Good Morning, My Friend!! From the other room, I heard my grand babies yelling mean things at each other,...surprised, I wondered; "where did they get that from?" They are learned patterns of destructive behavior, that exist in all families, continuing from generation to generation,...most of them are centered around the sin of verbal abuse.
Your lips have been anointed with grace, since God has blessed you forever.—Psalm 45:2 (NIV)
See this harmful behavior in your life, for what it really is, sinful! And know; God is bigger than our sins. Destructive patterns of behavior do not have to continue forever. We can change,...help is only a prayer away.
Whatever cycles of sin we have perpetuated,
...we can also break.
Holy Spirit of God, pour out Your grace on us. Help us to use words that overflow with love to others. Teach us to use our lips as instruments of life and healing. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Get Right
Good Morning!! If you believe that you have to get your self " right " in order to be used by God, then you are fighting an unwinnable battle. No matter how good we try to be, on our own we can never be good enough. Yet, we can be righteous,...because righteousness doesn't come from us. Righteousness is being pure and upright in God's eyes; and our righteousness comes from Christ,...who died for us and who lives in us.
It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.—1 Corinthians 1:30 (NIV)
Though God has radically transformed my life, I am not perfect. I still struggle with sin. But now I am reassured, knowing that when I don't measure up, God still loves, forgives, and continues to lead me,...not because of my actions, but because of Jesus' sacrifice.
Righteousness, solely the result of Jesus' sacrifice, is freely given by God.
We can do no more than accept God's gift.
Father God, as we strive to be more like Christ, remind us that only Your grace makes us righteous. Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption.—1 Corinthians 1:30 (NIV)
Though God has radically transformed my life, I am not perfect. I still struggle with sin. But now I am reassured, knowing that when I don't measure up, God still loves, forgives, and continues to lead me,...not because of my actions, but because of Jesus' sacrifice.
Righteousness, solely the result of Jesus' sacrifice, is freely given by God.
We can do no more than accept God's gift.
Father God, as we strive to be more like Christ, remind us that only Your grace makes us righteous. Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Truth
Good Morning!! God sees not only the beautiful exterior we try to present to the world, but also the dark and dingy parts of our lives,...all those things we'd like to hide from other people. Yet a wonderful truth remains. Even seeing us through and through, God still loves us,...and yearns for us to be closer to Him.
As he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."—1 Peter 1:15 (NIV)
As we learn to allow God into even those secret parts of our lives, the dark and dingy places will be cleaned. When we arrive at that place, by God's grace and guidance, we'll be fully at peace.
We are God's own children, and our company,
...just as we are,...makes God happy.
Dear God, help us to let you into the whole of our lives. May we learn to freely open every corner to Your cleansing, and life-giving presence. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
As he who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, "You shall be holy, for I am holy."—1 Peter 1:15 (NIV)
As we learn to allow God into even those secret parts of our lives, the dark and dingy places will be cleaned. When we arrive at that place, by God's grace and guidance, we'll be fully at peace.
We are God's own children, and our company,
...just as we are,...makes God happy.
Dear God, help us to let you into the whole of our lives. May we learn to freely open every corner to Your cleansing, and life-giving presence. In Jesus' name, Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
Monday, September 27, 2010
Solid Foundation
Good Morning!! Everything that stands needs a solid foundation. A foundation gives assurance,...a basis for confidence. The basis for most peoples’ confidence
in life, is “the flesh”. Life that is eternal, needs a foundation that is eternal,...and that is exactly what Paul has,...and what he wants for every Christian.
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.—Philippians 3:3 (NIV)
People are proud of their class, or ethnicity, or education, or accomplishments. That’s all “flesh”. But Christian faith is founded on Jesus Christ: his life, death, resurrection, ascension, and coming again. Paul’s confidence is entirely in Jesus.
Confidence in Christ always leads to rejoicing in Christ.
Not in our money,...or our family,...or our education,...or even our church.
Spirit of God, make us joyful Christians as we grow into Jesus-filled Christians. Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
in life, is “the flesh”. Life that is eternal, needs a foundation that is eternal,...and that is exactly what Paul has,...and what he wants for every Christian.
For it is we who are the circumcision, we who worship by the Spirit of God, who glory in Christ Jesus, and who put no confidence in the flesh.—Philippians 3:3 (NIV)
People are proud of their class, or ethnicity, or education, or accomplishments. That’s all “flesh”. But Christian faith is founded on Jesus Christ: his life, death, resurrection, ascension, and coming again. Paul’s confidence is entirely in Jesus.
Confidence in Christ always leads to rejoicing in Christ.
Not in our money,...or our family,...or our education,...or even our church.
Spirit of God, make us joyful Christians as we grow into Jesus-filled Christians. Amen.
"More faith, and less fear,...this is the key to worshiping in Spirit and in Truth."
Friday, September 24, 2010
The Word
Good Morning, And A Great Friday!! Has your heart ever burned within you as if Jesus were speaking to you personally? Jesus left us His Word and His Holy Spirit,...and because the Holy Spirit lives within our hearts, we have the ablity to discern spiritual things.
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.—John 1:14 (NIV)
If we have accepted Jesus into our hearts as our Savior, then we have His Spirit living within us. Through reading and studying the Bible,...we can understand His ways and grow in the knowledge of Him. Our lives will change,...not over night, but day by day. The more we eat from Him,...the more we look like Him.
Only through the Holy Spirit, are we able to comprehend, the true Word of God.
Sweet Spirit of God, we ask that You open our minds to understand the Scriptures, better. Set our hearts to burning for more of You, to the point that others can see, and want some too. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.—John 1:14 (NIV)
If we have accepted Jesus into our hearts as our Savior, then we have His Spirit living within us. Through reading and studying the Bible,...we can understand His ways and grow in the knowledge of Him. Our lives will change,...not over night, but day by day. The more we eat from Him,...the more we look like Him.
Only through the Holy Spirit, are we able to comprehend, the true Word of God.
Sweet Spirit of God, we ask that You open our minds to understand the Scriptures, better. Set our hearts to burning for more of You, to the point that others can see, and want some too. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."
Thursday, September 23, 2010
God Leads
Good Morning!! I love todays' verse, because so often, God really does lead us from behind at times, and we do feel as though we've lost Him. Remember to keep seeking Him, and desiring to be with Him,...even if He seems to be missing. We have not lost Him, because He won't ever leave us.
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."—Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)
Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life,...and He is always with us,...leading us in every step. He conquered death on a cross and rose again,...just to be with us.
When Jesus calls our name,
...even from behind, we should recognize His voice.
Thank You Jesus, that we don't worship a dead god but a living Lord. We worship a God who has placed all the burdens on Himself. Father in Heaven, You have promised that if we seek You, we will find You,...as You comes to us. We are never lost from Your sight. We may not see You,...but we can be assured that You are always there, even when You guide us, from behind. Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it."—Isaiah 30:21 (NIV)
Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life,...and He is always with us,...leading us in every step. He conquered death on a cross and rose again,...just to be with us.
When Jesus calls our name,
...even from behind, we should recognize His voice.
Thank You Jesus, that we don't worship a dead god but a living Lord. We worship a God who has placed all the burdens on Himself. Father in Heaven, You have promised that if we seek You, we will find You,...as You comes to us. We are never lost from Your sight. We may not see You,...but we can be assured that You are always there, even when You guide us, from behind. Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Awareness
Good Morning!! Jesus prayed for us to be in the world but not of the world. God has a purpose for us in how we live,...and also in the activities of which we participate. Can people who do not know you, tell your a Christian? In other words do you stand out, among the unsaved,...or do you fit right in?? As Christians, we must be aware of the danger of mingling in the world's activities.
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.—1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)
Our mission is to evangelize the lost, and awaken the saved, to live empowered lives by the Word of God,...and His Holy Spirit. There are times to witness and to shine the Light of Jesus into the world, but we need wisdom to know when to be careful of dangerous places. We must train ourselves to be aware of the enemy's schemes to lure us into trouble, which often happens because we have moved far outside our hedge of protection, and into a place where we simply should not be.
There must be a distinction between us and the world.
Holy Spirit, we know,...but so often forget, that what can seem harm-less, could just as easily turn out to be harm-ful. Help us to get into the habit of bringing every decision to the Lord first, and then asking for the wisdom and guidance in what to do next. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."
Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.—1 Peter 5:8 (NIV)
Our mission is to evangelize the lost, and awaken the saved, to live empowered lives by the Word of God,...and His Holy Spirit. There are times to witness and to shine the Light of Jesus into the world, but we need wisdom to know when to be careful of dangerous places. We must train ourselves to be aware of the enemy's schemes to lure us into trouble, which often happens because we have moved far outside our hedge of protection, and into a place where we simply should not be.
There must be a distinction between us and the world.
Holy Spirit, we know,...but so often forget, that what can seem harm-less, could just as easily turn out to be harm-ful. Help us to get into the habit of bringing every decision to the Lord first, and then asking for the wisdom and guidance in what to do next. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, and priorities ."
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Jesus Wants Your Life
Good Morning!! Jesus wants your life,...but maybe not the way you think or are ready to give it. Sometimes we get so focused on our dreams, abilities, and future plans that we forget what Jesus really wants from us,...we forget about the love. We make all the promises in the world just like Peter. He said he was ready to die for Jesus. But he would end up doing exactly what Jesus predicted,...deny his Lord three times before daybreak.
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:34, 35a (NIV)
We want to stand out front and sing solos for Him, lead groups and other so called big things for Him. But the reality is, that He wants us to show His love to the people He brings into our path. So instead of telling Jesus what you can do for Him, ask Him to teach you how you can better love the people around you. It's not as glamorous and certainly not as easy as some other jobs we might choose,...but it is what He as asked.
" People do not usually reject the Bible because it contradicts itself,...but because it contradicts them."
(Heavenly Humor, p. 54)
" The essence of love is meeting needs,...and our most important assignment from God
is to meet the needs of those who are closest to us."
(1 Tim. 5:8)
(Neil Anderson's Daily in Christ, December 23, 2004)
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, , and priorities ."
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:34, 35a (NIV)
We want to stand out front and sing solos for Him, lead groups and other so called big things for Him. But the reality is, that He wants us to show His love to the people He brings into our path. So instead of telling Jesus what you can do for Him, ask Him to teach you how you can better love the people around you. It's not as glamorous and certainly not as easy as some other jobs we might choose,...but it is what He as asked.
" People do not usually reject the Bible because it contradicts itself,...but because it contradicts them."
(Heavenly Humor, p. 54)
" The essence of love is meeting needs,...and our most important assignment from God
is to meet the needs of those who are closest to us."
(1 Tim. 5:8)
(Neil Anderson's Daily in Christ, December 23, 2004)
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, , and priorities ."
Monday, September 20, 2010
Women In The Church
Good Morning!! Even today, modern churches of every denomination, still limit or exclude women's involvement in some sectors of operation. There has always been fear about women playing a visible role in the church. Such involvement was, and is however, inevitable,...and even more importantly it's God.
One of those listening was a woman named Lydia,... who was a worshiper of God. "If you consider me a believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.—Acts 16:14-15 (NIV)
God uses whom ever He will,...from the very beginning, women have played every role in church history, from spy to ruler, and profits to disciples. Women are God's ram in the bush. We men did not believe, a woman did. When men would not speak up, a woman did. When men hid, a woman stood up and out. To shove them in a box, and limit their roles, because of our fear or insecurities, is wrong and not of God.
The church as we know it would not be, if not for the vital involvement of women.
Ours' is a God of inclusion,...not exclusion.
Lord, thank you for the great things you have in store for us,...but even more, we thank you, Lord, for Your constant care and care-givers. Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, , and priorities ."
One of those listening was a woman named Lydia,... who was a worshiper of God. "If you consider me a believer in the Lord," she said, "come and stay at my house." And she persuaded us.—Acts 16:14-15 (NIV)
God uses whom ever He will,...from the very beginning, women have played every role in church history, from spy to ruler, and profits to disciples. Women are God's ram in the bush. We men did not believe, a woman did. When men would not speak up, a woman did. When men hid, a woman stood up and out. To shove them in a box, and limit their roles, because of our fear or insecurities, is wrong and not of God.
The church as we know it would not be, if not for the vital involvement of women.
Ours' is a God of inclusion,...not exclusion.
Lord, thank you for the great things you have in store for us,...but even more, we thank you, Lord, for Your constant care and care-givers. Amen.
"In times of crisis, nothing moves us ahead like; prayer, preparation, , and priorities ."
Friday, September 17, 2010
Good Times
Good Morning!! We take the " good " times for granted, as if that is, and should be, the norm,...never really questioning the why. " Bad " times one the other hand, we struggle to accept, and understand " why us? ".
Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —Psalm 103:2 (NIV)
We believe one of the reasons for bad times is, that tough times often precedes growth. But the purpose of the good times is to to give us something to hold on to,...when the bad times come,...and they will come!
We are able to make it through bad times by remembering the good times.
This builds our confidence in God, for every situation.
Father, we thank You, that everything in our lives can be turned to Your purposes,...and our good. Help us to cling to Your faithfulness nomatter what we face. Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —Psalm 103:2 (NIV)
We believe one of the reasons for bad times is, that tough times often precedes growth. But the purpose of the good times is to to give us something to hold on to,...when the bad times come,...and they will come!
We are able to make it through bad times by remembering the good times.
This builds our confidence in God, for every situation.
Father, we thank You, that everything in our lives can be turned to Your purposes,...and our good. Help us to cling to Your faithfulness nomatter what we face. Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Good Times
Good Morning!! We take the " good " times for granted, as if that is, and should be, the norm,...never really questioning the why. " Bad " times one the other hand, we struggle to accept, and understand " why us? ".
Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —Psalm 103:2 (NIV)
We believe one of the reasons for bad times is, that tough times often precedes growth. But the purpose of the good times is to to give us something to hold on to,...when the bad times come,...and they will come!
We are able to make it through bad times by remembering the good times.
This builds our confidence in God, for every situation.
Father, we thank You, that everything in our lives can be turned to Your purposes,...and our good. Help us to cling to Your faithfulness nomatter what we face. Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits —Psalm 103:2 (NIV)
We believe one of the reasons for bad times is, that tough times often precedes growth. But the purpose of the good times is to to give us something to hold on to,...when the bad times come,...and they will come!
We are able to make it through bad times by remembering the good times.
This builds our confidence in God, for every situation.
Father, we thank You, that everything in our lives can be turned to Your purposes,...and our good. Help us to cling to Your faithfulness nomatter what we face. Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Patient and Steadfast
Good Morning!! As Christians, we serve a God who is never in a rush,...the Lord is patient and steadfast. If we treat our prayers like a slot machine, or a 9-1-1 call, we will most likely be disappointed. The Lord spends a lot of time waiting. Most often, He is waiting on us to come to Him,...or to come back to Him. HE does not respond according to the world’s pace. HE wants us to follow His ways,...not the ways of the world.
And he said to the elders, "Wait here for us until we come back to you. Indeed Aaron and Hur are with you. If any man has a difficulty, let him go to them."—Exodus 24:14 (NIV)
As His child, we should be seizing every opportunity to diffuse the hostility with love. There is no better time to be a witness for Jesus than when we are tempted, or being pressured to act, like everybody else. Think about this message today. If you find yourself in a line, in traffic or anywhere that you are asked to "wait,"pray for the person standing before or after you in line,...or the Cashier.
Waiting on the Lord brings strength to our character.
Holy Spirit of God, we pray that when given an opportunity, we are able to glorify Our Heavenly Father, that we make good witnesses, In Jesus' name, Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
And he said to the elders, "Wait here for us until we come back to you. Indeed Aaron and Hur are with you. If any man has a difficulty, let him go to them."—Exodus 24:14 (NIV)
As His child, we should be seizing every opportunity to diffuse the hostility with love. There is no better time to be a witness for Jesus than when we are tempted, or being pressured to act, like everybody else. Think about this message today. If you find yourself in a line, in traffic or anywhere that you are asked to "wait,"pray for the person standing before or after you in line,...or the Cashier.
Waiting on the Lord brings strength to our character.
Holy Spirit of God, we pray that when given an opportunity, we are able to glorify Our Heavenly Father, that we make good witnesses, In Jesus' name, Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
One
Good Morning!! Race separates. National origin divides. Religious denominations splinter,...and political persuasion polarizes. We have schools that enroll only one gender and associations that admit only a selected vocation. There are groups for only seniors, or only singles, and only parents of teens,...only people who have chronic illnesses, or lose of limb. Meetings take place regularly for hunters, writers, and people with addictions.
There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.—Ephesians 4: 4-6 (NIV)
Often Paul urges us to move from doctrine to practice. The pattern of New Testament teaching says, "What you believe must shape what you do." "Therefore," Paul writes,...because of who God is and what he has done for us,...we are now to "lead a life worthy of [our] calling" (v. 1). The true key to a life that is worthy of the Christian calling, is one of unity,...not dividsion.
God’s truth is still available to everyone who counts it precious.
Lord, help us to live in Your love,...leaving no one out, In Jesus' name, Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.—Ephesians 4: 4-6 (NIV)
Often Paul urges us to move from doctrine to practice. The pattern of New Testament teaching says, "What you believe must shape what you do." "Therefore," Paul writes,...because of who God is and what he has done for us,...we are now to "lead a life worthy of [our] calling" (v. 1). The true key to a life that is worthy of the Christian calling, is one of unity,...not dividsion.
God’s truth is still available to everyone who counts it precious.
Lord, help us to live in Your love,...leaving no one out, In Jesus' name, Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
God's Will For My Life
Good Morning!! "God's will for my life",...how often have we pondered this notion? Studied it? Read book after book about it? And we all know people who seem to torture themselves trying to find it. Well, here in todays' scripture, we have an obvious chunk of it,...even compact and useful just as we like things to be, tucked away at the close of Paul's first letter to the church at Thessalonica. "This is God's will for you...," Yes, it says just that.
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.—1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 (NIV)
It's pretty,...almost poetic,...but is it deep enough? Now let's go Old Testament. Micah 6:8 says, "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" It's still simple, still bunched in a group of three, still indicating that there's no big mystery, far out there, which must be solved before we know how to act or decide,...or how God wants us to act or decide. So why do we keep looking for more?
"The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting.
It has been found difficult and left untried."
(G.K. Chesterton)
No, God's will for my life isn't difficult to know. It's just frustratingly hard to do if self is at the center. And that's the crux of the very question itself, "What is God's will for MY life?"
Maybe when we get out of the way,...we will see better.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.—1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 (NIV)
It's pretty,...almost poetic,...but is it deep enough? Now let's go Old Testament. Micah 6:8 says, "He has told you, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?" It's still simple, still bunched in a group of three, still indicating that there's no big mystery, far out there, which must be solved before we know how to act or decide,...or how God wants us to act or decide. So why do we keep looking for more?
"The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting.
It has been found difficult and left untried."
(G.K. Chesterton)
No, God's will for my life isn't difficult to know. It's just frustratingly hard to do if self is at the center. And that's the crux of the very question itself, "What is God's will for MY life?"
Maybe when we get out of the way,...we will see better.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
From The Inside Out
Good Morning!! One of the key aspects of Jesus' earthly ministry was His focus on that which is unseen,...our hearts. Many of the people of His day were expecting an earthly king to save them from external problems. Yet Christ made it clear He came to elevate the old law beyond its legal purposes,...and to transform us from the inside out, to prepare us for a kingdom,...not of this world.
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.—Matthew 5: 43-45 (NIV)
Forgiveness doesn't usually come easily,...people are capable of tremendous evil, depending on the wrong they feel has been done to them. But with God's grace, forgiveness on our end is not only possible,...but necessary.
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…
We are asking that God give us the same measure of forgiveness, that we give to others.
Father in Heaven, we are entrusting our hurts to You, as we hope to develop a heart of forgiveness. Holy Spirit, help us make peace with all those we have harmed, and all those who've hurt us. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven.—Matthew 5: 43-45 (NIV)
Forgiveness doesn't usually come easily,...people are capable of tremendous evil, depending on the wrong they feel has been done to them. But with God's grace, forgiveness on our end is not only possible,...but necessary.
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us…
We are asking that God give us the same measure of forgiveness, that we give to others.
Father in Heaven, we are entrusting our hurts to You, as we hope to develop a heart of forgiveness. Holy Spirit, help us make peace with all those we have harmed, and all those who've hurt us. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
"Pray changes things, prayer changes people, and prayer changes marriages.
So don't limit your prayers to meals or to bedtime."
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Be Devoted
Good Morning, and T.G.I.F. (Thank God I'm Forgiven)!!! I wish I could be the poster child for "right" living,...that many may think,...but I struggle a lot, just ask my wife. My father use to tell me; "don't do as I do,...do as I say". Only now, do I know what he meant,...now that I'm a parent and grand-parent. Knowing right and doing right are not always the same thing.
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.—Romans 12:10-13 (NIV)
We all want to do right, but because of our human nature, we fall short,...a lot. People are always watching us, even if we don't realize it,...especially those closest to us. And often, after the fact, I see how my actions did not point anyone to Christ. The Lord knows that without Him, without the power of His Holy Spirit,...we just cannot do this with consistency. And so we can take comfort in reading Philippians 2:1-2, below.
"Preach the gospel at all times. If necessary, use words."
(Saint Francis of Assisi)
If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. (Philippians 2:1-2)
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.—Romans 12:10-13 (NIV)
We all want to do right, but because of our human nature, we fall short,...a lot. People are always watching us, even if we don't realize it,...especially those closest to us. And often, after the fact, I see how my actions did not point anyone to Christ. The Lord knows that without Him, without the power of His Holy Spirit,...we just cannot do this with consistency. And so we can take comfort in reading Philippians 2:1-2, below.
"Preach the gospel at all times. If necessary, use words."
(Saint Francis of Assisi)
If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. (Philippians 2:1-2)
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Psalm 46
Good Morning!! How many times have you heard todays' verse? A hundred? A thousand? This snippet of the psalm is a favorite of mine. It constantly pops into my head when I start getting too busy or stressed out. It's often taken out of context,...and ironically, I hadn’t taken time to read the whole psalm in months until the other night,...and found that I had no recollection of the verses surrounding my favorite one-liner.
"Be still, and know that I am God..."—Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
Here’s a sampling of the other verses in Psalm 46:
"Though the earth gives way…" (vs. 2)
"Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea…" (vs. 2)
"The nations rage, the kingdoms totter…" (vs. 6)
"Be still and know that I am God… I will be exalted in the earth!" (vs. 10)
"The God of Jacob is our fortress." (vs. 11)
In a setting of uncertainty, war, and all-around "trouble" (vs. 1), the psalmist focuses on the peace that comes from being the presence of God,...even though the earth around him threatens to fall apart. The verse holds even more power in the right context, than in our imagined setting.
This psalm is actually the meditation of a man holding back fear with faith.
Sweet Spirit of God, thank You for the reminder; we are the elect of God, being held in His hand,...what need have we to fear? Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
"Be still, and know that I am God..."—Psalm 46:10 (NIV)
Here’s a sampling of the other verses in Psalm 46:
"Though the earth gives way…" (vs. 2)
"Though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea…" (vs. 2)
"The nations rage, the kingdoms totter…" (vs. 6)
"Be still and know that I am God… I will be exalted in the earth!" (vs. 10)
"The God of Jacob is our fortress." (vs. 11)
In a setting of uncertainty, war, and all-around "trouble" (vs. 1), the psalmist focuses on the peace that comes from being the presence of God,...even though the earth around him threatens to fall apart. The verse holds even more power in the right context, than in our imagined setting.
This psalm is actually the meditation of a man holding back fear with faith.
Sweet Spirit of God, thank You for the reminder; we are the elect of God, being held in His hand,...what need have we to fear? Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Clean of Sin
Good Morning, My Friend!! As the perfect sacrifice, Christ only had to die once to atone for all sin,...not daily like all the sheep and goats of Israel. The price of salvation isn’t constantly before our eyes like it was for them. Ironically, that tempts us to be complacent about the cost,...letting the little sins and idols creep into our hearts,...God’s temple.
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."—2 Corinthians 6:16 (NIV)
If God gave such specific instructions to keep His earthly home clean of sin, why do we think we're somehow exempt? Our salvation wasn’t purchased buy a lamb that we brought ourself,...it’s the Lamb of God, who came to be slaughtered for us, even before we were born.
As Christians, we are the new tabernacle.
We live in the constant presence of God,...because He lives with us.
We have a direct access, that the Israelites couldn’t have dreamed of.
Because our bodies are the temple for the Holy Spirit, Lord Jesus, we ask that You come into our temple, and overthrow all corruption at work there. We know God simply can not tolerate uncleanness in a holy place. Help us to confess all hidden sins, and wicked desires. The Word says as believers, we are called to be set apart for You, holy before God. Help us today, Lord. Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: "I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people."—2 Corinthians 6:16 (NIV)
If God gave such specific instructions to keep His earthly home clean of sin, why do we think we're somehow exempt? Our salvation wasn’t purchased buy a lamb that we brought ourself,...it’s the Lamb of God, who came to be slaughtered for us, even before we were born.
As Christians, we are the new tabernacle.
We live in the constant presence of God,...because He lives with us.
We have a direct access, that the Israelites couldn’t have dreamed of.
Because our bodies are the temple for the Holy Spirit, Lord Jesus, we ask that You come into our temple, and overthrow all corruption at work there. We know God simply can not tolerate uncleanness in a holy place. Help us to confess all hidden sins, and wicked desires. The Word says as believers, we are called to be set apart for You, holy before God. Help us today, Lord. Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Receiving Christ
Good Morning!! Receiving Christ is not like picking up the mail, or downloading a song,...it's more of a posture of the heart. A person comes to God with queries, discontents, and bewilderments, but mostly with a heart open to God. "Teach me, Lord, your deep truth, and let me walk with you today."
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.—John 1:12, 13 (NIV)
For most, it breaks down like this: a person who has rarely if ever, submited to anyone realizes that God’s love draws them to yield. There is resistance, sometimes postponements,...but at last, relief and assurance, that God can be trusted,...and received as "Lord of our life." They come to believe that Jesus died for them,...and now confess that their loyalty, love, and life belong to Him.
Receiving Christ is the gateway to understanding all that God wants to teach us,
...and experiencing all that he has to give us.
We receive You, Jesus, and we know You to be the risen Lord,...our Saviorour,...and our Leader. Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34
Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.—John 1:12, 13 (NIV)
For most, it breaks down like this: a person who has rarely if ever, submited to anyone realizes that God’s love draws them to yield. There is resistance, sometimes postponements,...but at last, relief and assurance, that God can be trusted,...and received as "Lord of our life." They come to believe that Jesus died for them,...and now confess that their loyalty, love, and life belong to Him.
Receiving Christ is the gateway to understanding all that God wants to teach us,
...and experiencing all that he has to give us.
We receive You, Jesus, and we know You to be the risen Lord,...our Saviorour,...and our Leader. Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34
Monday, September 6, 2010
Change and Habits
Good Morning!! Change is hard. We all make goals we don’t meet,...exercise more, eat less, have a quiet time, turn off the TV. Sinful habits are especially hard to change: viewing pornography, for example, or spreading gossip. Repentance is hard work. It means more than regret or embarrassment for our mistakes. Repentance means sorrow for sin, confession of sin, and turning from sin.
And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea.—Chronicles 33:13 (NIV)
Previous wickedness, or the pain it caused, won't just simply be undone. There are some consequences we'll have to live with. But don’t miss these two points; first, all people and most situations can change,...once we turn from sin. And second, God forgives,...come to Jesus and keep coming back. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Repentance is always an option,...as long as you're alive, It’s never too late.
Thank You,
Lord Jesus, thank you that Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light. Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
And when he prayed to him, the Lord was moved by his entreaty and listened to his plea.—Chronicles 33:13 (NIV)
Previous wickedness, or the pain it caused, won't just simply be undone. There are some consequences we'll have to live with. But don’t miss these two points; first, all people and most situations can change,...once we turn from sin. And second, God forgives,...come to Jesus and keep coming back. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Repentance is always an option,...as long as you're alive, It’s never too late.
Thank You,
Lord Jesus, thank you that Your yoke is easy and Your burden is light. Amen.
"No matter how difficult of a time you may be going through, you always have a long list of blessings for which you can thank God."
(STAND FIRM, Lifeway Publications, November 25, p. 34)
Friday, September 3, 2010
Peace on the Surface
Good Morning!! Sometimes peace can’t be made unless the fighting parties agree to separate,...and stay parted. However, instead of peace, what they have is an absence of war. When people refuse to solve their problems, they leave room for later flare-ups and grudges,...this prevents spiritual growth.
This heap is a witness, and this pillar is a witness, that I will not go past this heap to your side to harm you and that you will not go past this heap and pillar to my side to harm me.—Genesis 31:52 (NIV)
Jacob and Laban could not get along, so they separated for good. While this certainly solved the surface problem, it left the root issue in their hearts. When we don't truly let go,...just a touch can bring us right back to the same old hurt, and angery feelings. We must learn to Let It Go.
We should have peace, God’s peace,...within us and between us.
We should not carry grudges,...especially against fellow Christians.
Lord, Your love is life to us. Fill us with Your love and give us the wisdom to follow after the things that are pleasing to You. Thank You for loving us; showing us mercy; giving us faith and forgiving us. We don't deserve it but You have given it to us in abundance. Praise Your Holy name forever!
"Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will,...his personal responsibility."
(Albert Einstein)
This heap is a witness, and this pillar is a witness, that I will not go past this heap to your side to harm you and that you will not go past this heap and pillar to my side to harm me.—Genesis 31:52 (NIV)
Jacob and Laban could not get along, so they separated for good. While this certainly solved the surface problem, it left the root issue in their hearts. When we don't truly let go,...just a touch can bring us right back to the same old hurt, and angery feelings. We must learn to Let It Go.
We should have peace, God’s peace,...within us and between us.
We should not carry grudges,...especially against fellow Christians.
Lord, Your love is life to us. Fill us with Your love and give us the wisdom to follow after the things that are pleasing to You. Thank You for loving us; showing us mercy; giving us faith and forgiving us. We don't deserve it but You have given it to us in abundance. Praise Your Holy name forever!
"Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will,...his personal responsibility."
(Albert Einstein)
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Decisions
Good Morning!! Decisiveness is a strength of mine, one I'm glad to have. So often I've watched friends or family jockey back and forth over something,...while I've already comfortably chosen, and moved down one road or an other. My wife on the other hand,...well, her strength tends to be less in making the decision than in gathering (and gathering, and gathering) the research that presumably is supposed to aid in the making of the decision. This could make for a great partnership, if we could just find a balance.
for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers.—Proverbs 24:6 (NIV)
Too often we forget that Christianity really is a team sport,...rather than an individual one. We have tools and equipment that can make our life choices so much better. We have the ability to take our concerns straight to God. We have His Spirit dwelling in us, speaking for us, whispering to us. And we have His Word written for us to review and consult over and over again. We also have the experience of the those that have already been, where we want to go.
Henry Ford was once asked; "How do you make wise decisions?
Experience. How do you get experience?
By making stupid decisions."
Father, I'm so glad, we don't always have to be the one making the stupid decision, just so we might learn. We don't want to let the mistakes of other go to waste. Let us listen and obey, as Your Spirit speaks,...so we don't go into war without guidance. Amen.
"Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will,...his personal
for waging war you need guidance, and for victory many advisers.—Proverbs 24:6 (NIV)
Too often we forget that Christianity really is a team sport,...rather than an individual one. We have tools and equipment that can make our life choices so much better. We have the ability to take our concerns straight to God. We have His Spirit dwelling in us, speaking for us, whispering to us. And we have His Word written for us to review and consult over and over again. We also have the experience of the those that have already been, where we want to go.
Henry Ford was once asked; "How do you make wise decisions?
Experience. How do you get experience?
By making stupid decisions."
Father, I'm so glad, we don't always have to be the one making the stupid decision, just so we might learn. We don't want to let the mistakes of other go to waste. Let us listen and obey, as Your Spirit speaks,...so we don't go into war without guidance. Amen.
"Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will,...his personal
Guidance From the Lord
Good Morning!! Would you like to know what the future holds? For me the answer is both yes, and no! As Christians there are things we already know, like the promise of heaven, and the promise of the Lord’s unfailing guidance all the way there. But not knowing the details may be a positive as well,...because that develops our faith in Him, and our dependence on Him.
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.—Hebrews 11:8 (NIV)
Of the many examples of people of faith, Abraham’s is the greatest because he knew nothing in advance,...except the promise of a family and a homeland at the end. Abraham “set out” at the word of Yahweh, “not knowing where he was going.” We're not even sure he was told in which direction to go, and so he had to trust God that his own decision would be the right one!
GOD said go, and Abraham went,
...he simply trusted God for the fulfillment of His promises.
Now that’s faith!
Father in Heaven, we thank You for Your Word, which gives us all the strenght and directions we need. Amen, Amen!
"Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will,...his personal responsibility."
(Albert Einstein)
By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going.—Hebrews 11:8 (NIV)
Of the many examples of people of faith, Abraham’s is the greatest because he knew nothing in advance,...except the promise of a family and a homeland at the end. Abraham “set out” at the word of Yahweh, “not knowing where he was going.” We're not even sure he was told in which direction to go, and so he had to trust God that his own decision would be the right one!
GOD said go, and Abraham went,
...he simply trusted God for the fulfillment of His promises.
Now that’s faith!
Father in Heaven, we thank You for Your Word, which gives us all the strenght and directions we need. Amen, Amen!
"Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will,...his personal responsibility."
(Albert Einstein)
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