Merry Christmas!

"Blessed is every one who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways. When you eat the labor of your hands, you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you"- Psalm 128:1-2 (NIV).

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7). This "fear" is not distrust or terror of God, but reverent awe and faithful worship. Since the fall of man, we have labored to produce food for our table and many will bow their heads this Christmas thanking God for His blessings; the greatest of which, and Whom we are most thankful for, His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Through Jesus we have redemption, forgiveness...according to the riches of God's grace...which God purposed..that He might gather together in one all things in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:7-2). You shall be happy, and it shall be well with you! Praise God and Merry Christmas!  

Carpe Diem

"The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly"- John 10:10 (KJV).

Carpe Diem...live life abundantly; live like it's your last day...because you aren't guaranteed tomorrow. Today, this moment in time, maybe all you have. Like all things in life, we even take "time" for granted. This brings to mind the story of Martha and Mary. Jesus' visit changed Mary's "to-do" list for the day. Mary chose to use her "time" to sit at the feet of Jesus, while Martha bustled around taking care of household needs. Jesus tells us that Mary had chosen the One thing needed...and would not be taken from her (Luke 10:42). Don't let your "to-do" list steal, kill, or destroy the One thing needed, who gives you life more abundantly. Join Mary's "time" management philosophy. Carpe Diem!  

Power In Trust

"But now, this is what the Lord says--He who created you...He who formed you..."Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine""- Isaiah 43:1 (NIV).

God desires your trust. From the beginning of creation God has asked us, wanted us, to trust Him. He has never forsaken those who do (Psalm 9:10). God's promises do not waiver, are never found powerless, and cannot be disproved. Daniel trusted Almighty God when King Darius, the Mede, threw Daniel into the lion's den, where certain death would come through the brute strength and fangs of a starved lion. The next morning, no wound was found on him, because Daniel trusted God (Daniel 6:23). When fear comes upon you...trust God (Psalm 56:3). Remember His charge: Be strong, be courageous, do not be terrified, nor be discouraged...for He is with you...always (Joshua 1:9). 

Highly Favored

"But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a Son, and you are to call Him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David, and He will reign over Jacob's descendants forever; His kingdom will never end"- Luke 1:3-33 (NIV).

Consider that miraculous moment for Mary. A celestial being, Gabriel, bringing her, an ordinary girl, a message from God. She was going to participate in the event of all events: The restoration of mankind to God. Days, weeks, months, years went by without any other heavenly communication. She gave birth, raised the Son promised, and watched the death and resurrection of the Messiah. Sounds like she may have felt abandoned by the silence from Heaven. Of course not! Every time her Son opened His mouth to speak she was hearing God. He ate with her, slept with her, walked with her, embraced her...in the most personal level, He was with her: ""and they will call Him Emmanuel" (which means "God with us")" (Matthew 1:23). Gabriel told Mary she was highly favored (Luke 1:28). God was with her. God is with you, too,. You are not alone.

Born to Die

"Again, the devil took Him to a very high mountain and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give You," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me"- Matthew 4:8-9 (NIV).

At the beginning of His ministry, following baptism, Jesus fasted, no bread or water, for 40 days. At this time, the devil tempted Jesus with physical provisions and power...if He would only worship Satan. If Jesus had accepted the devil's offer, not only would He have immediate gratification, but He wouldn't have had to suffer and die, but He rebuked the devil. Jesus was also tempted at His Crucifixion. Those He suffered for mocked Him to come down off that cross and save Himself, if not, let God rescue Him now, if God wanted Him (27:40-43), but Jesus asked God to forgive those He was sacrificing Himself to save. The devil couldn't give Jesus what He already had, nor could sinners wrench themselves out of His grasp to their own deserved punishment. Jesus was born to die. What great love He has lavished on us, to be called His children (1 John 3:1). 

Come to Me

"Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and my burden is light"- Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV).

A lot of devotional messages were about comforting and peace this morning. Do you feel peaceful? Do you need comforting? Love, joy and peace are the first three items listed from the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:20). I spoke with a mother yesterday who was anxious and a friend this morning who was stressed. Their spiritual level, if you compared it to a gas gauge, was in need of a service station fill-up. Do you remember the full-service stations of years gone by. They prided themselves on servicing your entire vehicle in record speed, while you rested behind the wheel of the car. Texaco's theme song was, "You can trust your car to the man who wears the star, the big bright Texaco star!" You knew, that when you left that station, your tire pressure, oil, water, windshield(s), and gas were all at optimal levels for performance. When you see your spiritual gauge in need, you can trust Him to service you, restoring you to optimum performance levels. There is nothing required of you, than to come.

Assured of the Outcome

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will measured to you"- Luke 6:38 (NIV).

Here is an example. There are two cooks in the kitchen: One who throws a little of this and a little of that and the other cook measures mechanically, holding the cup to eye level to make sure the quantity is exact. Which do you think is the cook with more anxiety? We can relate the differences in the attitudes of the two cooks to life in general. The first cook is freely pouring out what is needed, while the other is reserved, fearful of the outcome...too much, too little. Let's live and love like the cook who is dancing through the kitchen, the mixing bowl a collection of generous and happy contributions, freely loving, giving, and living. Let's own the attitude of the first cook, enjoying the generosity of measuring, shaking, and our cup running over...assured of the outcome.    

Sure to Stand

"So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised"- Hebrews 10:35-36 (NIV).

We are sure to stand! God did not give us a spirit of fear; no, He gave us a spirit of power and love and self-control (2 Timothy 1:7). The Father calls us to be strong and courageous...for He, Who is omnipotent, is with us (Joshua 1:9). Our courage and confidence is in Christ alone. And until Jesus returns, or calls us home, in the power of Christ we'll stand. C.H. Spurgeon is in agreement, "He is at our right hand to guide and aid us; and hence we are not moved by fear, nor force, nor fraud, nor fickleness...we are sure to stand." 

Final Trumpet

"I always thank my God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in Him you have been enriched in every way--with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge"- 1 Corinthians 1:4-5 (NIV).

You have been thoroughly equipped, enriched, saturated, not lacking in any area, and now you eagerly await Jesus to be revealed. Verse 9 assures you will be found blameless the day Jesus returns. God is faithful and He will work everything out for you (Romans 8:28). This is pure grace, something you didn't earn, freely given to you by the Father through the Son. Nothing today, nor tomorrow, no power...absolutely nothing...can separate you from the mercy and love God has given you (vv. 38-39). While you wait...God's wants you to be joyful, pray continually, and be thankful no matter what is going on as you wait for the sound of that final trumpet (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18;1 Corinthians 15:52). 

Rightly So

"We ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters, and rightly so, because your faith is growing more and more, and the love all of you have for one another is increasing. Therefore, among God's churches we boast about your perseverance and faith in all the persecutions and trials you are enduring"- 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4 (NIV).

Paul could have been writing to us. We are God's church and our love for each other continues to grow. We are persevering, our faith steadfast and maturing, during trying times Christians endure. Sometimes our strongest testimony is being joyful while enduring hardship, praising God while storms encircle us, being thankful with less and with loss. We know the source of our glad tidings and joyful countenance: "Jesus saves! Jesus saves!" We'll "bear the news to every land, climb the steeps and cross the waves; Onward!--'tis our Lord's command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves!" (Borrowed from the hymn Jesus Saves.) I thank God for you...and rightly so!

Speed Bumps

“God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus”- Philippians 4:19 (NRSV).

Henry Edward Manning is quoted as saying, “God loves and cares for us, even to the least event and smallest need of life.” We are unaware of the multitude of our little needs God satisfies each day. We go through our day, taking for granted that the car will start, the buttons will be on our shirt, our food will be fresh in the refrigerator…well, you get the picture. The little hiccups in our life cause us to slow down and notice…we become aware that we’re missing that button or there’s a funny smell coming from the freezer. Speed bumps in our life, like the speed bumps on a road, make us slow down and take notice, reflecting on God’s providence. We should take time to thank God for all things...big and small. Everything is from Him, through Him, and to Him. Thank God He cares about the mundane little things in our lives, which we take for granted…but He doesn't. Praise the Lord!   

Authentic Dialogue

"The Lord says: "These people come near to Me with their mouth and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is based on merely human rules they have been taught"- Isaiah 29:13 (NIV).

Richard J. Foster said, "God desires authentic dialogue...what is on our hearts." A church bulletin is handed out to each congregationalist as they enter for worship...referred to as the "order of worship." It's an agenda; for some...a checkoff list, repeated every Sunday. The songs change, their may be a solo or quartet variation to the music, but the order has been the same from generation to generation. There are churches that repeat the same words, as a congregation, every Sunday: doxologies, call/responses, even prayers. To God the Father, they are words of worship from those who repeat them from their heart, but ring hollow from uncommitted lips. Our churches need revival and it must begin in our hearts! The revival doesn't come from us, but from God, by supernatural power. Show us what You are able to do, Lord, and raise your servants to new heights...a Holy quest for revival, which begins with authentic dialogue with You.

Ordinary

"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus"- Acts 4:13 (NIV).

God does not show favoritism, many times He has taken the societal misfits, the underestimated and the unappreciated...the ordinary...to demonstrate His presence and power. Jesus promised to send the Helper once He ascended to the Father, which came to fruition during and following Pentecost. The indwelling Holy Spirit convicts, empowers, guides, and protects those who ask, accept, and acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah. Do not underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit. He is God...in you, His redeemed...and no weapon forged against you will stand (Isaiah 54:17).

Take Heart

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world"-John 16:33 (NIV).

God is faithful! He keeps His covenant and love to a thousand generations to those who love Him and keep His commandments (Deuteronomy 7:9). Even if you are faithless, He won't...He can't...deny Himself (2 Timothy 2:13). God promises to establish you and guard you against evil (2 Thessalonians 3:3). When temptations come, He will not allow you to be tempted beyond your ability and then will provide an escape (1 Corinthians 10:13). What can you say in response to God's faithfulness? Take heart! Praise God! If He is for us, who can be against us (Romans 8:31)? God is faithful! 

Welcome Home

"I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings"- Luke 16:9 (NIV).

Marley, in the movie Scrooge, had been a miser while he was alive. Following his death, he was shackled with heavy chains, forged link by link by his accumulated wealth. His apparition was a warning to Scrooge that Scrooge's chains were much longer and heavier because of his tight-fisted dealings with others. God loves a generous and cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). Isaiah gives a description of the Lord's saints being welcomed into eternity: everlasting joy will crown their head, happiness will overtake them...making them burst forth in songs (51:11). There's nothing wrong with having money, until it becomes your most prized relationship...becoming an altar. Be generous in all things and your welcome will be "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21)...longed for beautiful words.

Lips and Hips

"These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up"- Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (NIV).

Jesus should frequently be on our lips and on our hips. We should walk the walk and talk the talk. OK, the first reference was really a food reference (forgive me Lord), but I'm trying to make a point. Walking the walk involves our hips. Our children listen and watch us, later to imitate us. A student did a parody of me during class one year. Her clothes, including the glasses, reflected me. Her words, her statements, were repeated verbatim as mine. She marched up and down the familiar path I normally walked, using my posture. She was me! It was the aping of two actions that surprised me: she pushed her glasses up with her index finger and repeatedly ran her tongue over her front teeth. Yes, I knew I did those, but not noticeably! What do you want your children to remember about you? Notice the first two words of today's verse. My student mimicked the influence, word and action, known and unknown, I had on those young people entrusted to me. Forgive me Lord and help me clearly mimic your Son, who always had Your name on His lips and hips.  

Precious Moments

“Your eternal Word, O Lord, stands firm in heaven. Your faithfulness extends to every generation, as enduring as the earth You created. Your regulations remain true to this day, for everything serves Your plans”- Psalm 119:89-91 (NIV).

The Bible is the living breathing Word of God. It’s not an ancient historical text, nor an out-dated compilation of religious letters. Those who read God’s Word daily have discovered His Word given directly to them. God said if you seek Him you will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13). Do you want God to tell you what He wants you to do, know His promises and plans for you, hear Him tell you how much He loves you? Open up the line of communication by opening His Word. God is yearning for those precious moments of communion between the two of you.   

Synchronized

“Well then, what shall I do?  I will pray in the Spirit, and I will also pray in words I understand.  I will sing in the Spirit, and I will also sing in words I understand”-1 Corinthians 14:14 (NLT).

The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us with groaning that cannot be expressed in words (Romans 8:26). There is an undeniable inequality between limited humans words and the limitless Holy Spirit! Success in today's world calls for synchronization: watches, calendars, plans, lives. Paul calls for a synchronized offering, a combination of Spiritual groaning and human words, lifted to an adoring Father. We pray and sing with the Holy Spirit. We hear only our part, we understand only our part, but God hears and understands the synchronized whole, accepting our offering. Praise the Lord!      

Band of Edifiers

"Let us therefore, make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification"- Romans 14:19 (NIV). 

Your intellectual, moral, and spiritual growth is enhanced by those whom surround you. It's a two-way relationship with limitless possibilities. We could speak about choosing your friends wisely, but let's focus on your duty as an edifier. Paul left a desirable attribute list in his epistle to the Church of Philippi: honest, noble, just, virtuous, lovely, of good report...any action or thought that is excellent or praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). Paul repeated several from the list Christ Jesus rendered in His "Sermon on the Mount," with the exceptions of being humble, patient, thirsting for God, merciful, and peacemakers (Matthew 5:3-11). Imagine a relationship between two such people, three, four, or a group of people who strive to develop and model these qualities and challenge you to do the same: A band of edifiers...with limitless possibilities. Seek them and be one.  

In Time

"Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that You are the Holy One of God""- John 6:68-69 (NIV).

A marriage suitor puts on their best performance during the courtship trying to win your heart, but in time, the mask comes off and their true self is divulged. Peter, and the other disciples, spent three years living with Jesus, plenty of time to see Jesus "revealed." Peter didn't just say they believed...he said they knew; in time they knew. Not one artifact exists today expressing any disciple doubts, concerns, or recanting. Not one turned away during the three years or testified against Jesus. In the end, the one who betrayed Jesus couldn't live with the knowledge of what he had done and hanged himself. He, too, knew. Jesus is the Holy One of God; the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). In time...all will believe and know (Revelation 1:7).     

Be Prepared

"Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed"- 1 Peter 1:13 (NIV).

Self-control is not an easy beast to bring under rule. Our eyes, ears, tongue, nose and flesh override our will at times. That donut we know is very bad for us, the award winning movie that takes the Lord's name in vain, the body-moving music with sensual lyrics, the unintentional touch that sends goosebumps springing across your skin and I know you wonder what I'll use for nose...the smell that makes our nostrils flare of memories of all of the above. I do think aging has another benefit...we can control ourselves more easily. Our senses aren't quite as sharp as they once were :). Self-control should be long ignited prior to a tempestuous event. Prepare your minds...outflank the enemy. It's an action that has won many battles.

Great Worth

"Your beauty should not come from outward adornment...it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight"- 1 Peter 3: 304 (NIV).

You monitor your outward self all the time; yet, you should carefully monitor your inner self.  God's sees into your heart (1 Samuel 16:7). He placed eternity there (Ecclesiastes 3:11) and you shall see God (Matthew 5:8)! Your outer body wastes away, but your inner self is renewed day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16). Take every thought captive, making it obedient to God (2 Corinthians 10:5); set your mind on the Spirit, evidenced by peace, modesty, self-control, and fear of the Lord (Romans 8:6, 1 Timothy 2:9, Proverbs 31:30). And don't be anxious, you are of great worth in the eyes of God...worth the life of His Son (Romans 8:32).

Revive Us Lord!

"But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God--having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people"- 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NIV).

There are many who would say we are in the last days. The daily news is filled with every aspect of Paul's list to Timothy, but it was also true of Paul's time. Look back at the culture of the Roman Empire...heartlessness, domination, oppression, deprivation, cruelty, etc. History is filled with periods of turning from God, the rise of tribulation and running back to God. God in His mercy and grace says if we will just humble ourselves, pray and seek His face...He will forgive us and heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14). Billy Graham is calling for prayer for revival. He follows a long list of God's children who have prayed for revival in the past. Isaiah 55:7 says God is merciful and quick to forgive those who turn to Him and change their ways. Do you see our nation in today's Scripture? Let us humble ourselves and pray for revival: in the heart, home, church, community, nation. Revive us Lord!

Facing the Unknown

"He said, "If you listen carefully to the Lord your God and do what is right in His eyes, if you pay attention to His commands and keep all His decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the Lord, who heals you""- Exodus 15:26 (NIV).

Jesus is the Great Healer. His ministry was spent healing lepers, restoring sight, strengthening limbs, removing evil spirits...restoring minds and bodies. He still heals today: The cancerous tumor can't be found, an organ donor is found just in time, rare blood types are matched, cures are found, and lives are extended. Still some are called home, leaving some wondering why their prayers weren't answered and others trusting in God's Sovereign will. The Israelites had witnessed the Egyptians contract boils and all Egyptian first born die during the night. That had to be the most frightening events the world had ever seen. Yet...they followed God out into the unknown! Trusting God and His Sovereign will, even in the face of the unknown, is an act of courage...It's an act of obedience. Did He not command us to do so (Joshua 1:9)? Let us pray for those who are in need of His healing and trust in His Sovereignty. 

The Treasure

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field"- Matthew 13:44 (NIV).

At first blush, it sounds like this man wanted the kingdom of heaven all to himself, unwilling to share or tell anyone about the treasure he had found in the field. I believe the parable speaks strongly about the man having his heart set on giving up everything to possess the treasure, the kingdom. The location of the treasure is relevant; after all it is in a field that a harvest is reaped. The yielded harvest analogy is fruit intended for the kingdom of heaven. Truly our "mission" field, sought and bought with our whole heart, holds the treasure we are building in heaven...a harvest...for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:21). 

Mission Possible

"We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ"- 1 John 1:3 (NIV).

This is a Holy assignment, demonstrated by Jesus. Jesus gave testimony of Himself: Where He came from, where He was going (John 8:14). His example is our assignment: follow Him. Jesus instructed the once demon possessed man to go and tell his own people what the Lord had done for him (Mark 5:19). Personal testimony is powerful! Remember, Satan will be conquered by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony (Revelation 12:11). Do you remember this line from the television series Mission Impossible? "Your assignment, should you choose to accept it"...Well, it's to proclaim what you have seen and heard; to share your testimony with others. Your faithfulness links arms with other believers and with Jesus in powerful fellowship. This isn't Mission Impossible, it's Mission Possible...because nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37).   

Grab the Thought

"For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom""- Luke 12:30-32 (NIV).

What are you thinking about today? I'm reading a book, Gods At War, by Kyle Idleman. Most of us would deny having created any foreign altars in our lives. We serve the only True God, but Kyle points out that the very things you worry about, desire, stress over, dream about, make plans for, hunger for...in other words, whatsoever your most predominant thoughts, are self-generated altars erected to gods that war for your soul. We are to take these thoughts captive and make them obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5), thinking on anything that is worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8). Grab that thought and this...the kingdom is already yours. 

Ashes to Ashes

"[Jesus] gave Himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for Himself a people that are His very own, eager to do what is good"-Titus 2:14 (NIV).

Gregg Laurie said, "As Christians, we should run together, not trip each other in the race. We are not competing against one another." One of my fears, in writing devotions, is that those whom I entrust them will think I consider myself more righteous than the next person. If it's true that they do, they should meet the Nora before Jesus got hold of me. When Jesus burned my sinfully long sin-filled rap sheet, it was a blazing bonfire, and probably still smoldering today. Jesus forgives past sins, present sins, and sins yet uncommitted. That's being fully covered my friend. It also means I still compile a new rap sheet each day regardless of how hard I try...yep, filthy rags from my best efforts. Jesus, in His goodness and mercy, faithfully takes the ledger and once again commits the list to ash. Jesus has redeemed us and called us His own. Let us so encourage each other, in love, to know to Whom we belong.   

Follow Me

"For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him"-2 Chronicles 16:9a (NIV).

Jesus asks, "Do you love Me? Do you trust Me? Then surrender everything and come follow me." Before you shout yes, you need to understand He means for you to take up your cross, daily, to be His disciple and follow Him (Luke 9:23). You can't put anything before Him: spouse, children, job, home, money, comforts. You can't ask for time to settle unfinished business, say goodbye to your family, bury a father, finish a project. Luke 9:62 says no one who puts his hands to the plow should look back. When Elisha was called by Elijah, he butchered his oxen and burned his plow. He had no plans of going back. Your response to Jesus's "Follow Me" requires your life, your everything, to be fully committed to Him. 

Product and Production

"To love Him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices"-Mark 12:33 (NIV).

The greatest commandment can also be found in Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18. How do we love God? What does He expect from us in regards to loving Him? Our Heavenly Father wants us to respect Him, serve Him, and obey His commandments (Deuteronomy 10:12-13). We respect our human fathers or the consequence is to be disciplined, the best they know how. Why wouldn't God do the same? His discipline is always good for us and the intended consequence is for us to share in His holiness (Hebrews 12:9-10). Love is both a noun and a verb. We are a product and production of God's love.

Perfect Focus

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You preserve my life. You stretch out Your hand against the anger of my foes; with Your right hand You save me. The Lord will vindicate me; Your love, Lord, endures forever--do not abandon the works of Your hands"-Psalm 138:7-8 (NIV).

The NKJ version reads, "The Lord will perfect that which concerns me" (v.8). There are many world events to be concerned about right now, but nothing really new. After all, there is nothing new under the sun. It has all happened before and will happen again (Ecclesiastes 1:9). No need to concern yourself. The Lord will perfect it. Is your tomorrow packed with plans, consequences, decisions...other concerns? Jesus said not to be concerned about tomorrow, keep your focus on today (Matthew 6:34). God has already perfected today and tomorrow's concerns. God has promised to keep you in perfect peace as long as you trust Him and keep your mind steadfastly focused (Isaiah 26:3). Where should your focus be? Lifted (Psalm 121:1). In doing so, God will perfect you, His child, into a shining light in a warped and crooked world (Philippians 2:15). 

Seasons

"To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven"-Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NKJV).

Life is all about the timing and discerning of the seasons: When to build, plant, embrace, laugh. We add to the Ecclesiastical list...when to marry, have babies, retire. Most of these seasons are looked forward to, but some we want to put off. Seasons come and seasons go. You can't stop them. Many try to discern their approach and some don't even bother. The Israelites knew a season was coming, the Messiah, and they watched for Him, but many within Judah couldn't discern Who or when He came (Luke 19:44). That season came and went. Many still don't know Who He is, that He came, and that there is an approaching season of His return. That season can't be delayed or put off either. Like those before us, let us be found steadfast in instruction about the season to come. 

Come

"Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost"-Isaiah 55:1 (NIV).

The food and drink are free! He offers, "Come." Are you tired and overburdened? He says, "Come to Me" (Matthew 11:28). There is no cost...for us. Payment has already been rendered...at great cost. We were the lost coin, the sheep who left the fold, the pearl of great value that all was given in exchange for the treasure. You are a treasure. Let us respond to His call and take of the free gift...the water of life. Then we will join with the Spirit and beckon Jesus, "Come!" (Revelation 22:17).   

Out of Nazareth

"The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation"- Colossians 1:15 (NIV).

Jesus is God in the flesh. He chose to be called a Nazarene. Obviously, the town wasn't held in high regard, because Nathanael, when told about Jesus of Nazareth, asked how anything good could come out of that town. But Philip enticed him to "Come and see" (John 1:46). Colossians 1:16 says all things were created by Jesus, through Jesus, and for Jesus. Jesus knew Nathanael before Philip introduced them to each other, before Philip even told Nathanael about Jesus (John 1:47-48). Nathanael, one of the twelve, also known as Bartholomew, died a martyr's death. That first encounter with Jesus was life changing and it was all it took for Nathanael to declare that moment, "You are the Son of God" (John 1:49). That declaration was before Nathanael saw miracles, the crucifixion, or the ascension of our Lord. That revelation came on the first encounter. Something Good did come out of Nazareth.

Leaping

"For you who revere My name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings. And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall"- Malachi 4:2 (NIV).

The image of little calves leaping and frolicking in front of their mothers, as they move toward open pastures, projects past memories across my mind. They exude so much energy that they need a nap by time they get there :). Exhilarating news, rushes of extreme emotional uplifting, unplugs the bottle neck that stress and boredom create during the ebb and flow of our lives. The non-movement, the muck and mire of the rut, can take our eyes off of the Joy of our life. We can depend on our Lord Jesus, the Son of Righteousness, to release us, to set us free. Then we will rise and dance for Him until our joy is expended and then lie down in green pastures and take our rest. 

Seeking Truth

"What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God"- Micah 6:8 (NIV).

Yesterday's message told us to avoid worldly corruption. Today's is instruction in purposeful behavior: How to act, love, and walk. The Bible is God's Holy Word...His voice. Daily reading opens and increases the frequency of our conversations with God. His Holy Word teaches, admonishes, encourages, guides, and consoles. The encounter is supernatural and powerfully personal. Daily Scriptural reading is life giving and life changing. You know It is! The devil will try to throw stumbling stones in your path, distractors, to keep you from this Holy interlude. Satan wants you unarmed, questioning, weak, lost, hopeless. The Bible is inerrant. It's the truth, the whole, and nothing but the truth. What "in this world" is holding you back...keeping you from the Truth today? 

Numb Silence

"Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you"- James 1:27 (NLT).

Show me how to worship and serve You Lord with a pure and genuine religion. James gave us two components of sanctified religion. The first is most well known, taking care of orphans and widows. The second had escaped my attention. Let's look at the Scripture with the removal of the first: "Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means...refusing to let the world corrupt you." Money, power, position...violence, sex, drugs...What about allowing worldliness to desensitize us? We watch television shows glamorizing evil, read demoralizing sins of the flesh literature, listen to music that is contrary to our faith and our God...and remain silent, anesthetized, on the sidelines as this parade of sin passes before us. I listened to a man tell a group that Moses' burning bush was produced by ground-seeping oil in the middle east. Isn't silence the same as agreement? There should be an addendum to today's Scripture: "Refusing to let the world corrupt you"...and those around you. Lord forgive my numb silence and revive us!

I Love You This Much

"To Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!"- Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV).    

There used to be a newspaper cartoon called, "I Love You This Much." The creator, whom I can't find on Google, used her marriage as the inspiration to her creation. She even had a little dog. Do you know the cartoon I'm talking about? I used to cut them out and save them. Each one made you realize the imperfections of your husband don't alter the fact that you love him. She actually found humor in the imperfections and we laughed along, because we all have imperfections. There is no perfect spouse...Amen? I wonder if Jesus finds humor in our imperfections? I also remember a poster of Jesus on the cross, arms spread wide, with the caption, "I love you this much." Jesus has loved us immeasurably more...more than we can ask or imagine. To Him be glory for ever!

Tarry Lord

"The Lord in not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance"- 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV).

The Second Coming of Jesus Christ is not slow...according to God's timetable. Our view of slowness is defined by our own time schedule. The Second Coming will happen, but there are many who still need salvation and Jesus yearns for them. C. H. Spurgeon said, "While I have prayed, "Come quickly," I have often felt inclined to contradict myself and cry, "Yet tarry for a while, good Lord. Let mercy's day be lengthened. Let the heathen yet receive the Savior." We may desire the coming of the Lord, but we ought to be in sympathy with the tarrying of the Most High, to which His loving heart inclines Him." Though our hearts cry, "Come now, Jesus," let us be patient while the Lord tarries, for those remaining, to come to Him. 

Living Sacrifice

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God--this is your true and proper worship"-Romans 12:1 (NIV).

"Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee. Take my moments and my days, let them flow in endless praise." Henri Abraham Cesar Malan wrote those lyrics in 1827. Consecrated means to set apart, to transform, to dedicate for a sacred purpose, to make hallow. True and proper worship is fulfilled by offering ourselves, our bodies, as living sacrifices in His service. The Israelites looked for a spotless lamb, a perfect sacrifice; nothing less was acceptable to God. Our sinful bodies are far from spotless, so God provided the perfect Sacrificial Lamb, consecrating our bodies as temples for the Holy Spirit to reside. You have been set apart, transformed, dedicated. Do not ignore your sacred purpose by treating your offering with little regard. Do you worship by treating your body as an offering to God?

Uncovered

"Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator"-Colossians 3:9-10 (NIV).

Being honest is liberating and feels crisp and clean. Dishonesty, on the other hand, makes you feel dirty and leaves you trapped with the possibility of having to tell a "cover up" lie or the fear you may be found out..."uncovered" as a liar. Today's Scripture talks about an "uncovering," one that liberates and makes you brand new, a chance to put on a new person in the image of Jesus Christ. Life is all about this choice, this "uncovering." God has set before you life and blessings or death and curses (Deuteronomy 30:19). Now is the time to choose and let us share this Message with others.

Changling

"Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change"- James 1:17 (NRSV).

In this life, change is inevitable, but our Father never changes. Decay and rust eat away at our best creations changing them into shadows of their concept: Castles become ruins, masterpieces lose their brilliance. Even the earth transforms: rivers change their course, weathering reduces rock to sand. We see our physical bodies changing, too, but take heart Christian, change has a promise: We are spiritually being transformed, changed, into the image of Jesus little at a time. This perfect and generous gift comes from the Father (2 Corinthians 3:18). Change is good!

Pruned

“Encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone”- 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (NIV).

What tries your patience? Is it drivers, long lines, career advancement, spouses….? We aren't even patient with ourselves. We want immediate results. We want to know how long something will take before we begin the work. It’s absolutely amazing the patience God has with us and I praise Him because He still looks at us as precious and worth waiting on. God created us to bear fruit. He lovingly prunes us and patiently waits for the blossoms of promised fruit to show (John 15:1-2). Be patient with yourself and others. Growing fruit takes time.

Courageous

“He picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then, armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine”-1 Samuel 17:40 (NLT).

David should inspire us! How do you prepare to do what the world considers foolishly impossible? David was going to fight a giant, against impossible odds, and without backup support. Goliath brought his armor bearer onto the battlefield and had Philistine troops cheering him on, confident in Goliath’s strength and size. David was so small he couldn't fit into the armor King Saul tried to give him. Goliath was a giant armed with a deadly javelin and a thick shield. David had a stick and a sling. We know how the story ended. God takes the world’s view of foolishness and demonstrates His power. You should want David’s kind of courage; the courage to cross the valley, to meet and defeat giants, and to know nothing is impossible or too hard for God (Luke 1:37).

Owned

”Here is a trustworthy saying: If we died with Him, we will also live with Him; if we endure, we will also reign with Him. If we disown Him, He will also disown us; if we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot disown Himself”-2 Timothy 2:11-13 (NIV).

People who reject the salvation of the Lord, disowning Jesus...God will disown them. People who accept Jesus, even when they falter and are faithless…God will not, cannot, disown them. When God looks at us, His chosen, He sees His Son (Himself). He’s aware of every heartbeat and breath we take. What will others see when they look at us? That’s very humbling, because our thoughts and actions don’t always honor nor replicate Jesus? God yearns for us, yet knows our “condition.” That’s why He provided the Way, so we, His beloved, would be able to live and reign with Him...forever. Jesus is intricately woven into our being. May the Spirit in me, recognize the Spirit in you, and together we say, “Come Lord Jesus!     

“God knows the rhythm of my spirit and my heart thoughts. He is as close as breathing” (Unknown).

Here Today and Here Tomorrow

Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness"- Romans 4:4-5 (NIV).

People are paid for their earthly work; pay that is not a gift, here today and gone tomorrow. There is no work you can do to make yourself right with God. Righteousness requires faith. James spoke of work, work spawned by faith (2:24). One is the natural product of the other. You can't have faith and not produce work; work that also has a paycheck...an eternal gift, here today and here tomorrow.    

Eternal Lessons

"For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen"- Romans 11:36 (NIV).

Trusting God is the most liberating realization one learns in life. He commands us to do one thing...with all our heart, mind, soul, and body...love Him and love others (Luke 10:27). You can't say you don't know how to love, not if you have life and live in this world. Henry Drummond says, "The world is not a playground, it is a schoolroom. Life is not a holiday but an education, and the one eternal lesson for us all is how better we can love." It boils down to "choosing to love." Do you want to glorify God? Trust Him; let go and fall into the arms of Jesus..love with abandon; for love's origin is from God, through God, and for God...an eternal lesson for the world to see. 

Tossing the Sack

“You turned my wailing into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy”-Psalm 30:11 (NIV).

This Scripture is an emotional dichotomy.  Imagine a person wailing and wearing sackcloth.  They are in torment, vulnerable, physically weak, and seemingly inconsolable.  The person is miserable in heart, body, and spirit.  God’s saving grace, mercy, and provision changes that tormented soul, in an indescribable act of love, into a new joyful soul:  dancing and full of joy.  Is it the provisional answer to the prayer creating the joy?  Or is the realization that God is really concerned about us, hears our prayers, and reaches out His mighty arm to save us?  It’s the confirmation, time and time again, that He loves us;  He really loves us.  If you are sad…pray, be still, and get ready to toss that sack.        

Unfettered

“Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God.  And you count far more to Him than birds”- Matthew 6:26 (The Message).

What kind of job description does a bird have to follow anyway: eat, sleep, raise young, migrate (possibly), stay away from cats…..?  Does that sound pretty free and unfettered to you?  What if that were all we had to do and  be “careless in the care of God?”  The truth is that being “careless in the care of God” is our job description (Matthew 6:25-33).  We’re instructed not to be anxious or worry, but we still cling to that heightened sense of possible “things” that could go wrong: marriage, family, health, job, safety, etc.  Following our true job description frees us from being anxious and worrying.  God supplies the needs of the birds; He’ll supply the needs of His children.  Trust God and live in “careless freedom.”   

Treasure Location

"Everyone comes naked from their mother's womb, and as everyone comes, so they depart. They take nothing from their toil that they can carry in their hands"- Ecclesiastes 5:15 (NIV).

Where is your treasure located? Most have toyed with the following question, "If your house was on fire, what would you grab before you ran out of the house?" Our earthly possessions can become our treasures. We collect pictures and archive them as memorials of days past. There are family heirlooms displayed throughout our homes. Expensive treasures we take pride in and show off to visitors. Sentimental gifts, from family, friends, and self-generated, are stored in boxes, drawers, and albums. We must be ever watchful that our collections don't become altars in which we emotionally invest too much time and energy. We're told to build our treasures in heaven; "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matthew 6:19-21). Plus, it's true...you can't take it with you.

Waiting for the Trumpet Sound

"In frenzied excitement he eats up the ground; he cannot stand still when the trumpet sounds"- Job 39:24 (NIV).

Horses have symbolized strength and beauty throughout history. Bits are placed into their mouths making them obey; you can turn this powerful animal with a tiny bit (James 3:3). They are proud. They are courageous (Job 39: 19-23). There will come a day when all will behold an approaching army, beyond numbers. Fire will consume behind as they advance; they never break rank or change course. These warriors will have the appearance of horses, drawn up into battle formation, following the Lord, who thunders at the head (Joel 2:1-8). Jesus holds the bit of the snorting pawing army behind Him...waiting for the trumpet to sound.

Moving Mountains

“When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said”- Acts 8:6 (NIV).

Don’t you desire faith strong enough to move mountains? Faith can seem so frustrating and unstable at times. How can God use me, I’m such a weak Christian? Look at Philip, one of the Lord’s disciples, who had witnessed Jesus’ miraculous powers. Jesus told His disciples He was the Way, the Truth, and the Life. The only way to the Father was through Him and that by knowing Him, they knew the Father. Yet, Philip wanted more proof and said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us” (John 14:8). Just how much proof did Philip need? All his senses had been given multiple evidences of the Truth. Everyone has moments of doubt, weakened faith, questioning what we believe. Philip’s weak faith didn't keep him from sharing the Good News and God did wonderful works through Philip. You learned the song as a child: “Jesus Loves Me”.  Bet you can still fill in the blanks..”_____are weak, but He is _____." God reveals His strength through our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). Think of the faith of the early leaders: Moses didn't want to go, Gideon was doubtful, Peter was in denial. Through their weaknesses, by His strength, He moved mountains.  He’s still in the business of moving mountains.  

Finish the Race

"Now He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness"- 2 Corinthians 9:10 (NIV).

God supplies all your needs according to the riches of His glory in His Son Jesus (Philippians 4:19). He knows what you need in order to finish, so don't be anxious about these things (Matthew 6:31-32). He's preparing you as His workmanship for good works...meeting your needs to run the race He's set before you (Ephesians 2:8-10). He chose you as part of His royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9); bought at an exorbitant price, we no longer belong to ourselves (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Your life should only have One goal...finish the race, complete the task God has given you...the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace (Acts 20:24). 

Stand Firm

“Thanks be to God!  He gives us the victory through our lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm.  Let nothing move you.  Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain”-1 Corinthians 15:57-58 (NIV).

Stand firm.  Let’s do a little visualization during this Scriptural gleaning.  Picture a battle dressed warrior, ready for battle, braced with feet apart: his sword held in one hand and a shield in the other.  His face is set, eyes looking off in the distance for the enemy.  He doesn’t move.  He remains statuesque; only eye movement and breathing verify he is alive.  Sometimes standing firm, not moving from your spot, is hard.  We know Jesus will give us the victory, but the battle still has to be fought.  Today’s battles are on different fronts:  work, family, neighborhood, church, health, finances, and within our own hearts.  Believe me…you have been or will be fighting on one of these fronts.  We are commanded to give ourselves “faith” fully; knowing the work of the Lord is never in vain and always victorious.  Stand firm.     

Walk the Walk

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy"- Philippians 1:3-4 (NIV). 

Uplifted prayers are sweet smelling incense before God (Psalm 141:2). In your prayers, don't fret or be anxious (Philippians 4:6). Instead, in prayer be earnest, unwearied, steadfast, alert, intent, and thankful (Colossians 4:2). Our Heavenly Father, hearing your prayer, will relieve you of your distress and have mercy on you (Psalm 4:1). Share your prayer needs with each other, pray..."The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective" (James 5:16). Margaret Moore Jacobs is quoted, "To live in prayer together is to walk in love together." So talk the talk (prayer) and walk the walk (in love). Amen! 

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!

"Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us? And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"- Isaiah 6:8-9 (NIV).

Do you see the exclamation mark at the end? The definition for this punctuation is "a forceful utterance of strong feelings." Isaiah was quick to emotionally confirm his willingness and desire to be the chosen. We are a culture of planning our days, weeks, months, and even years. Each day has an agenda and time is "mark"ed off for one event to the next. Are we willing to react with Isaiah's strong declaration ended with our own exclamation mark? Which should have the priority: Our calendar mark or our exclamation mark? It's just a question of which mark we want to live by. On your mark, get set, go!

Watch and Pray

"And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days"- Joel 2:28-29 (NIV).

Afterward? After what? Joel is prophesying about the devastation preceding the Lord's return: The Day of the Lord (1:15). Fire will devour the land (v.19), streams will dry up (v.20), and locusts will take what is left (v.4). The sun and moon will be darkened (2:10). A heavenly army, forces beyond number, will advance against the world (1:6; 2:11); a day like never seen before (1:2) and we are to tell our children, who are then to tell their children, generation to generation until the time arrives (1:3). Lives and souls are at stake. And then...the "afterward:" reconciliation and restoration. Jesus said, "Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man" (Luke 21:36). These warnings should, but don't frighten non-believers and trouble those who haven't made a commitment to Jesus yet. We grieve for their afterward.  

Wallop of Passion

“On the day I called, You answered me; You made me bold with strength in my soul”- Psalm 138:3 (KJV).

It was God who “made” the psalmist “bold.” Max Lucado says, “Check your vital signs. Something stirs you. Some call brings energy to your voice, conviction to your face, and direction to your step. Isolate and embrace it. Nothing gives a day a greater chance than a good wallop of passion.” The things you are passionate about are the very things you become bold about.  In His passion, God created you! Bearers of His image, we possess that same passion. Do you look for God’s calling in your life? The things which stir up your passion are the indicators, the blinking lights of His calling, His purpose for your life. May God stir the burning embers of your soul. My prayer for you today...“a good wallop of passion.”   

Faith Seeds

"He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you"- Matthew 17:20 (NIV).

Jesus teaches faith. A mustard seed, black, brown Indian, or white, is usually 1-2 mm in diameter and one of the smallest seeds in the Middle East. Jesus used this hyperbole to show that something so little can be so much when it comes from God. He uses a similar illustration, substituting a mulberry tree in place of the mountain, in Luke 17:6. Faith is a gift from God (Ephesians 2:8), in which pulsates the incalculable power of God ready to be unleashed: fig trees wither (Matthew 21:21), men walk on water (Matthew 14:31), children are healed (Matthew Matthew 15:28), friends get off their mats and walk (Matthew 9:2). Through faith, we are shielded (1 Peter 1:5) and victorious (1 John 5:4), but we are not to rely on our own wisdom...but faith in God's power (1 Corinthians 2:5). Faith is confidence in what we hope for (Hebrews 11:1)...Jesus.

Getting Lost

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand"- Isaiah 41:10 (NIV).

One translation asks, "Why do you anxiously look around yourself?...for I am God!" Where should our eyes be? Francis J. Crosby wrote the song "Blessed Assurance."  Here are some of the lyrics: "Perfect submission, all is at rest, I in my Savior am happy and blest; Watching and waiting, looking above, Filled with His goodness, lost in His love." Submit to Him and lift your eyes. Your help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 121:1). The rest is easy...get lost in His love!

Backward By Design

"Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life"-Revelation 22:17 (NIV).

Jesus is the Giver of the water that permanently quenches thirst, becoming a spring of water within, giving eternal life (John 4:14). The consumer's cost: free. That's why Jesus came (John 3:16). God is infinitely good. His love never fails...He will pursue you your entire life (Psalm 23:6). Those who listen, who turn and accept His advances, will live (John 5:25), because He is the resurrection, He is life eternal (11:25). Oh, to fully realize, to be able to mentally grasp, how wide and long and high and deep is the love Jesus has for us. It is beyond our understanding (Ephesians 3:18-19). Thank God, He is patient and wants us all, each and everyone, to come (2 Peter 3:9). Oh Lord, we should be pursuing You! 

GPS Guidance

"Show me Your ways, Lord, teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are God my Savior, and my hope is in You all day long"-Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV).

Do you sometimes feel like you're not sure you know where you are going? I'm so thankful for the GPS (Global Positioning System); especially the ones that talks to you! We have a spiritual GPS system, too (God's Positioning System), ensuring our paths will be made straight if we trust and acknowledge God (Proverbs 3:5-6) and He will instruct us which path to follow (Psalm 32:8). If we turn the wrong way, we will hear Him whisper in our ear to change our direction (Isaiah 30:21). We seek is to find God, to be in His presence, to sing His praises...to be home. Listen, God will show us the way...He is the Way...and the Light (John 14:6).. And as we walk the path He has chosen for us, we are to walk as His children...children of the Light (Ephesians 5:8). 

The Power of One Word

“No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him—the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough—that he should live on forever and not see decay”-Psalm 49:7-9 (NIV).

You can’t pay the price for others to enter into everlasting life.  There’s not enough money in the world!  When you accepted Jesus, the Holy Spirit (the down payment from God), entered your body.  You no longer belong to yourself; you are bought at an exorbitant price.  You belong to God and you are a new creation (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; 2 Corinthians 5:17).  Jesus said “it is finished” and gave up his Spirit (John 19:30).  “It” is a small word…but those two letters represent the greatest single act of love the world has ever seen.  You can share the good news about “it,” but you can’t give “it.”  Jesus is the [only] Way (John 14: 6). 

Body Parts

"Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion...If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men"- Romans 12:16, 18 (NKJV).

The Pharisees must have been a less than humble lot. They would take the best seats wherever they went and expected to be recognized out in public (Luke 11:43). We aren't to set our minds on this type of achievement; instead, we are to be live in harmony with others and make an effort to be holy...or we will never see the Lord (Hebrews 12:14). The Bible warns against selfish ambition, vanity, and conceit and encourages us to be humble and place more value on others than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). That is the way we mature in our Christian walk, taking our place within the body of Christ, Who is the Head, and strengthening ourselves in truth and love, as each Body member does their work (Ephesians 4:15-16). 

Sweet Dreams

"When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet"-Proverbs 3:24 (NIV).

"Now I lay me down to sleep; I pray the Lord my soul to keep" is the well known bedtime prayer of children. Sleeping children look so peaceful...like little angels. It's comforting to think our Heavenly Father looks at us in the same way. Praise the Lord who sustains us as we sleep (Psalm 3:5) and instructs our hearts during the night (Psalm 16:7). He sings over us and we awake with His song (Psalm 42:8), for He grants sleep to those He loves (Psalm 127:2). A rain shadow is when a tall mountain protects the land on the lee side from the coming storms. The lee side is the sheltered side...the side resting in the shadow. "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1). Sweet dreams! 

From the Lips of God

"For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purpose"-Philippians 2:13 (NIV).

Before you were born, God called you and even now He mentions you by name (Isaiah 49:1). Isn't is comforting to know God's lips have uttered your name?  There is always concern that we won't fulfill His purpose for us, but today's Scripture declares it is God who puts the desire to act according to His purpose in us. It's not by our own wisdom, strength, or talent. Praise the Lord! We can't take credit; all the glory and honor is His. It is God who leads us down the right path (Psalm 23:3). So, trust the Lord with all of your heart. Don't try to understand (Proverbs 3:5), for Scripture says it pleases our heavenly Father to give us the kingdom (Luke 12:32). Thank God for His indescribable gift (2 Corinthians 9:15)!

Epiphany

"This is what the Lord says: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: That they have the understanding to know Me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the Lord"-Jeremiah 9:23-24 (NIV).

Typically, we view boasting as a negative display of prideful bragging. Boasting about knowing God is not an idle boast. God delights in your boastfulness of knowing Him! First you have to acquire the "understanding to know Him." You'll hear people say they've had an epiphany. The definition is the sudden manifestation of the essential nature and meaning of something (or in this case, Someone). An epiphany is an illuminating awakening! Put another way: By the sudden discovery of who God is, that proverbial light bulb above your head turns on and Illuminating Light enters your life. You were blind and now you see. Suddenly, the negative boasting of your wisdom, strength, and riches, become nothing...You know God.      

Signs

"I have become a sign to many; You are my strong refuge. My mouth is filled with Your praise, declaring Your splendor all day long"-Psalm 71:7-8 (NIV).

The purpose of a sign is to inform individuals about safety, direction, warnings, and advertising. The wonder of your transformation is a sign to the world. You are a message to help others believe (Mark 16:17-18) and people demand a sign in order to believe (John 4:48). The devil is well aware of the need for signs and will send false messiahs and prophets to deceive (Matthew 24:24). Deuteronomy 13:1 warns us to beware of those who show signs which compromise our safety, send us in the wrong direction, and allow us to fall without warning. There are empty signs, with no message, which say "sign for rent." What message does your sign declare when people look at you and your life? Does your message reflect splendor or "sign for rent"? 

Never Give Up

 “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work”-2 Corinthians 9:8.

The Word today is to never give up.  When you cry, “I can’t do this”…God says, “I am able.”  Our Father gives such wonderful gifts.  The glory is His, so we can never boast that our accomplishments are of our own making; speaking volumes of His love for us.  Without God, we are nothing, but with God, we can do all things.  Here’s a question: What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?  How big of a dream can you dream?  What obstacles are keeping you frozen in your path?  I can tell you; if there are obstacles, they aren’t from God.  The devil, that great deceiver, wants to keep you from doing the remarkable work God has intended you to do; that He chose you to do before you were ever created.  So, what are you waiting for?    

Trip of a Life Time

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him”-1 Corinthians 2:9 (NIV).

You’ve heard people say, “I thought I had seen it all…” or “I thought I had heard it all…”  Well, no one has ever seen it all or heard it all!  God created man’s mind to be creative.  Look at some of the things man has been able to conceive: breaking the sound barrier, Internet and smart phones, going to the moon.  Heaven is a place beyond what our mind can conceive.  People put so much time and effort into planning their trips.  This final trip, is the trip of a life time, promising sights and sounds beyond our imagination, and God has already made all the arrangements!  God has each of us here for a purpose and when the purpose is served, well, my bags are packed.     

What God Wants

"God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work"-2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV).

God provides not only food, clothing, shelter, and other basic needs (Matthew 6:25-34), He provides "all grace" in "all things" at "all times." He is our "all powerful," "all knowing," "all present" Heavenly Father. And in "all things" God works for the good of His chosen (Romans 8:28); coming so that you would have "all that you need" for an abundantly full life (John 10:10). What can you give in return for God's "all?" Give Him your "all." Love Him with "all your heart," "all your soul," and "all your mind" (Luke 10:27). That's "all" He asks of you.  

Believe it. Live it.

"I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of My hand"-John 10:28 (NIV).

You are who God says you are. You are His (Isaiah 43:1), His adopted child, chosen (Ephesians 1:3-8), and now a member of His body (1 Corinthians 12:27). You can't be separated from Him (Romans 8:31-39) and as a citizen of His kingdom (Philippians 3:20), Jesus our King protects us. Buddy Owens, pastor of Saddleback Church says, "God is asking you to believe He is who He says He is, believe you are who He says you are, and then live like you believe those things." So, don't conform to this world, instead, be transformed (Romans 12:2). You are loved with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). Believe it. Live it. 

“Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.  Love her, and she will guard you.  Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!  And whatever else you do, develop good judgment”-Proverbs 4:6-7 (NLT).

I have to add one more verse to today’s Scripture choice.  Patience; you will see the beautiful tie into what Solomon, the wisest man in the world, said about wisdom.  Preach it Paul. “My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in Whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Colossians 2:2-3). Solomon and Paul said it so beautifully, my commentary isn’t really necessary.  Wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Christ.  Now, go back and reread Proverbs 4:6-7 and replace wisdom with Christ and the female gender with male. Priceless….and freeing.  Sweet!    

"Who can proclaim the mighty acts of the Lord or fully declare His praise?"-Psalm 106:2 (NIV).

Who confidently feels they "fully" praise God? Asked in a church, probably not one hand would rise. The Lord our God is holy (Psalm 99:9) and worthy of our praise (Psalm 96:4). Addison Road's song, "What Do I Know of Holy." speaks of wondering if she has made God too small, because she doesn't really fear Him. "Are You fire? Are You fury? Are You sacred? Are you beautiful?...What do I know of Holy?" Scripture says there is none other like our righteous God (Psalm 71:19). The whole earth is full of His glory (Isaiah 6:3) and the heavens declare "Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord God Almighty" (Revelation 4:8)...non-stop!  "If You touched my face would I know You? Looked into my eyes could I behold You?" (Addison Road). Be still and know, brothers and sisters...We aren't to lean on our own understanding, but trust God. He will deliver you (Proverbs 3:5-6). We are to continue, to proclaim and declare...Praise God! 

"And hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, Who has been given to us"-Romans 5:5 (NIV).

What a wonderful gift: the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit brings new life from heaven, we are born again, and that's hard to explain (John 3:6-8). The power of the Holy Spirit frees us to a new life, through Jesus Christ, from the power of sin which leads to death. Jesus fulfilled the requirement of the law, death, and now we follow and seek the desires of the Holy Spirit. There is life and peace when the Holy Spirit controls our minds (Romans 8:2-6). We are new people, with new lives; a gift from God, Who brought us back to Himself through what Jesus did on the cross. Our task, now, is to reconcile others to Him (2 Corinthians 5:16-18).

"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, Who, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body"-Philippians 3:20-21 (NIV).

The Apostle Paul felt torn, hard pressed, between staying in the present and departing to be with Jesus (1:21-23). The Bible gives us descriptors of our heavenly home. There is plenty of room for all of us (John 14:2), well...not for all (3:36). There won't be any events to cause us to be sad: death, mourning, crying, pain (Revelation 21:4). And heaven has angels, lots of singing, and it's beautiful: a crystal flowing river, trees bearing fruit each month, daylight all the time (22:1-5). And so much more! We should set our hearts on Heaven, because Jesus is there and He is our life. When He appears, "then [we] also will appear with Him in glory" (Colossians 3:1-4). Not only appear with Him, but be transformed to look like Him...Glorious. Praise the Lord!

“So they decided to use the money to buy the potter’s field as a burial place for foreigners”-Matthew 27:7.  

The price for Jesus’ betrayal was 30 pieces of silver and called blood money by the chief priests, meaning it was unclean and against the law to put it back into the treasury (v. 6).  Who does the treasury belong to anyway?  The church’s money is God’s money.  God used his own money to sacrifice His Son.  Two other things jump out at me with today’s Scripture.  

One…The Jewish leaders needed a place to bury foreigners.  Foreigners weren’t welcome; the Gentiles, in fact, were just as unclean as Jesus’ blood money.  Unknowingly, they had coupled the two together (buried with Christ).  

Two…Jesus is the Potter; His money used for His death, to purchase His field, to gather His Own to Him.

Do I hear an Amen out there?

“This is My command—be strong and courageous!  Do not be afraid or discouraged.  For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”-Joshua 1:9 (NLT).

There is a battle going on…for your soul.  You are set apart, not a citizen of this world, chosen…His.  You’ve felt it and known you were different as long as you can remember.  Someone introduced you to the Lord and the dots were connected.  You understood why you felt “different” from the world.  I don’t know about you, but I tried to wedge myself into the world..to fit..but, I couldn’t and praise the Lord, wouldn’t want to now…nope, not at all.  The world begs you to join in; to take your vows of world citizenship by enticing you with earthly pleasures: self-glory, self-satisfaction, self-absorption, self….That is not the Spirit He put in you.  You are the child of the most High.  I have a verse taped to my bedroom mirror.  It’s my battle cry and I’ll share it with you:

“Listen, this is what the Lord says to you: ‘Do not be afraid or discouraged…for the battle is not yours, but God’s…go…take up your position...you will not have to fight this battle...take up your position… stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you…do not be afraid…do not be discouraged..go..and the Lord will be with you”-2 Chronicles 20:15-17.