Nothing Better

"I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live. That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil-this is the gift of God"- Ecclesiastes 3:12 (NIV).

The product of a person's "toil" is fruit. Each person is recognizable by the fruit they produce (Luke 6:43). God's children are identified by love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The gift is that you gain satisfaction from producing such fruit, from your toil of doing good, and then you may eat and drink. "Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price" (Isaiah 55:1). Without price; free; a gift of God.  There is nothing better!

Roll Call

"He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away"- Revelation 21:4 (NIV).

There are so many celebrities who passed away this year; to mention a few: Robin Williams, Lauren Bacall, Joan Rivers, Casey Kasem, James Gardner, and Shirley Temple Black. Their names and contributions will be on the roll call at the end of the year as Americans remember and honor their passing. But there is a roll call of a higher order...the Roll Called Up Yonder (lyricist James M. Black). The last verse is: "Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun, Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care; Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done, And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there." And "there" is where life and joy and laughing and comfort will replace death and mourning and crying and pain. The old order will pass away. The new order will bring life eternal.

Angel-Strain Whispering

""But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me One who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times""- Micah 5:2 (NIV).

Micah prophesied the birth place of the Savior sometime between 750-686 BC. The prophecy fulfilled around 5 BC, hundreds and hundreds of years before Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Rev. Phillips Brooks' lyrics to "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" were inspired upon his 1865 Christmas eve visit to Bethlehem. Shepherds were still watching their sheep in the fields and using caves for a stable. Brooks returned to his little church, the Church of the Holy Trinity in Philadelphia, but didn't write the lyrics until 1886. He asked Lewis H. Redner to write a musical score for the next Sunday, but Lewis was having mental blocks to the music and Sunday was drawing closer. In Redner's words: "But I was roused from sleep late in the night hearing an angel-strain whispering in my ear, and seizing a piece of music paper I jotted down the treble of the tune as we now have it, and on Sunday morning before going to church I filled in the harmony." The song became a Christmas tradition. Angels played a big part that Bethlehem night and have been given credit for the worship song we use today.

Quietness and Trust

"This is what the Sovereign Lord, the Holy One of Israel, says: "In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength, but you would have none of it"- Isaiah 30:15 (NIV).

Quietness reveals strength and by doing so you preserve your life (Proverbs 13:3). Even in the face of uncertainty, trust in the Lord and your heart will anchor firm (Psalm 112:7). Refusal to "be still" in quietness and trust is an act of disobedience and a declaration of disbelief. Yet, submission to the will of God to be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10) increases faith; strengthening the believer. God is your strength and shield (Psalm 3:3); therefore, your heart will rejoice and your soul will safely rest (Psalm 16:9). And in your rest you find salvation. 

Junkyard Analogy

"He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He hurls down His hail like pebbles. Who can withstand His icy blast?'- Psalm 147:16-17 (NIV).

Nature demonstrates the awesome power of God. Snow is one of the Lord's most beautiful winter displays; a marvel to behold. What was once a junkyard is transformed into a hill covered by a blanket of dazzling white snow. The snow covered junkyard is an analogy of our sinful lives being covered by God's grace and forgiveness. Scripture says our sins are red like scarlet, but God makes them white as snow (Isaiah 1:18). Unrepentant sins, however, leaves lives marked like a hail damaged car after a freakish storm. God's icy blast sends hail like pebbles. Who can withstand? No one! If our bodies truly resembled the condition of our soul, would you choose to be a dazzling snow covered landscape or a marked wreck piled high in a scarlet hued junkyard? 

Light of Life

"Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world"- Philippians 2:14-15 (NKJV).

How wonderful it is to feel you do not fit into this world! You walk among a fallen world that feeds off of sinful oppression and affliction. You will never be a piece that fits into this world's puzzle, nor should you attempt to force yourself to fit. Walk away from those who are complaining, sharing dark humor, mocking or supporting sinful behavior. Your silence is accepted as your approval. The words of your mouth should be for good, giving grace to those who hear you (Ephesians 4:29). Be very careful if you find you are the oppressed, the one suffering affliction. Let Christ be your example. Don't open your mouth (Isaiah 53:7; Matthew 27:12). You can't walk in darkness any longer, because you have the Light of Life within you. Jesus is your Light (John 8:12). Let your Light shine before others. They can't help but notice and give glory to God (Matthew 5:16).   

Wordless Declaration

"When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!"- John 11:43 (NIV).

Lazarus' body had been in the tomb for four days when Jesus resurrected him. What emotions did Lazarus have when he realized he was back in his body and back in this life? Later, six days before the Passover, Lazarus was at the dinner table along with Jesus (12:2). Did he talk of his heavenly experience, about conversations he had with the saints or with dearly missed relatives while there? Scripture doesn't reveal anything more. Maybe Lazarus was instructed during those four days about what was to come. He certainly wasn't afraid of dying any longer, because the Jewish leaders now sought to kill him, too (v.10), and he certainly wasn't trying to hide. Lazarus had become evidence of Jesus' power and authority, that He was the Messiah. Without saying anything, Lazarus' presence was loud and clear; a wordless declaration.

Heaven Come

""This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time," declares the Lord. "I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts...No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, 'Know the Lord,' because they will all know me...and I will remember their sins no more""- Jeremiah 31:33-34 (NIV).

Jeremiah was prophesying about God's redemptive covenant; His plan to restore the relationship between His Holy Presence and His sinful children. The first Advent marked the coming of the Savior of the world. Heaven must have held its breath as God's Son was born. His heavenly kingdom remained thus…”heavenly.” I imagine heaven-filled silence at His death, but shouts of joy when He rose and when He ascended back into heaven. It was finished! A second Advent is yet to come. Does there seem to be a silence from heaven right now? Is heaven holding its breath once again? His kingdom will not remain “heavenly” during this Advent, but will accompany Jesus. His Kingdom will come and His entry will certainly not be in silence. Praise the Lord!   

Growing Weary

"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up--one on one side, one on the other--so that his hands remained steady till sunset"- Exodus 17:12 (NIV).

The battle was in favor of Israel's army as long as Moses held his hands high. But his hands grew tired after awhile. It was fellow believers, Aaron and Hur, who stood by his side keeping his hands steady until the victory was theirs (v.12-13). Battles continue, some ongoing and some new, but you grow weary at times. Christian friends are placed in our lives to strengthen our feeble hands, reminding us to remain strong, God will come with vengeance and divine retribution to save us (Isaiah 35:3-4). Rejoice in all of this, though you suffer. These trials prove the genuineness of your faith, more valuable than gold, and will result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus is revealed (1 Peter 6-7). Give thanks to the Father for Christian friends and the opportunity to offer your support when they grow weary.

Gentle and Quiet

"The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still"- Exodus 14:14 (NIV).

Being still goes beyond hands and feet. We also need to keep our mouths in check: quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger (James 1;19). Like the rupture of a dam or the eruption of a volcano, only a fool allows his mouth full vent, when we should remain quiet (Proverbs 29:11). Be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10). You will never "know" if you cannot be "still." God works our quietness to the good when we quietly wait for His salvation (Lamentations 3:26). He will fight for you. Our hearts should melt to know, God sees a gentle and quiet spirit as precious and imperishably beautiful (1 Peter 3:4).  

True Riches

"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).

The moral of this Scripture: Use worldly resources wisely, benefiting others. This followed the parable of the untrustworthy steward who was confronted for not managing his master's wealth honestly (probably increasing the debt and skimming off the top). The dishonest manager needed to make friends and quickly, so that one might take him into their home once he had lost his own dwelling. He reduced their debt loads, cutting them almost in half, so that they could pay. His master commended him for his actions. If you are not trustworthy in managing worldly wealth, or your Master's property, you cannot be trusted with true riches. Either you are devoted to your Master or to worldly riches. You cannot serve both (vs. 11-13). True riches await in your eternal home.  

Tick Tock

"Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up"- Deuteronomy 11:19 (NIV).

Scripture is God-breathed. It is to be used for teaching, rebuking, training and correcting. Only then can God's children be thoroughly equipped for the work God intends for their lives (2 Timothy 3:16-17). The devil is the master of distractions when it comes to keeping you from God's Word and the further removed you are, the less probability you will incorporate Scripture into your daily lives and conversations...the less probability you will fulfill your purpose. Meanwhile, that master clock's hands, ticking off the hours leading up to Jesus' return, keep moving forward. Check yourself: Do the people God has placed around you hear God's word spoken through you? Oh, what a glorious way to be found, doing so, the very hour you meet Jesus! 

Mutual Edificiation

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

Paul, in Romans 14, is asking Kingdom workers to refrain from judging others and to stop throwing stumbling blocks into the paths of fellow believers (v. 13). Some people eat certain foods, while others eat anything. Paul said neither should treat the other with contempt (vs.2-3), but instead, to examine ourselves to see if our choices, our ways, are done to honor the Lord (v. 6-8). The Kingdom is not about what we eat or drink...but about righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (v.17). Everything we do, whether in word or deed, should all be done in the name of Jesus, giving thanks to God through Him (Colossians 3:17).

Immortality

"For this perishable must put on the imperishable, and this mortal must put on immortality"- 1 Corinthians 15:53 (NIV).

Death can be a scary topic, but it shouldn't be for Christians. Dust turns to dust and returns to the ground, but your spirit returns to God. It was He who gave it (Ecclesiastes 12:7). Every soul belongs to and returns to God, but the soul who sins will die (Ezekiel 18:4). Through His one time sacrifice and death, Jesus was victorious over death. Death has been swallowed up! "O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR VICTORY? O DEATH, WHERE IS YOUR STING?" (1 Corinthians 14: 54-55). Immortality, eternal life in Christ Jesus, is a free gift to those of faith. Christians are pardoned from the wages of sin: death (Romans 6:23). Christians, do not fear that which can kill your body; your soul is safe. Instead fear Satan, who can lead you into a life of sin that will destroy both soul and body (Matthew 10:28).  

Invitation

"The child grew and was weaned, and on the day Isaac was weaned Abraham held a great feast"- Genesis 21:8 (NIV).

Abraham and Sarah were thrilled to have a son born to them in their old age. Weaning the child meant he was no longer a baby, so a celebration was declared and the feast arranged. We celebrate life events with feasts: births, weddings, anniversaries, deaths, etc. Jesus instituted a feast, the Lord's Supper, which was a Passover meal, before He came to the time of his Crucifixion and Resurrection. There is a future feast, however, we do not want to miss. Jesus told the parable of the wedding feast, symbolizing His return, and the invited guests weren't willing to come. They were punished and replaced with those who were willing. Jesus ended the parable by warning many will be called but few will be chosen (Matthew 22:1-14). A feast is a time for celebration of an event. The feast Jesus referred to is a future celebration, one in which the invitations have already been extended. The question is whether we will be willing when the trumpet signals the event ready? 

Embrace

"The Lord will keep you from all harm-He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore"- Psalms 121:7-8 (NIV).

There's the story of the young boy who told his mother he was old enough to walk to school without his mother. She agreed with him, kissed him goodbye at the door and waved as he turned the corner. The young boy walked to school doing things young boys do: kicking rocks, stopping to pet a neighbor's dog, eating his lunch snack along the way. He felt quite triumphant when he arrived at his school. Little did he know, you guessed it, his mother had been following him from a distance, ready to intervene if he needed her. Oh, the power of a parent's love for their child. We would die for them. How much more the love of God for His children? The Lord faithfully watches over us now and will throughout eternity. And He did die for us...but death could not hold Him. Even now He sits at the right hand of God, interceding for us until we come home. Can you imagine the hug that young boy got when he returned home? Children of God, there are mighty loving arms awaiting your return home. Embrace that thought. 

Pardon Me

"Moses said to the Lord, "Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue"- Exodus 4:10 (NIV).

Who was the shepherd, Moses, that he would go before Pharaoh, who was seen as a god (3:11)? What if the oppressed Israelites refused to believe God had sent Moses and refused to follow him out of captivity (4:1)? If the downtrodden Israelites won't listen, why would Pharaoh, King of Egypt, listen to someone with a speech impediment (6:30)? Why would Moses, with all these doubts and evident poor qualifications, not feel like the wrong choice? So, Moses asked God to be pardoned. Gideon was hiding from the Midianites when an angel called him to be a mighty warrior (Judges 6:11-12). David, the youngest brother, was taking a lunch to his brothers on the battle line, when he was empowered to grab five stones and face a giant (1 Samuel 17). Esther was called to save her people, at risk of her own death, by approaching the king without being summoned (Esther 4:11). Whatever your excuse, however evident, you are not pardoned. Yours may be that weakness through which God displays His strength (1 Corinthians 12:9).   

Bullied

If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated Me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you"- John 15:18-19 (NIV).

We should anticipate being "bullied" by the world if we are in Christ. The more we reflect the Lord Jesus, the more resistance we will encounter in this world. Count it a blessing, brothers and sisters, a symbol of truth, that the world sees Christ in you. It sounds absurd that we would feel joy, even relief, to know the world hates us. Jesus foretold that the world would hate us because of Him, but if we stand firm to the end we will be saved (Matthew 10:22). The temptation to follow the ways of this world, to feel accepted, will cause many to fall away and abandon their faith as time draws nearer to Jesus' return (1 Timothy 4:1). That's why the Apostle Paul encouraged us to be on our guard; stand firm in our faith; be courageous; be strong...to the end (1 Corinthians 16:13). You do not belong to this world, brothers and sisters, because Jesus chose you out of this world.

Fellow Ambassadors

"Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of His household"- Ephesians 2:19 (NIV).

Established in part by the Vienna conventions, diplomatic immunity gives immunity to foreign ambassadors to work in host countries, but they are expected to respect the laws of the host country. We are to be responsible members of our community. Christians have diplomatic immunity while here on earth. Our citizenship is not of this world; but, while we walk this earth, waiting on our going home, we are Christ's ambassadors. Our conduct is part of our witness, God's appeal through us, to lost souls of this host country, to be reconciled to Him, defect you might say, and become citizens of heaven (2 Corinthians 5:20). I urge you to walk worthy of your calling, fellow ambassadors (Ephesians 4:1). 

Oh Happy Day

"But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness"- 1Thessalonians 5:4-5 (NIV).

All of us have been the unsuspecting victim of a mischievous individual hiding and then jumping out to scare us. The shock runs the full length of our body and nerves because we were unprepared for the sudden appearance. Paul was instructing the new Thessalonican Church to be ready for the unknown day that Jesus returns. How can you be ready? By watching! Paul encouraged then, as I encourage now, that believers build each other up to wear the full armor of God and walk worthy of their calling, so that we may live together with Him (vs. 6-11). Do not let the day when Jesus comes take you by surprise. Oh happy day!  

Maranatha

"[Jesus] replied, "When evening comes, you say, 'It will be fair weather, for the sky is red,' and in the morning, 'Today it will be stormy, for the sky is red and overcast.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times"- Matthew 16:2-3 (NIV).

Maranatha! The Aramaic word means "The Lord is coming." Jesus gives us the 'signs of the times' in Matthew 24:26-31. He warns us not to be fooled by people saying the Messiah is here or there; don't go (for even some of the elect will be deceived). The sun will be darkened and the moon will cast no light. The heavens will be shaken and stars will fall from the sky. Then Jesus will appear in power and glory. A trumpet will blast and Jesus will send his angels to gather the His elect from all corners of the earth. Jesus said, "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come" (v. 42). He will come on a day we don't expect Him and an hour we are not aware. Jesus message is to be ready. Maranatha! 

Destiny

"[Jesus] is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and power being made subject unto Him"- (1 Peter 3:22 (KJV).

"No guilt in life, no fear in death, this is the power of Christ in me. From life's first cry to final breath, Jesus commands my destiny" (emphasis mine). Do you recognize the lyrics to "In Christ Alone?" Today's message is clear: Jesus commands all power. Everything, all creation, is subject to Him. Jesus tells us us we can do nothing apart from Him (John 15:5); but, with Him, all things are possible (Mark 9:23). So pick up those five smooth stones and face your giant. As you go, know that the power of Christ is within you. He alone commands your destiny.

The Goal

"So if you have been raised with the Messiah, seek what is above, where the Messiah is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on what is above, not on what is on the earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with the Messiah in God. When the Messiah, who is your life, is revealed, then you also will be revealed with Him in glory"- (HCSB).

Our goal is to be like Jesus. We are, even now, being transformed into the image of Jesus (2 Corinthians 3:18). This goal doesn't happen by accident. We have to take off the old worldly self and put on the new heavenly self (Colossians 3:9-10); get rid of your old ways and take on the nature of Christ. A life centered on becoming Christ-like is a lifelong pursuit. Now more than ever we need to set our minds on what is above; spread the message of salvation through Jesus Christ to all Christ brings our way; anyone who is willing to allow you to share the reason for your joy. Let God change you for His purpose, and your glory will become His glory.

Unbreakable Covenant

"Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know"- Jeremiah 33:3 (NIV).

God's promise was to bring Judah back from Babylonian captivity. God promised to restore them as they were before (v.11) and said the day was coming that His covenant would be fulfilled...to send a Branch from David's line, the Lord our Righteous Savior (vs. 14-16). Jeremiah's prophecy was over 500 years before the fulfillment of Christ's birth; but, wait, that was the beginning. God's chosen now watch and wait; we know there is more to come. "And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky...and they will see the Son of Man coming..with power and great glory. He will send His angels...and they will gather His elect...from one end of the sky to the other" (Matthew 24:30-31). God has told us great and unsearchable things. Brothers and sisters, God's covenant cannot be broken.  

Always Pray

"Then Jesus told His disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up"- Luke 18:1 (NIV).

The parable was about a widow who continued to cry out for justice from an adversary to an unjust judge. Her relentless pursuit caused the judge to finally yield to her requests to keep her from continuing to bother him. Jesus asked, "And will not God bring about justice for His chosen ones, who cry out to Him day and night?" (v. 7). God chose us before creation began (Ephesians 1:3-4), to be His own possession (1 Peter 2:9), and the choosing was God's doing; we didn't choose Him, he chose us (John 15:16). Learn from the way Jesus prayed: early in the morning while it was still dark (Mark 1:35), alone on a mountainside (Matthew 14:23), and one time all night long (Luke 16:12). He is our example. Do not give up praying. Make your requests known and please pray for all His chosen ones (Ephesians 6:18).

Golden

"But He know the way that I take; when He has tested me, I will come forth as gold"- Job 23:10 (NIV).

Job trusted in the Lord God. Others who were in distress can be added to his number: Daniel, David, Noah, Moses. That's just a few. Doesn't it seem that great Biblical men had their share of testing? Yet, they persevered and came out stronger; brilliantly reflecting the saving grace of God. Who would Daniel be without the lions, David without Goliath, Noah without the scoffing masses and Moses without the 40 years of leading a rebellious group who fell from grace over and over again. You may feel like you are in a pit of ravenous beasts, facing a mocking giant, waiting for flood waters to hit or like you will never get to that promised land. Pray for the patience of Job. You will come out shining like gold if you keep your faith in the One who leads you.

God Rules

"The Lord foils the plans of the nations; He thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations"- Psalms 33:10-11 (NIV).

God rules the world! His plans stand firm regardless of what nations or people plan to do. Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, falsely accused of sinful deeds, and thrown into prison; but God's plan was proceeding. Joseph rose to prominence and Israel was saved from famine. Ruth's husband was dead and her mother-in-law allowed her to go back to her homeland even thought Naomi had refused her at first. Ruth had to pick through leftovers in already gleaned fields to try and feed her mother-in-law; but God's plan was proceeding. Ruth would marry Boaz and be included in the lineage of the Messiah. Look around brothers and sisters. God rules the world! And He has plans for you (Jeremiah 29:11).

Path of Least Resistence

"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).

You've heard people say to choose the "path of least resistance." That Old Deceiver wants you to make that choice. It's easy; more comfortable; takes less effort; accepted by the majority of people; and the results are quicker. King Saul, who had been king for two years, couldn't wait for Samuel to come. His people were scattering, the Philistines were coming and the sacrifice needed to be offered. So he made the sacrifice himself. Saul's lack of perseverance cost him the throne and favor with God. Stay in God's will. It may be difficult, but the rewards are promised to those who persevere.

Image of Christ

"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).

The old you ceased to exist the moment you accepted God's reign in your life. Your life is new; you are new. You are being made new every moment to be like the One who made you. There is no staleness in who you are. What you are now will not be soon after. God is working on molding you into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ. Oh happy day! Will there be enough mirrors in your reach on that day the goal is achieved?   

Win Life

"But not a hair of your head will perish. Stand firm, and you will win life"- Luke 21:18-19 (NIV).

There is no better time to stand firm than when you feel like fleeing, throwing up your hands and giving up. It is at that moment when it's clear you have no power, when the Father of Lies has convinced you to abandon the battle, that you must be still, take up your position and stand firm. God is bigger than any battle you are facing. The victory isn't by your strength; God has overcome in this world (1 John 4:4). 

Exalted

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone"- Romans 12:18 (NIV).

God is not a God of disorder but of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). A disobedient world that ignores God's will never have peace, for only God gives peace (John 14:27). America's peace and security was assaulted on 9/11/2001 and now there are many who have worries of another attack. Jesus didn't say there wouldn't be trouble in this world; but He told us to take heart, He has overcome the world (John 16:33). God will keep you in perfect peace; focus on the Lord and trust Him (Isaiah 26:3). God will be exalted among the nations; He will be exalted in the earth (Psalm 46:10b). 

Keep Watch

"I will make you beautiful forever, a joy to all generations"- Isaiah 60:15 (NLT).

Isaiah is speaking of the new Jerusalem...when God brings us to live in His beautiful new city. Revelation 22 shares the same description of the beautiful new Eden God will bring to earth: streets of gold, pearly gates, no pain or tears. There won't be any need for the light of the sun or moon, because God will be our light and He will be dwelling among us. Both of the chapters say He will do this swiftly and soon. How many hearts hoped it was during their generation? Even in the past, between Isaiah and John (around 700 BC to 100 AD); that's a span of around 800 years of hoping and waiting. Here we are 1,900 years later still hoping and watching. Jesus instructed us to "keep watch" because we don't know the day He will come (Matthew 24:42). But oh, what a glorious day that will be! Come Lord Jesus! Come!

Humility

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives"- Colossians 1:9 (NIV).

We will bear fruit doing good works and grow in the knowledge of God (v.10). These are impossible accomplishments coming from man, but all things are possible with God (Mark 10:27). God only requires us to govern our actions, to be merciful and to have a humble heart (Mich 6:8). Do you argue with God that He has not completed some part of you...or that you aren't satisfied with His handiwork? Scripture says "Woe to you who quarrel with their Maker" (Isaiah 45:9). Let us pray for ourselves and our fellow sisters and brothers-in-Christ, God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, that we clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience (Colossians 3:12). God will exalt the humble in due time (Matthew 23:12). Look upon the Lord Jesus and His life. Learn from His example...and we will find rest for our souls (Matthew 11:29). 

From Him, Through Him, For Him

""Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been His counselor?" "Who has ever given to God, that God should repay them?" For from Him and through Him and for Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen"- Romans 11:34-36 (NIV).

The Lord's thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are our ways His ways (Isaiah 55:8). We can't reach that level of thought nor understand His plan. That's why we are not to lean on our own understanding, but trust in the Lord (Proverbs 3:5). God is at work in us, giving us both the will and the means to accomplish His desires (Philippians 2:13). The good God does through us silences the ignorance of foolish people (1 Peter 2:15). We can't take the credit for our thought, nor for our ability to do good. We are privy to the Master at work in and through us; for from Him, through Him and for Him...are all things. 

Blossoms

"Many people will praise God because you obey the Good News of Christ...and because you freely share with them and with all others"- 2 Corinthians 9:13 (NCV). 

"Influence often isn't noticed until it blossoms later in the garden of someone else's life. Our words and actions may land close to home, or they may be carried far and wide" (Pam Farrel). How many times have you blossomed and made a statement, then realized they were your mother's words, a friend's words or a teacher's words? Our words and actions are seeds we give to those we influence. As branches of the Vine, we produce fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). This fruit produces seed freely scattered into the garden of others. Your words and actions lead to blossoms of Godly praise on the lips of those you influence. God is creating a beautiful blossom-filled garden through the obedience of His children.

Be Still

"I cry out to God Most High, to God who will fulfill His purpose in me"- Psalm 57:2 (NLT).

Just as God's ways and thoughts are not our ways and thoughts, so is God's timing not our timing. In a world of immediate gratification we struggle with God's seemingly slow revealing of His purpose in me. Believers, take heart and wait for the Lord (Psalm 27:14); the Lord will give us strength to wait; to endure (Isaiah 40:31). The time may pass slow, but wait for it; it will come; it will not delay (Habakkuk 2:3). His purpose will be fulfilled in all of creation and in you. You were set apart when you were born and called by His grace (Galatians 1:15). Be still (Psalm 46:10a).

Work Ethics

"For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat."-2 Thessalonians 3:10 (NIV).

Paul instructs followers to work with their hands, not to be dependent on others, and to walk properly before non-believers (1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). Paul had set the example when he had visited them. Believers in the church of Thessalonica must have had a problem with work ethics, since Paul mentioned it in both letters. Christians are not to be lazy and live off of others for their provisions; nor are they to only do a halfway decent job in your work. Proverbs 18:9 says he who is slack in his work is brother to him who destroys (the devil). What statement does that make to non-believers? Believers are to work heartily, like we are working directly for the Lord (Colossians 3:23). We are promised that God has plans for us, for our prosperity and future (Jeremiah 29:11). So, whatever you do, do it to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Your hard work will lead to profit, strengthening the message to non-believers; however, mere words will lead only to ruin (Proverbs 14:23).   

Freedom

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love"- Galatians 5:13 (NIV).

You are called to be free! Do you want to be great? Serve! Do you want to be first? Take the position of a slave! That's not the definition of freedom in today's society. Jesus didn't come to be served, but to serve and endure the cross, paying our ransom; setting us free (Mark 10:43-45). We are called to serve God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength (Luke 10:27); not slothfully; with passion (Romans 12:11). Jesus purchased our freedom, but, not to be used to indulge the flesh. That the deceit of the devil: "For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit...you will live" (Romans 8:13). The benefits of serving God far outweigh what this life has to offer; your freedom, used in serving, leads to holiness and eternal life (Romans 6:22).  

Take His Hand

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight"- Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV).

"We have ample evidence that the Lord is able to guide. The promises cover every imaginable situation. All we need to do is to take the hand He stretches out" (Elizabeth Elliot). My daughter wouldn't take my hand when we walked. Obviously, I either walked too slow or she didn't want me to control her path. For a mother this can be disconcerting because it appears your child doesn't trust your guidance. This analogy is applicable to adults who don't trust, nor yield to God's hand. If you've taken hold of God's hand, your confidence in is this: Though you stumble, you will not fall; for the Lord upholds you with His hand (Psalm 37:24). Trust and yield to the outstretched hand of Almighty God; for He will lead you into His truth (Psalm 25:5).    

Gifts

"To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds:- Daniel 1:17 (NIV).

We are not to neglect the gift God has given us (1 Timothy 4:14). Our gift came with a responsibility tag; the gift is be used for its designed purpose. Being a good steward of God's gift, we are to use it to serve one another (1 Peter 4:10). Putting our gift up on the proverbial shelf, either to be admired or to gather dust, is a woefully bad decision. We will each be held accountable for how we utilized His gift. Even if we are thankful and acknowledge He gave us the gift, if left unused, God will call us disobedient and lazy! (Matthew 25:26). Then our gift will be taken from us and given to someone who has demonstrated their obedience in gifts (Matthew 25:28). Use your gift: if prophecy, if service, if teaching, if encouraging, if generosity, if leading, if acts of mercy...in proportion to your faith, use them (Romans 12:6-8). Your ears will not hear rebuke; instead, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23). 

“Christians who understand biblical truth and have the courage to live it out can indeed redeem a culture, or even create one. This is the challenge facing all of us in the new millennium.” 
― Charles W. Colson, How Now Shall We Live?

The Invitation

"When Jesus heard this, He was amazed and said to those following Him, "Truly I tell you, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great faith. I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven"- Matthew 8:10-11 (NIV).

Jesus was admiring the faith of the Roman centurion, who had just demonstrated his trust in Jesus' power and ability to answer his petition. This had to be an alarming revelation to the Israelites, God's chosen people...not invited to the feast! To add to their growing concern Jesus went on to say that the children of Abraham would be cast out of the kingdom, into darkness, and "in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth" (v.12). The parable of the wedding feast is in Matthew 22. Those intended guests, once receiving their invitations, had paid no attention and went about their business, continuing in ungodly behavior. The King's anger burned. He destroyed them and then invited the most unlikely guests to take their place at the King's wedding feast. The invitations to the feast Jesus was referring to have been sent out. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob will be in attendance. We all have an invitation. Everyone gets one. Let us be properly robed, in our right mind, alert and ready for the call that He is ready for us to come.

Ambition

"And to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody"- 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIV).

Whatever our hands find to do, we should work at it with all our might (Ecclesiastes 9:10), but our ambitious effort should be measurable to working for the Lord; not for man, nor for ourselves (Colossians 3:23). You become dependent upon those you work for. We are to put His kingdom, His righteousness, first in our lives (Matthew 6:33), not trying to win the approval of this world. You can't pursue pleasing people and be a servant of the Lord Jesus (Galatians 1:10). Choosing to be a friend of the world is choosing to be an enemy of God (James 4:4). What is your ambition? Deny the world's definition and take up the cross each day (Luke 9:23). 

Beautiful Sound

"It is good to praise the Lord and make music to Your name, O Most High, proclaiming Your love in the morning and Your faithfulness at night"- Psalms 92:1-2 (NIV).

Do you ever wake up to a song in your head? You wonder why that particular song? Was it the last song you heard before bedtime? Did your brain just pick the song by random...or was it a song you heard during your sleep? Scripture says God takes great delight in us and rejoices over us with singing (Jeremiah 3:17). It would be great to start a journal of the songs when you awake each morning; because, there's usually one in my heart. This mornings was "How Sweet the Sound" by Citizen Way. A part of the lyrics say, "Amazing grace how sweet the sound. I hear You singing over me...Amazing grace how sweet the sound, it covers every part of me...And it's a beautiful sound." Indeed, God singing over us could never be anything less than beautiful and so much more. It makes you want to sing along.

Held Fast

"If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there Your hand will guide me, Your right hand will hold me fast"- Psalms 139:9-10 (NIV).

We can't hide from God; He fills both the heavens and the earth (Jeremiah 23:24). Nor can anything in all creation, nor any power, separate us from Him (Romans 8:38-39). God is right in the midst of us all the time (Luke 17:21). Who are we to think we can understand the greatness of God?  He is unimaginable! He is so much than our mind's capacity to fathom: How great is our God (Job 11:7-9)! If it were possible to truly conceive His constant presence, how different would our lives look? Praise the Lord for His omnipresence, both guiding and holding us every second of our lives. 

His Good Purpose

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

God gives us the desire and the power to do what pleases Him. He called us, by name, before our substance, our bodies, ever had form (Isaiah 49.1). There is Divine purpose, His purpose, for our presence here and now. Our purpose may be unfulfilled due to the free-will God implanted in our hearts; but, when we choose to love Him, to be obedient, He empowers (John 14:15). God breathes, "Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28). Therefore, we cannot boast in our own strength (Ephesians 2:9). God asks, "Can an ax claim to be greater than the One who uses it; a saw more important than the One who saws with it; a club cannot lift itself" (Isaiah 10:15). Being God's instrument calls for patient endurance, obeying God and being faithful to Jesus (Revelation 14:12). "Be still and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10).  

Press On

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus"- Philippians 3:14 (NIV).

Have you ever been on a scavenger hunt? You look for clues, follow maps, you reason, you weigh decisions, sometimes having to use multiple resources, making mistakes, doubling back; but, knowing there is a prize if you endure, if you press on. Your confidence level goes up and down; sometimes you run and other times you stand to ponder meaning; the prize could be found with the next clue or the hunt could continue. We desire the prize of being with the Lord Jesus in His heavenly kingdom. We haven't taken hold of that prize yet, but like the Apostle Paul, we should be "forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead" (v. 13). The course is laid out before us. Jesus created it (Colossians 1:16). The prize is indescribable! Press on!   

Lukewarm

"I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other!"- Revelation 3:15 (NIV).

Watching for fruits of the Spirit is one of our best measures of a person's spiritual temperature. But how about those who are spiritually lukewarm? We are the salt of the earth, but if we lose that fervor, weaken our testimony, we aren't good for anything (Matthew 5:13). We have been transformed from the grain of sand on the beach to a life-preserving salt crystal that gives meaning to existence to a watching world. We are distinctively and decisively different; set apart; a pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved...and those who are perishing (2 Corinthians 2:15). Lukewarm is descriptive of a Christian trying to place one foot in Heaven, while keeping one foot planted in the world. "My brothers and sister, this should not be" (James 3:10-12).  

Be Ready

"You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober"- 1 Thessalonians 5:5-6 (NIV).

Your boss is going out of town and leaving you to house-sit until he returns. His house is beautiful, filled with everything you need and he has servants. All you need to do is watch over his property and see to his business interests. It's easy to slip into the role of all this belonging to you. You're tempted to relax, throw a party and live like this will remain in your keeping for a long time...but you don't know when he will return. In what condition do you want him to find you, and his interests, when he returns? This analogy concerns the return of Christ. His return will be like a thief in the night (2 Peter 3:10); the sounding trumpet will jolt you out of your lethargy; His return a flash, within the blink of an eye (1 Corinthians 15:52). In what condition do you want to be found? Every second, of every day, be ready.

Amazing Things

"Joshua told the people, "Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you"- Joshua 3:5 (NIV).

The priests were to move out first, with the heavy ark, ahead of the people; the Israelites were going to cross the Jordan River at the worst time...flood stage (v15). The people followed; they had no idea where they were going (v4). God instructed them; first consecrate yourselves; separate yourselves from anything unclean, anything that would not be harmonious within your relationship with a perfect Heavenly Father. This miraculous crossing wasn't for the world to witness. This miraculous crossing was the Lord doing amazing things "among" His children. This is perfect! This is sound! Is what lies before us heavy, burdensome, impossible? Are we unsure where it will end, the outcome? Brothers and Sisters, let us consecrate ourselves; remove the unclean to make room for a more intimate relationship with the Father. God will do amazing things among us! What was truth then is truth now!  

Intentional Training

"Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training...Therefore, I do not run like someone running aimlessly...No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize"- 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (NIV).

You are a runner! The analogy of training, running and finishing the race represents our need for self-discipline in our calling. It determines the outcome...because we all, sooner or later, cross that proverbial finish line. Intentional training is required. I ran a three mile race when I was 24 years old. My training was, shall I say, undisciplined. The most I ran at one time was one mile before the day of the race. My thought was, if I could run one mile I could run three. I struggled after the first mile, stopping to walk some of the way, but oh the joy I felt when I saw that finish line. My speed picked up and I crossed over. I won no prize that day. What I do remember of that race was the exhilarating rush upon seeing the finish line before me and...the realization that I hadn't run the race I had hoped to run. I'm now training to run a 5K. I may not win that race's prize, "But one thing I do...straining toward what is ahead...the goal to win the prize for which God has called me" (Philippians 3:13-14). Intentional training is required; Jesus is on the other side of that finish line.       

Leap of Freedom

"For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?"- Romans 8:24 (NIV).

It takes faith to believe in something you cannot see or touch. If we could see it, if we could touch it, then faith would not be required. Faith requires trust. For many, trust is a big issue. Little children trust easily, but as we grow up and the world bursts our bubbles, we become cynical and stiff-necked to anything intangible. Jesus asks us to trust like a child. That sounds like regressive maturity, but the rewards are great; the greatest being freedom. Don't children live freely? And we desire childlike freedom. As we stand on the edge of the diving board, and our Almighty Father urges us to trust Him and jump, let us fling open our arms and leap into His awaiting arms. But consider: Could you do it blindfolded? Trust God; your faith will grow with each successive dive. He will always catch you, even when you cannot see Him. He is always there. That, my friend, is worth the leap. Freedom awaits.

Test

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything"- James 1:2-4 (NIV).

A Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren is a 40-day Bible study that everyone should do and preferably with others. Yesterday's lesson was about your life being a test, which determines your eternity. God tested Abraham (Genesis 22:1). Abraham's response to God's test was faithful obedience. Every action, thought, and word affects your test score (Hebrews 9:27). Think of Gideon, Esther, David, Daniel...all were tested. Life being a test, the Bible is the Resource from which one studies in order to persevere and pass the test. You can't test well without using the Resource. God breathed out His Training Resource to be used for teaching, reproof, correction, and for training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Perseverance will finish its work in preparing you for eternity.

Oh Be Careful What You Say

"He who loves a pure heart and whose speech is gracious will have the King for his friend"- Proverbs 22:11 (NIV).

"Oh be careful little mouth what you say. For the Father up above is looking down with love....so be careful little mouth what you say." Our speech should be used to build up, to give grace to others (Ephesians 4:29). Lord, help us to be people of understanding in this message. James wrote an entire book on the use of speech; that the misuse of the tongue made a person's religion worthless (James 1:26). Jesus said we were defiled, not by what went into our mouths, but by what comes out in our speech (Matthew 15:11). There is also the promise that on the day of Judgment we will be held accountable for every careless word we have spoken (Matthew 12:36). Lord, our King and Friend, like David we pray that You put a guard over our mouths and keep watch over the door of our lips! (Psalm 141:30). Oh be careful...what you say... 

Mighty Children of God

"Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever"- Psalms 112:2-3 (NIV).

God's promise, to parents who respect the Lord and obey Him, is to bless their children. Blessings come in many forms: health, income, relationships, experiences, wisdom. This is God's response to the prayers of believing parents. Let's be thankful for the bowed knees of our parents. Someone probably prayed you along to where you are today. But, for those who are orphans, or children of Godless parents, God does not leave you as such; we are His children. What better parent to uphold you? Almighty God and Father: Who could love you more? This day is a blessing, a gift; you are where you are supposed to be. Your life has meaning; it has purpose! Is it non-discerned? Then trust in this: God is in control and you are the apple of His eye. We love you Abba! 

A Faithful Friend

"Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on"- Mark 2:4 (NIV).

Those men, who carried their friend, really loved him. They were willing to carry his weight both there and up to the roof of the house, faced what seemed like terrible odds for success, worked with bare hands to create the hole in the roof, and, the Bible doesn't say, but I bet they watched through the hole, then ran to the front of the house to receive their healed friend. Did they hug, laugh, cry, dance, skip...run? You bet they did! The healed man could not help his friends, he had to depend on them for each step toward Jesus, in order to encounter Jesus. His friends' blessing was to have their restored friend joyfully kicking up beside them as they went home. Jesus said, "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another" (John 13:34). Like that man on the mat, powerless to heal ourselves, Jesus carries us, makes the way for us, to encounter the Father and we are healed. We can experience the same jubilation as those men did by being faithful and loving to those who can't help themselves. We take them to the feet of Jesus, behold the miracle, and then, together, we will joyfully go home.    

Sabbath Plans

""If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on My holy day, if you call the Sabbath a delight and the Lord's holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words, then you will find your joy in the Lord, and I will cause you to ride in triumph on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob." For the mouth of the Lord has spoken"- Isaiah 58:13-14 (NIV).

God commands us to keep the Sabbath day holy: Ten Commandment #4 (Exodus 20:8). Verse 10 says the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. Today's Scripture says the Sabbath is His holy day: from Him, for Him, and to Him. Do we do what pleases us and ignore the joy that could be found in the Lord on His Sabbath day? There are treasures in the obedient observation of the Sabbath; treasures that are only found by seeking Him purposefully, intentionally on the Sabbath day. The results of Sabbath obedience will reveal the rewards of our inheritance. God has spoken!

Perhaps

"From one man He made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from any one of us. 'For in Him we live and move and have our being.' As some of your own poets have said, 'We are His offspring""- Acts 17:26-28 (NIV).

God has done all these things so that you would seek Him and...perhaps...reach out for Him. Have you experienced children shrugging off attempts to guide them or assist them when they were struggling? Our culture applauds independence; some adults even allowing children to struggle: "It will make them stronger." But, oh how your heart swells when little arms reach out to you for help. You are there and can be "found" when they do; just as when you,perhaps, make that choice of reaching out to God, you will find Him. Perhaps one day all will seek and find the power of reaching out to God.

Beside the Water

"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on His law day and night"- Psalms 1:1-2 (NIV).

The Bible promises those who read Holy Scripture and resist sin will be similar to a tree planted beside life-giving water; the tree will yield fruit; the leaves will never wither; effort will bring prosperity (v.3). Jesus said whomever believes in Him, rivers of life-giving water will flow from within them..."as the Scripture has said" (John 7:38). Jesus is the source of the life-giving water that forever satisfies thirst...welling up to eternal life (John 4:13-14). John's revelation included the crystal bright river of life flowing from His throne in Heaven (Revelation 22:1). Your life is forever changed by the Holy Word; settling you beside the life-giving water, your roots drawing the life-giving water up and overflowing to others.

All Things

"For the Lord your God is the one Who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory"- Deuteronomy 20:4 (NIV).

God goes with us onto battlefields, into raging waters, through valleys, and within the storms. He strengthens us, helps us, and upholds us as we go (Isaiah 41:10). There can be no room for delay, for second-guessing; Go! God's power is made perfect in your weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:9). He is faithful and will not give you more than you can endure (1 Corinthians 10:3). The Lord knows those who take refuge in Him (Nahum 1:7). But beware when you think you have overcome by your own strength, or by trusting in others, that your heart does not turn away from God (Jeremiah 17:5). Be strong in your faith! You can do all things through God who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13). 

Forever

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens; a time to be born and a time to die"- Ecclesiastes 3:1-2a (NIV).

Jesus is the same yesterday and today and forever (Hebrews 13:8). He will never leave you nor forsake you (Deuteronomy 31:6). Holy plans are in place for your future and your hope (Jeremiah 29:11). If you live, you live to the Lord; if you die, you die to the Lord. You belong to God, either way (Romans 14:8). "O death, where is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55). God is not man; He doesn't lie; if He says He will do something...it will be done (Numbers 23:19). Be encouraged with these words; you will be with the Lord forever (1 Thessalonians 4:18). 

Straight Paths

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight"- Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV).

Children have trusting hearts and Jesus said that unless we become like children, trust like children, we will not enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 18:1-3). He didn't say behave like a child, on the contrary, we are to give up the things of childhood (1 Corinthians 13:11). We are to mature spiritually, being made in Christ's perfect image. Today's verse is on having pure trust: accepting the Word as solid ground, being fearless when God asks you walk on water, tossing anxiety like a set of handcuffs into the deepest sea, and seeking Jesus as a vast treasure....and you've got the Map (Jeremiah 29:13). The paths He will make straight, once you unconditionally trust in Him, is the path into His arms. It is He who leads you down the path of righteousness (Psalm 23:3).

Here I AM

"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint"- Isaiah 40:31 (NIV).

People await a personal "calling" from the Lord; many times worrying they may have missed it or regretfully thinking they have no tangible "gifts" to offer. Henry Blackaby and his son, Richard, wrote Experiencing God. Henry said Christians should be alert to see where God is working and then join in with Him; you just need to show up. God supplies the needs: the means, the strength, the power, the wisdom. "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses" (Acts 1:8a). The prophet Isaiah overheard the Lord asking, "Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?" (Isaiah 6:8). The question wasn't directed specifically to Isaiah. The question was for all ears and remains today. Will you, like Isaiah, respond saying, "Here I am. Send me!" (v.8)? If so, look around. Where is God at work?  

Be Filled

"Then Jesus declared, "I am the Bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in Me will never be thirsty"- John 6:35 (NIV).

"We are never more fulfilled than when our longing for God is met by His presence in our lives" (Billy Graham). Do you want to be filled? Jesus says He is the Bread of life and that those who partake of Him will never go hungry. The prayer He taught us includes, "Give us this day our daily Bread." It is the Spiritual Bread for which our soul hungers. We should daily come to Him on humble knees and ask for daily Bread and for the Living Water, to fill our cup, from the Source that will never run dry. Jesus bids, "Come! Be filled...by My presence." May God's presence be palpable in each moment of your day. 

Emotional Day

"The soldiers therefore came and broke the legs of the first man who had been crucified with Jesus, and then those of the other. But when they came to Jesus and found that He was already dead, they did not break His legs'- John 19:32-33 (NIV).

Truly one of the most emotional days in all creation! God struck His Son, afflicted Jesus with pain and suffering, while we looked on thinking He was being justly punished by God; yet, by His wounds we were healed (Isaiah 53:4-5). Jesus took our punishment, He was pierced for our transgressions, and in return...He gave us peace. The Pieta, Michelangelo's Renaissance statue, spawns emotion when you see Mary cradling the lifeless body of her Son, but doesn't it seem ever so tender and loving that God protected even the bones of Jesus after His sacrifice? Not one bone was broken...fulfilling prophetic Scripture in Psalm 34:20. God's emotions triggered earthquakes, dead saints rose from the dead, the temple curtain was torn from top to bottom...a Roman guard uttered the obvious: "Surely He was the Son of God" (Matthew 27:54). God loves us so much, He gave His One and only Son for us (John 3:16). Truly one of the most emotional days in all creation!    

Faithfully Fulfilling

"About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" (which means "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?")- Matthew 27:46 (NIV).

Jesus was quoting and fulfilling prophetic Scripture to the very end. Today's Scripture is from Psalm 22:1: "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? Why are You so far from saving Me, so far from My cries of anguish?" Later, after initially refusing the drink offering of vinegar, gall and myrrh to relieve His suffering, He said, "I am thirsty" (John 19:28) and accepted the drink. This statement fulfilled the prophecy of Psalm 69:21: "They put gall in My food and gave Me vinegar for My thirst." Jesus told them that no one could take His life, but that He was laying it down of His own accord, by His own authority (John 10:18). His final words were, "Father, into Your hands I commit My spirit" and then He breathed His last (Luke 23:46). A last prophetic message fulfilled; from Psalm 31:5: "Into Your hands I commit My spirit; deliver Me, Lord, My faithful God." The Scriptures had been fulfilled...and Jesus said, "It is finished" (John 19:30).

Love Debt

"Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law"- Romans 13:8 (NIV).

Paul told the Corinthians that love was greater than faith and hope (1 Corinthians 13:13). Faith and hope are indeed powerful. Faith can move mountains (Matthew 17:20) and hope is the anchor of our soul (Hebrews 6:19). Yet love is greater; it is a debt we owe, a law, to love our fellowman. Any time we pay on the love debt we are sharing God, for God is love (1 John 4:8). God loves all and wants all to be saved and understand the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). "All" is the operative word. Jonah didn't think the Ninevites were worthy of salvation and was disobedient at first (Jonah 1:3). Nineveh had over 120,000 people who recanted following Jonah's eventual obedience (4:11), but Jonah was still more angry over the death of a vine than in the souls of those multitudes (v10). We shouldn't judge Jonah. How many times have we thought someone got their just deserves for a transgression? Lord, help us to remember the love debt is to and for "all." 

Be Blessed!

"Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom's instruction"- Proverbs 29:18 (NIV).

Wouldn't it be nice to have a renewal of Divine revelation and prophetic vision? Then people would follow the law! Or would they? The Old Testament is full of angels, prophets, and visions in dreams...yet, people were still disobedient. Remember how citizens of Jerusalem reacted on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-12)? Everyone worked together, adding to the number of believers daily, but after awhile some lost their fervor, fell away, and persecutions only multiplied the exodus from faith. Following God requires us to be sure of our faith; to find hope in it and be certain of what we do not see (Hebrews 11:1). Jesus lamented over the people requesting miracles so they could believe (John 4:48). What is Wisdom's instruction? "Believe in the Father, believe also in Me" (John 14:1). Have faith; be blessed! 

Rise! Let us go!

"Returning the third time, He said to them, "Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners"- Mark 14:41 (NIV).

Jesus had asked these three, Peter, James, and John, to stay and keep watch while He prayed (v.34). The three couldn't keep their eyes open; each time drifting back off to sleep. We can't allow ourselves to think we could have done better than these three! Many of us walk through our days asleep, instead of doing what Jesus has commanded us to do: Watch and pray. Was Jesus' "Enough!" a rebuff? Whether a rebuff or a mention that the time had come, His next directive was, "Rise! Let us go!" (v.42). The events of the Messiah's arrival, crucifixion, and ascension all came in perfect accord. We know that Jesus' return is also forthcoming and Christians will, once more, hear Him say, "Enough!" For we know what our rejoicing hearts will hear next: "Rise! Let us go!" 

Light of the World

"Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter"- John 10:22 (NIV). 

It was winter. Also called the Festival of Lights, the Festival of Dedication was a ceremony marking the restoration, cleansing, and re-dedication of Jerusalem's Temple once the Greco-Syrian oppressors were driven out by the Maccabees. Jews call it Hanukkah. It was a miraculous deliverance provided by God. The symbol of God's presence in the Temple was the eternal flame, but there was only enough purified oil to keep the flame lite for one day. Miraculously, God's Holy presence allowed the flame to burn for eight days, until the supply of sacred oil was replenished. John 10:23 says Jesus was in the Temple courts, walking in Solomon's Colonnade during the Festival of Lights. What better place for the Light of the world to be walking (John 8:12). He is the Eternal Flame, the Miraculous Deliverance provided by God. One other note: Matthew 25:31-46 tells of Jesus sitting on His throne judging the world. Solomon's Colonnade is also called the Porch of Judgment. Jesus takes our scarlet sins and washes us white as snow (Isaiah 1:18). The timing of snow is one more symbolic message in today's Scripture: "It was winter."  

Understanding

"I run in the path of Your commands, for You have broadened my understanding. Teach me, Lord, the way of Your decrees, that I may follow it to the end. Give me understanding, so I may keep Your law and obey it with all my heart"- Psalm 119:32-34 (NIV).

Following Christ is not a passive activity. Paul defined your Christian life as a race, exercising self-control, to be carried out to the finish line (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). The course is to be run with endurance (Hebrew 12:1); forgetting what is behind you and straining forward (Philippians 3:13-14). If you become weary, God will will refresh you and renew your strength (Isaiah 40:31). And if you persevere, fight the good fight, finish the race, you will be rewarded with a crown of righteousness. That finish line moment, when you receive your crown, it will be awarded to you by none other than Jesus the Righteous Judge. (2 Timothy 4:7-9). His congratulatory statement will be, "Well done good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21). Give us understanding Lord!

The Source

"[We are] clothed with strength and dignity; [We] can laugh at the days to come"- Proverbs 31:25 (NIV).

What is the source of your countenance? God provides the rich soil, soft rains, and life giving sun for the grass in the field. How much more valuable are you in God's eyes (Matthew 6:30)? So much so, He would send His own Son to suffer and die for you (John 3:16). It is God's good intention that everyone learn of Him and come to believe, to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4). The medical field reports that laughter is good for you; that there are health benefits to laughter. Faith and trust generate strength and dignity; You know Who you belong to and Who delivers you. Yes, laugh at the days to come; who can be against you if God is for you? (Romans 8:31). People will notice the difference in you and doors will be opened for you to share the Source.    

Undeserving

"How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?"- Matthew 7:4 (NIV).

Jesus was talking to the Pharisees, the teachers of the law, who were so quick to judge, while not acknowledging their own sins, plus heaping additional laws on top. Jesus called them hypocrites in the next passage, instructing them to first check themselves before passing judgment (v.5). There's a little pharisee in all of us, meaning there's a little hypocrite in all of us. You can't acknowledge your need for forgiveness when you deny the very plank in your own eye. Jesus covered even those while on the cross, "Father, forgive them. They don't know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). We sure don't! Thank you God for Your grace and mercy given to us who neither deserve it, nor have earned it. 

Humble Choice

"He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty"- Luke 1:52 (NIV).

Jesus said not to choose the best seat when attending a function, but to take the lesser seat or you may be embarrassed when the host asks you to move: "For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted" (Luke 14:8-11). God opposes the proud, but shows favor to the humble (James 4:6). Acts of humility could include taking the lesser seat, offering first choice to another, allowing others to enter first, and in some countries bowing, both your body and your eyes cast down. How about washing someone's feet?...Jesus did. God's mighty hand lifts the humble in due time; being humble is a choice (1 Peter 5:6). These Scriptures are not advocating dismissal of leadership roles. Not all who are exalted lack in humility. You can be a leader, a king, and still remain humble, leading with fairness, mercy, truth, and love. Jesus is our Example. You may be born into leadership or be an exalted humble "Cinderella." Choose to follow the example of our Leader.    

Showing Up

"For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do--living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead"- 1 Peter 4:3-5 (NIV).

Peer pressure has been around since sin entered creation. The lost don't want to surround themselves with those who choose righteousness over sinfulness. The presence of goodness exposes their sinfulness; making them look upon their deeds, revealing a life in opposition to God; making them confront their choice of unholy living. Do they blame themselves? No, they were just fine until righteousness showed up. It's a sad day when a believer fails to reap abuse when they encounter evil, indicating righteousness never showed up; instead they blended-in, unnoticed. Count it pure joy to face testings of your faith, thus producing perseverance; perseverance will finish the work, making you mature and complete (James 1:2-4).

Beauty and Majesty

"Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground, He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him"- Isaiah 53:1-2 (NIV).

We know from prophecy that Jesus held no beauty, nor majesty, in appearance when He walked this earth in human form. People hid their faces from Him, despising and rejecting Him (v.3). John, in his prophetic revelation, gives us a glorious description of the resurrected Christ, returned to His former majestic beauty: dressed in splendor with a white robe and a golden sash, hair white as snow, eyes like blazing fire, feet like bronze glowing in a furnace, a voice like the sound of rushing waters, and His face...like the sun shining in all its brilliance (Revelation 1:13-15). His appearance held such breathtaking beauty and majestic splendor that John, overwhelmed, fell at His feet as if he were dead (v.17). Jesus gave up His beauty, His glory, and His majesty to bear our pain and suffering; He was pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities, and by His sacrifice we are healed (Isaiah 53:,4-5). You may feel unworthy...but to the Lamb, you were worth it.        

Courage

"The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"- Psalm 27:1.

Star Trek is famous for its visionary statement: "To go where no man has gone before." We all like to think we have a heart for adventure and action, but then the devil begins to pluck the chords of fear. The "what if" thoughts begin to creep into our waning bravado, transforming the original boldness to reconsideration; we might be placing ourselves in harms way...and you very well could be. Search your heart. What are you afraid of: rejection, misfortune, imprisonment, death? You would be joining the ranks of prophets, apostles, and Jesus himself. What sacrifice would you endure to stand with them; with Him? God's word instructs us, "Have I not commanded you to be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified. Do not be discouraged. For the Lord your God will be with you wherever you may go" (Joshua 1:9).

Now!

"Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that"- James 4:13-15 (NIV).

Our days are numbered before we are born (Psalms 139:16). Even our boundaries are predetermined by our Heavenly Father (Acts 17:26). Our future is not foretold to us and it's a good thing; for then we learn to trust God, knowing that all things are under His authority (Acts 1:7). All we have is now. Now is the time to act. Putting off a deeper relationship with the Lord is like playing Russian Roulette. Tomorrow may be the day you are face-to-face with your Lord. However, for now, today is a day the Lord has made...a gift. Let us rejoice and be glad in it (Psalms 118:24). It is the Lord's will.

Side-by-Side Worship

"During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven and said: "Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are His. He changes times and seasons; He sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things; He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him. I thank and praise you, O God of my fathers: You have given me wisdom and power, You have made known to me what we asked of You, You have made known to us the dream of the king"- Daniel 2:19-23.

We all need saving. There is nothing hidden from God; nothing out of His reach or power to reveal and control. Today's Scripture is a great example. Daniel and his friends faced possible death multiple times: interpreting kingly dreams, surviving lion filled pits, raging fires. With this evidence, it's shocking that the entire Babylonian Empire didn't convert exclusively to the one true God of Abraham. They did allow the side-by-side worship of Yahweh; making sure they were making all possible gods happy. Daniel, and all believers in God, can praise God for saving us over and over again. The greatest, of which, was Jesus physically coming into creation to suffer and die that we might be saved. With this evidence, it's shocking that the entire world hasn't converted! They do still allow the side-by-side worship though...for now.