Going After The Right Things

Everyone admires a "go-getter." Their energy and enthusiasm are an inspiration and often motivate others to “get involved in life.” One important fact, however, is to know what you want and why you want it before you go after it and try to get it. Getting for the sake of getting can be a disaster!

A good example of a go-getter is King David. He accomplished many things for God, and the people he served and led. And, he left a great legacy for us in his writings that can provide guidance for our lives. How? He knew what he wanted and what he wanted was the right thing!

A great example of David's "going" after the "right thing" is in Psalm 27. "This one thing I ask of the Lord – this thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfections and meditating in His temple." Does that mean he lived in church? No!

The word "temple" refers to "the presence of the Lord." We cannot read the Psalms without believing David achieved his greatest desire: to live in God's presence each day of his life. It is reflected in all that he did. So, surely, this should be our greatest desire as well. Why?

When we search for and enjoy being in His “presence” – being with Him in prayer, reading His Word, and meditating on the things of the Lord - we can be confident of His peace and presence, promises and protection, as well as His guidance and goodness, grace and gifts.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to always go after “the right things,” knowing that when we do, what we get is Your best for our lives. Help us to do the right things rather than things right! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 27:1-4 This one thing I ask of the Lord – this thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfections and meditating in His temple. 

Going After The Right Things

Everyone admires a "go-getter." Their energy and enthusiasm are an inspiration and often motivate others to “get involved in life.” One important fact, however, is to know what you want and why you want it before you go after it and try to get it. Getting for the sake of getting can be a disaster!

A good example of a go-getter is King David. He accomplished many things for God, and the people he served and led. And, he left a great legacy for us in his writings that can provide guidance for our lives. How? He knew what he wanted and what he wanted was the right thing!

A great example of David's "going" after the "right thing" is in Psalm 27. "This one thing I ask of the Lord – this thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfections and meditating in His temple." Does that mean he lived in church? No!

The word "temple" refers to "the presence of the Lord." We cannot read the Psalms without believing David achieved his greatest desire: to live in God's presence each day of his life. It is reflected in all that he did. So, surely, this should be our greatest desire as well. Why?

When we search for and enjoy being in His “presence” – being with Him in prayer, reading His Word, and meditating on the things of the Lord - we can be confident of His peace and presence, promises and protection, as well as His guidance and goodness, grace and gifts.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to always go after “the right things,” knowing that when we do, what we get is Your best for our lives. Help us to do the right things rather than things right! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 27:1-4 This one thing I ask of the Lord – this thing I seek most – is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord's perfections and meditating in His temple. 

On Being An Example

Gilbert Stewart was one of America’s greatest artists. He became famous because of the magnificent portraits he painted. In fact, he painted the portraits of the first six presidents of the United States. His work was easily recognized because of its beautiful coloring. On one occasion, a group of his competitors stole his colors thinking that they could match his work if they had his paints.

When Benjamin West, another artist, heard that other artists stole his paints, he went to them and said, "It's no use to steal his colors. If you want to paint as he paints, you must steal his eyes."

In Paul's letter to the Corinthians, he challenged them to "follow my example and do as I do." This is a rather bold statement, and we may think he is better than us and is asking us to copy his lifestyle. Not so. Paul encouraged the Corinthian Christians, and us today, to do as he did: imitate Christ. He was willing and able and empowered to imitate Him because he read and meditated on God’s Word, spent time with Him in prayer and worship. And if we, as His disciples, want to imitate Christ, we must do as Paul did: study, meditate, pray. Only as we come to know Him, love Him and worship Him will we be able to imitate Him. And, if we want to know Him as Paul knew Him, we spend time with Him.

Prayer: Lord, grant us a passion to want to love You, know You, serve You, and finally imitate You. May we willingly surrender our lives to You and become like You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 4:14-16 For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you. So I urge you to imitate me. 

On Being An Example

Gilbert Stewart was one of America’s greatest artists. He became famous because of the magnificent portraits he painted. In fact, he painted the portraits of the first six presidents of the United States. His work was easily recognized because of its beautiful coloring. On one occasion, a group of his competitors stole his colors thinking that they could match his work if they had his paints.

When Benjamin West, another artist, heard that other artists stole his paints, he went to them and said, "It's no use to steal his colors. If you want to paint as he paints, you must steal his eyes."

In Paul's letter to the Corinthians, he challenged them to "follow my example and do as I do." This is a rather bold statement, and we may think he is better than us and is asking us to copy his lifestyle. Not so. Paul encouraged the Corinthian Christians, and us today, to do as he did: imitate Christ. He was willing and able and empowered to imitate Him because he read and meditated on God’s Word, spent time with Him in prayer and worship. And if we, as His disciples, want to imitate Christ, we must do as Paul did: study, meditate, pray. Only as we come to know Him, love Him and worship Him will we be able to imitate Him. And, if we want to know Him as Paul knew Him, we spend time with Him.

Prayer: Lord, grant us a passion to want to love You, know You, serve You, and finally imitate You. May we willingly surrender our lives to You and become like You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!

Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 4:14-16 For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you. So I urge you to imitate me. 

Writing For Eternity?

Thomas Mann was a widely known and highly regarded novelist. His books were well written, and on one occasion, he won the Nobel Prize. He was also recognized for the length of time it took him to write one of his books. On one occasion it took so long that his publisher complained to him saying, "You have been working on this book for an eternity!"

"After all," he replied, “I am writing it for eternity." Even though his writing skills and insights were known around the world and had great influence, none of them could produce life. There is only one Book that has life-giving power: God's Book – His Word.

Jesus said, "But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." One Word, one Person, one purpose: Life through Christ. Only the living Word has life. All other books will perish and be forgotten.

The writer of Ecclesiastes said, "Of the writing of many books there is no end and much study wearies the body." We read and study, ask questions and think, gain knowledge and insight, learn how to do things, and come to some well-thought-out conclusions. But in the final analysis, life does not come through books - it only comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Father, we accept and believe that You are the Way, the Truth and the Life. May we know You as a Friend, love You with sincerity, and worship You as King. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: John 20:31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name. 

Writing For Eternity?

Thomas Mann was a widely known and highly regarded novelist. His books were well written, and on one occasion, he won the Nobel Prize. He was also recognized for the length of time it took him to write one of his books. On one occasion it took so long that his publisher complained to him saying, "You have been working on this book for an eternity!"

"After all," he replied, “I am writing it for eternity." Even though his writing skills and insights were known around the world and had great influence, none of them could produce life. There is only one Book that has life-giving power: God's Book – His Word.

Jesus said, "But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name." One Word, one Person, one purpose: Life through Christ. Only the living Word has life. All other books will perish and be forgotten.

The writer of Ecclesiastes said, "Of the writing of many books there is no end and much study wearies the body." We read and study, ask questions and think, gain knowledge and insight, learn how to do things, and come to some well-thought-out conclusions. But in the final analysis, life does not come through books - it only comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

Prayer: Father, we accept and believe that You are the Way, the Truth and the Life. May we know You as a Friend, love You with sincerity, and worship You as King. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: John 20:31 But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name. 

What Now?

Each afternoon an old farmer and his Labrador retriever would walk to the train station, sit down together, and wait for the train to arrive at three o'clock. When the engine appeared, the dog would jump up, wag his tail, wait for the train to get closer, and then race alongside it.

One day a stranger said to the farmer, "That's a crazy dog you got there, mister. Does he actually think he can catch that train?"

"Nope," said the farmer. "And he wouldn't know what to do with it if he did."

We often behave like that dog. We see things that are larger than life itself and go after them in hot pursuit. We might conquer them or they might actually conquer us. But in the end, most of them have no eternal value to us.

In His message about worry, Jesus advised us not to be concerned about worldly things – things that are here today and gone tomorrow. He warned that "these worldly things dominate the minds of unbelievers." Now, that’s an interesting way to look at our lives if we want to test the importance of our faith and who or what we believe in!

Our focus then as believers? "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else." When our priorities are with God’s, we will no longer chase things that really do not matter.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust in You, believing that You know what we need and will supply it. May we focus on Your Kingdom above all else, today and every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Matthew 6:25-34 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

What Now?

Each afternoon an old farmer and his Labrador retriever would walk to the train station, sit down together, and wait for the train to arrive at three o'clock. When the engine appeared, the dog would jump up, wag his tail, wait for the train to get closer, and then race alongside it.

One day a stranger said to the farmer, "That's a crazy dog you got there, mister. Does he actually think he can catch that train?"

"Nope," said the farmer. "And he wouldn't know what to do with it if he did."

We often behave like that dog. We see things that are larger than life itself and go after them in hot pursuit. We might conquer them or they might actually conquer us. But in the end, most of them have no eternal value to us.

In His message about worry, Jesus advised us not to be concerned about worldly things – things that are here today and gone tomorrow. He warned that "these worldly things dominate the minds of unbelievers." Now, that’s an interesting way to look at our lives if we want to test the importance of our faith and who or what we believe in!

Our focus then as believers? "Seek the Kingdom of God above all else." When our priorities are with God’s, we will no longer chase things that really do not matter.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust in You, believing that You know what we need and will supply it. May we focus on Your Kingdom above all else, today and every day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Matthew 6:25-34 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

What If It's Your Last Day?

A radio talk show host asked his audience an interesting question. "If you knew that this was the last day of your life, what would you do?" The responses were overwhelming and most enlightening.

The first caller said, "I'd hurry to an organ donor bank and make sure that some worthy persons would benefit from my body parts."

Another said, "I would crowd everything that I thought was fun in this, my last day. I'd want to go out laughing."

The third caller said, "I would phone all of my friends and tell them how much I appreciated all that they had done for me. I'd want each of them to know how much our friendship meant."

Finally, one said, "I'd want to take time to be alone with God and pray and make sure that my heart is right with Him. I'd want Him to know how much I was looking forward to meeting Him, too."

Although it is not a pleasant thought, we each have a date with death. Few know the day or the hour. But we all know for certain that there is life after this life.

Prayer: Father, "Now is the acceptable time" for us to be sure that Your Son is our Savior and Lord. May we live in light of eternity, making the most of each moment. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 6:2 For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation. 

What If It's Your Last Day?

A radio talk show host asked his audience an interesting question. "If you knew that this was the last day of your life, what would you do?" The responses were overwhelming and most enlightening.

The first caller said, "I'd hurry to an organ donor bank and make sure that some worthy persons would benefit from my body parts."

Another said, "I would crowd everything that I thought was fun in this, my last day. I'd want to go out laughing."

The third caller said, "I would phone all of my friends and tell them how much I appreciated all that they had done for me. I'd want each of them to know how much our friendship meant."

Finally, one said, "I'd want to take time to be alone with God and pray and make sure that my heart is right with Him. I'd want Him to know how much I was looking forward to meeting Him, too."

Although it is not a pleasant thought, we each have a date with death. Few know the day or the hour. But we all know for certain that there is life after this life.

Prayer: Father, "Now is the acceptable time" for us to be sure that Your Son is our Savior and Lord. May we live in light of eternity, making the most of each moment. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 6:2 For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation. 

Using Our Talents

Years ago a Jewish immigrant from Russia gave his son a violin for his eighth birthday. After months of lessons and hours of practice, he became a very accomplished violinist.

Years later while performing at a concert, he paused and shared a funny story about an experience the day he was given his violin. The audience laughed heartily and applauded loudly. He was so delighted and encouraged by their response that he decided to end his career as a violinist and become a comedian. The violinist, who became a comedian, was the beloved Jack Benny. As a result of his decision, he brought humor and happiness, healing and hope to countless thousands with the special gift that God gave him.

God has something very unique for each of us to do. And, he wants to do through us what He will not and cannot do through anyone else. Each of us has a special place in God's heart and a different role for us to play in His world. Scripture plainly says "To every man his work."

We often struggle and strain to discover what God has for us to do. But, if we are open to the nudging of His Spirit, take advantage of the opportunities that come our way, and use and develop the gifts He has given us, He will present many opportunities for us to serve Him, bless others, and complete the plan He has for our life.

Prayer: Lord, we ask that You guard us and guide us as we use Your gifts to honor You and serve others. Help us to find and follow the path You have planned for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 32:8 The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. 

Using Our Talents

Years ago a Jewish immigrant from Russia gave his son a violin for his eighth birthday. After months of lessons and hours of practice, he became a very accomplished violinist.

Years later while performing at a concert, he paused and shared a funny story about an experience the day he was given his violin. The audience laughed heartily and applauded loudly. He was so delighted and encouraged by their response that he decided to end his career as a violinist and become a comedian. The violinist, who became a comedian, was the beloved Jack Benny. As a result of his decision, he brought humor and happiness, healing and hope to countless thousands with the special gift that God gave him.

God has something very unique for each of us to do. And, he wants to do through us what He will not and cannot do through anyone else. Each of us has a special place in God's heart and a different role for us to play in His world. Scripture plainly says "To every man his work."

We often struggle and strain to discover what God has for us to do. But, if we are open to the nudging of His Spirit, take advantage of the opportunities that come our way, and use and develop the gifts He has given us, He will present many opportunities for us to serve Him, bless others, and complete the plan He has for our life.

Prayer: Lord, we ask that You guard us and guide us as we use Your gifts to honor You and serve others. Help us to find and follow the path You have planned for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 32:8 The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. 

Today

A young Marine was leaning against the side of his tank early one morning during the Korean War. He was slowly and cautiously eating beans from a can with his penknife. It was cold and foggy and damp and the silence was deafening and frightening.

A reporter, aware of the impending battle, softly asked, "If I were God and could give you anything you wanted, what would you ask for?"

After a lengthy pause, he answered, "Today!"

All that any of us can really have is today. Few of us, however, realize the importance of “today” – and the value of the gift that “today” offers us.

The Psalmist said, "Teach us to make the most of our time..." Time is a gift, and we must be aware of each tick of the clock and moment of the day. Once gone, time can never be reclaimed or recycled or returned. What we have done with “today” becomes a part of history.

Realizing the significance of time and the uncertainties of life should help us put our priorities in order. The first priority is our relationship with God. Is it all that it can be? Is there more of God’s love that I can discover? Second is our responsibility to others. Is there someone, somewhere who needs God's love and salvation? Who is my “one” to love today? And, finally, do I need to make things right, first with God, and then with others? Today is the day to seize!

Prayer: Lord, help us to understand the value of time and not waste one minute. May we use each moment of every day wisely realizing “it’s all we can be sure of!” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 90:12 Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. 

Today

A young Marine was leaning against the side of his tank early one morning during the Korean War. He was slowly and cautiously eating beans from a can with his penknife. It was cold and foggy and damp and the silence was deafening and frightening.

A reporter, aware of the impending battle, softly asked, "If I were God and could give you anything you wanted, what would you ask for?"

After a lengthy pause, he answered, "Today!"

All that any of us can really have is today. Few of us, however, realize the importance of “today” – and the value of the gift that “today” offers us.

The Psalmist said, "Teach us to make the most of our time..." Time is a gift, and we must be aware of each tick of the clock and moment of the day. Once gone, time can never be reclaimed or recycled or returned. What we have done with “today” becomes a part of history.

Realizing the significance of time and the uncertainties of life should help us put our priorities in order. The first priority is our relationship with God. Is it all that it can be? Is there more of God’s love that I can discover? Second is our responsibility to others. Is there someone, somewhere who needs God's love and salvation? Who is my “one” to love today? And, finally, do I need to make things right, first with God, and then with others? Today is the day to seize!

Prayer: Lord, help us to understand the value of time and not waste one minute. May we use each moment of every day wisely realizing “it’s all we can be sure of!” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 90:12 Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. 

The Other Side

While driving over a beautiful mountain pass in North Carolina, my brother said to me, “Larry, I have never seen such beauty. The snowcapped peaks, the cascading waterfalls, the jagged rocks, and brilliant blue sky are more beautiful than any I have ever seen! I never expected to see such beauty anywhere."

"Oh," I said, "wait 'til you see the other side."

All of us are anxious to "see the other side." Some because our loved ones have gone on before us, and we are lonely. Others long to be free from endless suffering and relentless pain. Many are anxious and worried about problems that are never solved and seem to be tearing us into fragments. Many, however, because we want to see our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Paul encourages us to "Rejoice in our confident hope. To be patient in trouble, and keep on praying." In one verse he gives three commands to the Christian: We are to rejoice, remain patient and pray, knowing and believing that one day, "old things will pass away, and all things will be new" when we get to the "other side." What hope and happiness are ours because we are God’s children. But until He calls us to be with Him, we must remain faithful!

Prayer: Lord, help us not to lose sight of the "other side" when the cares and concerns of life overwhelm us. May we be confident, remain patient, and be faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Romans 12:12 Rejoice in our confident hope. To be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 

The Other Side

While driving over a beautiful mountain pass in North Carolina, my brother said to me, “Larry, I have never seen such beauty. The snowcapped peaks, the cascading waterfalls, the jagged rocks, and brilliant blue sky are more beautiful than any I have ever seen! I never expected to see such beauty anywhere."

"Oh," I said, "wait 'til you see the other side."

All of us are anxious to "see the other side." Some because our loved ones have gone on before us, and we are lonely. Others long to be free from endless suffering and relentless pain. Many are anxious and worried about problems that are never solved and seem to be tearing us into fragments. Many, however, because we want to see our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Paul encourages us to "Rejoice in our confident hope. To be patient in trouble, and keep on praying." In one verse he gives three commands to the Christian: We are to rejoice, remain patient and pray, knowing and believing that one day, "old things will pass away, and all things will be new" when we get to the "other side." What hope and happiness are ours because we are God’s children. But until He calls us to be with Him, we must remain faithful!

Prayer: Lord, help us not to lose sight of the "other side" when the cares and concerns of life overwhelm us. May we be confident, remain patient, and be faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Romans 12:12 Rejoice in our confident hope. To be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. 

Shop Carefully

“Supermarket behavior” is fascinating to watch. It seems as though people change when they enter the door, get their cart, and begin to walk through the aisles with searching eyes

The cart becomes a very special "space" that will eventually be filled with various items for particular purposes and various - even strange - needs. We would consider someone strange or weird if they met us at the door and said, "Here, take my cart and fill it with whatever you think I want, and I'll meet you at the check-out area."

Often, however, we do that with our minds. We become careless with what we read, what we watch, what or who we listen to, or what we think about. It can be dangerous, just as it would be dangerous if we allowed some stranger to fill our shopping cart with unwholesome “trash.”

We are warned in Proverbs to "guard your heart above all else for it determines the course of your life." In the Bible, the heart is the “keeper” of our feelings and thoughts, it guides our decisions, and provides solutions for our problems. The heart is critical in the battle between wisdom and foolishness, righteousness and evil. That’s why it is so important for us to set “boundaries” or “guards” around our heads and hearts. We must control the content that goes in or is kept out of our “carts” – our heads and hearts – or we will end up with poisons that kill.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to be very careful about the things that enter into our minds, and then control our lives. Guard our thoughts so that our minds avoid sinful thoughts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Guard your heart above all else for it determines the course of your life. 

Shop Carefully

“Supermarket behavior” is fascinating to watch. It seems as though people change when they enter the door, get their cart, and begin to walk through the aisles with searching eyes

The cart becomes a very special "space" that will eventually be filled with various items for particular purposes and various - even strange - needs. We would consider someone strange or weird if they met us at the door and said, "Here, take my cart and fill it with whatever you think I want, and I'll meet you at the check-out area."

Often, however, we do that with our minds. We become careless with what we read, what we watch, what or who we listen to, or what we think about. It can be dangerous, just as it would be dangerous if we allowed some stranger to fill our shopping cart with unwholesome “trash.”

We are warned in Proverbs to "guard your heart above all else for it determines the course of your life." In the Bible, the heart is the “keeper” of our feelings and thoughts, it guides our decisions, and provides solutions for our problems. The heart is critical in the battle between wisdom and foolishness, righteousness and evil. That’s why it is so important for us to set “boundaries” or “guards” around our heads and hearts. We must control the content that goes in or is kept out of our “carts” – our heads and hearts – or we will end up with poisons that kill.

Prayer: Help us, Father, to be very careful about the things that enter into our minds, and then control our lives. Guard our thoughts so that our minds avoid sinful thoughts. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Guard your heart above all else for it determines the course of your life. 

Seize The Moment!

A young, unemployed musician had spent weeks walking the streets of New York looking for work. One afternoon he walked into a theater, sat in the front row watching the organist closely. Finally, the organist stood up and left the stage for a break. At that moment he jumped up, ran to the organ, sat down on the bench and started to play an inspiring blues song.

Immediately, the owner ran onto the stage and began to reprimand him for what he had done. But the crowd began cheering loudly and clapping wildly. As he listened to the response of the audience, he realized what had happened, turned to the musician and said, “Want a job?"

"Yes!" said Count Basie and the career of one of the world's most recognized musicians began at that moment.

God often presents a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for us to use the talents He has given us. It may be in the least expected place at the most unusual time. But opportunities come and go. And when they come, we must be ready and willing to accept them for they are God at work in our lives, calling us to work with Him to achieve His purpose in the world. He will always give us the talents to do what He has called us to do. But, we must be ready to “accept the challenge” when the moment of opportunity comes and honor His calling on our lives.

Prayer: Lord, open our eyes, ears, and hearts to recognize and accept the opportunities for serving You that You set before us. Help us to use our gifts to serve You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 90:17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful! 

Seize The Moment!

A young, unemployed musician had spent weeks walking the streets of New York looking for work. One afternoon he walked into a theater, sat in the front row watching the organist closely. Finally, the organist stood up and left the stage for a break. At that moment he jumped up, ran to the organ, sat down on the bench and started to play an inspiring blues song.

Immediately, the owner ran onto the stage and began to reprimand him for what he had done. But the crowd began cheering loudly and clapping wildly. As he listened to the response of the audience, he realized what had happened, turned to the musician and said, “Want a job?"

"Yes!" said Count Basie and the career of one of the world's most recognized musicians began at that moment.

God often presents a “once in a lifetime” opportunity for us to use the talents He has given us. It may be in the least expected place at the most unusual time. But opportunities come and go. And when they come, we must be ready and willing to accept them for they are God at work in our lives, calling us to work with Him to achieve His purpose in the world. He will always give us the talents to do what He has called us to do. But, we must be ready to “accept the challenge” when the moment of opportunity comes and honor His calling on our lives.

Prayer: Lord, open our eyes, ears, and hearts to recognize and accept the opportunities for serving You that You set before us. Help us to use our gifts to serve You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 90:17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful! 

Salvation And Change

"Never trust Tom. I did and he disappointed me. Not only once, but twice!" said his employer.

"But why should I not trust him?" his friend asked.

"People never change. Once a thief, always a thief! Once a liar, always a liar," he raged.

But that is not always true.

Few people were more despised than the tax collectors in Jesus' day. The Romans were attempting to establish a world empire, and it was a costly venture. They needed money!

To accomplish their goal, they levied heavy taxes on all of the nations that were under their control. Without the tax collectors, the Empire could not survive. So, it was no surprise that the people were shocked when Jesus went to the home of Zacchaeus. How could someone as honest as Jesus associate with such a dishonest thief and liar as Zacchaeus?

However, when confronted by Jesus, he realized his sins and shortcomings and that he needed to straighten out his life. And he did! "Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor. If I have cheated anyone of anything, I will pay him back four times." And he did.

The new birth brings new behaviors. When God changes the inside, people will see it by the way we act on the outside. No change on the outside? No change on the inside.

Prayer: Forgive us, Father, if we claim to be born again but continue to live sinful lives. May we repent now, give our hearts and lives to You, and become “new creations in Christ!” Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 90:17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful! 

Salvation And Change

"Never trust Tom. I did and he disappointed me. Not only once, but twice!" said his employer.

"But why should I not trust him?" his friend asked.

"People never change. Once a thief, always a thief! Once a liar, always a liar," he raged.

But that is not always true.

Few people were more despised than the tax collectors in Jesus' day. The Romans were attempting to establish a world empire, and it was a costly venture. They needed money!

To accomplish their goal, they levied heavy taxes on all of the nations that were under their control. Without the tax collectors, the Empire could not survive. So, it was no surprise that the people were shocked when Jesus went to the home of Zacchaeus. How could someone as honest as Jesus associate with such a dishonest thief and liar as Zacchaeus?

However, when confronted by Jesus, he realized his sins and shortcomings and that he needed to straighten out his life. And he did! "Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor. If I have cheated anyone of anything, I will pay him back four times." And he did.

The new birth brings new behaviors. When God changes the inside, people will see it by the way we act on the outside. No change on the outside? No change on the inside.

Prayer: Forgive us, Father, if we claim to be born again but continue to live sinful lives. May we repent now, give our hearts and lives to You, and become “new creations in Christ!” Amen.

Scripture For Today: Psalm 90:17 And may the Lord our God show us his approval and make our efforts successful. Yes, make our efforts successful! 

Remain Faithful

Years ago I fulfilled one of my lifelong dreams when I visited Yellowstone National Park. Many of my friends who had visited the park told me of the majesty and power of the geysers as they exploded into the air, sending steam and spray skyward.

The geyser that fascinated me the most, however, was not the largest geyser, nor the smallest geyser, nor did it spout water higher than the other geysers. It is the world’s most famous geyser: Old Faithful! Its fame is found in its name because of its faithfulness.

There are times when we envy others for the power and prestige associated with their names or the skills and talents that God has given them. Perhaps we envy them because of their fame and notoriety. We man even resent them for the things that they can do and the things we cannot do. We become angry with God for blessing them more than we think He has blest us. We become filled with jealousy and bitterness and believe that God has “His favorites.” Not true! He gives us each of the talents we need to do what He has designed for us to do. It is not about His favorites but about our faithfulness.

In the final analysis, it’s never about favorites but about our being faithful to Him, to do what He has called us to do with the talents and gifts He has given us. “He who is faithful,” scripture reminds us, “will be given the Crown of Life.”

Prayer: We ask, Father, that no matter what You call us to be or do, we will remain faithful to You at all times and in all places. Give us courage and commitment! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Revelation 2:10 But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life. 

Remain Faithful

Years ago I fulfilled one of my lifelong dreams when I visited Yellowstone National Park. Many of my friends who had visited the park told me of the majesty and power of the geysers as they exploded into the air, sending steam and spray skyward.

The geyser that fascinated me the most, however, was not the largest geyser, nor the smallest geyser, nor did it spout water higher than the other geysers. It is the world’s most famous geyser: Old Faithful! Its fame is found in its name because of its faithfulness.

There are times when we envy others for the power and prestige associated with their names or the skills and talents that God has given them. Perhaps we envy them because of their fame and notoriety. We man even resent them for the things that they can do and the things we cannot do. We become angry with God for blessing them more than we think He has blest us. We become filled with jealousy and bitterness and believe that God has “His favorites.” Not true! He gives us each of the talents we need to do what He has designed for us to do. It is not about His favorites but about our faithfulness.

In the final analysis, it’s never about favorites but about our being faithful to Him, to do what He has called us to do with the talents and gifts He has given us. “He who is faithful,” scripture reminds us, “will be given the Crown of Life.”

Prayer: We ask, Father, that no matter what You call us to be or do, we will remain faithful to You at all times and in all places. Give us courage and commitment! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Revelation 2:10 But if you remain faithful even when facing death, I will give you the crown of life. 

Reach Out

Years ago Ben Franklin Stores were a major, successful retail chain. Many of their customers came from rural areas to shop for their needs. One observant employee overheard some customers describing the difficult time they had in getting to one of the stores to shop. He discussed the problem with Franklin and recommended to him that he open some stores in rural areas. When his suggestion was rejected, he resigned and began building stores closer to the people.

As a result of his vision, Sam Walton's name is known around the world and Wal-Mart stores are everywhere. He did not expect people to come to him. So, he went to the people!

One day Jesus said to Simon, "Now, go out where it is deeper and let down your nets and catch some fish." Initially, Simon was hesitant, saying that he and his co-workers had already tried that and it did not work. Then, after thinking for a moment, he said to His Lord, "But if You say so, I'll let them down again." And when he followed the advice of Jesus, the results were simply amazing.

Jesus left a command for each of us to obey: "Go into the world and make disciples!" Fish never come to the fisherman - the fishermen always go where the fish are. Skepticism and disobedience to Christ’s command have ended many opportunities to reach out to win the lost. Like Sam Walton, we must go to the people with God’s message of love, mercy, grace, salvation, and hope.

Prayer: Father, may we reach beyond our homes, our churches, and “our world,” to find those whom You love and died for. May we do all that we can to win the lost. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Luke 5:1-11 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 

Reach Out

Years ago Ben Franklin Stores were a major, successful retail chain. Many of their customers came from rural areas to shop for their needs. One observant employee overheard some customers describing the difficult time they had in getting to one of the stores to shop. He discussed the problem with Franklin and recommended to him that he open some stores in rural areas. When his suggestion was rejected, he resigned and began building stores closer to the people.

As a result of his vision, Sam Walton's name is known around the world and Wal-Mart stores are everywhere. He did not expect people to come to him. So, he went to the people!

One day Jesus said to Simon, "Now, go out where it is deeper and let down your nets and catch some fish." Initially, Simon was hesitant, saying that he and his co-workers had already tried that and it did not work. Then, after thinking for a moment, he said to His Lord, "But if You say so, I'll let them down again." And when he followed the advice of Jesus, the results were simply amazing.

Jesus left a command for each of us to obey: "Go into the world and make disciples!" Fish never come to the fisherman - the fishermen always go where the fish are. Skepticism and disobedience to Christ’s command have ended many opportunities to reach out to win the lost. Like Sam Walton, we must go to the people with God’s message of love, mercy, grace, salvation, and hope.

Prayer: Father, may we reach beyond our homes, our churches, and “our world,” to find those whom You love and died for. May we do all that we can to win the lost. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Luke 5:1-11 When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” When they had done so, they caught such a large number of fish that their nets began to break. 

Planning For Success

Early in life, Michael Johnson was taught how to plan for success. Each time he would share his dreams with his father, he was asked, "How do you plan to do that?" He was then expected to list each step involved in reaching his goals, research everything that was involved to accomplish his goals, and list every step involved in attaining his goals. Life was all about “the goals!”

When he became a sprinter, he applied the same rules to running. As a result of his goal-setting skills, his careful planning, and extensive training, he won four gold medals as a sprinter in the Olympics. After his victorious achievements, he was “crowned” the world champion sprinter eight times and still holds two world records. In the world of running, everyone acknowledges his success.

For the Christian, success is victorious living and honoring God with the gifts He has given us. We must take our goals and plans to God and ask for His blessings on them. We must make certain that they are deeply rooted in God’s Word, that He can empower them with His blessings, have integrity and honesty, and be consistent with God's will for our lives and His world. There is a vast difference in worldly success and Godly success, however. Godly success comes to the Christian when we honor Him in everything we do. And, we can be assured that we are honoring Him when He blesses our lives for being faithful to Him. We may never set any world records or receive a single one of this world’s medals, but we will inherit the “Crown of Life” if we are faithful.

Prayer: Lord, may we always set goals and make plans that You can bless. May we strive to honor You in all that we do. May each achievement in our lives be blest by You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 

Planning For Success

Early in life, Michael Johnson was taught how to plan for success. Each time he would share his dreams with his father, he was asked, "How do you plan to do that?" He was then expected to list each step involved in reaching his goals, research everything that was involved to accomplish his goals, and list every step involved in attaining his goals. Life was all about “the goals!”

When he became a sprinter, he applied the same rules to running. As a result of his goal-setting skills, his careful planning, and extensive training, he won four gold medals as a sprinter in the Olympics. After his victorious achievements, he was “crowned” the world champion sprinter eight times and still holds two world records. In the world of running, everyone acknowledges his success.

For the Christian, success is victorious living and honoring God with the gifts He has given us. We must take our goals and plans to God and ask for His blessings on them. We must make certain that they are deeply rooted in God’s Word, that He can empower them with His blessings, have integrity and honesty, and be consistent with God's will for our lives and His world. There is a vast difference in worldly success and Godly success, however. Godly success comes to the Christian when we honor Him in everything we do. And, we can be assured that we are honoring Him when He blesses our lives for being faithful to Him. We may never set any world records or receive a single one of this world’s medals, but we will inherit the “Crown of Life” if we are faithful.

Prayer: Lord, may we always set goals and make plans that You can bless. May we strive to honor You in all that we do. May each achievement in our lives be blest by You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. 

Not Us

Leaving church one Sunday morning, a husband and wife said to the pastor, "That was a great sermon, one of your very best. I only wish that our neighbors had been here with us. Everything you said applied specifically to them. They needed to hear it, not us!”

Far too many individuals come to church with a shield or sieve, not a wagon or wheelbarrow. Instead of taking the message with them and applying it to their lives, they deflect anything that applies to them or allow only little bits and pieces of carefully sifted material to enter their minds or hearts.

One of the important parts of a healthy lifestyle is an annual physical examination by a physician. It is designed as an “early warning system” to detect any life-threatening disease. Many times illnesses can be stopped immediately and effectively before it becomes deadly.

That is why we need a Scriptural check-up, using God’s Word as the “standard” of our Spiritual health. Paul wrote, "Examine yourselves...test yourselves" – with His word as the measure - to see if you are truly living a God-honoring, Spirit-filled, Christian life. A Scriptural checkup done daily will help us to recognize “which direction we are growing.” There must be an awareness of Christ's presence and power in our lives by the way we are living and how we are honoring God. If we are not getting closer to God every day, we are moving farther away from Him. It’s one way or the other – either/or. It cannot be both!

Prayer: Help us, Father, to be honest with ourselves about the “condition” of our salvation and our relationship with You. May we be true Christians, not imposters. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 13:5-6 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test. 

Not Us

Leaving church one Sunday morning, a husband and wife said to the pastor, "That was a great sermon, one of your very best. I only wish that our neighbors had been here with us. Everything you said applied specifically to them. They needed to hear it, not us!”

Far too many individuals come to church with a shield or sieve, not a wagon or wheelbarrow. Instead of taking the message with them and applying it to their lives, they deflect anything that applies to them or allow only little bits and pieces of carefully sifted material to enter their minds or hearts.

One of the important parts of a healthy lifestyle is an annual physical examination by a physician. It is designed as an “early warning system” to detect any life-threatening disease. Many times illnesses can be stopped immediately and effectively before it becomes deadly.

That is why we need a Scriptural check-up, using God’s Word as the “standard” of our Spiritual health. Paul wrote, "Examine yourselves...test yourselves" – with His word as the measure - to see if you are truly living a God-honoring, Spirit-filled, Christian life. A Scriptural checkup done daily will help us to recognize “which direction we are growing.” There must be an awareness of Christ's presence and power in our lives by the way we are living and how we are honoring God. If we are not getting closer to God every day, we are moving farther away from Him. It’s one way or the other – either/or. It cannot be both!

Prayer: Help us, Father, to be honest with ourselves about the “condition” of our salvation and our relationship with You. May we be true Christians, not imposters. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 13:5-6 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test. 

Mop, Please!

A fierce storm was raging. It was dark and cold, and Jim's mother was busy cleaning the kitchen. Nearing the end of her work, she said, "Please go outside and get me the mop, would you?"

"But Mom," he pleaded, "I'm afraid of the dark."

"Don't be afraid, son," she said. "Jesus is there to help you."

He opened the door, peered into the darkness, stuck one hand outside and said, "Jesus, would you please hand me the mop?” Is that really one of Jesus’ responsibilities?

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul said, "I can do everything with the help of Christ." Most of us wonder what he meant by "everything." So, it’s fair to ask: what did he mean?

As we live in Christ, with Christ, through Christ, and for Christ, we can do “everything” with the help of Christ as long as we are doing His will: following His teachings and being obedient to His commands. His power is always available and His strength is certainly sufficient to meet, face and overcome any challenge that may confront us. But we must abide in His Word, be obedient to His teachings, and follow the directions He gives us in His Word.

Prayer: Father, we know that we can do everything You have called us to do with Your help. Be with us, empower us, and enable us to be faithful and obedient to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Philippians 4:1 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. 

Mop, Please!

A fierce storm was raging. It was dark and cold, and Jim's mother was busy cleaning the kitchen. Nearing the end of her work, she said, "Please go outside and get me the mop, would you?"

"But Mom," he pleaded, "I'm afraid of the dark."

"Don't be afraid, son," she said. "Jesus is there to help you."

He opened the door, peered into the darkness, stuck one hand outside and said, "Jesus, would you please hand me the mop?” Is that really one of Jesus’ responsibilities?

In his letter to the Philippians, Paul said, "I can do everything with the help of Christ." Most of us wonder what he meant by "everything." So, it’s fair to ask: what did he mean?

As we live in Christ, with Christ, through Christ, and for Christ, we can do “everything” with the help of Christ as long as we are doing His will: following His teachings and being obedient to His commands. His power is always available and His strength is certainly sufficient to meet, face and overcome any challenge that may confront us. But we must abide in His Word, be obedient to His teachings, and follow the directions He gives us in His Word.

Prayer: Father, we know that we can do everything You have called us to do with Your help. Be with us, empower us, and enable us to be faithful and obedient to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Philippians 4:1 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.