Driving through a fierce snow-storm, Greg lost control of his car, and it slipped into a deep ditch. A truck stopped, and the driver got out and surveyed the situation. After a few moments, he yelled at Greg and said, “Hey, you, let me tell you how to drive on slippery roads.”
“Forget it!” said Greg. “I don’t need advice, I need help.”
David knew what it was to need help. On one occasion he cried out, “I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for You are a faithful God.”
David demonstrated his complete faith in God when he proclaimed these words. And, Jesus, when He was dying on the cross, showed His absolute confidence in God, when He uttered this same phrase. And, Stephen repeated these identical words when he was being stoned to death, confidently expressing his Hope in God as he was passing into eternity.
How blest we are to be able to join David, Jesus, and Stephen in knowing that we can say with no hesitation, “I entrust my spirit into your hand, Lord.” It does not matter what we have or what we do, whether we live alone in a cell or have large families, whether we manage great corporations or work alone, unnoticed. We have the same opportunity as they did to entrust ourselves and all that we have or ever will have to Him.
Prayer: How grateful we are, Heavenly Father, to know that we can - if we choose - trust You to care for and be with us in and through all the dangers of life. Thanks! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for You are a faithful God. Psalm 31
Slippery Roads
Driving through a fierce snow-storm, Greg lost control of his car, and it slipped into a deep ditch. A truck stopped, and the driver got out and surveyed the situation. After a few moments, he yelled at Greg and said, “Hey, you, let me tell you how to drive on slippery roads.”
“Forget it!” said Greg. “I don’t need advice, I need help.”
David knew what it was to need help. On one occasion he cried out, “I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for You are a faithful God.”
David demonstrated his complete faith in God when he proclaimed these words. And, Jesus, when He was dying on the cross, showed His absolute confidence in God, when He uttered this same phrase. And, Stephen repeated these identical words when he was being stoned to death, confidently expressing his Hope in God as he was passing into eternity.
How blest we are to be able to join David, Jesus, and Stephen in knowing that we can say with no hesitation, “I entrust my spirit into your hand, Lord.” It does not matter what we have or what we do, whether we live alone in a cell or have large families, whether we manage great corporations or work alone, unnoticed. We have the same opportunity as they did to entrust ourselves and all that we have or ever will have to Him.
Prayer: How grateful we are, Heavenly Father, to know that we can - if we choose - trust You to care for and be with us in and through all the dangers of life. Thanks! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for You are a faithful God. Psalm 31
“Forget it!” said Greg. “I don’t need advice, I need help.”
David knew what it was to need help. On one occasion he cried out, “I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for You are a faithful God.”
David demonstrated his complete faith in God when he proclaimed these words. And, Jesus, when He was dying on the cross, showed His absolute confidence in God, when He uttered this same phrase. And, Stephen repeated these identical words when he was being stoned to death, confidently expressing his Hope in God as he was passing into eternity.
How blest we are to be able to join David, Jesus, and Stephen in knowing that we can say with no hesitation, “I entrust my spirit into your hand, Lord.” It does not matter what we have or what we do, whether we live alone in a cell or have large families, whether we manage great corporations or work alone, unnoticed. We have the same opportunity as they did to entrust ourselves and all that we have or ever will have to Him.
Prayer: How grateful we are, Heavenly Father, to know that we can - if we choose - trust You to care for and be with us in and through all the dangers of life. Thanks! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I entrust my spirit into your hand. Rescue me, Lord, for You are a faithful God. Psalm 31
Positive Thinking
One warm summer day a snail began climbing an apple tree. As he moved upward, he heard a voice calling, “There’s no reason for you to climb this tree. There are no apples up there.” Looking around he saw a worm basking in the warmth of the sun.
Returning his attention to the task before him, the snail shouted back, “There will be when I get up there.”
A great example of positive thinking was Noah. If you recall, “God warned him about something that had never happened before and by faith he built an ark to save his family.”
Perhaps no one in history experienced more ridicule and rejection for being different from his neighbors than Noah. God commanded him to build a huge boat in the middle of dry land. This certainly made no sense to him when he got his instructions from God. But, it didn’t matter. He did what God asked Him to do! And, although his behavior seemed strange to his neighbors, it made no difference to him. Being obedient to God did.
God often asks Christians to do things that seem strange to those who do not know Him. Being obedient to God often makes what we do look odd, perhaps even weird, to those who do not know the Lord. However, whenever God asks us to do something – even strange - He also gives us the ability and courage to overcome the scorn of the skeptics and succeed.
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to keep our eyes on You and on what You call us to do. Give us faith and persistence to do what You call us to do and never waiver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7
Returning his attention to the task before him, the snail shouted back, “There will be when I get up there.”
A great example of positive thinking was Noah. If you recall, “God warned him about something that had never happened before and by faith he built an ark to save his family.”
Perhaps no one in history experienced more ridicule and rejection for being different from his neighbors than Noah. God commanded him to build a huge boat in the middle of dry land. This certainly made no sense to him when he got his instructions from God. But, it didn’t matter. He did what God asked Him to do! And, although his behavior seemed strange to his neighbors, it made no difference to him. Being obedient to God did.
God often asks Christians to do things that seem strange to those who do not know Him. Being obedient to God often makes what we do look odd, perhaps even weird, to those who do not know the Lord. However, whenever God asks us to do something – even strange - He also gives us the ability and courage to overcome the scorn of the skeptics and succeed.
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to keep our eyes on You and on what You call us to do. Give us faith and persistence to do what You call us to do and never waiver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7
Positive Thinking
One warm summer day a snail began climbing an apple tree. As he moved upward, he heard a voice calling, “There’s no reason for you to climb this tree. There are no apples up there.” Looking around he saw a worm basking in the warmth of the sun.
Returning his attention to the task before him, the snail shouted back, “There will be when I get up there.”
A great example of positive thinking was Noah. If you recall, “God warned him about something that had never happened before and by faith he built an ark to save his family.”
Perhaps no one in history experienced more ridicule and rejection for being different from his neighbors than Noah. God commanded him to build a huge boat in the middle of dry land. This certainly made no sense to him when he got his instructions from God. But, it didn’t matter. He did what God asked Him to do! And, although his behavior seemed strange to his neighbors, it made no difference to him. Being obedient to God did.
God often asks Christians to do things that seem strange to those who do not know Him. Being obedient to God often makes what we do look odd, perhaps even weird, to those who do not know the Lord. However, whenever God asks us to do something – even strange - He also gives us the ability and courage to overcome the scorn of the skeptics and succeed.
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to keep our eyes on You and on what You call us to do. Give us faith and persistence to do what You call us to do and never waiver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7
Returning his attention to the task before him, the snail shouted back, “There will be when I get up there.”
A great example of positive thinking was Noah. If you recall, “God warned him about something that had never happened before and by faith he built an ark to save his family.”
Perhaps no one in history experienced more ridicule and rejection for being different from his neighbors than Noah. God commanded him to build a huge boat in the middle of dry land. This certainly made no sense to him when he got his instructions from God. But, it didn’t matter. He did what God asked Him to do! And, although his behavior seemed strange to his neighbors, it made no difference to him. Being obedient to God did.
God often asks Christians to do things that seem strange to those who do not know Him. Being obedient to God often makes what we do look odd, perhaps even weird, to those who do not know the Lord. However, whenever God asks us to do something – even strange - He also gives us the ability and courage to overcome the scorn of the skeptics and succeed.
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to keep our eyes on You and on what You call us to do. Give us faith and persistence to do what You call us to do and never waiver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: It was by faith that Noah built a large boat to save his family from the flood. He obeyed God, who warned him about things that had never happened before. By his faith Noah condemned the rest of the world, and he received the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7
What Do You Want?
A young man, aspiring to become a great philosopher, went to Socrates and said, “I want knowledge. What must I do to get it?”
Socrates asked the young man to accompany him to a beach. After staring at the water for a few moments, he asked the young man to join him and walk with him into the water. They waded slowly into the water until they were neck deep. After pausing for a moment he suddenly pushed him under the water and held him there. The young man struggled and finally, after becoming exhausted, Socrates allowed him to surface and take some deep breaths.
After releasing him, Socrates asked, “While you were struggling underneath the water, what did you want more than anything in the world?”
“Air,” came the quick reply.
“When you want knowledge as much as you wanted air,” said the philosopher, “then you will get it.”
Whatever our hearts truly desire is what motivates us. Throughout the Bible, we are reminded constantly of this irony: If we focus our attention on the things of this world, we will no doubt acquire many “things.” If, on the other hand, we “Delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts,” and good things will come to us as by-products of His grace and goodness. We have His promise and that’s all we need!
Prayer: Lord, we ask for Your Spirit to move in our hearts and create a deep desire within us that will encourage us to take delight in honoring You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Take delight in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts. Psalm 37:4
Socrates asked the young man to accompany him to a beach. After staring at the water for a few moments, he asked the young man to join him and walk with him into the water. They waded slowly into the water until they were neck deep. After pausing for a moment he suddenly pushed him under the water and held him there. The young man struggled and finally, after becoming exhausted, Socrates allowed him to surface and take some deep breaths.
After releasing him, Socrates asked, “While you were struggling underneath the water, what did you want more than anything in the world?”
“Air,” came the quick reply.
“When you want knowledge as much as you wanted air,” said the philosopher, “then you will get it.”
Whatever our hearts truly desire is what motivates us. Throughout the Bible, we are reminded constantly of this irony: If we focus our attention on the things of this world, we will no doubt acquire many “things.” If, on the other hand, we “Delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts,” and good things will come to us as by-products of His grace and goodness. We have His promise and that’s all we need!
Prayer: Lord, we ask for Your Spirit to move in our hearts and create a deep desire within us that will encourage us to take delight in honoring You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Take delight in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts. Psalm 37:4
What Do You Want?
A young man, aspiring to become a great philosopher, went to Socrates and said, “I want knowledge. What must I do to get it?”
Socrates asked the young man to accompany him to a beach. After staring at the water for a few moments, he asked the young man to join him and walk with him into the water. They waded slowly into the water until they were neck deep. After pausing for a moment he suddenly pushed him under the water and held him there. The young man struggled and finally, after becoming exhausted, Socrates allowed him to surface and take some deep breaths.
After releasing him, Socrates asked, “While you were struggling underneath the water, what did you want more than anything in the world?”
“Air,” came the quick reply.
“When you want knowledge as much as you wanted air,” said the philosopher, “then you will get it.”
Whatever our hearts truly desire is what motivates us. Throughout the Bible, we are reminded constantly of this irony: If we focus our attention on the things of this world, we will no doubt acquire many “things.” If, on the other hand, we “Delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts,” and good things will come to us as by-products of His grace and goodness. We have His promise and that’s all we need!
Prayer: Lord, we ask for Your Spirit to move in our hearts and create a deep desire within us that will encourage us to take delight in honoring You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Take delight in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts. Psalm 37:4
Socrates asked the young man to accompany him to a beach. After staring at the water for a few moments, he asked the young man to join him and walk with him into the water. They waded slowly into the water until they were neck deep. After pausing for a moment he suddenly pushed him under the water and held him there. The young man struggled and finally, after becoming exhausted, Socrates allowed him to surface and take some deep breaths.
After releasing him, Socrates asked, “While you were struggling underneath the water, what did you want more than anything in the world?”
“Air,” came the quick reply.
“When you want knowledge as much as you wanted air,” said the philosopher, “then you will get it.”
Whatever our hearts truly desire is what motivates us. Throughout the Bible, we are reminded constantly of this irony: If we focus our attention on the things of this world, we will no doubt acquire many “things.” If, on the other hand, we “Delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts,” and good things will come to us as by-products of His grace and goodness. We have His promise and that’s all we need!
Prayer: Lord, we ask for Your Spirit to move in our hearts and create a deep desire within us that will encourage us to take delight in honoring You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Take delight in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts. Psalm 37:4
How Much Good Should We Have?
It was the first parent-teacher conference of the year. Mrs. Adams was a bit fearful as she entered her son’s classroom. Seated across from her son’s teacher she did not know what to expect.
“Mrs. Adams,” began the teacher, “it is a delight to have your son as a student in my class. He is so good!”
“My son?” gasped Mrs. Adams. She was shocked beyond belief.
“Yes. Charles is a model student,” the teacher continued.
Then, turning to her son, Mrs. Adams said to Charles, “Your teacher said that you are a good student. Even a model student. Why can’t you be good at home?”
“Well, Mom,” he replied slowly, “I only got so much goodness in me and I decided to use it in school.”
Goodness is an expression of “God-like-ness” that should reside inside of every believer and find its way outside of us in showing God’s love and grace to others. “God-like-ness” should come easily, naturally, and constantly in our relationships with others.
As we become more of who God wants us to be, more “God-like,” we must allow Him to move freely in us and through us. As we sense His love flooding into our hearts, showing “God-like-ness” should not be something we force ourselves to do. Rather, it is something we do without even thinking about it because we are a child of God.
Prayer: Help us, Heavenly Father, to express “God-like-ness” to others as You have expressed God-love to us. May our ‘God-like-ness” reflect Your love for them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
“Mrs. Adams,” began the teacher, “it is a delight to have your son as a student in my class. He is so good!”
“My son?” gasped Mrs. Adams. She was shocked beyond belief.
“Yes. Charles is a model student,” the teacher continued.
Then, turning to her son, Mrs. Adams said to Charles, “Your teacher said that you are a good student. Even a model student. Why can’t you be good at home?”
“Well, Mom,” he replied slowly, “I only got so much goodness in me and I decided to use it in school.”
Goodness is an expression of “God-like-ness” that should reside inside of every believer and find its way outside of us in showing God’s love and grace to others. “God-like-ness” should come easily, naturally, and constantly in our relationships with others.
As we become more of who God wants us to be, more “God-like,” we must allow Him to move freely in us and through us. As we sense His love flooding into our hearts, showing “God-like-ness” should not be something we force ourselves to do. Rather, it is something we do without even thinking about it because we are a child of God.
Prayer: Help us, Heavenly Father, to express “God-like-ness” to others as You have expressed God-love to us. May our ‘God-like-ness” reflect Your love for them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
How Much Good Should We Have?
It was the first parent-teacher conference of the year. Mrs. Adams was a bit fearful as she entered her son’s classroom. Seated across from her son’s teacher she did not know what to expect.
“Mrs. Adams,” began the teacher, “it is a delight to have your son as a student in my class. He is so good!”
“My son?” gasped Mrs. Adams. She was shocked beyond belief.
“Yes. Charles is a model student,” the teacher continued.
Then, turning to her son, Mrs. Adams said to Charles, “Your teacher said that you are a good student. Even a model student. Why can’t you be good at home?”
“Well, Mom,” he replied slowly, “I only got so much goodness in me and I decided to use it in school.”
Goodness is an expression of “God-like-ness” that should reside inside of every believer and find its way outside of us in showing God’s love and grace to others. “God-like-ness” should come easily, naturally, and constantly in our relationships with others.
As we become more of who God wants us to be, more “God-like,” we must allow Him to move freely in us and through us. As we sense His love flooding into our hearts, showing “God-like-ness” should not be something we force ourselves to do. Rather, it is something we do without even thinking about it because we are a child of God.
Prayer: Help us, Heavenly Father, to express “God-like-ness” to others as You have expressed God-love to us. May our ‘God-like-ness” reflect Your love for them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
“Mrs. Adams,” began the teacher, “it is a delight to have your son as a student in my class. He is so good!”
“My son?” gasped Mrs. Adams. She was shocked beyond belief.
“Yes. Charles is a model student,” the teacher continued.
Then, turning to her son, Mrs. Adams said to Charles, “Your teacher said that you are a good student. Even a model student. Why can’t you be good at home?”
“Well, Mom,” he replied slowly, “I only got so much goodness in me and I decided to use it in school.”
Goodness is an expression of “God-like-ness” that should reside inside of every believer and find its way outside of us in showing God’s love and grace to others. “God-like-ness” should come easily, naturally, and constantly in our relationships with others.
As we become more of who God wants us to be, more “God-like,” we must allow Him to move freely in us and through us. As we sense His love flooding into our hearts, showing “God-like-ness” should not be something we force ourselves to do. Rather, it is something we do without even thinking about it because we are a child of God.
Prayer: Help us, Heavenly Father, to express “God-like-ness” to others as You have expressed God-love to us. May our ‘God-like-ness” reflect Your love for them. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:10
Only One Way
Janie was having lunch with her friend Margie who had just started a new job. Anxiously, she asked, “How do you like your new boss?”
“Well, he’s O.K.,” said Margie. Then continued, “He’s kind of bigoted, though.”
“What do you mean, bigoted?” she wondered.
“Well,” answered Margie, “he thinks that words can only be spelled one way.”
Being bigoted is not always wrong. Sometimes it is necessary and important, even critical. Though we often think a bigoted person is unreasonable and unwholesome, there are times when it is essential to be fanatical about some things in life.
One of those “things” is the “way to the Father.” Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me!”
Peter was also bigoted when he said, “There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them.”
There are those whom we encounter every day that refuse to accept the fact that there is only one Name and one Person who can be called upon for salvation. This one way to eternal life did not come from a church or the disciples but from Jesus Himself.
God designated His Jesus – His One and only Son - to be the Savior of the world. There is no one else or any other way. Accept that “Way” today!
Prayer: Lord, help us to realize how important it is to fully accept, believe, and declare that You alone are the only way to God and eternal life. May we never waver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:1-6
“Well, he’s O.K.,” said Margie. Then continued, “He’s kind of bigoted, though.”
“What do you mean, bigoted?” she wondered.
“Well,” answered Margie, “he thinks that words can only be spelled one way.”
Being bigoted is not always wrong. Sometimes it is necessary and important, even critical. Though we often think a bigoted person is unreasonable and unwholesome, there are times when it is essential to be fanatical about some things in life.
One of those “things” is the “way to the Father.” Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me!”
Peter was also bigoted when he said, “There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them.”
There are those whom we encounter every day that refuse to accept the fact that there is only one Name and one Person who can be called upon for salvation. This one way to eternal life did not come from a church or the disciples but from Jesus Himself.
God designated His Jesus – His One and only Son - to be the Savior of the world. There is no one else or any other way. Accept that “Way” today!
Prayer: Lord, help us to realize how important it is to fully accept, believe, and declare that You alone are the only way to God and eternal life. May we never waver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:1-6
Only One Way
Janie was having lunch with her friend Margie who had just started a new job. Anxiously, she asked, “How do you like your new boss?”
“Well, he’s O.K.,” said Margie. Then continued, “He’s kind of bigoted, though.”
“What do you mean, bigoted?” she wondered.
“Well,” answered Margie, “he thinks that words can only be spelled one way.”
Being bigoted is not always wrong. Sometimes it is necessary and important, even critical. Though we often think a bigoted person is unreasonable and unwholesome, there are times when it is essential to be fanatical about some things in life.
One of those “things” is the “way to the Father.” Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me!”
Peter was also bigoted when he said, “There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them.”
There are those whom we encounter every day that refuse to accept the fact that there is only one Name and one Person who can be called upon for salvation. This one way to eternal life did not come from a church or the disciples but from Jesus Himself.
God designated His Jesus – His One and only Son - to be the Savior of the world. There is no one else or any other way. Accept that “Way” today!
Prayer: Lord, help us to realize how important it is to fully accept, believe, and declare that You alone are the only way to God and eternal life. May we never waver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:1-6
“Well, he’s O.K.,” said Margie. Then continued, “He’s kind of bigoted, though.”
“What do you mean, bigoted?” she wondered.
“Well,” answered Margie, “he thinks that words can only be spelled one way.”
Being bigoted is not always wrong. Sometimes it is necessary and important, even critical. Though we often think a bigoted person is unreasonable and unwholesome, there are times when it is essential to be fanatical about some things in life.
One of those “things” is the “way to the Father.” Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me!”
Peter was also bigoted when he said, “There is salvation in no one else! There is no other name in all of heaven for people to call on to save them.”
There are those whom we encounter every day that refuse to accept the fact that there is only one Name and one Person who can be called upon for salvation. This one way to eternal life did not come from a church or the disciples but from Jesus Himself.
God designated His Jesus – His One and only Son - to be the Savior of the world. There is no one else or any other way. Accept that “Way” today!
Prayer: Lord, help us to realize how important it is to fully accept, believe, and declare that You alone are the only way to God and eternal life. May we never waver. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:1-6
I Must Know Them!
Years ago there was a king who would leave his palace and walk through the streets of his city dressed as though he was one of his subjects. His guards feared for his life and often would try to stop him. Said one, “You must not do silliness for security’s sake!”
“But,” he replied, “I can’t rule my people unless I know them and how they live.”
What a comfort to know that our God knows us and understands us from having lived a human life in and through His Son, Jesus. Whatever we face He has faced and whatever path we travel He has traveled. Jesus learned life’s secrets in the school of experience and can now bring us His encouragement, strength, insight, and guidance.
We often forget that Jesus gained His knowledge of life’s ways because He was here among “us.” And He is now with His Father and remembers what it is like to be lonely and rejected, abandoned and fearful, alone and afraid, weary, and worn out. He understands what it means to be tempted and tried, scorned and rejected, bullied and beaten, and even forsaken by His very own “disciples in training.”
And it is because He passed through all of these experiences that now, in Heaven, He can be touched with our problems, and give us His help, hope, and healing, empathy and understanding, sympathy and strength. Remember, He endured and survived whatever His Father brought into His life, and His Father – our Heavenly Father – will do the same for us!
Prayer: We are grateful, Father, that You know us, understand us, and now intercede for us. This gives us the confidence to hold on to You tightly and never give up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:14-16
“But,” he replied, “I can’t rule my people unless I know them and how they live.”
What a comfort to know that our God knows us and understands us from having lived a human life in and through His Son, Jesus. Whatever we face He has faced and whatever path we travel He has traveled. Jesus learned life’s secrets in the school of experience and can now bring us His encouragement, strength, insight, and guidance.
We often forget that Jesus gained His knowledge of life’s ways because He was here among “us.” And He is now with His Father and remembers what it is like to be lonely and rejected, abandoned and fearful, alone and afraid, weary, and worn out. He understands what it means to be tempted and tried, scorned and rejected, bullied and beaten, and even forsaken by His very own “disciples in training.”
And it is because He passed through all of these experiences that now, in Heaven, He can be touched with our problems, and give us His help, hope, and healing, empathy and understanding, sympathy and strength. Remember, He endured and survived whatever His Father brought into His life, and His Father – our Heavenly Father – will do the same for us!
Prayer: We are grateful, Father, that You know us, understand us, and now intercede for us. This gives us the confidence to hold on to You tightly and never give up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:14-16
I Must Know Them!
Years ago there was a king who would leave his palace and walk through the streets of his city dressed as though he was one of his subjects. His guards feared for his life and often would try to stop him. Said one, “You must not do silliness for security’s sake!”
“But,” he replied, “I can’t rule my people unless I know them and how they live.”
What a comfort to know that our God knows us and understands us from having lived a human life in and through His Son, Jesus. Whatever we face He has faced and whatever path we travel He has traveled. Jesus learned life’s secrets in the school of experience and can now bring us His encouragement, strength, insight, and guidance.
We often forget that Jesus gained His knowledge of life’s ways because He was here among “us.” And He is now with His Father and remembers what it is like to be lonely and rejected, abandoned and fearful, alone and afraid, weary, and worn out. He understands what it means to be tempted and tried, scorned and rejected, bullied and beaten, and even forsaken by His very own “disciples in training.”
And it is because He passed through all of these experiences that now, in Heaven, He can be touched with our problems, and give us His help, hope, and healing, empathy and understanding, sympathy and strength. Remember, He endured and survived whatever His Father brought into His life, and His Father – our Heavenly Father – will do the same for us!
Prayer: We are grateful, Father, that You know us, understand us, and now intercede for us. This gives us the confidence to hold on to You tightly and never give up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:14-16
“But,” he replied, “I can’t rule my people unless I know them and how they live.”
What a comfort to know that our God knows us and understands us from having lived a human life in and through His Son, Jesus. Whatever we face He has faced and whatever path we travel He has traveled. Jesus learned life’s secrets in the school of experience and can now bring us His encouragement, strength, insight, and guidance.
We often forget that Jesus gained His knowledge of life’s ways because He was here among “us.” And He is now with His Father and remembers what it is like to be lonely and rejected, abandoned and fearful, alone and afraid, weary, and worn out. He understands what it means to be tempted and tried, scorned and rejected, bullied and beaten, and even forsaken by His very own “disciples in training.”
And it is because He passed through all of these experiences that now, in Heaven, He can be touched with our problems, and give us His help, hope, and healing, empathy and understanding, sympathy and strength. Remember, He endured and survived whatever His Father brought into His life, and His Father – our Heavenly Father – will do the same for us!
Prayer: We are grateful, Father, that You know us, understand us, and now intercede for us. This gives us the confidence to hold on to You tightly and never give up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do, yet he did not sin. Hebrews 4:14-16
What's In Your Mind?
A group of visitors was watching a potter fashion an object from shapeless clay. Intrigued, one of them asked, “What are you making?”
“Something very beautiful,” he answered.
“How do you know it’s going to be beautiful?” asked the visitor.
“Because I can see it in my mind,” he replied.
Isaiah made a profound statement about the potter and his clay. “Lord,” he began, “you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.”
Whenever and wherever pottery is mentioned in Scripture, the story is the same: the potter has power over the clay. He can do with the clay what he wills and shape objects that have a wide variety of uses. One may be used as a vessel to carry water or store grain. Another may be used to contain oil for a lamp that will shed light in dark places. Again, the potter may make a bowl for soup or a plate for a feast. The clay has no power or influence over the outcome of the process. The potter has control over the clay and will shape the clay carefully according to his will to fulfill its purpose.
Likewise for the Christian. God has a specific plan in His mind for each of our lives. For us to fulfill His purpose, He must shape us and mold us as a potter does with his clay until we are ready for His use.
Prayer: We thank You, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan and a purpose for each of us. May we be patient and willing to be made into Your likeness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand. Isaiah 64:8
“Something very beautiful,” he answered.
“How do you know it’s going to be beautiful?” asked the visitor.
“Because I can see it in my mind,” he replied.
Isaiah made a profound statement about the potter and his clay. “Lord,” he began, “you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.”
Whenever and wherever pottery is mentioned in Scripture, the story is the same: the potter has power over the clay. He can do with the clay what he wills and shape objects that have a wide variety of uses. One may be used as a vessel to carry water or store grain. Another may be used to contain oil for a lamp that will shed light in dark places. Again, the potter may make a bowl for soup or a plate for a feast. The clay has no power or influence over the outcome of the process. The potter has control over the clay and will shape the clay carefully according to his will to fulfill its purpose.
Likewise for the Christian. God has a specific plan in His mind for each of our lives. For us to fulfill His purpose, He must shape us and mold us as a potter does with his clay until we are ready for His use.
Prayer: We thank You, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan and a purpose for each of us. May we be patient and willing to be made into Your likeness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand. Isaiah 64:8
What's In Your Mind?
A group of visitors was watching a potter fashion an object from shapeless clay. Intrigued, one of them asked, “What are you making?”
“Something very beautiful,” he answered.
“How do you know it’s going to be beautiful?” asked the visitor.
“Because I can see it in my mind,” he replied.
Isaiah made a profound statement about the potter and his clay. “Lord,” he began, “you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.”
Whenever and wherever pottery is mentioned in Scripture, the story is the same: the potter has power over the clay. He can do with the clay what he wills and shape objects that have a wide variety of uses. One may be used as a vessel to carry water or store grain. Another may be used to contain oil for a lamp that will shed light in dark places. Again, the potter may make a bowl for soup or a plate for a feast. The clay has no power or influence over the outcome of the process. The potter has control over the clay and will shape the clay carefully according to his will to fulfill its purpose.
Likewise for the Christian. God has a specific plan in His mind for each of our lives. For us to fulfill His purpose, He must shape us and mold us as a potter does with his clay until we are ready for His use.
Prayer: We thank You, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan and a purpose for each of us. May we be patient and willing to be made into Your likeness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand. Isaiah 64:8
“Something very beautiful,” he answered.
“How do you know it’s going to be beautiful?” asked the visitor.
“Because I can see it in my mind,” he replied.
Isaiah made a profound statement about the potter and his clay. “Lord,” he began, “you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand.”
Whenever and wherever pottery is mentioned in Scripture, the story is the same: the potter has power over the clay. He can do with the clay what he wills and shape objects that have a wide variety of uses. One may be used as a vessel to carry water or store grain. Another may be used to contain oil for a lamp that will shed light in dark places. Again, the potter may make a bowl for soup or a plate for a feast. The clay has no power or influence over the outcome of the process. The potter has control over the clay and will shape the clay carefully according to his will to fulfill its purpose.
Likewise for the Christian. God has a specific plan in His mind for each of our lives. For us to fulfill His purpose, He must shape us and mold us as a potter does with his clay until we are ready for His use.
Prayer: We thank You, Heavenly Father, that You have a plan and a purpose for each of us. May we be patient and willing to be made into Your likeness. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Lord, you are our Father. We are the clay, and you are the potter. We are all formed by your hand. Isaiah 64:8
Now It's My Time
Horace Whittell of England hated alarm clocks with a passion. Every weekday morning for 47 years he had been awakened at 6:00 a.m. to go to work. On the day after he retired, he took his clock outside, placed it on a rock, and smashed it into little pieces shouting, “I’m through with you!”
For many, there is nothing that can be more disturbing than an alarm clock that awakens them from a comfortable sleep. It may signal another boring day filled with boring people, endless interruptions, and meaningless tasks. For others, it may be the beginning of a day filled with one crisis after another, irritable people, and problems that cannot be solved.
How different for the Christian! Every day can be a special day, a day filled with unique challenges and great opportunities to witness and serve our Lord.
Solomon wrote, “There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun.” This verse reminds us that God has a special plan and definite purpose that He has designed for each of us. And, if we want to enjoy a peaceful, productive, and purposeful life, we must look to Him for His goodness, guidance, and grace.
When we discover, accept, and fulfill His plan, we will enjoy His blessings every moment of every day. What may have been an annoying alarm may be God’s voice calling us to another “season” of service, informing us of something significant that only we can do for Him.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for calling us to lives that are filled with countless opportunities to serve You in endless, exciting ways. May we always be found faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun. Ecclesiastes 3:1
For many, there is nothing that can be more disturbing than an alarm clock that awakens them from a comfortable sleep. It may signal another boring day filled with boring people, endless interruptions, and meaningless tasks. For others, it may be the beginning of a day filled with one crisis after another, irritable people, and problems that cannot be solved.
How different for the Christian! Every day can be a special day, a day filled with unique challenges and great opportunities to witness and serve our Lord.
Solomon wrote, “There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun.” This verse reminds us that God has a special plan and definite purpose that He has designed for each of us. And, if we want to enjoy a peaceful, productive, and purposeful life, we must look to Him for His goodness, guidance, and grace.
When we discover, accept, and fulfill His plan, we will enjoy His blessings every moment of every day. What may have been an annoying alarm may be God’s voice calling us to another “season” of service, informing us of something significant that only we can do for Him.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for calling us to lives that are filled with countless opportunities to serve You in endless, exciting ways. May we always be found faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun. Ecclesiastes 3:1
Now It's My Time
Horace Whittell of England hated alarm clocks with a passion. Every weekday morning for 47 years he had been awakened at 6:00 a.m. to go to work. On the day after he retired, he took his clock outside, placed it on a rock, and smashed it into little pieces shouting, “I’m through with you!”
For many, there is nothing that can be more disturbing than an alarm clock that awakens them from a comfortable sleep. It may signal another boring day filled with boring people, endless interruptions, and meaningless tasks. For others, it may be the beginning of a day filled with one crisis after another, irritable people, and problems that cannot be solved.
How different for the Christian! Every day can be a special day, a day filled with unique challenges and great opportunities to witness and serve our Lord.
Solomon wrote, “There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun.” This verse reminds us that God has a special plan and definite purpose that He has designed for each of us. And, if we want to enjoy a peaceful, productive, and purposeful life, we must look to Him for His goodness, guidance, and grace.
When we discover, accept, and fulfill His plan, we will enjoy His blessings every moment of every day. What may have been an annoying alarm may be God’s voice calling us to another “season” of service, informing us of something significant that only we can do for Him.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for calling us to lives that are filled with countless opportunities to serve You in endless, exciting ways. May we always be found faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun. Ecclesiastes 3:1
For many, there is nothing that can be more disturbing than an alarm clock that awakens them from a comfortable sleep. It may signal another boring day filled with boring people, endless interruptions, and meaningless tasks. For others, it may be the beginning of a day filled with one crisis after another, irritable people, and problems that cannot be solved.
How different for the Christian! Every day can be a special day, a day filled with unique challenges and great opportunities to witness and serve our Lord.
Solomon wrote, “There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun.” This verse reminds us that God has a special plan and definite purpose that He has designed for each of us. And, if we want to enjoy a peaceful, productive, and purposeful life, we must look to Him for His goodness, guidance, and grace.
When we discover, accept, and fulfill His plan, we will enjoy His blessings every moment of every day. What may have been an annoying alarm may be God’s voice calling us to another “season” of service, informing us of something significant that only we can do for Him.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for calling us to lives that are filled with countless opportunities to serve You in endless, exciting ways. May we always be found faithful. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: There is a time for everything, a season for every activity under the sun. Ecclesiastes 3:1
All Together, Now
One morning on their way to school a group of young boys was walking past a home with a large iron gate. Michael thought he would provide a bit of humor for the group and decided to put his arms and head through the gate and said, “Look at me! My head and hands are on one side of the gate but my heart and body are on the other side.”
Before he could get his head and hands out of the gate, one of his friends slammed the gate, and Michael Faraday was badly hurt. He overcame his injuries and became one of the most influential scientists in history for his contributions in the field of electromagnetism.
Later in life, he said, “That experience taught me one thing: My head, heart, and hands should always be on the same side.”
This great scientist explained an important truth: there is a path that flows from the head to the heart and from the heart to the hands. Simply stated, what begins in our head usually grows into our heart, and in one way or another, spreads outward and ends up dominating the way we live and what we live for.
God’s Word reminds us that we must “not let any part of our body become a tool of wickedness.” So, when our eyes are enticed to look at objects that tempt us and may lead to sin, we must immediately look to Him to “deliver us from evil.”
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to realize that sin has a way of beginning with an innocent glance that can lead to everlasting destruction. May we keep our eyes focused on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:12-14
Before he could get his head and hands out of the gate, one of his friends slammed the gate, and Michael Faraday was badly hurt. He overcame his injuries and became one of the most influential scientists in history for his contributions in the field of electromagnetism.
Later in life, he said, “That experience taught me one thing: My head, heart, and hands should always be on the same side.”
This great scientist explained an important truth: there is a path that flows from the head to the heart and from the heart to the hands. Simply stated, what begins in our head usually grows into our heart, and in one way or another, spreads outward and ends up dominating the way we live and what we live for.
God’s Word reminds us that we must “not let any part of our body become a tool of wickedness.” So, when our eyes are enticed to look at objects that tempt us and may lead to sin, we must immediately look to Him to “deliver us from evil.”
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to realize that sin has a way of beginning with an innocent glance that can lead to everlasting destruction. May we keep our eyes focused on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:12-14
All Together, Now
One morning on their way to school a group of young boys was walking past a home with a large iron gate. Michael thought he would provide a bit of humor for the group and decided to put his arms and head through the gate and said, “Look at me! My head and hands are on one side of the gate but my heart and body are on the other side.”
Before he could get his head and hands out of the gate, one of his friends slammed the gate, and Michael Faraday was badly hurt. He overcame his injuries and became one of the most influential scientists in history for his contributions in the field of electromagnetism.
Later in life, he said, “That experience taught me one thing: My head, heart, and hands should always be on the same side.”
This great scientist explained an important truth: there is a path that flows from the head to the heart and from the heart to the hands. Simply stated, what begins in our head usually grows into our heart, and in one way or another, spreads outward and ends up dominating the way we live and what we live for.
God’s Word reminds us that we must “not let any part of our body become a tool of wickedness.” So, when our eyes are enticed to look at objects that tempt us and may lead to sin, we must immediately look to Him to “deliver us from evil.”
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to realize that sin has a way of beginning with an innocent glance that can lead to everlasting destruction. May we keep our eyes focused on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:12-14
Before he could get his head and hands out of the gate, one of his friends slammed the gate, and Michael Faraday was badly hurt. He overcame his injuries and became one of the most influential scientists in history for his contributions in the field of electromagnetism.
Later in life, he said, “That experience taught me one thing: My head, heart, and hands should always be on the same side.”
This great scientist explained an important truth: there is a path that flows from the head to the heart and from the heart to the hands. Simply stated, what begins in our head usually grows into our heart, and in one way or another, spreads outward and ends up dominating the way we live and what we live for.
God’s Word reminds us that we must “not let any part of our body become a tool of wickedness.” So, when our eyes are enticed to look at objects that tempt us and may lead to sin, we must immediately look to Him to “deliver us from evil.”
Prayer: Help us, Lord, to realize that sin has a way of beginning with an innocent glance that can lead to everlasting destruction. May we keep our eyes focused on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Do not let any part of your body become an instrument of evil to serve sin. Instead, give yourselves completely to God, for you were dead, but now you have new life. So use your whole body as an instrument to do what is right for the glory of God. Romans 6:12-14
What's In A Goal?
Charlie Brown struck out for the fourth time in the same game. In deep despair, he cried out, “Lucy! I’ll never make it. All of my life I’ve dreamed of playing in the big leagues. But I know now I’ll never make it!”
“Charlie,” she answered, “choose an immediate goal. When you go out to pitch, see if you can walk to the mound without falling.”
What’s in a goal?
GUIDANCE: Establishing goals provides a process that enables us to accomplish worthwhile projects in life. Great things can be achieved when we know what we want to do. Goals enable us to make plans, solve problems, make decisions, and set priorities. Then, at the end of the day, we can review our progress or lack of it, redirect our steps, and move forward.
OBJECTIVITY: We all have days when we feel like giving up. But if we have a goal in front of us, we will be able to see progress and know that the struggle is worth the effort.
ACCOUNTABILITY: If we truly want to make a difference in this world, we can find an accountability partner who will work with us to encourage us to “get where we want to go.” Being accountable is difficult without someone looking over our shoulder.
LABOR: Anything that has value and worth will require our hard work, patience, perseverance, and prayer. Want God’s Help? Do whatever you do for the glory of God!
Prayer: Father, You have given each of us a reason for living and a purpose to accomplish. May we use the talents You have given us to achieve great things for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14
“Charlie,” she answered, “choose an immediate goal. When you go out to pitch, see if you can walk to the mound without falling.”
What’s in a goal?
GUIDANCE: Establishing goals provides a process that enables us to accomplish worthwhile projects in life. Great things can be achieved when we know what we want to do. Goals enable us to make plans, solve problems, make decisions, and set priorities. Then, at the end of the day, we can review our progress or lack of it, redirect our steps, and move forward.
OBJECTIVITY: We all have days when we feel like giving up. But if we have a goal in front of us, we will be able to see progress and know that the struggle is worth the effort.
ACCOUNTABILITY: If we truly want to make a difference in this world, we can find an accountability partner who will work with us to encourage us to “get where we want to go.” Being accountable is difficult without someone looking over our shoulder.
LABOR: Anything that has value and worth will require our hard work, patience, perseverance, and prayer. Want God’s Help? Do whatever you do for the glory of God!
Prayer: Father, You have given each of us a reason for living and a purpose to accomplish. May we use the talents You have given us to achieve great things for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14
What's In A Goal?
Charlie Brown struck out for the fourth time in the same game. In deep despair, he cried out, “Lucy! I’ll never make it. All of my life I’ve dreamed of playing in the big leagues. But I know now I’ll never make it!”
“Charlie,” she answered, “choose an immediate goal. When you go out to pitch, see if you can walk to the mound without falling.”
What’s in a goal?
GUIDANCE: Establishing goals provides a process that enables us to accomplish worthwhile projects in life. Great things can be achieved when we know what we want to do. Goals enable us to make plans, solve problems, make decisions, and set priorities. Then, at the end of the day, we can review our progress or lack of it, redirect our steps, and move forward.
OBJECTIVITY: We all have days when we feel like giving up. But if we have a goal in front of us, we will be able to see progress and know that the struggle is worth the effort.
ACCOUNTABILITY: If we truly want to make a difference in this world, we can find an accountability partner who will work with us to encourage us to “get where we want to go.” Being accountable is difficult without someone looking over our shoulder.
LABOR: Anything that has value and worth will require our hard work, patience, perseverance, and prayer. Want God’s Help? Do whatever you do for the glory of God!
Prayer: Father, You have given each of us a reason for living and a purpose to accomplish. May we use the talents You have given us to achieve great things for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14
“Charlie,” she answered, “choose an immediate goal. When you go out to pitch, see if you can walk to the mound without falling.”
What’s in a goal?
GUIDANCE: Establishing goals provides a process that enables us to accomplish worthwhile projects in life. Great things can be achieved when we know what we want to do. Goals enable us to make plans, solve problems, make decisions, and set priorities. Then, at the end of the day, we can review our progress or lack of it, redirect our steps, and move forward.
OBJECTIVITY: We all have days when we feel like giving up. But if we have a goal in front of us, we will be able to see progress and know that the struggle is worth the effort.
ACCOUNTABILITY: If we truly want to make a difference in this world, we can find an accountability partner who will work with us to encourage us to “get where we want to go.” Being accountable is difficult without someone looking over our shoulder.
LABOR: Anything that has value and worth will require our hard work, patience, perseverance, and prayer. Want God’s Help? Do whatever you do for the glory of God!
Prayer: Father, You have given each of us a reason for living and a purpose to accomplish. May we use the talents You have given us to achieve great things for You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Philippians 3:13-14
Empty Hands
Alexander the Great left an indelible mark on the world. In his early life, he was tutored by Aristotle, the great Greek philosopher, which shaped much of his thinking. By the age of thirty, he had created one of the largest empires in the ancient world. He was undefeated in battle and to this day is considered to be a military genius and is remembered as one of history’s greatest commanders. He established over 30 cities as a result of his conquests and was responsible for spreading the Greek language and culture wherever his victories took him.
When individuals died during that period in history, it was customary for their hands to be wrapped in burial cloth. However, he decided that he would not follow that tradition. He said when he died he wanted people to see that his hands were empty.
When asked why he replied, “After all, we did not bring any money with us when we came into this world, and we can’t carry away a single penny.”
Paul echoed the same words. He said we brought nothing into the world with us when we came into the world, and we will certainly not take anything with us when we leave. He wants us to understand that one day whatever we have will be left behind when we go to meet God. The goal of the Christian is to lay up treasures in heaven by investing in God’s Kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, it is natural to want the things of this world. They are attractive and appealing. Enable us to see “things” through Your eyes and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 1 Timothy 6:6-8
When individuals died during that period in history, it was customary for their hands to be wrapped in burial cloth. However, he decided that he would not follow that tradition. He said when he died he wanted people to see that his hands were empty.
When asked why he replied, “After all, we did not bring any money with us when we came into this world, and we can’t carry away a single penny.”
Paul echoed the same words. He said we brought nothing into the world with us when we came into the world, and we will certainly not take anything with us when we leave. He wants us to understand that one day whatever we have will be left behind when we go to meet God. The goal of the Christian is to lay up treasures in heaven by investing in God’s Kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, it is natural to want the things of this world. They are attractive and appealing. Enable us to see “things” through Your eyes and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 1 Timothy 6:6-8
Empty Hands
Alexander the Great left an indelible mark on the world. In his early life, he was tutored by Aristotle, the great Greek philosopher, which shaped much of his thinking. By the age of thirty, he had created one of the largest empires in the ancient world. He was undefeated in battle and to this day is considered to be a military genius and is remembered as one of history’s greatest commanders. He established over 30 cities as a result of his conquests and was responsible for spreading the Greek language and culture wherever his victories took him.
When individuals died during that period in history, it was customary for their hands to be wrapped in burial cloth. However, he decided that he would not follow that tradition. He said when he died he wanted people to see that his hands were empty.
When asked why he replied, “After all, we did not bring any money with us when we came into this world, and we can’t carry away a single penny.”
Paul echoed the same words. He said we brought nothing into the world with us when we came into the world, and we will certainly not take anything with us when we leave. He wants us to understand that one day whatever we have will be left behind when we go to meet God. The goal of the Christian is to lay up treasures in heaven by investing in God’s Kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, it is natural to want the things of this world. They are attractive and appealing. Enable us to see “things” through Your eyes and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 1 Timothy 6:6-8
When individuals died during that period in history, it was customary for their hands to be wrapped in burial cloth. However, he decided that he would not follow that tradition. He said when he died he wanted people to see that his hands were empty.
When asked why he replied, “After all, we did not bring any money with us when we came into this world, and we can’t carry away a single penny.”
Paul echoed the same words. He said we brought nothing into the world with us when we came into the world, and we will certainly not take anything with us when we leave. He wants us to understand that one day whatever we have will be left behind when we go to meet God. The goal of the Christian is to lay up treasures in heaven by investing in God’s Kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, it is natural to want the things of this world. They are attractive and appealing. Enable us to see “things” through Your eyes and use them for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 1 Timothy 6:6-8
God And The Issues Of Life
Years ago a luxury ocean liner was making its way from England to America. Shortly after dark, it encountered a massive thunderstorm and heavy seas. The ship began to heave, first one way and then the other, because of the enormous waves. One of the passengers sought out the captain and shouted in a loud voice, “Do something!”
“Madam, we are doing our very best,” he said calmly, “and we are trusting in the providence of God.”
“Is it that serious?” she asked.
The word “providence” comes from two Latin words, “care” and “preparation beforehand.” For the Christian, this means that before we encounter problems or pain, trials or troubles, God has already made His preparation for us to be safe and secure no matter what He brings into our lives. Remember: If He planned it, He will protect us in it and through it!
We must realize that God sees “things” beforehand and knows what happens to us before it actually happens. Because of His sovereignty, knowledge, and power, He will arrange the outcome of these “things” to fulfill His plan and purpose for our lives.
Paul certainly believed in the providence of God. In his letter to the Romans, he assures us that “God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called by Him.” If it comes into our life, it is because God has a purpose and plan for it.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust You when days are dark and nights seem long. May we realize and accept Your “providence” for us in everything! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 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. Romans 8:28
“Madam, we are doing our very best,” he said calmly, “and we are trusting in the providence of God.”
“Is it that serious?” she asked.
The word “providence” comes from two Latin words, “care” and “preparation beforehand.” For the Christian, this means that before we encounter problems or pain, trials or troubles, God has already made His preparation for us to be safe and secure no matter what He brings into our lives. Remember: If He planned it, He will protect us in it and through it!
We must realize that God sees “things” beforehand and knows what happens to us before it actually happens. Because of His sovereignty, knowledge, and power, He will arrange the outcome of these “things” to fulfill His plan and purpose for our lives.
Paul certainly believed in the providence of God. In his letter to the Romans, he assures us that “God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called by Him.” If it comes into our life, it is because God has a purpose and plan for it.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust You when days are dark and nights seem long. May we realize and accept Your “providence” for us in everything! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 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. Romans 8:28
God And The Issues Of Life
Years ago a luxury ocean liner was making its way from England to America. Shortly after dark, it encountered a massive thunderstorm and heavy seas. The ship began to heave, first one way and then the other, because of the enormous waves. One of the passengers sought out the captain and shouted in a loud voice, “Do something!”
“Madam, we are doing our very best,” he said calmly, “and we are trusting in the providence of God.”
“Is it that serious?” she asked.
The word “providence” comes from two Latin words, “care” and “preparation beforehand.” For the Christian, this means that before we encounter problems or pain, trials or troubles, God has already made His preparation for us to be safe and secure no matter what He brings into our lives. Remember: If He planned it, He will protect us in it and through it!
We must realize that God sees “things” beforehand and knows what happens to us before it actually happens. Because of His sovereignty, knowledge, and power, He will arrange the outcome of these “things” to fulfill His plan and purpose for our lives.
Paul certainly believed in the providence of God. In his letter to the Romans, he assures us that “God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called by Him.” If it comes into our life, it is because God has a purpose and plan for it.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust You when days are dark and nights seem long. May we realize and accept Your “providence” for us in everything! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 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. Romans 8:28
“Madam, we are doing our very best,” he said calmly, “and we are trusting in the providence of God.”
“Is it that serious?” she asked.
The word “providence” comes from two Latin words, “care” and “preparation beforehand.” For the Christian, this means that before we encounter problems or pain, trials or troubles, God has already made His preparation for us to be safe and secure no matter what He brings into our lives. Remember: If He planned it, He will protect us in it and through it!
We must realize that God sees “things” beforehand and knows what happens to us before it actually happens. Because of His sovereignty, knowledge, and power, He will arrange the outcome of these “things” to fulfill His plan and purpose for our lives.
Paul certainly believed in the providence of God. In his letter to the Romans, he assures us that “God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love Him and are called by Him.” If it comes into our life, it is because God has a purpose and plan for it.
Prayer: Help us, Father, to trust You when days are dark and nights seem long. May we realize and accept Your “providence” for us in everything! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: 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. Romans 8:28
Hope
A successful executive of a large company had been in the hospital for days. He had waited, wondered, and worried about what the diagnosis of his illness would be. After the tests were completed, the doctor came into his room and told him the results.
Tearfully and in shock, his wife asked, “Is there any hope, doctor?”
“It depends on where your hope is,” said the doctor. “If it is in me, I’m afraid not. But if it is in God, you have all the hope you need.”
Jesus gave Christians a prescription for hope. “Don’t be troubled,” He said. “You trust God, now trust me. There are many rooms in my Father’s home, and I am going to prepare a place for you.”
Fear has a unique way of bringing life into focus. And there are only a few verses of Scripture that describe eternal life. But these few words are filled with promise and hope. The promise is that Jesus has gone before us to prepare a place for us. Now, the hope that we have is His promise: that He would come again to get us so we may be with Him in Heaven.
We can look forward to eternal life with Him because He has promised it to all who believe in Him as Savior and Lord. Although we may not know all we want to know about eternal life and what heaven is like, we need not fear. His faithfulness, like His love, endures forever!
Prayer: What joy we have, Father, that You - at this very moment - are preparing a home for us in heaven. We have peace knowing that we will be with You forever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? John 14:1-2
Tearfully and in shock, his wife asked, “Is there any hope, doctor?”
“It depends on where your hope is,” said the doctor. “If it is in me, I’m afraid not. But if it is in God, you have all the hope you need.”
Jesus gave Christians a prescription for hope. “Don’t be troubled,” He said. “You trust God, now trust me. There are many rooms in my Father’s home, and I am going to prepare a place for you.”
Fear has a unique way of bringing life into focus. And there are only a few verses of Scripture that describe eternal life. But these few words are filled with promise and hope. The promise is that Jesus has gone before us to prepare a place for us. Now, the hope that we have is His promise: that He would come again to get us so we may be with Him in Heaven.
We can look forward to eternal life with Him because He has promised it to all who believe in Him as Savior and Lord. Although we may not know all we want to know about eternal life and what heaven is like, we need not fear. His faithfulness, like His love, endures forever!
Prayer: What joy we have, Father, that You - at this very moment - are preparing a home for us in heaven. We have peace knowing that we will be with You forever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? John 14:1-2
Hope
A successful executive of a large company had been in the hospital for days. He had waited, wondered, and worried about what the diagnosis of his illness would be. After the tests were completed, the doctor came into his room and told him the results.
Tearfully and in shock, his wife asked, “Is there any hope, doctor?”
“It depends on where your hope is,” said the doctor. “If it is in me, I’m afraid not. But if it is in God, you have all the hope you need.”
Jesus gave Christians a prescription for hope. “Don’t be troubled,” He said. “You trust God, now trust me. There are many rooms in my Father’s home, and I am going to prepare a place for you.”
Fear has a unique way of bringing life into focus. And there are only a few verses of Scripture that describe eternal life. But these few words are filled with promise and hope. The promise is that Jesus has gone before us to prepare a place for us. Now, the hope that we have is His promise: that He would come again to get us so we may be with Him in Heaven.
We can look forward to eternal life with Him because He has promised it to all who believe in Him as Savior and Lord. Although we may not know all we want to know about eternal life and what heaven is like, we need not fear. His faithfulness, like His love, endures forever!
Prayer: What joy we have, Father, that You - at this very moment - are preparing a home for us in heaven. We have peace knowing that we will be with You forever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? John 14:1-2
Tearfully and in shock, his wife asked, “Is there any hope, doctor?”
“It depends on where your hope is,” said the doctor. “If it is in me, I’m afraid not. But if it is in God, you have all the hope you need.”
Jesus gave Christians a prescription for hope. “Don’t be troubled,” He said. “You trust God, now trust me. There are many rooms in my Father’s home, and I am going to prepare a place for you.”
Fear has a unique way of bringing life into focus. And there are only a few verses of Scripture that describe eternal life. But these few words are filled with promise and hope. The promise is that Jesus has gone before us to prepare a place for us. Now, the hope that we have is His promise: that He would come again to get us so we may be with Him in Heaven.
We can look forward to eternal life with Him because He has promised it to all who believe in Him as Savior and Lord. Although we may not know all we want to know about eternal life and what heaven is like, we need not fear. His faithfulness, like His love, endures forever!
Prayer: What joy we have, Father, that You - at this very moment - are preparing a home for us in heaven. We have peace knowing that we will be with You forever. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? John 14:1-2
An Understanding Heart
A young boy with braces up to his knees on both legs hobbled into a pet store. Noticing the difficulty he had in walking, the owner approached him and said in a kind voice, “How can I help you?”
“I want to buy the puppy in the window,” he said.
“But, son,” said the owner, “that puppy has problems. He has a crippled leg and will need someone who can take care of him.”
Pulling up the legs of his trousers he said, “I understand. I have the same problem. So no one will love him more or take care of him better than me.”
One fact that should fill our minds and hearts with hope and encouragement comes from Hebrews: “This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin.”
Thank God for the fact that Jesus was as human as we are. We can take great comfort in knowing that He faced everything that we face: hunger, loneliness, abandonment, pain, sorrow, grief, temptation, rejection - even death. And yet He never gave in or gave up His faith in His Heavenly Father. Jesus proved the fact that we do not need to give in to temptation and sin. If He was able to reject sin’s power through faith in His Father’s power, so can we! He is the only one who ever lived that was faithful and true and lived a life of perfection for us to follow.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the example Your Son, our Savior, set for us to follow. When we face temptation, give us Your strength to stand firm and not sin. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin. Hebrews 4:15-16
“I want to buy the puppy in the window,” he said.
“But, son,” said the owner, “that puppy has problems. He has a crippled leg and will need someone who can take care of him.”
Pulling up the legs of his trousers he said, “I understand. I have the same problem. So no one will love him more or take care of him better than me.”
One fact that should fill our minds and hearts with hope and encouragement comes from Hebrews: “This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin.”
Thank God for the fact that Jesus was as human as we are. We can take great comfort in knowing that He faced everything that we face: hunger, loneliness, abandonment, pain, sorrow, grief, temptation, rejection - even death. And yet He never gave in or gave up His faith in His Heavenly Father. Jesus proved the fact that we do not need to give in to temptation and sin. If He was able to reject sin’s power through faith in His Father’s power, so can we! He is the only one who ever lived that was faithful and true and lived a life of perfection for us to follow.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the example Your Son, our Savior, set for us to follow. When we face temptation, give us Your strength to stand firm and not sin. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin. Hebrews 4:15-16
An Understanding Heart
A young boy with braces up to his knees on both legs hobbled into a pet store. Noticing the difficulty he had in walking, the owner approached him and said in a kind voice, “How can I help you?”
“I want to buy the puppy in the window,” he said.
“But, son,” said the owner, “that puppy has problems. He has a crippled leg and will need someone who can take care of him.”
Pulling up the legs of his trousers he said, “I understand. I have the same problem. So no one will love him more or take care of him better than me.”
One fact that should fill our minds and hearts with hope and encouragement comes from Hebrews: “This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin.”
Thank God for the fact that Jesus was as human as we are. We can take great comfort in knowing that He faced everything that we face: hunger, loneliness, abandonment, pain, sorrow, grief, temptation, rejection - even death. And yet He never gave in or gave up His faith in His Heavenly Father. Jesus proved the fact that we do not need to give in to temptation and sin. If He was able to reject sin’s power through faith in His Father’s power, so can we! He is the only one who ever lived that was faithful and true and lived a life of perfection for us to follow.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the example Your Son, our Savior, set for us to follow. When we face temptation, give us Your strength to stand firm and not sin. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin. Hebrews 4:15-16
“I want to buy the puppy in the window,” he said.
“But, son,” said the owner, “that puppy has problems. He has a crippled leg and will need someone who can take care of him.”
Pulling up the legs of his trousers he said, “I understand. I have the same problem. So no one will love him more or take care of him better than me.”
One fact that should fill our minds and hearts with hope and encouragement comes from Hebrews: “This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin.”
Thank God for the fact that Jesus was as human as we are. We can take great comfort in knowing that He faced everything that we face: hunger, loneliness, abandonment, pain, sorrow, grief, temptation, rejection - even death. And yet He never gave in or gave up His faith in His Heavenly Father. Jesus proved the fact that we do not need to give in to temptation and sin. If He was able to reject sin’s power through faith in His Father’s power, so can we! He is the only one who ever lived that was faithful and true and lived a life of perfection for us to follow.
Prayer: Thank You, Lord, for the example Your Son, our Savior, set for us to follow. When we face temptation, give us Your strength to stand firm and not sin. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: This High Priest of ours – Jesus - understands our weaknesses for He faced the same temptations we do, yet He was without sin. Hebrews 4:15-16
The True Believer
His license plate proudly proclaimed “SAY NO.” But when the “outspoken” advocate for living a drug-free life was stopped for speeding, the police officers discovered that he was transporting drugs in his automobile.
While we may shake our heads in disbelief at that man’s hypocrisy, he is not that different from many Christians. The Apostle John wrote, “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.” We might say that this is an “If/Then” statement. John wants us to have no doubt about one important fact: “If we say that we live in God, then others will be able to see Christ living in us, in what we do to and for others and hear the way we speak His love in what we say.” A rather troubling statement, isn’t it?
In only a few words John states two ways that will assure us that we belong to Christ: If we do what Christ says and live as Christ wants us to live. A few verses later in his little letter John clearly describes what he means: “Believe in the name of His Son and love one another.”
True “lived-out” Christian faith results in “loving behavior.” For this reason, John reminds us that what we say and the way we act is proof that we are living in God and belong to Christ. If we are obedient to the teachings of Scripture and show God’s love as Jesus did, then we know without a doubt that we “live in God.”
Prayer: Father, we truly love You and want to “live in You” as You would have us to live. Make our faith strong, our love deep, and our lives worthy of Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6
While we may shake our heads in disbelief at that man’s hypocrisy, he is not that different from many Christians. The Apostle John wrote, “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.” We might say that this is an “If/Then” statement. John wants us to have no doubt about one important fact: “If we say that we live in God, then others will be able to see Christ living in us, in what we do to and for others and hear the way we speak His love in what we say.” A rather troubling statement, isn’t it?
In only a few words John states two ways that will assure us that we belong to Christ: If we do what Christ says and live as Christ wants us to live. A few verses later in his little letter John clearly describes what he means: “Believe in the name of His Son and love one another.”
True “lived-out” Christian faith results in “loving behavior.” For this reason, John reminds us that what we say and the way we act is proof that we are living in God and belong to Christ. If we are obedient to the teachings of Scripture and show God’s love as Jesus did, then we know without a doubt that we “live in God.”
Prayer: Father, we truly love You and want to “live in You” as You would have us to live. Make our faith strong, our love deep, and our lives worthy of Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6
The True Believer
His license plate proudly proclaimed “SAY NO.” But when the “outspoken” advocate for living a drug-free life was stopped for speeding, the police officers discovered that he was transporting drugs in his automobile.
While we may shake our heads in disbelief at that man’s hypocrisy, he is not that different from many Christians. The Apostle John wrote, “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.” We might say that this is an “If/Then” statement. John wants us to have no doubt about one important fact: “If we say that we live in God, then others will be able to see Christ living in us, in what we do to and for others and hear the way we speak His love in what we say.” A rather troubling statement, isn’t it?
In only a few words John states two ways that will assure us that we belong to Christ: If we do what Christ says and live as Christ wants us to live. A few verses later in his little letter John clearly describes what he means: “Believe in the name of His Son and love one another.”
True “lived-out” Christian faith results in “loving behavior.” For this reason, John reminds us that what we say and the way we act is proof that we are living in God and belong to Christ. If we are obedient to the teachings of Scripture and show God’s love as Jesus did, then we know without a doubt that we “live in God.”
Prayer: Father, we truly love You and want to “live in You” as You would have us to live. Make our faith strong, our love deep, and our lives worthy of Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6
While we may shake our heads in disbelief at that man’s hypocrisy, he is not that different from many Christians. The Apostle John wrote, “Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Christ did.” We might say that this is an “If/Then” statement. John wants us to have no doubt about one important fact: “If we say that we live in God, then others will be able to see Christ living in us, in what we do to and for others and hear the way we speak His love in what we say.” A rather troubling statement, isn’t it?
In only a few words John states two ways that will assure us that we belong to Christ: If we do what Christ says and live as Christ wants us to live. A few verses later in his little letter John clearly describes what he means: “Believe in the name of His Son and love one another.”
True “lived-out” Christian faith results in “loving behavior.” For this reason, John reminds us that what we say and the way we act is proof that we are living in God and belong to Christ. If we are obedient to the teachings of Scripture and show God’s love as Jesus did, then we know without a doubt that we “live in God.”
Prayer: Father, we truly love You and want to “live in You” as You would have us to live. Make our faith strong, our love deep, and our lives worthy of Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Those who say they live in God should live their lives as Jesus did. 1 John 2:6
"We Really Need You, God!"
Little Jeanie and her Mom were saying their “Good Night Prayers” together. Suddenly, she said in a bold voice, “God, please take care of Yourself. If anything happens to You, we’re in a great, big mess. We really need You, God.”
Thankfully, Isaiah had some comforting words for Little Jeanie. Knowing others would have the same concern, God inspired him to write, “Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary!”
What encouraging words from the Lord Himself! Here we see Isaiah describing our God’s power to create, His power to sustain what He creates, and His presence to help when we call upon Him. Our God is almighty and all powerful. Yet, with all of His greatness, He cares for each of us individually and our concerns and our cares are never beneath Him or beyond Him.
Our God cannot be explained and when we try to describe Him with our finite mind and our limited vocabulary, we only reveal our small, inadequate understanding of His greatness.
But this we know: There is no limit to His love and no end to His forgiveness. No problem is too large for Him to solve nor any person too small for Him to recognize. He is not kind one moment and hateful the next. He is not strong one hour and weak the next. He does not want what is best for us one moment and then forgetful of us the next. Our God is amazing!
Prayer: Thank You, God, for being our God. Thank You for being present today and every day, and for Your promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary. Isaiah 40:27-31
Thankfully, Isaiah had some comforting words for Little Jeanie. Knowing others would have the same concern, God inspired him to write, “Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary!”
What encouraging words from the Lord Himself! Here we see Isaiah describing our God’s power to create, His power to sustain what He creates, and His presence to help when we call upon Him. Our God is almighty and all powerful. Yet, with all of His greatness, He cares for each of us individually and our concerns and our cares are never beneath Him or beyond Him.
Our God cannot be explained and when we try to describe Him with our finite mind and our limited vocabulary, we only reveal our small, inadequate understanding of His greatness.
But this we know: There is no limit to His love and no end to His forgiveness. No problem is too large for Him to solve nor any person too small for Him to recognize. He is not kind one moment and hateful the next. He is not strong one hour and weak the next. He does not want what is best for us one moment and then forgetful of us the next. Our God is amazing!
Prayer: Thank You, God, for being our God. Thank You for being present today and every day, and for Your promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary. Isaiah 40:27-31
"We Really Need You, God!"
Little Jeanie and her Mom were saying their “Good Night Prayers” together. Suddenly, she said in a bold voice, “God, please take care of Yourself. If anything happens to You, we’re in a great, big mess. We really need You, God.”
Thankfully, Isaiah had some comforting words for Little Jeanie. Knowing others would have the same concern, God inspired him to write, “Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary!”
What encouraging words from the Lord Himself! Here we see Isaiah describing our God’s power to create, His power to sustain what He creates, and His presence to help when we call upon Him. Our God is almighty and all powerful. Yet, with all of His greatness, He cares for each of us individually and our concerns and our cares are never beneath Him or beyond Him.
Our God cannot be explained and when we try to describe Him with our finite mind and our limited vocabulary, we only reveal our small, inadequate understanding of His greatness.
But this we know: There is no limit to His love and no end to His forgiveness. No problem is too large for Him to solve nor any person too small for Him to recognize. He is not kind one moment and hateful the next. He is not strong one hour and weak the next. He does not want what is best for us one moment and then forgetful of us the next. Our God is amazing!
Prayer: Thank You, God, for being our God. Thank You for being present today and every day, and for Your promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary. Isaiah 40:27-31
Thankfully, Isaiah had some comforting words for Little Jeanie. Knowing others would have the same concern, God inspired him to write, “Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary!”
What encouraging words from the Lord Himself! Here we see Isaiah describing our God’s power to create, His power to sustain what He creates, and His presence to help when we call upon Him. Our God is almighty and all powerful. Yet, with all of His greatness, He cares for each of us individually and our concerns and our cares are never beneath Him or beyond Him.
Our God cannot be explained and when we try to describe Him with our finite mind and our limited vocabulary, we only reveal our small, inadequate understanding of His greatness.
But this we know: There is no limit to His love and no end to His forgiveness. No problem is too large for Him to solve nor any person too small for Him to recognize. He is not kind one moment and hateful the next. He is not strong one hour and weak the next. He does not want what is best for us one moment and then forgetful of us the next. Our God is amazing!
Prayer: Thank You, God, for being our God. Thank You for being present today and every day, and for Your promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Don’t you know that the Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the earth? He never grows faint or weary. Isaiah 40:27-31
Words Of Wisdom
Thomas Edison is recognized as being one of the greatest inventors who ever lived. He is credited with over 1,200 inventions, including the light bulb and the first “talking machine”- now what we call movies. He was the founder of General Electric and greatly influenced the quality of life for everyone.
Edison was one who was known to be very conscious of the value of time. On one occasion the person introducing him as a featured speaker at a large gathering did not know when to end his remarks. He spoke endlessly of his creative genius, his ability to see things others did not see, and the great future for his “talking machine.”
When he finally stopped talking, Edison stood up and said, “Thank you for your kind words. But I must correct you. God invented the “first talking machine.” I only invented the first one that can be shut off.”
“Let your conversation be gracious and effective,” said Paul, “so that you will have the right answer for everyone.” A wise warning for Christians who want to witness the grace of God in a way that will draw others to Christ.
Christians are ineffective if we act offensive and arrogant. We must always be gracious and humble if we want others to hear and accept God’s message of salvation and hope.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that the “grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” will always be obvious in our speech and conduct as we represent You to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6
Edison was one who was known to be very conscious of the value of time. On one occasion the person introducing him as a featured speaker at a large gathering did not know when to end his remarks. He spoke endlessly of his creative genius, his ability to see things others did not see, and the great future for his “talking machine.”
When he finally stopped talking, Edison stood up and said, “Thank you for your kind words. But I must correct you. God invented the “first talking machine.” I only invented the first one that can be shut off.”
“Let your conversation be gracious and effective,” said Paul, “so that you will have the right answer for everyone.” A wise warning for Christians who want to witness the grace of God in a way that will draw others to Christ.
Christians are ineffective if we act offensive and arrogant. We must always be gracious and humble if we want others to hear and accept God’s message of salvation and hope.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that the “grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” will always be obvious in our speech and conduct as we represent You to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6
Words Of Wisdom
Thomas Edison is recognized as being one of the greatest inventors who ever lived. He is credited with over 1,200 inventions, including the light bulb and the first “talking machine”- now what we call movies. He was the founder of General Electric and greatly influenced the quality of life for everyone.
Edison was one who was known to be very conscious of the value of time. On one occasion the person introducing him as a featured speaker at a large gathering did not know when to end his remarks. He spoke endlessly of his creative genius, his ability to see things others did not see, and the great future for his “talking machine.”
When he finally stopped talking, Edison stood up and said, “Thank you for your kind words. But I must correct you. God invented the “first talking machine.” I only invented the first one that can be shut off.”
“Let your conversation be gracious and effective,” said Paul, “so that you will have the right answer for everyone.” A wise warning for Christians who want to witness the grace of God in a way that will draw others to Christ.
Christians are ineffective if we act offensive and arrogant. We must always be gracious and humble if we want others to hear and accept God’s message of salvation and hope.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that the “grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” will always be obvious in our speech and conduct as we represent You to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6
Edison was one who was known to be very conscious of the value of time. On one occasion the person introducing him as a featured speaker at a large gathering did not know when to end his remarks. He spoke endlessly of his creative genius, his ability to see things others did not see, and the great future for his “talking machine.”
When he finally stopped talking, Edison stood up and said, “Thank you for your kind words. But I must correct you. God invented the “first talking machine.” I only invented the first one that can be shut off.”
“Let your conversation be gracious and effective,” said Paul, “so that you will have the right answer for everyone.” A wise warning for Christians who want to witness the grace of God in a way that will draw others to Christ.
Christians are ineffective if we act offensive and arrogant. We must always be gracious and humble if we want others to hear and accept God’s message of salvation and hope.
Prayer: We pray, Father, that the “grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” will always be obvious in our speech and conduct as we represent You to others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:5-6
The Greatest Of These
Abraham Lincoln was known for his kindness to everyone. He was often criticized by his associates for being gracious and thoughtful, considerate, and caring.
On one occasion he was asked, “With all of the power you have, why don’t you destroy your enemies?”
“Am I not destroying my enemies,” he asked, “when I make them my friends?”
Perhaps there is no more misunderstood or misused word in our world today than the word “love.” Nearly everyone has their own meaning for it. For some, it has a “sexual” meaning. For others, it has an “I like to be with you” meaning. And, some see love as demonstrating an unselfish concern for the well-being of others - helping them when they are unable to help themselves or provide the necessities they need to survive.
Paul speaks of a love that is supremely concerned with the best interests and welfare of others. It is a love that makes the needs and concerns of others my very own. It is as though I am saying, “I don’t walk away from the needs of others; I take them with me so I can do something about them. If they have a need, it is my need. If they hurt, I hurt. If they are in pain, it is my pain as well. If they have no food, I will share my food with them.”
As Christians, we must move beyond the feeling, sentimental and emotional types of love to a love that forces us to do what Jesus would do or have us to do for others.
Prayer: Lord, we see in Your life and death the real meaning of love. Strengthen us to live as you lived and to love as You loved so others will see You in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 1 Corinthians 13
On one occasion he was asked, “With all of the power you have, why don’t you destroy your enemies?”
“Am I not destroying my enemies,” he asked, “when I make them my friends?”
Perhaps there is no more misunderstood or misused word in our world today than the word “love.” Nearly everyone has their own meaning for it. For some, it has a “sexual” meaning. For others, it has an “I like to be with you” meaning. And, some see love as demonstrating an unselfish concern for the well-being of others - helping them when they are unable to help themselves or provide the necessities they need to survive.
Paul speaks of a love that is supremely concerned with the best interests and welfare of others. It is a love that makes the needs and concerns of others my very own. It is as though I am saying, “I don’t walk away from the needs of others; I take them with me so I can do something about them. If they have a need, it is my need. If they hurt, I hurt. If they are in pain, it is my pain as well. If they have no food, I will share my food with them.”
As Christians, we must move beyond the feeling, sentimental and emotional types of love to a love that forces us to do what Jesus would do or have us to do for others.
Prayer: Lord, we see in Your life and death the real meaning of love. Strengthen us to live as you lived and to love as You loved so others will see You in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 1 Corinthians 13
The Greatest Of These
Abraham Lincoln was known for his kindness to everyone. He was often criticized by his associates for being gracious and thoughtful, considerate, and caring.
On one occasion he was asked, “With all of the power you have, why don’t you destroy your enemies?”
“Am I not destroying my enemies,” he asked, “when I make them my friends?”
Perhaps there is no more misunderstood or misused word in our world today than the word “love.” Nearly everyone has their own meaning for it. For some, it has a “sexual” meaning. For others, it has an “I like to be with you” meaning. And, some see love as demonstrating an unselfish concern for the well-being of others - helping them when they are unable to help themselves or provide the necessities they need to survive.
Paul speaks of a love that is supremely concerned with the best interests and welfare of others. It is a love that makes the needs and concerns of others my very own. It is as though I am saying, “I don’t walk away from the needs of others; I take them with me so I can do something about them. If they have a need, it is my need. If they hurt, I hurt. If they are in pain, it is my pain as well. If they have no food, I will share my food with them.”
As Christians, we must move beyond the feeling, sentimental and emotional types of love to a love that forces us to do what Jesus would do or have us to do for others.
Prayer: Lord, we see in Your life and death the real meaning of love. Strengthen us to live as you lived and to love as You loved so others will see You in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 1 Corinthians 13
On one occasion he was asked, “With all of the power you have, why don’t you destroy your enemies?”
“Am I not destroying my enemies,” he asked, “when I make them my friends?”
Perhaps there is no more misunderstood or misused word in our world today than the word “love.” Nearly everyone has their own meaning for it. For some, it has a “sexual” meaning. For others, it has an “I like to be with you” meaning. And, some see love as demonstrating an unselfish concern for the well-being of others - helping them when they are unable to help themselves or provide the necessities they need to survive.
Paul speaks of a love that is supremely concerned with the best interests and welfare of others. It is a love that makes the needs and concerns of others my very own. It is as though I am saying, “I don’t walk away from the needs of others; I take them with me so I can do something about them. If they have a need, it is my need. If they hurt, I hurt. If they are in pain, it is my pain as well. If they have no food, I will share my food with them.”
As Christians, we must move beyond the feeling, sentimental and emotional types of love to a love that forces us to do what Jesus would do or have us to do for others.
Prayer: Lord, we see in Your life and death the real meaning of love. Strengthen us to live as you lived and to love as You loved so others will see You in our lives. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 1 Corinthians 13
Where Do I Begin?
A company was well known for its highly effective sales personnel. They were able to outperform all of their competitors by their volume of sales, the new customers they attracted, and the loyalty of their old ones.
Once, during an interview, a professor asked the personnel director what he did to attract so many outstanding people to his company. After thinking for a moment he replied, “We give them a water test.”
The professor was surprised. He thought he knew of every pre-employment test available. So he asked, “What is the water test?”
“Well,” he responded, “before we hire anyone, we take them into a room where the faucet is running, the sink is overflowing, and water is pouring onto the floor. We offer the person a mop and say ‘Mop up the water.’ If they begin to mop up the water without turning off the faucet, we know they are poor problem-solvers and decision-makers and they would not be good employees. So, we don’t hire them.”
Too often Christians try to “clean” up their lives without turning “off” old habits and behaviors that lead to sin. If we want to become who God wants us to become, we must turn away from every temptation that can distract, defeat, or destroy us. We can solve the problem of sinning if, when we are tempted, we turn from it and pray, and avoid the appearance of evil.
Prayer: We ask, Heavenly Father, for Your Holy Spirit to “sound an alarm” and get our attention when we face temptation and sin. Give us Your courage to resist! Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Stay away from every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22
Once, during an interview, a professor asked the personnel director what he did to attract so many outstanding people to his company. After thinking for a moment he replied, “We give them a water test.”
The professor was surprised. He thought he knew of every pre-employment test available. So he asked, “What is the water test?”
“Well,” he responded, “before we hire anyone, we take them into a room where the faucet is running, the sink is overflowing, and water is pouring onto the floor. We offer the person a mop and say ‘Mop up the water.’ If they begin to mop up the water without turning off the faucet, we know they are poor problem-solvers and decision-makers and they would not be good employees. So, we don’t hire them.”
Too often Christians try to “clean” up their lives without turning “off” old habits and behaviors that lead to sin. If we want to become who God wants us to become, we must turn away from every temptation that can distract, defeat, or destroy us. We can solve the problem of sinning if, when we are tempted, we turn from it and pray, and avoid the appearance of evil.
Prayer: We ask, Heavenly Father, for Your Holy Spirit to “sound an alarm” and get our attention when we face temptation and sin. Give us Your courage to resist! Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Stay away from every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22
Where Do I Begin?
A company was well known for its highly effective sales personnel. They were able to outperform all of their competitors by their volume of sales, the new customers they attracted, and the loyalty of their old ones.
Once, during an interview, a professor asked the personnel director what he did to attract so many outstanding people to his company. After thinking for a moment he replied, “We give them a water test.”
The professor was surprised. He thought he knew of every pre-employment test available. So he asked, “What is the water test?”
“Well,” he responded, “before we hire anyone, we take them into a room where the faucet is running, the sink is overflowing, and water is pouring onto the floor. We offer the person a mop and say ‘Mop up the water.’ If they begin to mop up the water without turning off the faucet, we know they are poor problem-solvers and decision-makers and they would not be good employees. So, we don’t hire them.”
Too often Christians try to “clean” up their lives without turning “off” old habits and behaviors that lead to sin. If we want to become who God wants us to become, we must turn away from every temptation that can distract, defeat, or destroy us. We can solve the problem of sinning if, when we are tempted, we turn from it and pray, and avoid the appearance of evil.
Prayer: We ask, Heavenly Father, for Your Holy Spirit to “sound an alarm” and get our attention when we face temptation and sin. Give us Your courage to resist! Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Stay away from every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22
Once, during an interview, a professor asked the personnel director what he did to attract so many outstanding people to his company. After thinking for a moment he replied, “We give them a water test.”
The professor was surprised. He thought he knew of every pre-employment test available. So he asked, “What is the water test?”
“Well,” he responded, “before we hire anyone, we take them into a room where the faucet is running, the sink is overflowing, and water is pouring onto the floor. We offer the person a mop and say ‘Mop up the water.’ If they begin to mop up the water without turning off the faucet, we know they are poor problem-solvers and decision-makers and they would not be good employees. So, we don’t hire them.”
Too often Christians try to “clean” up their lives without turning “off” old habits and behaviors that lead to sin. If we want to become who God wants us to become, we must turn away from every temptation that can distract, defeat, or destroy us. We can solve the problem of sinning if, when we are tempted, we turn from it and pray, and avoid the appearance of evil.
Prayer: We ask, Heavenly Father, for Your Holy Spirit to “sound an alarm” and get our attention when we face temptation and sin. Give us Your courage to resist! Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Scripture For Today: Stay away from every kind of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22
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