are to do what He wants us to do and that His will and purpose for our lives is what matters most. He will reward us for what we do and how well we do it. We work to glorify Him.

Prayer: Lord, when our work becomes difficult and boring and tedious and we want to quit or perform poorly, reminds us that we do what we do to honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Ephesians 6:7-8 Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will reward each one of us for the good we do, whether we are slaves or free. 

Say It Isn't So

A deacon phoned his pastor who was on vacation in a distant city. When he answered the call, the deacon blurted out, “Pastor, a cyclone just came through our county and destroyed my house and barn.”

“I’m not surprised,” replied his pastor. Then he continued, “The punishment for unconfessed sin is inevitable! Sooner or later, God will judge all sin and sinners!”

“But Pastor,” continued the deacon, “it destroyed your house as well.”

“It did?” exclaimed the pastor. “The ways of the Lord are past human understanding.”

There are times when it is difficult to offer love and kindness to those whom we feel do not deserve it. Our responses to another person’s trials and tragedies, unfortunately and often, come from a distorted view of God’s love. We are inclined to look at what happens to others from a normal, distorted, human response and believe that “they got what they deserved.”

When we realize the loving-kindness of God to us and His blessings on us, and then realize how undeserving we are of anything and everything, perhaps we may begin to see things differently. If God does not withhold anything good from us, we should treat others the same!

Prayer: Lord, may we look at others the way You look at us – with love, care and compassion. May we realize that we are all equal when we stand before You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 16:14 And do everything with love. 

Say It Isn't So

A deacon phoned his pastor who was on vacation in a distant city. When he answered the call, the deacon blurted out, “Pastor, a cyclone just came through our county and destroyed my house and barn.”

“I’m not surprised,” replied his pastor. Then he continued, “The punishment for unconfessed sin is inevitable! Sooner or later, God will judge all sin and sinners!”

“But Pastor,” continued the deacon, “it destroyed your house as well.”

“It did?” exclaimed the pastor. “The ways of the Lord are past human understanding.”

There are times when it is difficult to offer love and kindness to those whom we feel do not deserve it. Our responses to another person’s trials and tragedies, unfortunately and often, come from a distorted view of God’s love. We are inclined to look at what happens to others from a normal, distorted, human response and believe that “they got what they deserved.”

When we realize the loving-kindness of God to us and His blessings on us, and then realize how undeserving we are of anything and everything, perhaps we may begin to see things differently. If God does not withhold anything good from us, we should treat others the same!

Prayer: Lord, may we look at others the way You look at us – with love, care and compassion. May we realize that we are all equal when we stand before You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 16:14 And do everything with love. 

Start Immediately!

The great American novelist, Sinclair Lewis, was invited to give a lecture to a group of college students who wanted to become writers. As they sat quietly and waited expectantly, he opened his remarks by asking, “How many of you intend to become successful writers?”

Immediately, everyone in the audience held up a hand to declare their intentions.

“In that case,” said Lewis, “my advice to you is to go home immediately and write.”

Shortly after creating Adam, God directed him to care for and tend to the Garden that He had created for him. And, ever since then, man has been responsible to work with God and take care of His creation. Each day we are to accept every task that comes our way and do it as “though we are working for the Lord.” Why? Because He has tasked us to care for His creation!

“Remember,” said Paul, “the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward” if we “work hard and cheerfully” for Him. We must accept every task and each responsibility He offers us and recognize it as an opportunity to worship and serve Him every day. “Whatever we do - in word or deed - we are to do it for the glory of God!” We work for the Creator of the universe!

Prayer: Father, may we always remember that whatever we do, we are to do as an act of worship. We do this from hearts full of love because of Your salvation. In Christ’s Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Colossians 3:23-24 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. 

Start Immediately!

The great American novelist, Sinclair Lewis, was invited to give a lecture to a group of college students who wanted to become writers. As they sat quietly and waited expectantly, he opened his remarks by asking, “How many of you intend to become successful writers?”

Immediately, everyone in the audience held up a hand to declare their intentions.

“In that case,” said Lewis, “my advice to you is to go home immediately and write.”

Shortly after creating Adam, God directed him to care for and tend to the Garden that He had created for him. And, ever since then, man has been responsible to work with God and take care of His creation. Each day we are to accept every task that comes our way and do it as “though we are working for the Lord.” Why? Because He has tasked us to care for His creation!

“Remember,” said Paul, “the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward” if we “work hard and cheerfully” for Him. We must accept every task and each responsibility He offers us and recognize it as an opportunity to worship and serve Him every day. “Whatever we do - in word or deed - we are to do it for the glory of God!” We work for the Creator of the universe!

Prayer: Father, may we always remember that whatever we do, we are to do as an act of worship. We do this from hearts full of love because of Your salvation. In Christ’s Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Colossians 3:23-24 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. 

Preparing For Temptation

It was a very hot summer day. All the boys in the neighborhood decided to go swimming but there was no adult to go with them. Recognizing the danger that might occur, Johnny’s mother forbade him to go with them. Later that day, he came home with wet hair.

“What happened?” asked his mother.

“I fell in the pond,” came his reply.

“Well, why aren’t your clothes wet?” she asked.

“I had a feeling I was going to fall in,” he explained, “so I took them off.”

The world has been, is, and always will be full of temptations and pressure to sin. So, Paul gave us a warning and an escape route. First, he said that we would be tempted, and then second, that God would always provide a way for us to escape temptation and to be victorious over sin. But we must do our part if we expect Him to do His. We must first prepare ourselves with His Word, and to recognize and avoid people, places and things that will lead us to sin. Then, if we are tempted, look to Him for strength to resist the temptation before we are overpowered and fall into sin.

Prayer: Grant us, Father, the courage to avoid situations that tempt us to sin. Empower us to ask for Your strength and power to turn from sin and live for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 

Preparing For Temptation

It was a very hot summer day. All the boys in the neighborhood decided to go swimming but there was no adult to go with them. Recognizing the danger that might occur, Johnny’s mother forbade him to go with them. Later that day, he came home with wet hair.

“What happened?” asked his mother.

“I fell in the pond,” came his reply.

“Well, why aren’t your clothes wet?” she asked.

“I had a feeling I was going to fall in,” he explained, “so I took them off.”

The world has been, is, and always will be full of temptations and pressure to sin. So, Paul gave us a warning and an escape route. First, he said that we would be tempted, and then second, that God would always provide a way for us to escape temptation and to be victorious over sin. But we must do our part if we expect Him to do His. We must first prepare ourselves with His Word, and to recognize and avoid people, places and things that will lead us to sin. Then, if we are tempted, look to Him for strength to resist the temptation before we are overpowered and fall into sin.

Prayer: Grant us, Father, the courage to avoid situations that tempt us to sin. Empower us to ask for Your strength and power to turn from sin and live for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 10:13 The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure. 

Grace That Is Sufficient

A pastor was visiting a member of his church who had been hospitalized for many weeks. She was suffering from excruciating pain. After praying with her, he offered her a book and said, “This book brought me much comfort while I was ill a few years ago. You will enjoy it greatly, and it will bring you much peace. It will be most helpful!”

“Thank you,” she answered. “I’m well acquainted with its contents.”

“Have you read it?” he asked.

“More than that,” she replied. “I wrote it.”

It is always comforting to be able to talk with someone who has experienced pain or problems that are similar to our own. They have been where we are and know and understand our pain or suffering, sadness or sorrow, fears and doubts, questions and concerns. There is a sense of understanding that brings a closeness or connection, a bond and a blessing.

When we go through difficult times and are comforted by our Heavenly Father, we must realize that “God comforts us that we can comfort others who need comforting.” Often the “unwanted gifts” of pain and sorrow come from God as a “special gift” that equips us to understand, care for and help others who “are going through their valley with dark shadows.”

Prayer: Help us, Father, to care for others the way You care for us. May we be open and accepting of Your love, mercy, and grace so we can share it with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer.