It was Jim’s sixth birthday, and his father wanted him to begin to understand continents and nations. So, he bought him a lighted globe. He was fascinated with the way it glowed in the dark and gently lit his room. And, he also enjoyed the time his Dad spent in his room telling him stories about the different countries of the world and bodies of water.
One evening his Dad silently slipped into his room thinking that Jim was asleep. He wanted to “borrow” the globe so he could locate the countries that were mentioned during the evening news hour.
As he was leaving, Jim who was not asleep, asked, “Dad, what are you doing with my world?”
What a great question. Surely, God would have each of us answer a similar question: “What are you doing in My world on My behalf?” Or, perhaps, “What are you doing for Me in My world?”
Jesus said that “God loved the world so much that He sent Me into the world to save the people of the world.” We know that Jesus fulfilled God’s plan for His life; He gave His life on the cross for our salvation. We also know that He is now in heaven with His Father. And, we also know that the work that Jesus began is to be carried on by us - His disciples.
As His disciples, it is important, no it is critical, that we ask ourselves constantly, “What are we doing in God’s world today to save the lost for whom my Son, your Savior, died?”
Prayer: Lord, give us an urgency to do Your work in Your world to save the lost. Do not let us know peace or rest until we bring Your message to someone each day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
What Are You Doing With My World?
It was Jim’s sixth birthday, and his father wanted him to begin to understand continents and nations. So, he bought him a lighted globe. He was fascinated with the way it glowed in the dark and gently lit his room. And, he also enjoyed the time his Dad spent in his room telling him stories about the different countries of the world and bodies of water.
One evening his Dad silently slipped into his room thinking that Jim was asleep. He wanted to “borrow” the globe so he could locate the countries that were mentioned during the evening news hour.
As he was leaving, Jim who was not asleep, asked, “Dad, what are you doing with my world?”
What a great question. Surely, God would have each of us answer a similar question: “What are you doing in My world on My behalf?” Or, perhaps, “What are you doing for Me in My world?”
Jesus said that “God loved the world so much that He sent Me into the world to save the people of the world.” We know that Jesus fulfilled God’s plan for His life; He gave His life on the cross for our salvation. We also know that He is now in heaven with His Father. And, we also know that the work that Jesus began is to be carried on by us - His disciples.
As His disciples, it is important, no it is critical, that we ask ourselves constantly, “What are we doing in God’s world today to save the lost for whom my Son, your Savior, died?”
Prayer: Lord, give us an urgency to do Your work in Your world to save the lost. Do not let us know peace or rest until we bring Your message to someone each day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
One evening his Dad silently slipped into his room thinking that Jim was asleep. He wanted to “borrow” the globe so he could locate the countries that were mentioned during the evening news hour.
As he was leaving, Jim who was not asleep, asked, “Dad, what are you doing with my world?”
What a great question. Surely, God would have each of us answer a similar question: “What are you doing in My world on My behalf?” Or, perhaps, “What are you doing for Me in My world?”
Jesus said that “God loved the world so much that He sent Me into the world to save the people of the world.” We know that Jesus fulfilled God’s plan for His life; He gave His life on the cross for our salvation. We also know that He is now in heaven with His Father. And, we also know that the work that Jesus began is to be carried on by us - His disciples.
As His disciples, it is important, no it is critical, that we ask ourselves constantly, “What are we doing in God’s world today to save the lost for whom my Son, your Savior, died?”
Prayer: Lord, give us an urgency to do Your work in Your world to save the lost. Do not let us know peace or rest until we bring Your message to someone each day. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Becoming Christlike
A sculptor was beginning a new project, and a reporter came to interview him about his work. He had never talked to a sculptor before so he asked, “What are you going to create?”
“A horse standing on its hind legs,” he answered.
“How will you do such a thing?” he wondered.
“By knocking off everything that doesn’t look like a horse,” he replied.
Paul in writing to the Corinthians said, “Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.” God, we are reminded by Paul, is in deed and in fact, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.
As Christians, we need to know and accept the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We may at times, think that we are at the end of our rope, but as followers of Christ, we are never at the end of our hope!
As the sculptor with his block of marble, our loving Lord is “knocking off” everything in our lives that is not Christ-like. We sing our songs and say our prayers and tell others that “we want to be like Him.” And someday we will be.
But until that day arrives we must be patient and willing to submit to His will, allow Him to work in us and on us so that He may work through us.
Prayer: We know, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan for each of us to become like Your Son. Give us the desire to work with You while You complete your plan for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 4:1-10 Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
“A horse standing on its hind legs,” he answered.
“How will you do such a thing?” he wondered.
“By knocking off everything that doesn’t look like a horse,” he replied.
Paul in writing to the Corinthians said, “Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.” God, we are reminded by Paul, is in deed and in fact, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.
As Christians, we need to know and accept the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We may at times, think that we are at the end of our rope, but as followers of Christ, we are never at the end of our hope!
As the sculptor with his block of marble, our loving Lord is “knocking off” everything in our lives that is not Christ-like. We sing our songs and say our prayers and tell others that “we want to be like Him.” And someday we will be.
But until that day arrives we must be patient and willing to submit to His will, allow Him to work in us and on us so that He may work through us.
Prayer: We know, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan for each of us to become like Your Son. Give us the desire to work with You while You complete your plan for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 4:1-10 Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
Becoming Christlike
A sculptor was beginning a new project, and a reporter came to interview him about his work. He had never talked to a sculptor before so he asked, “What are you going to create?”
“A horse standing on its hind legs,” he answered.
“How will you do such a thing?” he wondered.
“By knocking off everything that doesn’t look like a horse,” he replied.
Paul in writing to the Corinthians said, “Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.” God, we are reminded by Paul, is in deed and in fact, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.
As Christians, we need to know and accept the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We may at times, think that we are at the end of our rope, but as followers of Christ, we are never at the end of our hope!
As the sculptor with his block of marble, our loving Lord is “knocking off” everything in our lives that is not Christ-like. We sing our songs and say our prayers and tell others that “we want to be like Him.” And someday we will be.
But until that day arrives we must be patient and willing to submit to His will, allow Him to work in us and on us so that He may work through us.
Prayer: We know, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan for each of us to become like Your Son. Give us the desire to work with You while You complete your plan for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 4:1-10 Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
“A horse standing on its hind legs,” he answered.
“How will you do such a thing?” he wondered.
“By knocking off everything that doesn’t look like a horse,” he replied.
Paul in writing to the Corinthians said, “Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.” God, we are reminded by Paul, is in deed and in fact, shaping us into the likeness of Christ.
As Christians, we need to know and accept the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We may at times, think that we are at the end of our rope, but as followers of Christ, we are never at the end of our hope!
As the sculptor with his block of marble, our loving Lord is “knocking off” everything in our lives that is not Christ-like. We sing our songs and say our prayers and tell others that “we want to be like Him.” And someday we will be.
But until that day arrives we must be patient and willing to submit to His will, allow Him to work in us and on us so that He may work through us.
Prayer: We know, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan for each of us to become like Your Son. Give us the desire to work with You while You complete your plan for us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 4:1-10 Through suffering, these bodies of ours constantly share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.
Finding Life's Secrets
Charlie Brown was having a serious conversation with Lucy in one of the “Peanuts” cartoons. Said Charlie, “I’ve made a giant step forward in unraveling the mysteries of the Old Testament, Lucy!”
“What’s that?” asked Lucy, bursting with interest.
“I started reading it,” he replied.
Many people view the Bible as a collection of fables, myths, or tales and unintelligent stories about a God who hides in deep, unfathomable messages. Some claim it is a book beyond the ability of humans to understand. Although it is a book written by humans, it is not a “human book.” It is the story of God making Himself known through words, deeds, and “The Word,” - His beloved Son. It is not beyond the ability of humans to understand the contents. God Himself will make its message clear when people ask Him to speak to them through His Holy Spirit.
Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed His Person and plan of redemption and reconciliation - the Gospel Message. The authors of God’s revelation in Scripture were inspired by His Spirit to speak on His behalf. God wanted to make Himself known because He wants us to know Him, to love Him, to accept His truth, to trust Him, and to turn to His Son for salvation.
If we want to know and understand God we need to do what Charlie Brown did, “start reading” His Word.
Prayer: You have spoken to us, Lord, through Your Word. If we seek Your truth and want to know You and please You with our lives, Your Word will show us how. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
“What’s that?” asked Lucy, bursting with interest.
“I started reading it,” he replied.
Many people view the Bible as a collection of fables, myths, or tales and unintelligent stories about a God who hides in deep, unfathomable messages. Some claim it is a book beyond the ability of humans to understand. Although it is a book written by humans, it is not a “human book.” It is the story of God making Himself known through words, deeds, and “The Word,” - His beloved Son. It is not beyond the ability of humans to understand the contents. God Himself will make its message clear when people ask Him to speak to them through His Holy Spirit.
Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed His Person and plan of redemption and reconciliation - the Gospel Message. The authors of God’s revelation in Scripture were inspired by His Spirit to speak on His behalf. God wanted to make Himself known because He wants us to know Him, to love Him, to accept His truth, to trust Him, and to turn to His Son for salvation.
If we want to know and understand God we need to do what Charlie Brown did, “start reading” His Word.
Prayer: You have spoken to us, Lord, through Your Word. If we seek Your truth and want to know You and please You with our lives, Your Word will show us how. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
Finding Life's Secrets
Charlie Brown was having a serious conversation with Lucy in one of the “Peanuts” cartoons. Said Charlie, “I’ve made a giant step forward in unraveling the mysteries of the Old Testament, Lucy!”
“What’s that?” asked Lucy, bursting with interest.
“I started reading it,” he replied.
Many people view the Bible as a collection of fables, myths, or tales and unintelligent stories about a God who hides in deep, unfathomable messages. Some claim it is a book beyond the ability of humans to understand. Although it is a book written by humans, it is not a “human book.” It is the story of God making Himself known through words, deeds, and “The Word,” - His beloved Son. It is not beyond the ability of humans to understand the contents. God Himself will make its message clear when people ask Him to speak to them through His Holy Spirit.
Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed His Person and plan of redemption and reconciliation - the Gospel Message. The authors of God’s revelation in Scripture were inspired by His Spirit to speak on His behalf. God wanted to make Himself known because He wants us to know Him, to love Him, to accept His truth, to trust Him, and to turn to His Son for salvation.
If we want to know and understand God we need to do what Charlie Brown did, “start reading” His Word.
Prayer: You have spoken to us, Lord, through Your Word. If we seek Your truth and want to know You and please You with our lives, Your Word will show us how. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
“What’s that?” asked Lucy, bursting with interest.
“I started reading it,” he replied.
Many people view the Bible as a collection of fables, myths, or tales and unintelligent stories about a God who hides in deep, unfathomable messages. Some claim it is a book beyond the ability of humans to understand. Although it is a book written by humans, it is not a “human book.” It is the story of God making Himself known through words, deeds, and “The Word,” - His beloved Son. It is not beyond the ability of humans to understand the contents. God Himself will make its message clear when people ask Him to speak to them through His Holy Spirit.
Through the Holy Spirit, God revealed His Person and plan of redemption and reconciliation - the Gospel Message. The authors of God’s revelation in Scripture were inspired by His Spirit to speak on His behalf. God wanted to make Himself known because He wants us to know Him, to love Him, to accept His truth, to trust Him, and to turn to His Son for salvation.
If we want to know and understand God we need to do what Charlie Brown did, “start reading” His Word.
Prayer: You have spoken to us, Lord, through Your Word. If we seek Your truth and want to know You and please You with our lives, Your Word will show us how. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.
Faithful Until The End
At seventy-five Grandma Faith learned that cancer would soon take her home to heaven. She had been a faith-filled Christian all of her life. Realizing that her time with her family on this earth would soon be over, she called all of them together. After they gathered around her bed, she said in a calm, steady and joyful voice, “For many years I’ve shown you how to live like a Christian. Now I want to show you how to die like one!” Life after life was important to her.
Life after life was important to Paul, too. He planned for it, prepared for it, and personally looked forward to the time when he would be with his Lord. From the day he met his Savior, his values changed and his view of “things” on earth was different. Not only did he see life from an eternal perspective, but the only desire he had was for others to see life the way he did: through the eyes of the risen Christ. No matter what, Paul believed that Christians have a faith that makes life enjoyable and endurable, and hope to die with. The joy and happiness that came to him from serving his Lord satisfied his every need no matter how horrible his circumstances might have been. Paul understood that this life is temporary and transitional and that there was more than what is seen.
His words in Philippians “For me, living is living for Christ and dying is even better,” reminds us that “life after life” will be far better than “life as it is” if we have faith and hope in Christ.
Prayer: We look to You, Heavenly Father, for faith for today, hope for tomorrow and purpose in between. Fill us with love for You and the lost whose lives are in our hands. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Philippians 1:20-26 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.
Life after life was important to Paul, too. He planned for it, prepared for it, and personally looked forward to the time when he would be with his Lord. From the day he met his Savior, his values changed and his view of “things” on earth was different. Not only did he see life from an eternal perspective, but the only desire he had was for others to see life the way he did: through the eyes of the risen Christ. No matter what, Paul believed that Christians have a faith that makes life enjoyable and endurable, and hope to die with. The joy and happiness that came to him from serving his Lord satisfied his every need no matter how horrible his circumstances might have been. Paul understood that this life is temporary and transitional and that there was more than what is seen.
His words in Philippians “For me, living is living for Christ and dying is even better,” reminds us that “life after life” will be far better than “life as it is” if we have faith and hope in Christ.
Prayer: We look to You, Heavenly Father, for faith for today, hope for tomorrow and purpose in between. Fill us with love for You and the lost whose lives are in our hands. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Philippians 1:20-26 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.
Faithful Until The End
At seventy-five Grandma Faith learned that cancer would soon take her home to heaven. She had been a faith-filled Christian all of her life. Realizing that her time with her family on this earth would soon be over, she called all of them together. After they gathered around her bed, she said in a calm, steady and joyful voice, “For many years I’ve shown you how to live like a Christian. Now I want to show you how to die like one!” Life after life was important to her.
Life after life was important to Paul, too. He planned for it, prepared for it, and personally looked forward to the time when he would be with his Lord. From the day he met his Savior, his values changed and his view of “things” on earth was different. Not only did he see life from an eternal perspective, but the only desire he had was for others to see life the way he did: through the eyes of the risen Christ. No matter what, Paul believed that Christians have a faith that makes life enjoyable and endurable, and hope to die with. The joy and happiness that came to him from serving his Lord satisfied his every need no matter how horrible his circumstances might have been. Paul understood that this life is temporary and transitional and that there was more than what is seen.
His words in Philippians “For me, living is living for Christ and dying is even better,” reminds us that “life after life” will be far better than “life as it is” if we have faith and hope in Christ.
Prayer: We look to You, Heavenly Father, for faith for today, hope for tomorrow and purpose in between. Fill us with love for You and the lost whose lives are in our hands. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Philippians 1:20-26 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.
Life after life was important to Paul, too. He planned for it, prepared for it, and personally looked forward to the time when he would be with his Lord. From the day he met his Savior, his values changed and his view of “things” on earth was different. Not only did he see life from an eternal perspective, but the only desire he had was for others to see life the way he did: through the eyes of the risen Christ. No matter what, Paul believed that Christians have a faith that makes life enjoyable and endurable, and hope to die with. The joy and happiness that came to him from serving his Lord satisfied his every need no matter how horrible his circumstances might have been. Paul understood that this life is temporary and transitional and that there was more than what is seen.
His words in Philippians “For me, living is living for Christ and dying is even better,” reminds us that “life after life” will be far better than “life as it is” if we have faith and hope in Christ.
Prayer: We look to You, Heavenly Father, for faith for today, hope for tomorrow and purpose in between. Fill us with love for You and the lost whose lives are in our hands. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Philippians 1:20-26 For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better.
Seeing The Light
An astronomy professor asked his class, “When can you see the farthest - at night or in the daytime?”
Unanimously, the class answered, “In the daytime.”
“Wrong,” corrected the teacher. “In the day time, you see the sun. But at night you can see the stars, and the star are millions of times farther away than the sun.”
What do you do when you are trapped in unpleasant situations? Withdraw? Think impossible thoughts? Blame someone else for where you are? Have a pity-party? Get angry and resentful? We all have developed ways to deal with uncomfortable, seemingly unchangeable situations. It’s something that most of us do to escape unbearable surroundings. Why not try to escape reality for a moment. Are there other options for bad times and horrible places?
When King Uzziah died, Isaiah “saw the Lord sitting on a lofty throne.” What he saw was his commission to be God’s messenger to His people. For some that might have been a dream come true. Others may have seen it as a responsibility more than they could handle. Being God’s messenger has always had its difficult moments - even for the most qualified.
But Isaiah’s mission and his situation looked difficult from the beginning. He had to tell people who believed they were blessed by God that they were going to be destroyed by God because they were disobedient to God. His response? “I’ll go. Send me! I’ll do whatever You ask!”
Now, more than ever, we need Isaiah’s view of God. He has called us to serve Him wherever He has placed us. We are where we are because He has a mission for us. We dare not fail Him!
Prayer: Grant us, Lord, a vision of Your greatness that matches Isaiah’s and empower us to serve You at all costs. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Isaiah 6 Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.”
Unanimously, the class answered, “In the daytime.”
“Wrong,” corrected the teacher. “In the day time, you see the sun. But at night you can see the stars, and the star are millions of times farther away than the sun.”
What do you do when you are trapped in unpleasant situations? Withdraw? Think impossible thoughts? Blame someone else for where you are? Have a pity-party? Get angry and resentful? We all have developed ways to deal with uncomfortable, seemingly unchangeable situations. It’s something that most of us do to escape unbearable surroundings. Why not try to escape reality for a moment. Are there other options for bad times and horrible places?
When King Uzziah died, Isaiah “saw the Lord sitting on a lofty throne.” What he saw was his commission to be God’s messenger to His people. For some that might have been a dream come true. Others may have seen it as a responsibility more than they could handle. Being God’s messenger has always had its difficult moments - even for the most qualified.
But Isaiah’s mission and his situation looked difficult from the beginning. He had to tell people who believed they were blessed by God that they were going to be destroyed by God because they were disobedient to God. His response? “I’ll go. Send me! I’ll do whatever You ask!”
Now, more than ever, we need Isaiah’s view of God. He has called us to serve Him wherever He has placed us. We are where we are because He has a mission for us. We dare not fail Him!
Prayer: Grant us, Lord, a vision of Your greatness that matches Isaiah’s and empower us to serve You at all costs. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Isaiah 6 Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.”
Seeing The Light
An astronomy professor asked his class, “When can you see the farthest - at night or in the daytime?”
Unanimously, the class answered, “In the daytime.”
“Wrong,” corrected the teacher. “In the day time, you see the sun. But at night you can see the stars, and the star are millions of times farther away than the sun.”
What do you do when you are trapped in unpleasant situations? Withdraw? Think impossible thoughts? Blame someone else for where you are? Have a pity-party? Get angry and resentful? We all have developed ways to deal with uncomfortable, seemingly unchangeable situations. It’s something that most of us do to escape unbearable surroundings. Why not try to escape reality for a moment. Are there other options for bad times and horrible places?
When King Uzziah died, Isaiah “saw the Lord sitting on a lofty throne.” What he saw was his commission to be God’s messenger to His people. For some that might have been a dream come true. Others may have seen it as a responsibility more than they could handle. Being God’s messenger has always had its difficult moments - even for the most qualified.
But Isaiah’s mission and his situation looked difficult from the beginning. He had to tell people who believed they were blessed by God that they were going to be destroyed by God because they were disobedient to God. His response? “I’ll go. Send me! I’ll do whatever You ask!”
Now, more than ever, we need Isaiah’s view of God. He has called us to serve Him wherever He has placed us. We are where we are because He has a mission for us. We dare not fail Him!
Prayer: Grant us, Lord, a vision of Your greatness that matches Isaiah’s and empower us to serve You at all costs. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Isaiah 6 Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.”
Unanimously, the class answered, “In the daytime.”
“Wrong,” corrected the teacher. “In the day time, you see the sun. But at night you can see the stars, and the star are millions of times farther away than the sun.”
What do you do when you are trapped in unpleasant situations? Withdraw? Think impossible thoughts? Blame someone else for where you are? Have a pity-party? Get angry and resentful? We all have developed ways to deal with uncomfortable, seemingly unchangeable situations. It’s something that most of us do to escape unbearable surroundings. Why not try to escape reality for a moment. Are there other options for bad times and horrible places?
When King Uzziah died, Isaiah “saw the Lord sitting on a lofty throne.” What he saw was his commission to be God’s messenger to His people. For some that might have been a dream come true. Others may have seen it as a responsibility more than they could handle. Being God’s messenger has always had its difficult moments - even for the most qualified.
But Isaiah’s mission and his situation looked difficult from the beginning. He had to tell people who believed they were blessed by God that they were going to be destroyed by God because they were disobedient to God. His response? “I’ll go. Send me! I’ll do whatever You ask!”
Now, more than ever, we need Isaiah’s view of God. He has called us to serve Him wherever He has placed us. We are where we are because He has a mission for us. We dare not fail Him!
Prayer: Grant us, Lord, a vision of Your greatness that matches Isaiah’s and empower us to serve You at all costs. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Isaiah 6 Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.”
Get Up And Go On
Little Lola was having a hard time learning to skate. Every time she got up and started to skate, she fell. The bruises were multiplying and covering all of the available space on her knees, hands, and elbows.
A neighbor passing by watched her try and try again. Finally, he approached her and asked, “Why don’t you give up?”
“Because,” she cried with tears streaming down her cheeks, “my father didn’t give me these skates to give up with but to go on with.”
Our Lord gives us His gracious favor and wonder-working power to “go on with.” A good example of this is the Apostle Paul. God did not remove His affliction. He did promise, however, to provide His strength, courage, and power to him wherever he was, no matter what, “to go on with.”
No matter what we believe to be our weaknesses, He wants to give us help and hope, endurance and victory. When we willingly admit our weaknesses and limitations to God, we are forced to depend upon Him for our effectiveness and accomplishments. Surrendering to Him when we need His help forces us to admit our inabilities and His abilities. Admitting our limitations enables us to develop our Christ-likeness, deepen our respect for God’s presence and power in our lives, and encourages us to a deeper sense of worship.
Prayer: Father, we truly need Your involvement in our lives. When we are weak - give us Your strength; when we are down - raise us with Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
A neighbor passing by watched her try and try again. Finally, he approached her and asked, “Why don’t you give up?”
“Because,” she cried with tears streaming down her cheeks, “my father didn’t give me these skates to give up with but to go on with.”
Our Lord gives us His gracious favor and wonder-working power to “go on with.” A good example of this is the Apostle Paul. God did not remove His affliction. He did promise, however, to provide His strength, courage, and power to him wherever he was, no matter what, “to go on with.”
No matter what we believe to be our weaknesses, He wants to give us help and hope, endurance and victory. When we willingly admit our weaknesses and limitations to God, we are forced to depend upon Him for our effectiveness and accomplishments. Surrendering to Him when we need His help forces us to admit our inabilities and His abilities. Admitting our limitations enables us to develop our Christ-likeness, deepen our respect for God’s presence and power in our lives, and encourages us to a deeper sense of worship.
Prayer: Father, we truly need Your involvement in our lives. When we are weak - give us Your strength; when we are down - raise us with Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
Get Up And Go On
Little Lola was having a hard time learning to skate. Every time she got up and started to skate, she fell. The bruises were multiplying and covering all of the available space on her knees, hands, and elbows.
A neighbor passing by watched her try and try again. Finally, he approached her and asked, “Why don’t you give up?”
“Because,” she cried with tears streaming down her cheeks, “my father didn’t give me these skates to give up with but to go on with.”
Our Lord gives us His gracious favor and wonder-working power to “go on with.” A good example of this is the Apostle Paul. God did not remove His affliction. He did promise, however, to provide His strength, courage, and power to him wherever he was, no matter what, “to go on with.”
No matter what we believe to be our weaknesses, He wants to give us help and hope, endurance and victory. When we willingly admit our weaknesses and limitations to God, we are forced to depend upon Him for our effectiveness and accomplishments. Surrendering to Him when we need His help forces us to admit our inabilities and His abilities. Admitting our limitations enables us to develop our Christ-likeness, deepen our respect for God’s presence and power in our lives, and encourages us to a deeper sense of worship.
Prayer: Father, we truly need Your involvement in our lives. When we are weak - give us Your strength; when we are down - raise us with Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
A neighbor passing by watched her try and try again. Finally, he approached her and asked, “Why don’t you give up?”
“Because,” she cried with tears streaming down her cheeks, “my father didn’t give me these skates to give up with but to go on with.”
Our Lord gives us His gracious favor and wonder-working power to “go on with.” A good example of this is the Apostle Paul. God did not remove His affliction. He did promise, however, to provide His strength, courage, and power to him wherever he was, no matter what, “to go on with.”
No matter what we believe to be our weaknesses, He wants to give us help and hope, endurance and victory. When we willingly admit our weaknesses and limitations to God, we are forced to depend upon Him for our effectiveness and accomplishments. Surrendering to Him when we need His help forces us to admit our inabilities and His abilities. Admitting our limitations enables us to develop our Christ-likeness, deepen our respect for God’s presence and power in our lives, and encourages us to a deeper sense of worship.
Prayer: Father, we truly need Your involvement in our lives. When we are weak - give us Your strength; when we are down - raise us with Your power. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.
Going But Not Doing
While waiting for a bus to take me to the hotel at the end of the day, I watched as several of them passed by my waiting area. As they sped to their destination, there was a sign in each of them that read, “Out of Service.”
Jesus, when speaking about the responsibilities of His disciples said, “Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all everywhere we look, and are ready now for the harvest.”
Our Lord repeatedly addressed a pressing need in His day and a need that we, as His disciples, face today: There are many in front us, to the side of us, and even behind us that are waiting to be brought into the Kingdom of God. It is not that He is unconcerned about them or that they are not willing to listen to His offer of salvation. Rather, it is because we, His followers, are out of service.
Sometimes we excuse ourselves from being His witnesses and “harvesters” by saying that our family members and friends are not ready to believe. Jesus, however, made it very clear that we are surrounded by an opportunity to be involved in a constant and continual harvest waiting to be reaped. It’s not that there are no fields to be harvested. It’s that we cannot (or refuse?) to see them!
Each day we must remind ourselves that He will return and find us doing “something.” What will that “something” be? Will He find us involved in taking the Good News of the Gospel to those around us? When He appears will we be doing what He has called us to do or find us out of service?
Prayer: Lord, You have called us to labor with You in the “great harvest” by witnessing and winning the lost around us. Convict us of our lack of concern for “the harvest.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 4:34-38 But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.
Jesus, when speaking about the responsibilities of His disciples said, “Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all everywhere we look, and are ready now for the harvest.”
Our Lord repeatedly addressed a pressing need in His day and a need that we, as His disciples, face today: There are many in front us, to the side of us, and even behind us that are waiting to be brought into the Kingdom of God. It is not that He is unconcerned about them or that they are not willing to listen to His offer of salvation. Rather, it is because we, His followers, are out of service.
Sometimes we excuse ourselves from being His witnesses and “harvesters” by saying that our family members and friends are not ready to believe. Jesus, however, made it very clear that we are surrounded by an opportunity to be involved in a constant and continual harvest waiting to be reaped. It’s not that there are no fields to be harvested. It’s that we cannot (or refuse?) to see them!
Each day we must remind ourselves that He will return and find us doing “something.” What will that “something” be? Will He find us involved in taking the Good News of the Gospel to those around us? When He appears will we be doing what He has called us to do or find us out of service?
Prayer: Lord, You have called us to labor with You in the “great harvest” by witnessing and winning the lost around us. Convict us of our lack of concern for “the harvest.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 4:34-38 But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.
Going But Not Doing
While waiting for a bus to take me to the hotel at the end of the day, I watched as several of them passed by my waiting area. As they sped to their destination, there was a sign in each of them that read, “Out of Service.”
Jesus, when speaking about the responsibilities of His disciples said, “Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all everywhere we look, and are ready now for the harvest.”
Our Lord repeatedly addressed a pressing need in His day and a need that we, as His disciples, face today: There are many in front us, to the side of us, and even behind us that are waiting to be brought into the Kingdom of God. It is not that He is unconcerned about them or that they are not willing to listen to His offer of salvation. Rather, it is because we, His followers, are out of service.
Sometimes we excuse ourselves from being His witnesses and “harvesters” by saying that our family members and friends are not ready to believe. Jesus, however, made it very clear that we are surrounded by an opportunity to be involved in a constant and continual harvest waiting to be reaped. It’s not that there are no fields to be harvested. It’s that we cannot (or refuse?) to see them!
Each day we must remind ourselves that He will return and find us doing “something.” What will that “something” be? Will He find us involved in taking the Good News of the Gospel to those around us? When He appears will we be doing what He has called us to do or find us out of service?
Prayer: Lord, You have called us to labor with You in the “great harvest” by witnessing and winning the lost around us. Convict us of our lack of concern for “the harvest.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 4:34-38 But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.
Jesus, when speaking about the responsibilities of His disciples said, “Look around you! Vast fields are ripening all everywhere we look, and are ready now for the harvest.”
Our Lord repeatedly addressed a pressing need in His day and a need that we, as His disciples, face today: There are many in front us, to the side of us, and even behind us that are waiting to be brought into the Kingdom of God. It is not that He is unconcerned about them or that they are not willing to listen to His offer of salvation. Rather, it is because we, His followers, are out of service.
Sometimes we excuse ourselves from being His witnesses and “harvesters” by saying that our family members and friends are not ready to believe. Jesus, however, made it very clear that we are surrounded by an opportunity to be involved in a constant and continual harvest waiting to be reaped. It’s not that there are no fields to be harvested. It’s that we cannot (or refuse?) to see them!
Each day we must remind ourselves that He will return and find us doing “something.” What will that “something” be? Will He find us involved in taking the Good News of the Gospel to those around us? When He appears will we be doing what He has called us to do or find us out of service?
Prayer: Lord, You have called us to labor with You in the “great harvest” by witnessing and winning the lost around us. Convict us of our lack of concern for “the harvest.” In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 4:34-38 But I say, wake up and look around. The fields are already ripe for harvest.
Where's Happiness?
An unhappy skeptic said to Benjamin Franklin, “The Constitution is a mockery! Where’s the happiness that it guarantees?”
“My friend,” said Franklin, “it only guarantees the pursuit of happiness.”
Our word for happiness can be misleading. The “root” hap means chance. Human happiness is dependent on the chances and the changes of life, the “things” that we consider to be the daily events or circumstances of life that come and go without warning.
On the other hand, consider the beatitudes given to us by Jesus. They are not about some hope for a future or blissful state in heaven. They are for the now which belongs to the Christian at this moment in our lives. The way the beatitudes are written assures the Christian of the power of God to change us and others, the joyous thrill of His presence, and the hope of life with Him.
The word blessed that is used in each of the beatitudes is a very special word. It describes a joy that has its secret within itself - a joy that is peaceful and untouchable and self-contained. It is a joy that is above and beyond and independent of all the circumstances of life. It is a joy that comes from God Himself. “No one,” said Jesus, “will take your joy from you!”
The world cannot take away the joy that comes from and through Christ. Walking daily with Him, and “doing” the beatitudes assures us of a joy that no one or nothing can disturb.
Prayer: Give us, our Heavenly Father, a peace that passes this world’s understanding, a joy that comes from Your presence, and hope that assures us of our home with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Matthew 5:1-12 God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad!
“My friend,” said Franklin, “it only guarantees the pursuit of happiness.”
Our word for happiness can be misleading. The “root” hap means chance. Human happiness is dependent on the chances and the changes of life, the “things” that we consider to be the daily events or circumstances of life that come and go without warning.
On the other hand, consider the beatitudes given to us by Jesus. They are not about some hope for a future or blissful state in heaven. They are for the now which belongs to the Christian at this moment in our lives. The way the beatitudes are written assures the Christian of the power of God to change us and others, the joyous thrill of His presence, and the hope of life with Him.
The word blessed that is used in each of the beatitudes is a very special word. It describes a joy that has its secret within itself - a joy that is peaceful and untouchable and self-contained. It is a joy that is above and beyond and independent of all the circumstances of life. It is a joy that comes from God Himself. “No one,” said Jesus, “will take your joy from you!”
The world cannot take away the joy that comes from and through Christ. Walking daily with Him, and “doing” the beatitudes assures us of a joy that no one or nothing can disturb.
Prayer: Give us, our Heavenly Father, a peace that passes this world’s understanding, a joy that comes from Your presence, and hope that assures us of our home with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Matthew 5:1-12 God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad!
Where's Happiness?
An unhappy skeptic said to Benjamin Franklin, “The Constitution is a mockery! Where’s the happiness that it guarantees?”
“My friend,” said Franklin, “it only guarantees the pursuit of happiness.”
Our word for happiness can be misleading. The “root” hap means chance. Human happiness is dependent on the chances and the changes of life, the “things” that we consider to be the daily events or circumstances of life that come and go without warning.
On the other hand, consider the beatitudes given to us by Jesus. They are not about some hope for a future or blissful state in heaven. They are for the now which belongs to the Christian at this moment in our lives. The way the beatitudes are written assures the Christian of the power of God to change us and others, the joyous thrill of His presence, and the hope of life with Him.
The word blessed that is used in each of the beatitudes is a very special word. It describes a joy that has its secret within itself - a joy that is peaceful and untouchable and self-contained. It is a joy that is above and beyond and independent of all the circumstances of life. It is a joy that comes from God Himself. “No one,” said Jesus, “will take your joy from you!”
The world cannot take away the joy that comes from and through Christ. Walking daily with Him, and “doing” the beatitudes assures us of a joy that no one or nothing can disturb.
Prayer: Give us, our Heavenly Father, a peace that passes this world’s understanding, a joy that comes from Your presence, and hope that assures us of our home with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Matthew 5:1-12 God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad!
“My friend,” said Franklin, “it only guarantees the pursuit of happiness.”
Our word for happiness can be misleading. The “root” hap means chance. Human happiness is dependent on the chances and the changes of life, the “things” that we consider to be the daily events or circumstances of life that come and go without warning.
On the other hand, consider the beatitudes given to us by Jesus. They are not about some hope for a future or blissful state in heaven. They are for the now which belongs to the Christian at this moment in our lives. The way the beatitudes are written assures the Christian of the power of God to change us and others, the joyous thrill of His presence, and the hope of life with Him.
The word blessed that is used in each of the beatitudes is a very special word. It describes a joy that has its secret within itself - a joy that is peaceful and untouchable and self-contained. It is a joy that is above and beyond and independent of all the circumstances of life. It is a joy that comes from God Himself. “No one,” said Jesus, “will take your joy from you!”
The world cannot take away the joy that comes from and through Christ. Walking daily with Him, and “doing” the beatitudes assures us of a joy that no one or nothing can disturb.
Prayer: Give us, our Heavenly Father, a peace that passes this world’s understanding, a joy that comes from Your presence, and hope that assures us of our home with You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Matthew 5:1-12 God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad!
Decrease To Increase
A nearby church called a new pastor. He was well received and in a short time, the church began to grow. The attendance at Sunday school and worship services increased beyond expectations. Even the increased number of people at the prayer meeting surprised everyone.
“Congratulations on the way your church is responding to your leadership,” I said after being introduced to him. “What are you doing differently than other churches to see such growth?”
“I’m decreasing,” was his strange reply.
“Decreasing?” I asked with a question mark on my face.
“Yes,” came his quick reply. “It’s what John said about Jesus: ‘He will increase if I will decrease.’“
John’s willingness to decrease is an important first step in humility. Those of us who want to serve God with the gifts He has given us are always tempted to do what John did in reverse order: we want the attention and focus to be upon us and what we are doing when blessings occur and success arrives.
We must never forget that it is always about Him. If we want to see Him at work in our lives, we must do as John did so successfully: point to Him and make Him the “main attraction.” We must never put ourselves first. We must stand aside and let His Kingdom come!
Prayer: Lord, it’s difficult to get out of the way and not want to be praised for what we do for You. We pray for hearts that are humble and lives that are surrendered to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:30 He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
“Congratulations on the way your church is responding to your leadership,” I said after being introduced to him. “What are you doing differently than other churches to see such growth?”
“I’m decreasing,” was his strange reply.
“Decreasing?” I asked with a question mark on my face.
“Yes,” came his quick reply. “It’s what John said about Jesus: ‘He will increase if I will decrease.’“
John’s willingness to decrease is an important first step in humility. Those of us who want to serve God with the gifts He has given us are always tempted to do what John did in reverse order: we want the attention and focus to be upon us and what we are doing when blessings occur and success arrives.
We must never forget that it is always about Him. If we want to see Him at work in our lives, we must do as John did so successfully: point to Him and make Him the “main attraction.” We must never put ourselves first. We must stand aside and let His Kingdom come!
Prayer: Lord, it’s difficult to get out of the way and not want to be praised for what we do for You. We pray for hearts that are humble and lives that are surrendered to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:30 He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
Decrease To Increase
A nearby church called a new pastor. He was well received and in a short time, the church began to grow. The attendance at Sunday school and worship services increased beyond expectations. Even the increased number of people at the prayer meeting surprised everyone.
“Congratulations on the way your church is responding to your leadership,” I said after being introduced to him. “What are you doing differently than other churches to see such growth?”
“I’m decreasing,” was his strange reply.
“Decreasing?” I asked with a question mark on my face.
“Yes,” came his quick reply. “It’s what John said about Jesus: ‘He will increase if I will decrease.’“
John’s willingness to decrease is an important first step in humility. Those of us who want to serve God with the gifts He has given us are always tempted to do what John did in reverse order: we want the attention and focus to be upon us and what we are doing when blessings occur and success arrives.
We must never forget that it is always about Him. If we want to see Him at work in our lives, we must do as John did so successfully: point to Him and make Him the “main attraction.” We must never put ourselves first. We must stand aside and let His Kingdom come!
Prayer: Lord, it’s difficult to get out of the way and not want to be praised for what we do for You. We pray for hearts that are humble and lives that are surrendered to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:30 He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
“Congratulations on the way your church is responding to your leadership,” I said after being introduced to him. “What are you doing differently than other churches to see such growth?”
“I’m decreasing,” was his strange reply.
“Decreasing?” I asked with a question mark on my face.
“Yes,” came his quick reply. “It’s what John said about Jesus: ‘He will increase if I will decrease.’“
John’s willingness to decrease is an important first step in humility. Those of us who want to serve God with the gifts He has given us are always tempted to do what John did in reverse order: we want the attention and focus to be upon us and what we are doing when blessings occur and success arrives.
We must never forget that it is always about Him. If we want to see Him at work in our lives, we must do as John did so successfully: point to Him and make Him the “main attraction.” We must never put ourselves first. We must stand aside and let His Kingdom come!
Prayer: Lord, it’s difficult to get out of the way and not want to be praised for what we do for You. We pray for hearts that are humble and lives that are surrendered to You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 3:30 He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less.
Why Do We Suffer?
Many of us, from time to time, ask ourselves the age-old question: “If God is God, and if God is a great God, and if God is a good God, and if God is a powerful God, why does He allow bad things to happen to me and others who have good intentions and want to please Him?”
Deep down we do believe that He is a good and great and powerful God. But, that question still nags at our innermost thoughts and feelings and, from time to time, challenges our faith with subtle doubts.
He certainly does have everything under His control, and He does desire our very best. But not all things, such as sorrow and suffering, seem good while we are going through them.
I remember very well my Mother’s homemade bread. I would return home from school and the entire house would be filled with the aroma of warm, freshly baked bread waiting for some butter and homemade strawberry jam.
By themselves, I would not eat the flour, yeast, shortening or baking soda. But, when “Ma” mixed all the ingredients, allowed them to “rise,” and then baked them in a hot oven, the results were amazing and wonderful.
Is that not how God works? Some pain here. A lot of suffering there. A time of grief. Sorrow for a season. Financial problems. Discouragement over a loss. That’s God working in our lives - mixing everything together for our good and His glory in our lives.
Prayer: Father, give us grace and courage to look at our lives the way that You look at them - knowing and believing that everything works for our good and 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.
Deep down we do believe that He is a good and great and powerful God. But, that question still nags at our innermost thoughts and feelings and, from time to time, challenges our faith with subtle doubts.
He certainly does have everything under His control, and He does desire our very best. But not all things, such as sorrow and suffering, seem good while we are going through them.
I remember very well my Mother’s homemade bread. I would return home from school and the entire house would be filled with the aroma of warm, freshly baked bread waiting for some butter and homemade strawberry jam.
By themselves, I would not eat the flour, yeast, shortening or baking soda. But, when “Ma” mixed all the ingredients, allowed them to “rise,” and then baked them in a hot oven, the results were amazing and wonderful.
Is that not how God works? Some pain here. A lot of suffering there. A time of grief. Sorrow for a season. Financial problems. Discouragement over a loss. That’s God working in our lives - mixing everything together for our good and His glory in our lives.
Prayer: Father, give us grace and courage to look at our lives the way that You look at them - knowing and believing that everything works for our good and 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.
Why Do We Suffer?
Many of us, from time to time, ask ourselves the age-old question: “If God is God, and if God is a great God, and if God is a good God, and if God is a powerful God, why does He allow bad things to happen to me and others who have good intentions and want to please Him?”
Deep down we do believe that He is a good and great and powerful God. But, that question still nags at our innermost thoughts and feelings and, from time to time, challenges our faith with subtle doubts.
He certainly does have everything under His control, and He does desire our very best. But not all things, such as sorrow and suffering, seem good while we are going through them.
I remember very well my Mother’s homemade bread. I would return home from school and the entire house would be filled with the aroma of warm, freshly baked bread waiting for some butter and homemade strawberry jam.
By themselves, I would not eat the flour, yeast, shortening or baking soda. But, when “Ma” mixed all the ingredients, allowed them to “rise,” and then baked them in a hot oven, the results were amazing and wonderful.
Is that not how God works? Some pain here. A lot of suffering there. A time of grief. Sorrow for a season. Financial problems. Discouragement over a loss. That’s God working in our lives - mixing everything together for our good and His glory in our lives.
Prayer: Father, give us grace and courage to look at our lives the way that You look at them - knowing and believing that everything works for our good and 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.
Deep down we do believe that He is a good and great and powerful God. But, that question still nags at our innermost thoughts and feelings and, from time to time, challenges our faith with subtle doubts.
He certainly does have everything under His control, and He does desire our very best. But not all things, such as sorrow and suffering, seem good while we are going through them.
I remember very well my Mother’s homemade bread. I would return home from school and the entire house would be filled with the aroma of warm, freshly baked bread waiting for some butter and homemade strawberry jam.
By themselves, I would not eat the flour, yeast, shortening or baking soda. But, when “Ma” mixed all the ingredients, allowed them to “rise,” and then baked them in a hot oven, the results were amazing and wonderful.
Is that not how God works? Some pain here. A lot of suffering there. A time of grief. Sorrow for a season. Financial problems. Discouragement over a loss. That’s God working in our lives - mixing everything together for our good and His glory in our lives.
Prayer: Father, give us grace and courage to look at our lives the way that You look at them - knowing and believing that everything works for our good and 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.
Who Are You Following?
It was the first time that Wayne and his Dad rode their bikes through the neighborhood. Wayne was excited as they rode down one street and then another, turned left, turned right, and finally arrived at home. Taking off his helmet, Wayne looked up at a smiling father and said, “Thanks, Dad, if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have known where to go and I’d be lost by now.”
The Psalmist expressed the same idea and trust when he said to the Lord, “Who have I but you?”
But not all of us have that much faith in the Lord. John reports a story about Jesus and His disciples. They were having some problems with His teachings and Jesus said, “This is very hard to understand.” As a result, we read that “many of His disciples turned away and deserted Him.”
Have you ever wondered why those disciples turned away from Jesus? The Bible does not give any specific reason. No doubt, in my mind, they left Him then for the same reason people leave Him today: self-centered desires and an unwillingness to make Him the Lord of their life.
Many accept the Lord for what they think He will do for them - not what they can do for Him and with Him and through Him. Many have expectations that go in one direction only: From God to us and for us for anything we want, now and forever, Amen.
But this is not how God works. If we accept Him as Savior and follow Him as Lord, wherever He leads us, “All these things (that we need) will be added to us.”
Prayer: Teach us, Lord, that You call us to Yourself for Your purpose, May we love You, honor You and bring glory to Your name. May You be first and foremost in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 6:64-67 Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.” At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”
The Psalmist expressed the same idea and trust when he said to the Lord, “Who have I but you?”
But not all of us have that much faith in the Lord. John reports a story about Jesus and His disciples. They were having some problems with His teachings and Jesus said, “This is very hard to understand.” As a result, we read that “many of His disciples turned away and deserted Him.”
Have you ever wondered why those disciples turned away from Jesus? The Bible does not give any specific reason. No doubt, in my mind, they left Him then for the same reason people leave Him today: self-centered desires and an unwillingness to make Him the Lord of their life.
Many accept the Lord for what they think He will do for them - not what they can do for Him and with Him and through Him. Many have expectations that go in one direction only: From God to us and for us for anything we want, now and forever, Amen.
But this is not how God works. If we accept Him as Savior and follow Him as Lord, wherever He leads us, “All these things (that we need) will be added to us.”
Prayer: Teach us, Lord, that You call us to Yourself for Your purpose, May we love You, honor You and bring glory to Your name. May You be first and foremost in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 6:64-67 Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.” At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”
Who Are You Following?
It was the first time that Wayne and his Dad rode their bikes through the neighborhood. Wayne was excited as they rode down one street and then another, turned left, turned right, and finally arrived at home. Taking off his helmet, Wayne looked up at a smiling father and said, “Thanks, Dad, if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t have known where to go and I’d be lost by now.”
The Psalmist expressed the same idea and trust when he said to the Lord, “Who have I but you?”
But not all of us have that much faith in the Lord. John reports a story about Jesus and His disciples. They were having some problems with His teachings and Jesus said, “This is very hard to understand.” As a result, we read that “many of His disciples turned away and deserted Him.”
Have you ever wondered why those disciples turned away from Jesus? The Bible does not give any specific reason. No doubt, in my mind, they left Him then for the same reason people leave Him today: self-centered desires and an unwillingness to make Him the Lord of their life.
Many accept the Lord for what they think He will do for them - not what they can do for Him and with Him and through Him. Many have expectations that go in one direction only: From God to us and for us for anything we want, now and forever, Amen.
But this is not how God works. If we accept Him as Savior and follow Him as Lord, wherever He leads us, “All these things (that we need) will be added to us.”
Prayer: Teach us, Lord, that You call us to Yourself for Your purpose, May we love You, honor You and bring glory to Your name. May You be first and foremost in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 6:64-67 Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.” At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”
The Psalmist expressed the same idea and trust when he said to the Lord, “Who have I but you?”
But not all of us have that much faith in the Lord. John reports a story about Jesus and His disciples. They were having some problems with His teachings and Jesus said, “This is very hard to understand.” As a result, we read that “many of His disciples turned away and deserted Him.”
Have you ever wondered why those disciples turned away from Jesus? The Bible does not give any specific reason. No doubt, in my mind, they left Him then for the same reason people leave Him today: self-centered desires and an unwillingness to make Him the Lord of their life.
Many accept the Lord for what they think He will do for them - not what they can do for Him and with Him and through Him. Many have expectations that go in one direction only: From God to us and for us for anything we want, now and forever, Amen.
But this is not how God works. If we accept Him as Savior and follow Him as Lord, wherever He leads us, “All these things (that we need) will be added to us.”
Prayer: Teach us, Lord, that You call us to Yourself for Your purpose, May we love You, honor You and bring glory to Your name. May You be first and foremost in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: John 6:64-67 Then he said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to me unless the Father gives them to me.” At this point many of his disciples turned away and deserted him. Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”
Time Out!
One morning in a small town in Switzerland the clock in the tower stopped. Children, unaware of what happened, naturally thought that they had more time to play and enjoy the lovely spring day. Secretaries on their way to work stopped to visit with their friends in the little shops that surrounded the square. Men reading their newspapers took some extra time to enjoy their stories. After about thirty minutes, the clock started again and the children, the secretaries, and the businessmen noticing that the hands were moving ran off to their appointments. All of the people were late because the clock they trusted pointed to the wrong time.
Each person has a “personal clock” ticking inside of them. It has a specific number of “ticks” that God has allocated to each of us that will determine how long we will live and when we will die. It is normal to think that our clock is pointing to a great number of days yet to come and that we have limitless “ticks” that we cannot see or count; we delay thinking that we all have an appointment to meet and face God, and give an accounting for the “ticks” He gives us.
God’s Word reminds us that “None of us live for ourselves.” God has given each of us the power to make plans and dream dreams and look forward to the future. But the most important thing we must do is to include God in our plans. Do not forget that “while we live, we live to please the Lord and when we die, we go to be with Him.” So, step one: Accept Christ as Your Savior.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to be mindful of the “tricking” of our clock - to always be aware of the fact that we have no assurance of tomorrow. May we be sure of our salvation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 14:7-8 For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.
Each person has a “personal clock” ticking inside of them. It has a specific number of “ticks” that God has allocated to each of us that will determine how long we will live and when we will die. It is normal to think that our clock is pointing to a great number of days yet to come and that we have limitless “ticks” that we cannot see or count; we delay thinking that we all have an appointment to meet and face God, and give an accounting for the “ticks” He gives us.
God’s Word reminds us that “None of us live for ourselves.” God has given each of us the power to make plans and dream dreams and look forward to the future. But the most important thing we must do is to include God in our plans. Do not forget that “while we live, we live to please the Lord and when we die, we go to be with Him.” So, step one: Accept Christ as Your Savior.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to be mindful of the “tricking” of our clock - to always be aware of the fact that we have no assurance of tomorrow. May we be sure of our salvation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 14:7-8 For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.
Time Out!
One morning in a small town in Switzerland the clock in the tower stopped. Children, unaware of what happened, naturally thought that they had more time to play and enjoy the lovely spring day. Secretaries on their way to work stopped to visit with their friends in the little shops that surrounded the square. Men reading their newspapers took some extra time to enjoy their stories. After about thirty minutes, the clock started again and the children, the secretaries, and the businessmen noticing that the hands were moving ran off to their appointments. All of the people were late because the clock they trusted pointed to the wrong time.
Each person has a “personal clock” ticking inside of them. It has a specific number of “ticks” that God has allocated to each of us that will determine how long we will live and when we will die. It is normal to think that our clock is pointing to a great number of days yet to come and that we have limitless “ticks” that we cannot see or count; we delay thinking that we all have an appointment to meet and face God, and give an accounting for the “ticks” He gives us.
God’s Word reminds us that “None of us live for ourselves.” God has given each of us the power to make plans and dream dreams and look forward to the future. But the most important thing we must do is to include God in our plans. Do not forget that “while we live, we live to please the Lord and when we die, we go to be with Him.” So, step one: Accept Christ as Your Savior.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to be mindful of the “tricking” of our clock - to always be aware of the fact that we have no assurance of tomorrow. May we be sure of our salvation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 14:7-8 For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.
Each person has a “personal clock” ticking inside of them. It has a specific number of “ticks” that God has allocated to each of us that will determine how long we will live and when we will die. It is normal to think that our clock is pointing to a great number of days yet to come and that we have limitless “ticks” that we cannot see or count; we delay thinking that we all have an appointment to meet and face God, and give an accounting for the “ticks” He gives us.
God’s Word reminds us that “None of us live for ourselves.” God has given each of us the power to make plans and dream dreams and look forward to the future. But the most important thing we must do is to include God in our plans. Do not forget that “while we live, we live to please the Lord and when we die, we go to be with Him.” So, step one: Accept Christ as Your Savior.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to be mindful of the “tricking” of our clock - to always be aware of the fact that we have no assurance of tomorrow. May we be sure of our salvation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 14:7-8 For we don’t live for ourselves or die for ourselves. If we live, it’s to honor the Lord. And if we die, it’s to honor the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.
Where Am I Going?
A Bishop in the Church of England, known for his forgetfulness, boarded a train in London. Shortly after the train left the station, he began crawling around his seat and the other seats near him. Fearing for his safety, the conductor approached him carefully, tapped him on the shoulder, and asked what he was doing.
“I’m looking for my ticket,” said the Bishop.
“Well, that’s not a problem, Bishop. We’ll take care of you. It’s really quite all right,” replied the conductor.
“No, it isn’t,” said the Bishop. “I forgot where I am going!” confessed the Bishop.
“Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord, point out the right road for me to follow,” asked David. He knew that he needed guidance for life’s journey so he went to the ultimate source: God!
However, we all want to know: “How does God guide me personally?”
His primary “guidance system” is His Word and our prayers. If we truly want Him to lead us, we need to go to the “source” of His information. By carefully reading and meditating on His Word, and praying for His leadership in our lives, we will receive wisdom and insight on what to do.
However, if we want His insight and wisdom, we must spend time reading His Word and in prayer - waiting with an open mind and a sincere willingness for Him to reveal His path for us.
Prayer: Lord, we know that You have the path for us to take in life’s journey. As we read Your Word, open our eyes, speak to our hearts and show us the path we are to take. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalm 25:1-5 Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.
“I’m looking for my ticket,” said the Bishop.
“Well, that’s not a problem, Bishop. We’ll take care of you. It’s really quite all right,” replied the conductor.
“No, it isn’t,” said the Bishop. “I forgot where I am going!” confessed the Bishop.
“Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord, point out the right road for me to follow,” asked David. He knew that he needed guidance for life’s journey so he went to the ultimate source: God!
However, we all want to know: “How does God guide me personally?”
His primary “guidance system” is His Word and our prayers. If we truly want Him to lead us, we need to go to the “source” of His information. By carefully reading and meditating on His Word, and praying for His leadership in our lives, we will receive wisdom and insight on what to do.
However, if we want His insight and wisdom, we must spend time reading His Word and in prayer - waiting with an open mind and a sincere willingness for Him to reveal His path for us.
Prayer: Lord, we know that You have the path for us to take in life’s journey. As we read Your Word, open our eyes, speak to our hearts and show us the path we are to take. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalm 25:1-5 Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.
Where Am I Going?
A Bishop in the Church of England, known for his forgetfulness, boarded a train in London. Shortly after the train left the station, he began crawling around his seat and the other seats near him. Fearing for his safety, the conductor approached him carefully, tapped him on the shoulder, and asked what he was doing.
“I’m looking for my ticket,” said the Bishop.
“Well, that’s not a problem, Bishop. We’ll take care of you. It’s really quite all right,” replied the conductor.
“No, it isn’t,” said the Bishop. “I forgot where I am going!” confessed the Bishop.
“Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord, point out the right road for me to follow,” asked David. He knew that he needed guidance for life’s journey so he went to the ultimate source: God!
However, we all want to know: “How does God guide me personally?”
His primary “guidance system” is His Word and our prayers. If we truly want Him to lead us, we need to go to the “source” of His information. By carefully reading and meditating on His Word, and praying for His leadership in our lives, we will receive wisdom and insight on what to do.
However, if we want His insight and wisdom, we must spend time reading His Word and in prayer - waiting with an open mind and a sincere willingness for Him to reveal His path for us.
Prayer: Lord, we know that You have the path for us to take in life’s journey. As we read Your Word, open our eyes, speak to our hearts and show us the path we are to take. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalm 25:1-5 Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.
“I’m looking for my ticket,” said the Bishop.
“Well, that’s not a problem, Bishop. We’ll take care of you. It’s really quite all right,” replied the conductor.
“No, it isn’t,” said the Bishop. “I forgot where I am going!” confessed the Bishop.
“Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord, point out the right road for me to follow,” asked David. He knew that he needed guidance for life’s journey so he went to the ultimate source: God!
However, we all want to know: “How does God guide me personally?”
His primary “guidance system” is His Word and our prayers. If we truly want Him to lead us, we need to go to the “source” of His information. By carefully reading and meditating on His Word, and praying for His leadership in our lives, we will receive wisdom and insight on what to do.
However, if we want His insight and wisdom, we must spend time reading His Word and in prayer - waiting with an open mind and a sincere willingness for Him to reveal His path for us.
Prayer: Lord, we know that You have the path for us to take in life’s journey. As we read Your Word, open our eyes, speak to our hearts and show us the path we are to take. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalm 25:1-5 Show me the right path, O Lord; point out the road for me to follow.
Looking For God?
A French astronomer speaking to a group of intellects proudly declared, “I’ve swept the universe with my telescope, and I find no God. I’ve searched the skies for years but can find Him nowhere. Therefore, I have concluded that there is no God.”
Following him a humble, but world-renowned violinist came to the stage and said, “Your statement, dear sir, is just as foolish as for me to say, ‘I have searched inside my violin with a microscope to find a musician, and I could not find one.’ Because there is music, Sir, there must be a musician.”
“And, because there is a creation,” he concluded, “there must be a Creator!”
David declares that God has revealed Himself in and through nature. In nature, we learn about His power and greatness and our insignificance and finiteness. As God reveals Himself through Scripture, we learn about His holiness and our sinfulness. As God reveals Himself through our daily experiences, we learn about His grace and graciousness that frees us of our sin and guilt.
We are surrounded by God’s greatness so that we can see His many magnificent displays in nature. But the greatest display of God is in His work of love, grace, mercy, salvation, and hope in His Son. How can anyone expect more evidence of God than what we see in His Son, our Savior.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, for making Yourself visible in nature. But, we see You more clearly and convincingly in Your Son, Jesus, who came to seek and to save us, the lost, In His Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalms 19:1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
Following him a humble, but world-renowned violinist came to the stage and said, “Your statement, dear sir, is just as foolish as for me to say, ‘I have searched inside my violin with a microscope to find a musician, and I could not find one.’ Because there is music, Sir, there must be a musician.”
“And, because there is a creation,” he concluded, “there must be a Creator!”
David declares that God has revealed Himself in and through nature. In nature, we learn about His power and greatness and our insignificance and finiteness. As God reveals Himself through Scripture, we learn about His holiness and our sinfulness. As God reveals Himself through our daily experiences, we learn about His grace and graciousness that frees us of our sin and guilt.
We are surrounded by God’s greatness so that we can see His many magnificent displays in nature. But the greatest display of God is in His work of love, grace, mercy, salvation, and hope in His Son. How can anyone expect more evidence of God than what we see in His Son, our Savior.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, for making Yourself visible in nature. But, we see You more clearly and convincingly in Your Son, Jesus, who came to seek and to save us, the lost, In His Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalms 19:1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
Looking For God?
A French astronomer speaking to a group of intellects proudly declared, “I’ve swept the universe with my telescope, and I find no God. I’ve searched the skies for years but can find Him nowhere. Therefore, I have concluded that there is no God.”
Following him a humble, but world-renowned violinist came to the stage and said, “Your statement, dear sir, is just as foolish as for me to say, ‘I have searched inside my violin with a microscope to find a musician, and I could not find one.’ Because there is music, Sir, there must be a musician.”
“And, because there is a creation,” he concluded, “there must be a Creator!”
David declares that God has revealed Himself in and through nature. In nature, we learn about His power and greatness and our insignificance and finiteness. As God reveals Himself through Scripture, we learn about His holiness and our sinfulness. As God reveals Himself through our daily experiences, we learn about His grace and graciousness that frees us of our sin and guilt.
We are surrounded by God’s greatness so that we can see His many magnificent displays in nature. But the greatest display of God is in His work of love, grace, mercy, salvation, and hope in His Son. How can anyone expect more evidence of God than what we see in His Son, our Savior.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, for making Yourself visible in nature. But, we see You more clearly and convincingly in Your Son, Jesus, who came to seek and to save us, the lost, In His Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalms 19:1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
Following him a humble, but world-renowned violinist came to the stage and said, “Your statement, dear sir, is just as foolish as for me to say, ‘I have searched inside my violin with a microscope to find a musician, and I could not find one.’ Because there is music, Sir, there must be a musician.”
“And, because there is a creation,” he concluded, “there must be a Creator!”
David declares that God has revealed Himself in and through nature. In nature, we learn about His power and greatness and our insignificance and finiteness. As God reveals Himself through Scripture, we learn about His holiness and our sinfulness. As God reveals Himself through our daily experiences, we learn about His grace and graciousness that frees us of our sin and guilt.
We are surrounded by God’s greatness so that we can see His many magnificent displays in nature. But the greatest display of God is in His work of love, grace, mercy, salvation, and hope in His Son. How can anyone expect more evidence of God than what we see in His Son, our Savior.
Prayer: Thank you, Father, for making Yourself visible in nature. But, we see You more clearly and convincingly in Your Son, Jesus, who came to seek and to save us, the lost, In His Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Psalms 19:1 The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship.
How Did God Get In Your Life?
The new pastor wanted to get to know the members of his congregation. One evening, at a church dinner, he asked Mark, a deacon, how he came to know the Lord as his Savior.
To his surprise, Mark replied, “Well pastor, I believe God is at work in our family.”
One thing is for certain: If our faith is real and at work, it will be real and at work in our homes. Family relationships always seem to be “on the edge.” There are so many different wants and needs, so many competing priorities and interests, that relationships always seem to be stressed to the point of breaking.
The letter to the Ephesians has some sound advice for families. It very clearly states that children are to obey their parents as long as parents act in the will and way of God. Parents have every right to make expectations of their children that are in keeping with His Word. Ideally, parents will act with thoughtfulness, gentleness, and love. While this may seem difficult, if family member’s actions follow the teachings of God’s Word, each will put the other’s interests ahead of their own and selfishness will be replaced with selflessness because the real Father is the head of the home and worshiping Him will come first.
Fathers are also advised to “Bring up your children with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord.” If parents are submissive to God’s rules first, then God will bless their efforts,
Prayer: We pray, Father, for families that are struggling to survive, dealing with overwhelming problems that leave them hopeless. Give courage to follow your teachings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Ephesians 6:1-4 If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”
To his surprise, Mark replied, “Well pastor, I believe God is at work in our family.”
One thing is for certain: If our faith is real and at work, it will be real and at work in our homes. Family relationships always seem to be “on the edge.” There are so many different wants and needs, so many competing priorities and interests, that relationships always seem to be stressed to the point of breaking.
The letter to the Ephesians has some sound advice for families. It very clearly states that children are to obey their parents as long as parents act in the will and way of God. Parents have every right to make expectations of their children that are in keeping with His Word. Ideally, parents will act with thoughtfulness, gentleness, and love. While this may seem difficult, if family member’s actions follow the teachings of God’s Word, each will put the other’s interests ahead of their own and selfishness will be replaced with selflessness because the real Father is the head of the home and worshiping Him will come first.
Fathers are also advised to “Bring up your children with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord.” If parents are submissive to God’s rules first, then God will bless their efforts,
Prayer: We pray, Father, for families that are struggling to survive, dealing with overwhelming problems that leave them hopeless. Give courage to follow your teachings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Ephesians 6:1-4 If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”
How Did God Get In Your Life?
The new pastor wanted to get to know the members of his congregation. One evening, at a church dinner, he asked Mark, a deacon, how he came to know the Lord as his Savior.
To his surprise, Mark replied, “Well pastor, I believe God is at work in our family.”
One thing is for certain: If our faith is real and at work, it will be real and at work in our homes. Family relationships always seem to be “on the edge.” There are so many different wants and needs, so many competing priorities and interests, that relationships always seem to be stressed to the point of breaking.
The letter to the Ephesians has some sound advice for families. It very clearly states that children are to obey their parents as long as parents act in the will and way of God. Parents have every right to make expectations of their children that are in keeping with His Word. Ideally, parents will act with thoughtfulness, gentleness, and love. While this may seem difficult, if family member’s actions follow the teachings of God’s Word, each will put the other’s interests ahead of their own and selfishness will be replaced with selflessness because the real Father is the head of the home and worshiping Him will come first.
Fathers are also advised to “Bring up your children with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord.” If parents are submissive to God’s rules first, then God will bless their efforts,
Prayer: We pray, Father, for families that are struggling to survive, dealing with overwhelming problems that leave them hopeless. Give courage to follow your teachings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Ephesians 6:1-4 If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”
To his surprise, Mark replied, “Well pastor, I believe God is at work in our family.”
One thing is for certain: If our faith is real and at work, it will be real and at work in our homes. Family relationships always seem to be “on the edge.” There are so many different wants and needs, so many competing priorities and interests, that relationships always seem to be stressed to the point of breaking.
The letter to the Ephesians has some sound advice for families. It very clearly states that children are to obey their parents as long as parents act in the will and way of God. Parents have every right to make expectations of their children that are in keeping with His Word. Ideally, parents will act with thoughtfulness, gentleness, and love. While this may seem difficult, if family member’s actions follow the teachings of God’s Word, each will put the other’s interests ahead of their own and selfishness will be replaced with selflessness because the real Father is the head of the home and worshiping Him will come first.
Fathers are also advised to “Bring up your children with the discipline and instruction approved by the Lord.” If parents are submissive to God’s rules first, then God will bless their efforts,
Prayer: We pray, Father, for families that are struggling to survive, dealing with overwhelming problems that leave them hopeless. Give courage to follow your teachings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Ephesians 6:1-4 If you honor your father and mother, “things will go well for you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”
Prayer And Providence
An
ocean liner was in the midst of a terrible storm while making its way
from England to the United States. The ship was swaying violently
from side to side and heaving up and down as the waves washed over
the bow.
The
captain was trying his best to calm the people and encourage them not
to be frightened. Suddenly a lady shouted, “Do something!”
“We’re
doing our best,” said the captain calmly, “and we are trusting in
the providence of God.”
“Oh
my word,” she cried. “Is it that bad?”
The
word “providence” comes from two Latin words. One means “before”
and the other means “to see.” When the Christian speaks of
“providence,” it conveys the message that God knows the outcome
of the events in our lives before they happen. Not only that, He
knows and understands how those events which we sometimes resent are
working to shape us into the person He wants us to be!
Paul
said that whatever happens in the life of the Christian happens for
the Christian’s best interests. For this reason, he said that
“everything works together for their good who are called according
to His purpose.” Not that everything that happens to the Christian
is pleasant in and of itself. It means that everything that happens
is to shape us into the likeness of Christ. As we become more and
more like Him, He can use us more and more to do the work He has
called us to do.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, may we accept
the fact that You are at work in our lives and choose to accept the
fact that You love us and want us to be like Christ. 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.
Prayer And Providence
An ocean liner was in the midst of a terrible storm while making its way from England to the United States. The ship was swaying violently from side to side and heaving up and down as the waves washed over the bow.
The captain was trying his best to calm the people and encourage them not to be frightened. Suddenly a lady shouted, “Do something!”
“We’re doing our best,” said the captain calmly, “and we are trusting in the providence of God.”
“Oh my word,” she cried. “Is it that bad?”
The word “providence” comes from two Latin words. One means “before” and the other means “to see.” When the Christian speaks of “providence,” it conveys the message that God knows the outcome of the events in our lives before they happen. Not only that, He knows and understands how those events which we sometimes resent are working to shape us into the person He wants us to be!
Paul said that whatever happens in the life of the Christian happens for the Christian’s best interests. For this reason, he said that “everything works together for their good who are called according to His purpose.” Not that everything that happens to the Christian is pleasant in and of itself. It means that everything that happens is to shape us into the likeness of Christ. As we become more and more like Him, He can use us more and more to do the work He has called us to do.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may we accept the fact that You are at work in our lives and choose to accept the fact that You love us and want us to be like Christ. 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.
This Isn't Working Either!
It was “Mom’s Day-A-Way” and Jake and Dad were having the time of their lives. As soon as she left, the games began and were non-stop until it was time for lunch.
After lunch, it was time for a nap. But the activities of the morning were so intense that Jake could not settle down. Shades were drawn and lights out were not enough. He’d climb out of his bed and looked for his Dad, expecting the fun and games to begin again.
Finally, in desperation, Dad decided to lay down with Jake, thinking that if he set an example, Jake would allow his eyes to become heavy, and fall asleep and he would be rescued.
After a few moments, Jake sat straight up in bed and said proudly, “Dad, this isn’t working either, is it?”
God, in His eternal wisdom, planted a conscience in everyone’s heart - a moral compass that signals what is right or wrong. It is a universal fact, that no matter where we go in the world, from one culture to another, people know deep inside what is right and what is wrong. All societies have laws that keep people together and set limits on what is appropriate or how to treat others.
And even though we, as well as others, know what is right and what is expected of us, we still – at times - desire to do what is wrong. God has planted His standards in everyone’s heart, and when any heart becomes troubled - for whatever reason - it is His Holy Spirit doing His work to convict us of our unrighteousness and to turn to the Lord’s standards of right and wrong.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your “early warning signals” that alert us to Your standards. Make our hearts very sensitive to Your laws and convict us when we do wrong. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 2:15 They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.
After lunch, it was time for a nap. But the activities of the morning were so intense that Jake could not settle down. Shades were drawn and lights out were not enough. He’d climb out of his bed and looked for his Dad, expecting the fun and games to begin again.
Finally, in desperation, Dad decided to lay down with Jake, thinking that if he set an example, Jake would allow his eyes to become heavy, and fall asleep and he would be rescued.
After a few moments, Jake sat straight up in bed and said proudly, “Dad, this isn’t working either, is it?”
God, in His eternal wisdom, planted a conscience in everyone’s heart - a moral compass that signals what is right or wrong. It is a universal fact, that no matter where we go in the world, from one culture to another, people know deep inside what is right and what is wrong. All societies have laws that keep people together and set limits on what is appropriate or how to treat others.
And even though we, as well as others, know what is right and what is expected of us, we still – at times - desire to do what is wrong. God has planted His standards in everyone’s heart, and when any heart becomes troubled - for whatever reason - it is His Holy Spirit doing His work to convict us of our unrighteousness and to turn to the Lord’s standards of right and wrong.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your “early warning signals” that alert us to Your standards. Make our hearts very sensitive to Your laws and convict us when we do wrong. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 2:15 They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.
This Isn't Working Either!
It was “Mom’s Day-A-Way” and Jake and Dad were having the time of their lives. As soon as she left, the games began and were non-stop until it was time for lunch.
After lunch, it was time for a nap. But the activities of the morning were so intense that Jake could not settle down. Shades were drawn and lights out were not enough. He’d climb out of his bed and looked for his Dad, expecting the fun and games to begin again.
Finally, in desperation, Dad decided to lay down with Jake, thinking that if he set an example, Jake would allow his eyes to become heavy, and fall asleep and he would be rescued.
After a few moments, Jake sat straight up in bed and said proudly, “Dad, this isn’t working either, is it?”
God, in His eternal wisdom, planted a conscience in everyone’s heart - a moral compass that signals what is right or wrong. It is a universal fact, that no matter where we go in the world, from one culture to another, people know deep inside what is right and what is wrong. All societies have laws that keep people together and set limits on what is appropriate or how to treat others.
And even though we, as well as others, know what is right and what is expected of us, we still – at times - desire to do what is wrong. God has planted His standards in everyone’s heart, and when any heart becomes troubled - for whatever reason - it is His Holy Spirit doing His work to convict us of our unrighteousness and to turn to the Lord’s standards of right and wrong.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your “early warning signals” that alert us to Your standards. Make our hearts very sensitive to Your laws and convict us when we do wrong. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 2:15 They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.
After lunch, it was time for a nap. But the activities of the morning were so intense that Jake could not settle down. Shades were drawn and lights out were not enough. He’d climb out of his bed and looked for his Dad, expecting the fun and games to begin again.
Finally, in desperation, Dad decided to lay down with Jake, thinking that if he set an example, Jake would allow his eyes to become heavy, and fall asleep and he would be rescued.
After a few moments, Jake sat straight up in bed and said proudly, “Dad, this isn’t working either, is it?”
God, in His eternal wisdom, planted a conscience in everyone’s heart - a moral compass that signals what is right or wrong. It is a universal fact, that no matter where we go in the world, from one culture to another, people know deep inside what is right and what is wrong. All societies have laws that keep people together and set limits on what is appropriate or how to treat others.
And even though we, as well as others, know what is right and what is expected of us, we still – at times - desire to do what is wrong. God has planted His standards in everyone’s heart, and when any heart becomes troubled - for whatever reason - it is His Holy Spirit doing His work to convict us of our unrighteousness and to turn to the Lord’s standards of right and wrong.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your “early warning signals” that alert us to Your standards. Make our hearts very sensitive to Your laws and convict us when we do wrong. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Romans 2:15 They demonstrate that God’s law is written in their hearts, for their own conscience and thoughts either accuse them or tell them they are doing right.
Pull Or Push - Which Is Better?
General Dwight D. Eisenhower is recognized as one of the greatest leaders in all of history. After a brilliant military career, he became a trusted and honored president.
On one occasion he was asked to describe the art of leadership. Rather than describing it, he decided to demonstrate it. To illustrate his point, he put a piece of string on a table and said, “Push it and it will go nowhere. Pull it and it will follow.”
Few of us will ever say to others: “Look at me. I am a good example. Follow me and do as I do.” But that’s exactly what Paul wrote in his letter to the Corinthians. Quite a daring statement!
He was able to set himself up as an example, however, because he walked close to his Lord and Savior, spent much time studying God’s Word, and praying and witnessing. Because he was “in Christ” he lived his life “through Christ” and could say to others, “I ask you to follow my example and do as I do.” At all times and in every situation whatever Paul did is what he believed Jesus Christ, his Savior and Lord would have done.
If there ever was a Christian leader who “pulled” people to the Lord, it was Paul. We see it in his faith that sustained him in situations far beyond our imagination. We are inspired by his hope that never faltered when he had no reason to hope. And, above all, his very life defined love.
Prayer: Father, it is frightening to think that others may look at us and imitate what we do because they assume we are Your examples. May our lives be worthy of imitating. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 4:16 So I urge you to imitate me.
On one occasion he was asked to describe the art of leadership. Rather than describing it, he decided to demonstrate it. To illustrate his point, he put a piece of string on a table and said, “Push it and it will go nowhere. Pull it and it will follow.”
Few of us will ever say to others: “Look at me. I am a good example. Follow me and do as I do.” But that’s exactly what Paul wrote in his letter to the Corinthians. Quite a daring statement!
He was able to set himself up as an example, however, because he walked close to his Lord and Savior, spent much time studying God’s Word, and praying and witnessing. Because he was “in Christ” he lived his life “through Christ” and could say to others, “I ask you to follow my example and do as I do.” At all times and in every situation whatever Paul did is what he believed Jesus Christ, his Savior and Lord would have done.
If there ever was a Christian leader who “pulled” people to the Lord, it was Paul. We see it in his faith that sustained him in situations far beyond our imagination. We are inspired by his hope that never faltered when he had no reason to hope. And, above all, his very life defined love.
Prayer: Father, it is frightening to think that others may look at us and imitate what we do because they assume we are Your examples. May our lives be worthy of imitating. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 4:16 So I urge you to imitate me.
Pull Or Push - Which Is Better?
General Dwight D. Eisenhower is recognized as one of the greatest leaders in all of history. After a brilliant military career, he became a trusted and honored president.
On one occasion he was asked to describe the art of leadership. Rather than describing it, he decided to demonstrate it. To illustrate his point, he put a piece of string on a table and said, “Push it and it will go nowhere. Pull it and it will follow.”
Few of us will ever say to others: “Look at me. I am a good example. Follow me and do as I do.” But that’s exactly what Paul wrote in his letter to the Corinthians. Quite a daring statement!
He was able to set himself up as an example, however, because he walked close to his Lord and Savior, spent much time studying God’s Word, and praying and witnessing. Because he was “in Christ” he lived his life “through Christ” and could say to others, “I ask you to follow my example and do as I do.” At all times and in every situation whatever Paul did is what he believed Jesus Christ, his Savior and Lord would have done.
If there ever was a Christian leader who “pulled” people to the Lord, it was Paul. We see it in his faith that sustained him in situations far beyond our imagination. We are inspired by his hope that never faltered when he had no reason to hope. And, above all, his very life defined love.
Prayer: Father, it is frightening to think that others may look at us and imitate what we do because they assume we are Your examples. May our lives be worthy of imitating. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 4:16 So I urge you to imitate me.
On one occasion he was asked to describe the art of leadership. Rather than describing it, he decided to demonstrate it. To illustrate his point, he put a piece of string on a table and said, “Push it and it will go nowhere. Pull it and it will follow.”
Few of us will ever say to others: “Look at me. I am a good example. Follow me and do as I do.” But that’s exactly what Paul wrote in his letter to the Corinthians. Quite a daring statement!
He was able to set himself up as an example, however, because he walked close to his Lord and Savior, spent much time studying God’s Word, and praying and witnessing. Because he was “in Christ” he lived his life “through Christ” and could say to others, “I ask you to follow my example and do as I do.” At all times and in every situation whatever Paul did is what he believed Jesus Christ, his Savior and Lord would have done.
If there ever was a Christian leader who “pulled” people to the Lord, it was Paul. We see it in his faith that sustained him in situations far beyond our imagination. We are inspired by his hope that never faltered when he had no reason to hope. And, above all, his very life defined love.
Prayer: Father, it is frightening to think that others may look at us and imitate what we do because they assume we are Your examples. May our lives be worthy of imitating. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 1 Corinthians 4:16 So I urge you to imitate me.
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